The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is the main model year to avoid based on its complaint history. Owners have reported windshield cracking, electrical faults, and other reliability concerns. The 2021 model also requires extra attention because several problems continued into that year.
The Hyundai Palisade entered the United States for the 2020 model year. It quickly became a popular three row SUV for families. However, reliability differs between model years. Some years have more owner complaints, while others have recalls that affect specific vehicles. A recall does not automatically make an entire model year unreliable.
This guide explains the Hyundai Palisade years to avoid and the problems associated with each model year. It examines complaint patterns, recalls, problem severity, and long term reliability. It also identifies better Hyundai Palisade years for used car buyers. You will learn what problems to check before buying and when a specific vehicle deserves extra caution. These factors provide a clearer picture of ownership risk than model year alone.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Should You Avoid?
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is the main model year to avoid. It has the strongest complaint pattern among early Palisade models. CarComplaints currently ranks 2020 as the worst Palisade model year. The site also identifies windows and windshields as the model’s worst problem category.
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade deserves more caution than later early generation models. It has fewer complaints than the 2020 model on CarComplaints. However, owners still report windshield, electrical, engine, and safety related concerns. Windshield cracking remains one of its most notable problems.
The 2022 and 2023 models do not show the same complaint pattern as the 2020 Palisade. Buyers should still review each vehicle’s history before purchase. Condition, mileage, maintenance, and completed recalls can matter more than the model year alone.
The 2024 and 2025 Palisade require a different approach. Specific recalls affect certain vehicles from these years. Buyers should check the VIN instead of avoiding every vehicle from either year. A completed recall repair can significantly change the risk of an individual vehicle.
The 2026 Palisade is too new for a strong long term reliability verdict. Low complaint numbers on a new vehicle do not prove long term durability. Problems need time and mileage to appear. Buyers should therefore separate limited data from proven reliability.
For most used car shoppers, the clearest ranking is simple. Avoid the 2020 Palisade when a better maintained later model fits the same budget. Treat the 2021 model with caution. Evaluate later years according to their specific recalls, condition, and service history.
Why Is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade the Worst Year?
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade ranks as the worst year because it combines the highest complaint total with several notable problem categories. It was also the first Palisade model year sold in the United States. First year vehicles sometimes expose issues that manufacturers address during later production.
CarComplaints currently lists 2020 as the Palisade model year with the most overall complaints. Its data also ranks windshield cracking as the most reported individual Palisade problem. The problem appears at relatively low mileage, which increases its relevance for used car buyers.
This does not mean every 2020 Palisade will fail. Complaint databases contain reports from individual owners rather than controlled samples of every vehicle sold. However, repeated reports can reveal areas that deserve closer inspection. A buyer should use these patterns to identify risk before purchasing a specific vehicle.
What Windshield Problems Affect the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
Windshield cracking is the most prominent reported problem for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. Owners have described cracks after minor impacts and, in some cases, without a clear impact. This issue can create both visibility concerns and unexpected replacement costs.
CarComplaints records 20 reports under its specific “windshield cracks easily” problem. The site lists an average failure mileage of about 14,900 miles. It also reports a typical repair cost of about $1,690.
The broader windshield category contains other reported issues as well. These include excessive wind noise, sunroof problems, automatic wiper problems, and additional windshield complaints. Windshield cracking remains the largest individual problem within that category.
A cracked windshield can cost more than the glass itself. Modern Palisade models use driver assistance equipment near the windshield. Replacement work may therefore require calibration of related systems. Buyers should inspect the glass carefully for chips, repaired cracks, and signs of previous replacement.
What Engine Problems Have Been Reported on the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
Engine complaints add another reliability concern for the 2020 Palisade, but they require careful interpretation. CarComplaints displays 88 NHTSA complaints within its engine category for this model year. It also lists three complaints submitted directly to its own engine problem category.
These numbers do not prove that all 2020 Palisade engines share one mechanical defect. Different owners can report different symptoms under the same broad category. The more useful buying approach is to inspect the engine for warning signs.
Listen for unusual knocking, ticking, or rough operation during a cold start. Check for warning lights and visible fluid leaks. Review maintenance records for regular oil changes. A diagnostic scan can also reveal stored fault codes that do not appear during a short test drive.
Engine problems carry more purchase risk than cosmetic faults because repair costs can become substantial. A clean inspection therefore matters more when considering an older 2020 vehicle. Buyers should avoid examples with unexplained engine symptoms or incomplete maintenance records.
What Electrical and Suspension Problems Affect the 2020 Palisade?
Electrical and suspension complaints create additional inspection points for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. CarComplaints lists reports in both categories. It also displays NHTSA complaints associated with electrical and suspension concerns.
Electrical faults can affect convenience features, warning systems, or other vehicle functions. Suspension problems can produce noise, poor ride quality, or uneven handling. The exact cause can vary between vehicles, so buyers should not assume every complaint shares one defect.
Test every electrical feature before purchase. Check the displays, cameras, sensors, windows, locks, lighting, and climate controls. During the road test, listen for clunks or rattles over uneven surfaces. The vehicle should track straight and remain stable during braking and cornering.
A professional inspection can identify worn suspension parts or stored electrical faults. This step becomes more important as mileage increases. It also helps separate a well maintained 2020 Palisade from one with developing repair needs.
