NHTSA Complaint #11713015 — 2023 HYUNDAI PALISADE

I am reporting a recurring, life-threatening electronic failure in my 2023 Hyundai Palisade. On [XXX], while turning into an intersection, the vehicle's brakes spontaneously engaged, stalling the car in the path of oncoming traffic. During this event, multiple critical safety systems failed simultaneously, including the headlights and horn, leaving me unable to warn other drivers. A "violent" surge was required to clear the intersection, risking a high-speed collision. Similar spontaneous recurrences occurred on [XXX] and [XXX], and most recently on [XXX]. These incidents are characterized by "phantom braking," total loss of propulsion, and a complete lack of interior/exterior electronic response. Technical Evidence: Diagnostic scans revealed 16 distinct fault codes (including C161608, C181287, and U012687) involving the Chassis Control Module, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), and communication buses. Despite these logged codes, Hyundai and the dealership have repeatedly returned the vehicle to me, stating they "cannot replicate" the issue, thereby dismissing a documented electronic record of failure. Arbitration Status: I entered into BBB Auto Line Arbitration (Case #[XXX]). Hyundai has contested the claim by attempting to manipulate the "start date" of the defect to February 2024 to avoid Lemon Law statutes, despite dealer records confirming the first occurrence in August 2023. As of January 13, 2026, the dealership is again attempting to force me to take delivery of the unrepaired vehicle. This vehicle is a "phantom" safety hazard. The manufacturer’s inability to replicate a logged electronic fault during a brief test drive does not mitigate the extreme risk of sudden braking and power loss at highway speeds. I am requesting a formal investigation into these specific fault codes and the electronic integrity of this model. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)