2020-2026 Hyundai Palisade Known Problems: Seat Belt Fails, Oil Pump Fires, Vibrating Brake Pedals and More

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June 11, 2026
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Hyundai Palisade on a lift being repaired. (Photo courtesy of nextgen_autorepair on Instagram, edited by Aaron Turpen)

The Hyundai Palisade debuted in 2020 as a replacement for the Santa Fe XL. A dedicated three-row family SUV, the Palisade has been a high seller for Hyundai ever since. The 2026 model year marks the vehicle’s second generation. The Palisade has a few known problems and some recalls for us to talk about.

If you aren’t sure whether your vehicle is subject to one of these recalls, be sure to check the bottom of this article for links to official sites where you can search your VIN to find out.

Major Safety Recalls for the Palisade

Example NHTSA recall for the Palisade. (Screen capture by Aaron Turpen)

The Palisade has three major ongoing safety recalls. Two for the first generation and one for the new second-gen model.

Power Folding Rear Seats (2026 Model Year): a sensational recall for power folding second- and third-row seating that could crush anyone in the seat has been issued. This recall affects Palisade Limited and Calligraphy models. 

Seat Belt Latch (2020–2025 Model Years): A massive recall was issued affecting over 560,000 Palisades because an internal defect can prevent seat belt buckles from latching. 

Electric Oil Pump Fire Risk (2020–2025 Model Years): Moisture can accumulate in the electric oil pump controller, creating an electrical short circuit and a fire hazard. 

Third-Row Seat Belt Wiring (2026 Model Year): A short in the wiring can cause the instrument panel to incorrectly indicate the driver-side third-row seat belt is secured when it isn’t.

Side Curtain Airbags (2020-2025 Model Years): Hyundai is recalling nearly 569,000 Palisades because the side-curtain airbags for third-row occupants may deploy improperly in a crash. 

A few other recalls, now considered resolved by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, include the recall in the image above. 

Palisade Technical Service Bulletins

2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid (Photo by Aaron Turpen)

Technical service bulletins (TSBs) are dealership and technician “known issues” fixes that aren’t subject to recall, but which are often part of warranty or common customer issues dealerships might repair in good faith. 

ABS/Braking Concerns: A few TSBs address reports of vibration in the brake pedal, ABS system noises, or a delayed braking response when driving over uneven, bumpy surfaces.

Light Condensation: Dealerships have guidance regarding condensation building up in the exterior lighting housings (headlights/tail lights) which can lead to dimming.

HVAC/Climate Control: Guidance exists for troubleshooting weak air conditioning (A/C) performance or inconsistent cabin temperature. 

Hyundai Palisade Known Problems

2026 Hyundai Palisade interior (Photo by Aaron Turpen)

These are problems reported commonly by owners and technicians in forums, on social media, and so forth. These problems do not have recalls or service bulletins associated with them.

High Oil Consumption: Owners on a few forums frequently report older engines (2020-2022 models) burning or losing oil prematurely, which can lead to carbon buildup if not monitored. Technicians point to some engine gasket leaks and problematic drain plugs or lack of crush washer replacement during service as the culprits. 

Windshield Cracks: Early-model (2020) Palisades frequently experienced spontaneous windshield cracks, linked by many drivers to wind noise and body flex.

Infotainment & Door Handles: Multiple user complaints highlight touch-sensitive exterior door handles failing in wet weather, as well as digital dashboard screens going blank. This complaint is relatively common among most Hyundai and Kia models with these features.

If you would like to look up your specific vehicle, let me know the model year and whether you are experiencing any symptoms or warning lights. I can help point you toward the correct diagnostic path or warranty coverage.

How To Check For Recalls On Your Hyundai

NHTSA Recall Search page. (Screen capture by Aaron Turpen)

The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Palisade is to visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Hyundai Service and Recalls page.

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