Should You Buy a 2020 Hyundai Palisade at a Lower Price?
A 2020 Hyundai Palisade can make sense only when its price compensates for the additional reliability risk. A low purchase price alone does not make it a good value. Repair history and current condition matter more.
Consider a 2020 model when it has complete maintenance records and no unresolved safety recalls. It should also pass an independent inspection. The windshield should show no unexplained damage, and the engine should operate normally. Electrical and suspension systems should work without warning signs.
Compare the final price with a 2021, 2022, or newer Palisade in similar condition. A small saving may not justify choosing the model year with the strongest complaint history. Unexpected repairs can quickly remove that initial price advantage.
Choose a later Palisade when the price difference is reasonable. Consider the 2020 model only when its condition, history, inspection results, and purchase price clearly reduce the additional ownership risk.
Should You Avoid the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade deserves caution, but it is not a clear model year to avoid. Its complaint pattern is better than the 2020 model. However, several reliability concerns remain relevant for used car buyers.
CarComplaints currently records 20 direct complaints for the 2021 Palisade. The 2020 model has 50 on the same model year comparison. This makes 2021 an improvement based on that data set. However, complaint totals alone cannot measure overall reliability.
Windshield problems remain one of the strongest concerns for 2021. Electrical, engine, suspension, and safety related complaints also appear in available records. These categories give buyers several areas to inspect before purchase.
The 2021 model therefore fits a Buy With Caution rating better than an automatic avoid recommendation. A well maintained example can still be a reasonable purchase. Buyers should focus on windshield condition, recall completion, service history, and vehicle inspection.
What Windshield Problems Affect the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?
Cracked windshields are the most notable owner reported problem for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade. CarComplaints lists eight direct complaints in its windows and windshield category. Six reports specifically describe a cracked windshield without an impact.
Those six reports show an average failure mileage of about 8,500 miles. CarComplaints also lists a typical repair cost of about $1,600. This makes the problem relevant even for vehicles with relatively low mileage.
A second windshield complaint describes cracking at about 4,700 miles. The reported repair cost reached about $2,000. Individual reports do not establish a defect rate for every vehicle. However, repeated low mileage reports justify closer inspection.
Inspect the entire windshield before buying a 2021 Palisade. Look near the edges for small chips and repaired cracks. Also check the service records for previous glass replacement. A replacement windshield may require calibration of driver assistance systems.
Windshield wipers also deserve attention. Hyundai recalled certain 2020 and 2021 Palisade vehicles for a possible wiper failure. Snow or ice could interfere with the system and reduce visibility. NHTSA later reviewed the recall after receiving additional complaints.
What Safety and Electrical Problems Have Been Reported on the 2021 Palisade?
Seat belt and electrical concerns create two additional inspection areas for the 2021 Palisade. CarComplaints displays 74 NHTSA complaints under seat belts and air bags. It also displays 35 under the electrical category.
These figures require careful interpretation. NHTSA complaints may appear in overlapping categories. A complaint count also does not show how many vehicles have the same underlying defect. Buyers should use the data to identify systems that need inspection.
Seat belt performance now has additional relevance for Palisade buyers. Hyundai recalled certain 2020 through 2025 Palisade vehicles in September 2025. The recall covers seat belt buckles that may fail to latch properly. NHTSA lists 568,580 potentially affected vehicles.
The problem involves components inside the buckle assembly. Excess friction can prevent the seat belt tongue from fully latching. Cold temperatures can increase this risk. An improperly latched belt may not restrain an occupant correctly during a crash.
Hyundai instructs dealers to inspect affected seat belt buckles. Dealers replace the assemblies when necessary. Buyers should confirm recall completion with the vehicle identification number before purchase.
Electrical inspection should cover every major cabin function. Test the infotainment system, cameras, sensors, power seats, locks, windows, and lighting. Also check the dashboard for warning messages. A diagnostic scan can identify stored faults that a short test drive may miss.
Is a 2021 Palisade Safer to Buy Than a 2020 Palisade?
A 2021 Hyundai Palisade is generally the better choice when comparing two similar used vehicles. The 2020 model has a stronger complaint pattern on CarComplaints. It also ranks as the worst Palisade model year on that site.
The difference does not eliminate risk from the 2021 model. Windshield cracking remains a documented concern. Certain safety recalls also apply to both model years. A buyer still needs to examine the individual vehicle.
Price should influence the final decision. Compare vehicles with similar mileage, trim, maintenance, and accident history. A small discount does not justify taking significantly greater ownership risk.
Choose the 2021 model when both vehicles have similar condition and maintenance records. Choose neither vehicle when the inspection reveals unresolved safety or mechanical problems. The condition of the actual SUV remains more important than the badge on its model year.
Is the 2022 Hyundai Palisade a Year to Avoid?
The 2022 Hyundai Palisade is not a primary year to avoid based on current complaint patterns. It has fewer direct complaints than both the 2020 and 2021 models on CarComplaints. However, buyers should examine several specific problem areas.
CarComplaints currently lists seven direct complaints for the 2022 Palisade. The same database lists 20 for 2021 and 50 for 2020. This creates a better complaint pattern for the 2022 model.
