Brake Defects in Kia Telluride: What 2020-2024 Owners Should Know
Kia Telluride has gained popularity for its reliability, technology, and family-friendly design, but recent reports suggest a serious brake system defect affecting 2020-2024 models. Owners have reported experiencing spongy brakes, brake fluid leaks, and complete brake failure, leading to safety risks.
A class-action lawsuit has been filed, alleging that Kia was aware of these defects but failed to take sufficient action. If you own a 2020-2024 Kia Telluride and have encountered brake failure, understanding your rights under California Lemon Law is crucial.
Kia Telluride Brake Defects
Many Kia Telluride owners have reported brake pedal malfunctions, which can significantly impact stopping power and put drivers and passengers at risk.
The primary issue involves a defect in the master cylinder, leading to:
- Spongy or soft brake pedal: The brake pedal may feel weak, requiring excessive force to slow down the vehicle.
- Loss of brake pressure: Some owners have reported that the brake pedal drops to the floor, causing near-total brake failure.
- Brake fluid leaks: Leaks caused by faulty brake calipers have been linked to reduced braking performance.
- Unexpected braking issues: Some drivers experience sudden loss of braking power, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
These issues pose a significant safety risk, particularly for drivers in high-traffic areas or steep terrains where full braking control is essential.
Kia Telluride Models That Are Affected
The following models have been linked to the brake system failure issue:
- 2020 Kia Telluride
- 2021 Kia Telluride
- 2022 Kia Telluride
- 2023 Kia Telluride
- 2024 Kia Telluride
Drivers experiencing brake-related issues should document all repairs and complaints to establish a history of recurring defects, which may qualify for legal action.
Kia Issued a Brake Recall for the Telluride
While Kia has issued multiple recalls for the Telluride, none have specifically addressed the brake issues related to the master cylinder failure.
Some of the past Kia Telluride recalls include:
- 2020-2023 Kia Telluride Rollaway Recall – Over 427,000 vehicles were recalled due to a defect that caused the vehicle to move while in “Park.”
- 2022-2023 Kia Telluride Power Seat Fire Risk Recall – A defect in the power seat motor caused an increased risk of fire.
While these recalls highlight safety concerns, owners continue to report brake failures that Kia has yet to address through an official recall.
If your vehicle has undergone multiple brake-related repairs but still experiences failure or malfunctions, California Lemon Law may offer legal protections.
What Are Your Legal Options?
If you own a 2020-2024 Kia Telluride and have experienced brake issues, you have two primary legal paths:
Option 1: Join the Class Action Lawsuit
A class-action lawsuit has been filed, arguing that Kia knowingly sold vehicles with defective braking systems.
Here is what to consider before joining:
- Group Representation: You will be part of a large group of affected owners filing against Kia.
- No Out-of-Pocket Costs: The lawsuit is typically handled on a contingency basis, meaning you will not pay attorney fees upfront.
- Lower Individual Payouts: Class-action settlements often result in less compensation per person compared to individual claims.
- Long Legal Process: Cases like this can take years to reach a resolution.
Option 2: File a Lemon Law Claim
For California Telluride owners, Lemon Law provides a more direct route to compensation.
Unlike a class-action lawsuit, a Lemon Law claim is handled individually, potentially leading to:
- A replacement vehicle
- A full refund, including payments and fees
- Cash compensation for repair costs and inconvenience
If your Kia Telluride brake issues have persisted despite multiple repair attempts, California Lemon Law ensures you are not stuck with an unsafe vehicle.
When Does Lemon Law Apply?
Under California Lemon Law, your Kia Telluride may qualify as a lemon if:
- Repeated Repairs Fail: The defect persists after multiple repair attempts.
- Significant Downtime: Your vehicle has spent an excessive amount of time in the shop for brake-related issues.
- Safety Risks: The brake failure compromises the safety of the driver, passengers, and others on the road.
California Lemon Law requires Kia to cover all attorney fees, meaning you will not have to pay legal costs out of pocket.
How Gayle Law Group PC Can Help
A Lemon Law claim can be challenging, but Gayle Law Group PC specializes in helping California consumers fight back against manufacturers selling defective vehicles.
Our Services Include:
- Case Assessment: We determine if your Telluride qualifies for a Lemon Law claim.
- Document Preparation: We gather repair records, service invoices, and manufacturer communications to build a strong case.
- Aggressive Representation: Whether through negotiation or legal action, we ensure Kia takes responsibility for its defective vehicles.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights as a Kia Owner
Do not wait for Kia to issue a recall—take control of your rights today. If you are experiencing brake problems with your 2020-2024 Kia Telluride, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle, refund, or compensation.
Book your free consultation. Our team at Gayle Law Group PC is ready to help you fight for the resolution you deserve.