The reasons behind recalls can be numerous. Sometimes they’re unusual but easy to understand. Other times, there’s nothing to understand. Well, almost. That’s the case with Genesis’s most recent campaign, which recalls the G90 sedan for a problem your imagination couldn’t even conceive.
Only models with Savile Silver paint are affected
In Canada, 22 units are concerned
So far, 11 cases of unintended braking have been reported
And what is this problem? Well, according to the U.S. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), the equivalent of Transport Canada, models painted Savile Silver can experience a serious problem: malfunction of the highway driving assist (HDA) function and emergency braking without warning.
Yes, all of this because of a paint color.
What happens is that the HDA system, which allows semi-autonomous driving on certain highways, works with radar sensors located all around the car. With the paint color in question, the aluminum content in the paint can cause radar signals to reflect off the paint itself. If this occurs, the system believes it has detected an object in the oncoming lane and, to avoid or reduce the impact of a collision, applies the brakes.
It can greatly catch a driver off guard.
According to the NHTSA, two possible scenarios can cause the system to malfunction: if the HDA is on at speeds below 19 km/h, or if it’s operating at the same time as the lane-change assist that engages when the driver uses their turn signal.
2023 Genesis G90 First Drive Review: Hear What it Has to Say
Last February, the first case was reported, prompting an investigation. That’s when they discovered the problem with the paint properties. At the time of writing, 11 cases of unintended braking have been reported.
Genesis reports no accidents or injuries related to this glitch.
A total of 483 Genesis G90s, model years 2023 to 2026, are affected. They were built between April 21, 2022, and October 15, 2025. In Canada, 22 models are recalled.
Yes, the number is limited, but given the unusual nature of the problem, we couldn’t help but report it.
Genesis advises owners not to use the HDA system until the problem is resolved. Affected owners will be notified by mail around January 30, 2026.
The fix will involve replacing the front bumper beam. On the Transport Canada website, it states: “Genesis must notify owners in writing and ask them to bring their vehicle to a dealer to have the front bumper beam replaced.”