The data still show concerns involving seat belts, suspension, electrical systems, and engines. CarComplaints displays 55 NHTSA complaints under seat belts and air bags. It also displays 27 under engines and 22 under electrical systems.
Seat belts require special attention because the later Hyundai recall includes the 2022 model year. Certain 2020 through 2025 Palisades may have buckles that fail to latch. Buyers should verify the VIN and confirm that Hyundai completed any required repair.
Suspension problems provide another inspection point. CarComplaints lists rear shock oil leakage among the notable 2022 problems. The reported example occurred at about 45,000 miles. The site lists a repair cost of about $500 for that complaint.
A leaking shock can reduce damping performance. The vehicle may bounce more after bumps or feel less controlled on uneven roads. Uneven tire wear can also indicate suspension problems. A road test should therefore include rough pavement and moderate cornering.
Listen for knocking or clunking from the rear suspension. Inspect the shocks for visible oil residue. Also check tire wear across all four wheels. Uneven wear may indicate an alignment or suspension problem.
Engine and electrical complaints also deserve inspection, although the available data do not prove one widespread defect. Start the engine when it is cold. Listen for abnormal noises and check for warning lights. Test every major electrical feature before completing the purchase.
The 2022 model offers a stronger buying position than the 2020 Palisade. It also avoids the same concentration of windshield complaints seen in 2020 and 2021. However, a lower complaint total does not guarantee a trouble free vehicle.
The 2022 Hyundai Palisade fits an Acceptable With Inspection rating. Confirm its recall status and maintenance history first. Inspect the seat belts, suspension, engine, electronics, and tires. A clean example can represent a better used purchase than the 2020 model.
Does the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Have Major Reliability Problems?
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is not a primary model year to avoid. Its direct complaint history remains much lighter than the 2020 model. However, buyers should check several recalls before purchasing one.
CarComplaints currently lists eight direct complaints for the 2023 Palisade. Reported categories include brakes, climate control, suspension, windshield, and safety systems. Brake failure appears as the most notable direct complaint on the site.
The low complaint total gives the 2023 model a stronger position than 2020. However, complaint totals need context. Newer vehicles have had less time to accumulate mileage and failures. Buyers should therefore consider both complaints and recall history.
The 2023 Palisade has three listed safety recalls. They involve the electric oil pump, power brake assist, and windshield wiper system. Each issue affects vehicle safety in a different way.
One recall covers certain 2021 through 2023 Palisade vehicles. Snow or ice can interfere with the windshield wiper system. This condition can cause intermittent operation or complete wiper failure. Reduced visibility increases crash risk during poor weather.
Hyundai addressed the problem by replacing the driver side windshield wiper arm. The recall covered 167,085 Palisade vehicles across the affected model years. Buyers should confirm completion through the VIN before purchase.
Another recall involves the electric oil pump used by the Idle Stop and Go system. Hyundai found damaged capacitors inside some pump controller circuit boards. The damage could create abnormal electrical activity and excessive heat.
Heat damage can affect the controller, connector, and wiring harness. It can also increase the risk of a vehicle fire. Hyundai included certain 2023 and 2024 Palisades produced between October 28, 2022 and June 27, 2023.
Buyers should confirm that Hyundai completed every applicable recall. They should also test the brakes, windshield wipers, electronics, and warning systems. A professional inspection adds another layer of protection.
The 2023 Palisade fits an Acceptable With Inspection rating. Its complaint pattern does not justify placing it beside the 2020 model. However, unresolved recalls should influence the purchase decision.
Should You Avoid the 2024 Hyundai Palisade?
You should not avoid every 2024 Hyundai Palisade, but certain vehicles require careful VIN verification. A serious engine recall affects a limited production group. Other recalls also apply to specific vehicles.
The most important concern involves engine valve springs. NHTSA Recall 24V106 covers 4,245 potentially affected 2024 Palisades. Hyundai produced these vehicles from August 21, 2023 through October 12, 2023.
This recall deserves more weight than a minor convenience problem. A fractured valve spring can cause sudden power loss. In rare cases, a broken valve can damage the engine block. That damage can also increase fire risk.
However, the recall does not affect every 2024 Palisade. Hyundai identified a specific production population. Buyers should therefore check the VIN rather than reject the entire model year.
The 2024 model also shares the electric oil pump recall with certain 2023 vehicles. Hyundai linked that issue to damaged controller components. Excessive heat can damage electrical parts and increase fire risk.
These recalls make service history especially important. A 2024 Palisade with completed recall repairs presents a different risk profile from one with open campaigns.
What Is the 2024 Hyundai Palisade Valve Spring Recall?
The 2024 valve spring recall addresses springs that can fracture because of manufacturing damage. Hyundai traced the problem to damage during the supplier’s production process. Fatigue cracks can develop in the affected springs.
A valve spring controls valve movement inside the engine. A fractured spring can disrupt normal engine operation. The vehicle may then lose motive power without warning.
The problem can become more severe when a broken valve enters the combustion chamber. Hyundai states that this event can create a hole in the engine block. The resulting damage increases fire risk.
Hyundai chose engine replacement as the recall remedy. Dealers replace the engine sub assembly in affected vehicles at no cost. Hyundai’s dealer instructions state that the repair applies to all affected vehicles.
The scope makes this recall important for used car buyers. An engine replacement represents a major repair. Buyers should verify completion and review the related dealer documentation.
