888-800-1983 Se Habla Español


The Bickel Law Firm

Experienced Lemon Law Attorneys

Serving All of California

This Car Smells: Hyundai Palisade Owners Complain of Odor

» Posted September 21, 2020Resources | Share This Post

Car owners, unfortunately, are often faced with a wide variety of defects. From malfunctioning headlights to stalling issues, these problems can pose a serious safety hazard. Recently, a group of Hyundai owners noticed a different type of issue with their cars: an offensive odor.

Hyundai Palisade drivers have taken to message boards to complain of a nasty smell inside their vehicles. The stench has been described as a mix of garlic and “smelly socks,” according to Jalopnik.

The company has responded to the complaints by launching an investigation.

"We are aware of the concern and are currently in the midst of the investigation, which includes identifying and validating a fix," Hyundai told The Drive. "Once a repair method is confirmed effective a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) will be released to provide direction to our dealer body on how to resolve the concern."

The source of the smell remains unknown. Some have speculated, however, that the funky stench is limited to certain versions of the crossover vehicle that come with a particular beige leather interior.

Legal Protections for California Car Owners

The case of the stinky cars is not the only problem that Hyundai has on its hands. The company has been forced in recent years to recall a number of cars because of significant physical defects.

In February, for example, Hyundai recalled some 400,000 Elantras because of an antilock braking snafu. The company said at the time that the ABS system could short circuit, causing a fire inside the cars.

The good news for California car owners is that you have some important protections under the state’s lemon law. Manufacturers are required by law to perform certain repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty and to buy back cars that the company is unwilling or unable to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing charges and other expenses.

A manufacturer can instead offer to replace the vehicle, but it is up to the owner to accept or reject this alternative. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you explore your options.

Speak with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you are a California car owner driving a lemon, it is important to consult an experienced lawyer to consider your rights and options. A lawyer can help you ensure that the car’s manufacturer is made accountable and maximize your buyback.

California lemon law attorney Brian Bickel and his team at the Bickel Law Firm represent people in defective vehicle cases across the state. We understand the significant stress that can come with haggling with car dealers and manufacturers. Our lawyers work aggressively to resolve these cases for the people that we represent.

Our offices are conveniently located in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.


Hear What Our Clients Have To Say

"I was blown away at how fast the settlement wrapped up. I was told about 8 months to a year for success, but Brian Wagner and his supporting team did a fantastic job, perhaps 6 months ahead of schedule. From my initial consultation with Erika, her assessment of my case, including the assigning of Mr. Wagner as counsel, the stress reducing assurance of paralegal Andy Kim, and the personable approach of Melanie, who eased my anxiety with her confidence and support in reception of my calls. Great job team!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
Posted By: Sean S

BICKEL SANNIPOLI APC