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Hyundai Palisade Problems

The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row midsize SUV introduced in 2020, accumulating 4,748 complaints and 12 reported deaths in its short production history. This flagship SUV represents Hyundais push into the premium family vehicle segment with upscale styling and features. The Palisade has earned praise for its interior quality and value proposition but has experienced some growing pains. First-year issues are being resolved as production matures.

4,748
Total Complaints
23
Total Recalls
7
Model Years
12
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2026

Common Problem Categories

Service Brakes 782
Unknown Or Other 570
Visibility/wiper 504
Seat Belts 460
Engine 376

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2026 66 0 0 0 Good
2025 404 2 12 0 Average
2024 800 4 36 4 Average
2023 864 4 20 0 Average
2022 584 4 10 4 Average
2021 864 5 14 6 Average
2020 1,166 4 46 14 Below Average

Hyundai Palisade Years to Avoid

The 2020 first-year model is the worst Palisade to buy, with oil dilution from fuel contamination, windshield stress cracks, and electronic system failures. Headlight condensation and fogging affected 2020-2021 models, reducing visibility. Transmission hesitation and harsh shifting occurred during the first production years. Paint quality issues including chips and poor adhesion frustrated early owners. The oil dilution problem caused engine knock and potential long-term damage.

Best Hyundai Palisade Years

The 2026 model year represents the most refined Palisade after years of continuous improvement. 2023-2025 models benefit from resolved first-year issues and improved build quality. For used buyers, 2022 models with documented service history avoiding the oil dilution issue are acceptable choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Palisade oil dilution problem?

Fuel mixes with engine oil in 2020-2021 3.8L V6 engines, causing oil level rise and dilution. This can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Hyundai issued a software update to help.

Is the Hyundai Palisade reliable?

Early 2020-2021 models have more complaints. 2022 and newer models show improved reliability. The 3.8L V6 is fundamentally sound when oil dilution is addressed.

How long will a Palisade last?

Its too early for long-term data, but the 3.8L V6 has proven durable in other Hyundai-Kia products. With proper maintenance, 200,000 miles is achievable.

Is the Palisade worth buying over the Telluride?

The Palisade and Kia Telluride are mechanical twins with different styling. Choose based on design preference and dealer experience. Both have similar reliability records.

Does the Palisade have third-row space?

Yes, the Palisade offers one of the most spacious third rows in its class. Adults can sit comfortably, making it genuinely useful for large families.