A completed recall does not automatically make the vehicle unreliable. The new engine sub assembly contains valve springs without the identified manufacturing damage. Hyundai designed the remedy to remove the recall condition.
How Can You Check Whether a 2024 Palisade Is Affected?
Check the vehicle identification number before buying any used 2024 Palisade. The VIN provides the most reliable way to determine recall status. Model year alone cannot confirm whether the vehicle belongs to the affected population.
Start by checking the VIN through the official NHTSA recall database. You can also ask a Hyundai dealer to check open campaigns. Request written proof when the seller claims Hyundai completed a recall.
For Recall 24V106, review records for an engine sub assembly replacement. Hyundai instructed dealers to replace the engine on affected vehicles. A completed repair order should document that work.
Check for the electric oil pump recall as well. Certain 2024 Palisades fall within that recall population. Hyundai instructed dealers to inspect the controller and replace it when required.
Do not rely only on a clean dashboard during a test drive. An open recall may exist without an active warning light. VIN verification reveals information that a visual inspection cannot provide.
The 2024 Hyundai Palisade fits a Caution by VIN rating. Avoid affected vehicles with unresolved engine recalls. Consider properly repaired examples when the service history and inspection results are strong.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade a Reliable Year to Buy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is not a primary year to avoid, but buyers should check its recall status carefully. It has limited long term ownership data compared with the 2020 through 2022 models. This makes a final reliability verdict less certain.
CarComplaints currently shows no direct owner complaint entries for the 2025 model in its model year comparison. However, it lists seven NHTSA complaint records across several categories. These include seat belts, air bags, exterior accessories, and brakes. A low complaint count does not prove long term reliability because newer vehicles have less exposure time.
The 2025 model also has two safety areas that buyers should understand. One involves the electric oil pump controller. The other involves seat belt buckles across Palisade models from 2020 through 2025.
These recalls do not justify avoiding every 2025 Palisade. They do make VIN verification necessary before purchase. Buyers should confirm that Hyundai completed every required repair.
What Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Electric Oil Pump Recall?
Certain 2025 Hyundai Palisade vehicles were recalled because the electric oil pump controller can develop an electrical short. Moisture can enter the controller when the seal does not work correctly. The moisture can then reach the printed circuit board.
An electrical short inside the controller can create enough heat to cause a fire. The risk can exist while the vehicle is driving or parked. Hyundai therefore advised affected owners to park outside and away from structures until completing the recall repair.
NHTSA Campaign 25V291 covers 620 vehicles. Hyundai announced the recall in May 2025. The small recall population means the issue does not affect every 2025 Palisade.
Hyundai dealers replace the electric oil pump controller at no cost. Buyers should request documentation if a seller says Hyundai completed this repair. They should also verify the information with the VIN.
This recall should receive more attention than a cosmetic defect because it involves fire risk. However, its limited population matters when judging the entire model year. The correct response is to check affected vehicles rather than avoid every 2025 Palisade.
The 2025 Palisade also falls within a much larger seat belt recall. NHTSA Campaign 25V607 covers certain 2020 through 2025 Palisades. NHTSA lists 568,580 potentially affected vehicles and estimates that about 1 percent contain the defect.
The affected buckle assemblies may contain components outside the required specification. These parts can create extra friction inside the buckle. Cold temperatures can make the condition worse.
The seat belt tongue may then fail to latch completely. An occupant could believe the belt is secure when it has not fully engaged. This increases injury risk during a collision.
A used 2025 Palisade can still be a reasonable purchase after these recalls receive proper attention. Check the VIN first. Review dealer records next. Then inspect the vehicle’s mechanical and electrical condition.
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade fits a Caution by VIN rating. Its current record does not support placing it beside the 2020 model. However, limited long term data prevent calling it one of the most proven years.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Too New to Judge for Reliability?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is still too new for a confident long term reliability rating, but it already has important safety recalls. Buyers should not interpret its short ownership history as proof of better durability.
The 2026 model represents a major redesign. Hyundai describes it as an all new Palisade and uses a new 3.5 liter V6 engine. The redesigned vehicle also introduces major changes to its interior, technology, and available equipment.
A redesign changes the reliability context. Data from a 2024 or 2025 Palisade cannot automatically predict how the 2026 model will perform. New components need time and mileage before long term patterns become clear.
However, buyers now have early safety data to consider. Hyundai issued recalls during 2026 involving powered seats and the third row seat belt indicator. These issues do not establish overall mechanical unreliability. They do show why buyers should check current recalls before purchasing a new generation Palisade.
One major recall involves the powered second and third row seats on certain Limited and Calligraphy vehicles. NHTSA Campaign 26V160 covers 61,097 Palisade and Palisade Hybrid vehicles in the reported population.
Hyundai found that some powered seat functions may not provide enough protection against pinching. The issue involves automatic seat movement and access functions for the rear seating area. Hyundai received field reports involving injuries while investigating the condition.
The recall became especially serious after Hyundai received information about a fatal incident involving a third row seat. At the time of its filing, Hyundai stated that it was still investigating the exact circumstances and root cause. Buyers should therefore avoid treating the incident as proof of a separate defect beyond the recall findings.
Hyundai advised owners to ensure that people and objects stay clear of the powered seat area during operation. The company also developed software changes as part of its response. Owners should confirm the latest remedy status for their specific VIN.
Another 2026 recall involves the third row driver side seat belt indicator. NHTSA Campaign 26V169 covers certain Palisade and Palisade Hybrid models in Limited and Calligraphy trims. NHTSA lists 46,787 potentially affected vehicles.
Internal wiring inside the seat belt buckle can become damaged. This condition may cause the instrument panel to show that the seat belt is fastened when it is not. The incorrect display may prevent occupants from noticing an unfastened belt.
These early recalls change how buyers should evaluate the 2026 model. The vehicle cannot receive a proven reliability rating simply because it has fewer years of complaints. It also should not receive an automatic avoid rating based only on recall activity.
Long term reliability measures how major systems perform over years and higher mileage. The 2026 Palisade has not yet accumulated enough history for that assessment. Engine durability, transmission performance, electronics, suspension wear, and repair frequency need more time to evaluate.
Safety recalls answer a different question. They identify known conditions that manufacturers must correct. A vehicle can have a recall without becoming an unreliable model year overall. Buyers should therefore separate recall status from long term mechanical reliability.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade fits a Too Early for Long Term Reliability rating with specific recall concerns. Check the VIN before purchase. Confirm all available remedies. Buyers who prioritize proven reliability may prefer an established model year with several years of ownership data.
What Are the Most Common Hyundai Palisade Problems Across Model Years?
The most important Hyundai Palisade problems involve windshields, engines, seat belts, electrical systems, and suspension components. However, these problems do not affect every model year equally. Each issue has a different complaint pattern, severity level, and repair history.
Windshield complaints concentrate heavily in the 2020 and 2021 models. Engine concerns require more context because different years involve different causes. The 2024 model has a specific valve spring recall. Earlier models also have owner reported engine complaints, but those reports do not establish the same defect.
Seat belt concerns affect a wider range of Palisade models. Hyundai recalled certain vehicles from 2020 through 2025 because some buckles may fail to latch correctly. Electrical concerns also vary by year. Certain 2023 and 2024 vehicles received a recall involving the electric oil pump controller.
Suspension complaints appear less consistently across the range. However, rear shock problems deserve attention on some used examples. Buyers should examine each system according to the model year they plan to purchase.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Have Windshield Problems?
The 2020 and 2021 Hyundai Palisade have the strongest windshield problem pattern. CarComplaints currently ranks windows and windshields as the worst overall Palisade problem category. It also identifies 2020 as the worst model year.
The 2020 Palisade has 28 direct complaints in the windows and windshield category on CarComplaints. Twenty reports specifically describe windshields that crack easily. CarComplaints lists an average failure mileage of about 14,900 miles for that problem. It also lists a typical repair cost of about $1,690.
The 2021 model shows a similar issue with lower complaint volume. CarComplaints lists eight direct complaints in its windows and windshield category. Six reports describe windshield cracking without a reported impact. Those reports show an average failure mileage of about 8,500 miles.
These reports make windshield inspection especially important on 2020 and 2021 vehicles. Examine the glass from several angles in good light. Look for chips, edge cracks, repaired areas, and signs of previous replacement.
Ask whether the windshield has already been replaced. Review the invoice when possible. Replacement history can reveal whether the vehicle has experienced repeated glass problems.
Windshield replacement can also involve more than new glass. Palisade models use cameras and driver assistance equipment near the windshield. Replacement work may require calibration of these systems.
Test the forward camera and related safety features after a windshield replacement. Warning lights or incorrect operation may indicate calibration problems. A professional inspection can confirm proper system function.
The available complaint pattern does not show the same concentration in most later years. This makes 2020 and 2021 the main Palisade years to inspect for windshield concerns.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Have Engine Problems?
Engine concerns appear across several Palisade years, but they do not share one confirmed cause. Buyers should separate owner complaints from manufacturer recalls. This distinction prevents unrelated problems from appearing like one widespread engine defect.
CarComplaints displays 88 NHTSA complaints within the engine category for the 2020 Palisade. It also lists three direct engine complaints for that model year. These reports make the engine an important inspection area on used 2020 vehicles.
However, category totals require context. NHTSA complaints can describe different symptoms and different causes. Complaint categories may also overlap when one event affects several vehicle systems.
The 2024 Palisade has a more specific engine concern. Hyundai recalled certain vehicles because engine valve springs may fracture. The manufacturer linked the problem to fatigue cracking in affected springs.
A fractured valve spring can cause sudden power loss. A broken valve can also enter the combustion chamber. This event can damage the engine block and increase fire risk.
Hyundai developed an engine sub assembly replacement as the remedy. This makes recall completion essential when considering an affected 2024 Palisade.
Do not assume that an engine complaint on a 2020 vehicle relates to the 2024 valve spring recall. The available evidence does not support that conclusion. Each model year needs separate diagnosis and verification.
Used car buyers should perform several engine checks. Start the vehicle when the engine is cold. Listen for knocking, ticking, or irregular operation.
Check the dashboard for warning lights. Look underneath the vehicle for fluid leaks. Review oil change records and other maintenance documents.
A diagnostic scan can reveal stored trouble codes. It can also identify faults that do not appear during a short test drive. This step becomes more valuable on higher mileage vehicles.
The 2020 model deserves engine inspection because of its complaint history. The 2024 model requires VIN verification because of its specific valve spring recall.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Have Seat Belt or Airbag Problems?
Seat belt concerns apply to certain Hyundai Palisade vehicles from 2020 through 2025. Hyundai launched NHTSA Campaign 25V607 after investigating seat belt buckle performance. The recall covers 568,580 potentially affected Palisade vehicles.
The recall involves buckles in the front seats and second row outer seats. Certain internal components may create excessive friction. This condition can prevent the seat belt tongue from fully engaging.
Cold temperatures can increase the problem. Slow insertion can also make proper latching less likely. An occupant may therefore believe the belt is secure when it has not fully latched.
A seat belt that fails to latch cannot provide proper restraint during a crash. This increases the risk of injury. Hyundai instructs dealers to inspect affected buckle assemblies and replace them when necessary.
Hyundai had already extended buckle warranty coverage before issuing the recall. The warranty extension covers certain Palisade vehicles for 15 years or 150,000 miles. It applies to original and subsequent owners.
This issue changes how buyers should evaluate older Palisades. A 2020 vehicle with a completed buckle repair differs from one with an open recall. The same principle applies to 2021 through 2025 vehicles.
Check every seat belt during an inspection. Insert each tongue firmly into its buckle. Pull on the belt to confirm that the latch holds correctly.
Also check the dashboard warning indicators. The system should recognize whether the appropriate belts are fastened. Any inconsistent warning requires further diagnosis.
Airbag complaints also appear in complaint databases for several years. However, complaint counts alone do not establish one shared airbag defect across all Palisades. Buyers should check each VIN for applicable safety campaigns.
The practical rule is simple. Check recall completion on every 2020 through 2025 Palisade before purchase.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Have Suspension or Electrical Problems?
Suspension and electrical concerns appear across several Palisade years, but the causes vary by vehicle. These categories should guide inspection rather than create a universal avoid recommendation.
CarComplaints lists suspension complaints for the 2020 Palisade. It displays three direct reports and 54 NHTSA complaints in that category. Electrical complaints also appear for the same year.
The 2021 model also has electrical complaint activity. CarComplaints lists two direct electrical complaints and 35 NHTSA complaints in that category. These numbers do not prove one common electrical defect.
Electrical systems deserve a complete functional test before purchase. Check the infotainment screen, cameras, sensors, power windows, seats, locks, and lighting. Test the climate control system as well.
Watch the dashboard while driving. Warning messages can indicate faults in sensors, driver assistance systems, or other electronic components. A scan tool can provide more detail.
Certain 2023 and 2024 Palisades have a separate electrical safety concern. Hyundai recalled vehicles with an electric oil pump controller that may contain damaged circuit board components. The affected pump supports the Idle Stop and Go system.
A damaged capacitor can create abnormal electrical operation. Excessive heat may then damage the circuit board, connector, or wiring harness. Hyundai states that this condition can increase vehicle fire risk.
The recall applies to certain 2023 and 2024 Palisade vehicles. Hyundai instructs technicians to inspect the controller specification and replace the component when required.
Suspension inspection requires a different process. Drive the Palisade over uneven pavement at low and moderate speeds. Listen for clunks, rattles, or repeated bouncing.
Inspect the shocks for fluid leakage. Check all four tires for uneven wear. Abnormal tire patterns can point to alignment or suspension problems.
Steering should remain stable during normal driving. The SUV should not pull strongly to one side on a level road. Excessive movement after bumps can indicate weak damping.
Electrical concerns need special attention on affected 2023 and 2024 vehicles because of the oil pump recall. Suspension concerns require more vehicle specific inspection across older Palisade years.
Which Hyundai Palisade Years Are Better to Buy Instead?
The 2022 and 2023 Hyundai Palisade are stronger used options than the 2020 model. Both years show fewer direct complaints on CarComplaints. They also provide more ownership history than the 2024 through 2026 models. This creates a better balance between available data and purchase risk.
The 2022 Palisade currently has seven direct complaints on CarComplaints. The 2020 model has 50 on the same comparison page. However, the 2022 model still has safety recalls that buyers must verify. These include windshield wiper, trailer hitch wiring, and instrument display concerns.
The 2022 model also has enough age to reveal several ownership issues. This makes its reliability data more useful than data from very new models. Known concerns include rear shock leakage and seat belt problems. These issues should become inspection points rather than reasons to reject every 2022 vehicle.
The 2022 Palisade fits a Good Used Choice With Inspection rating. Look for a complete service history and completed recall repairs. Check the suspension, seat belts, electronics, and windshield wipers. A clean vehicle can offer lower risk than a similar 2020 Palisade.
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also deserves consideration. CarComplaints currently lists eight direct complaints for this model year. Its reported problems include brakes, climate control, suspension, and windshield concerns. The number remains far below the 50 direct complaints listed for 2020.
However, the 2023 Palisade has three listed safety recalls. They involve the electric oil pump, power brake assist, and windshield wipers. Buyers should verify that Hyundai completed every applicable remedy before purchase.
The electric oil pump recall deserves particular attention because it involves fire risk. A repaired vehicle presents a different purchase risk from one with an open recall. Ask for dealer documentation and confirm the VIN independently.
The 2023 Palisade fits a Good Used Choice With Recall Verification rating. It offers a lower direct complaint count than 2020 and 2021. It also provides several years of ownership history. Buyers still need to inspect the brakes, electronics, wipers, and safety systems.
The 2024 Palisade can also make sense for some buyers. However, its engine valve spring recall requires careful VIN verification. Certain affected vehicles received an engine replacement as the recall remedy. A properly repaired example should not receive the same judgment as an unrepaired vehicle.
The 2025 model has fewer years of reliability data. Its current complaint history remains limited, but that does not prove greater durability. Buyers must also check the electric oil pump and seat belt recalls that affect certain vehicles.
The 2026 Palisade requires even more patience. It starts a new generation and introduces major mechanical and technology changes. Long term reliability patterns have not had enough time to develop. Early safety recalls also make VIN verification important.
For buyers who value proven ownership history, 2022 and 2023 currently provide the strongest balance among used Palisade years. They avoid the stronger complaint pattern associated with 2020. They also have more reliability history than the newest models.
A 2021 Palisade can still offer value when its price is attractive. However, windshield complaints make it less appealing than a similar 2022 or 2023 vehicle. A small price difference favors the later model.
The final choice should depend on the individual vehicle. Maintenance history, mileage, accident records, recall completion, and inspection results can change the purchase risk. A neglected 2023 Palisade may be a worse purchase than a well maintained 2021 example.
Choose 2022 or 2023 first when condition and price are similar. Consider 2024 or 2025 after VIN verification. Treat 2021 with caution and place 2020 at the bottom of the shopping list.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Used Hyundai Palisade?
Check the recall status, maintenance history, engine, suspension, electronics, windshield, and seat belts before buying a used Hyundai Palisade. These seven areas reveal many of the risks discussed across different model years.
A model year can guide your search, but the individual vehicle determines the final risk. Two Palisades from the same year can have very different histories. One may have complete maintenance records and recall repairs. Another may have unresolved problems and poor service history.
A professional inspection adds another layer of protection. It can reveal faults that do not appear during a short test drive. The inspection becomes more important on older vehicles or models with higher mileage.
How Do You Check a Hyundai Palisade for Open Recalls?
Check the VIN through an official recall database before buying a used Hyundai Palisade. The VIN identifies whether specific recalls apply to that vehicle.
Start with the 17 character vehicle identification number. You can usually find it at the base of the windshield or on the driver door label. The seller should also provide it before purchase.
Enter the VIN into the NHTSA recall lookup tool. The results can show open safety recalls that still require repair. A Hyundai dealer can also check the vehicle for active campaigns.
Do not rely only on the model year. Some recalls affect specific production periods rather than every vehicle from that year. This distinction matters for recalls involving engine components, oil pump controllers, and other systems.
Ask the seller for repair invoices when a recall shows as completed. A dealer service record should identify the campaign and repair date. Major repairs deserve additional documentation.
Engine replacement records require special attention on affected 2024 vehicles. Hyundai used engine replacement as the remedy for certain valve spring recall vehicles. Confirm the repair before considering the purchase.
Check recalls again shortly before completing the sale. Manufacturers can announce new campaigns after a vehicle enters the used market. A current VIN check gives you the most relevant information.
What Service Records Should a Used Hyundai Palisade Have?
A used Hyundai Palisade should have records for routine maintenance, recall repairs, and major mechanical work. Complete records make it easier to judge how previous owners maintained the vehicle.
Start with oil change history. Regular oil service protects internal engine components and helps reduce wear. Missing records create uncertainty about previous maintenance.
Review scheduled maintenance records next. Look for inspections and fluid services appropriate for the vehicle’s age and mileage. Consistent service shows that the owner followed a maintenance routine.
Check for suspension repairs on vehicles with higher mileage. Records for shocks, alignment work, or tire replacement can reveal previous suspension concerns. Repeated repairs may require closer inspection.
Windshield replacement records also matter on 2020 and 2021 models. Ask why the glass was replaced. Confirm that any required camera or driver assistance calibration was completed after the work.
Review recall documentation separately. A general service history does not prove that every safety recall received a remedy. Compare dealer records with the current VIN recall status.
Major engine or electrical repairs require more investigation. Ask what caused the repair and whether the problem returned. A single completed repair may be acceptable. Repeated unresolved repairs create greater purchase risk.
A vehicle without complete records is not automatically a bad purchase. However, missing history increases uncertainty. The purchase price should reflect that additional risk.
What Should You Inspect During a Hyundai Palisade Pre Purchase Inspection?
Inspect the engine, windshield, suspension, tires, electronics, seat belts, brakes, and diagnostic system. These eight areas cover the most important mechanical and safety checks for a used Palisade.
Start the engine while it is cold. A cold start can reveal noises that disappear after the engine warms. Listen for knocking, ticking, rough idle, or irregular operation.
Watch the dashboard during startup. Warning lights should illuminate briefly and then turn off as expected. Persistent engine, airbag, brake, or safety system warnings require diagnosis.
Inspect the windshield carefully. Look for chips, cracks, repaired areas, and distortion. Pay extra attention to 2020 and 2021 models because windshield complaints appear more often in those years.
Test the driver assistance features when safe. Check cameras, parking sensors, blind spot systems, and other available functions. Windshield replacement or electrical faults can affect these systems.
Drive over several road surfaces. Listen for clunks, rattles, or repeated movement from the suspension. The Palisade should settle quickly after bumps.
Inspect all four tires. Uneven wear can indicate alignment, suspension, or steering problems. Different tire brands or tread depths can also suggest uneven replacement history.
Test every seat belt. Insert each tongue into the buckle and confirm a secure latch. Pull firmly on the belt after fastening it.
Test the brakes at low and moderate speeds. The vehicle should stop smoothly without strong vibration or pulling. Unusual pedal feel requires further inspection.
Check all major electrical functions. Test the infotainment system, windows, locks, seats, mirrors, climate controls, cameras, and lighting. Intermittent faults can become expensive to diagnose.
Finish with a diagnostic scan. A scan tool can identify stored trouble codes even when the dashboard shows no active warning. This step can expose faults that a normal test drive misses.
When Should You Walk Away From a Used Hyundai Palisade?
Walk away when the vehicle has unresolved safety recalls, unexplained engine problems, major warning lights, or a seller who refuses an independent inspection. These signs create unnecessary purchase risk.
An unresolved serious recall should stop the purchase until Hyundai completes the remedy. This is especially important when the recall involves engine failure, fire risk, or occupant protection.
Unexplained engine noise also deserves caution. Knocking, heavy ticking, rough operation, or repeated warning lights can indicate expensive problems. Do not assume a low purchase price will offset a major engine repair.
Walk away from vehicles with inconsistent service records and signs of poor maintenance. Missing one invoice is different from having no maintenance history at all. A complete absence of records makes the vehicle harder to evaluate.
Repeated electrical problems also create risk. Several warning lights, failing sensors, or intermittent accessories may point to a larger issue. Electrical diagnosis can require significant labor even when individual parts cost little.
Avoid vehicles with severe suspension noise or unstable handling. Clunks, excessive bouncing, and uneven tire wear can signal worn components. These problems also affect ride quality and control.
A seller who refuses an independent inspection creates another warning sign. A legitimate inspection protects both the buyer and the transaction. Refusal removes an important source of information.
Accident history also needs context. Minor cosmetic repairs may not create long term problems. Structural damage, airbag deployment, or poor collision repair deserves much more caution.
Walk away when the number of unknowns becomes greater than the potential savings. A used Palisade should reduce your purchase cost without creating excessive mechanical or safety risk.
How Long Does a Hyundai Palisade Typically Last?
There is not enough long term data to define one proven lifespan for the Hyundai Palisade. The model only entered the United States for the 2020 model year. That history remains too short for a strong maximum mileage estimate.
Claims that every Palisade will reach 200,000 miles require caution. Vehicle lifespan depends on maintenance, driving conditions, accident history, climate, and previous repairs. A fixed mileage number cannot describe every vehicle accurately.
RepairPal also does not currently give the Palisade its own reliability rating. The service states that available repair data have not reached statistical significance for the model. This limits the evidence available for precise long term durability estimates.
Maintenance history provides a better buying signal than an unsupported lifespan claim. A Palisade with regular oil changes and documented repairs creates less uncertainty. A neglected vehicle can develop expensive problems much earlier.
Mileage still matters when comparing used examples. Higher mileage increases wear on suspension, brakes, tires, cooling components, and other systems. However, mileage should always be considered with service history.
A lower mileage Palisade with poor maintenance is not automatically the better choice. A higher mileage vehicle with complete records may have fewer unknowns. Inspection results should guide the final decision.
Treat the Palisade as a relatively young model without a proven maximum lifespan. Focus on maintenance quality, current condition, and model year specific problems instead.
Is a Hyundai Palisade Expensive to Maintain as It Gets Older?
The Hyundai Palisade does not yet have enough model specific repair data for a reliable average annual maintenance cost from RepairPal. RepairPal currently states that it cannot provide an accurate yearly cost for the Palisade.
This limitation matters when comparing ownership costs. A single national average can hide large differences between model years, mileage levels, and vehicle condition.
Routine maintenance costs are only one part of Palisade ownership. Unexpected repairs can have a much greater effect on the budget. Windshield replacement, suspension repairs, electrical diagnosis, and engine work can add significant costs.
For example, RepairPal currently estimates a Palisade windshield wiper motor replacement at about $922 to $973. An AC compressor replacement ranges from about $779 to $839. These estimates show how individual repairs can affect ownership costs.
Major engine repairs create much greater financial risk. This makes service history especially important on older Palisades. Buyers should investigate warning lights, oil leaks, abnormal engine noises, and previous engine work.
New vehicle cost projections provide another reference point, but they should not be treated as used vehicle averages. Kelley Blue Book currently estimates about $6,472 in maintenance during the first five years for a 2026 Palisade. Its estimate also includes about $673 in repairs during that period.
Those figures apply to the redesigned 2026 model and projected ownership conditions. They do not establish the actual maintenance cost of a 2020 or 2021 Palisade.
Older vehicles generally require more attention to wear items. Brakes, tires, suspension parts, batteries, and cooling components become more relevant as mileage rises. Previous maintenance determines when many of these expenses appear.
Budget for routine service and leave additional funds for unexpected repairs when buying an older Palisade. A complete inspection can reduce the chance of purchasing a vehicle with immediate repair needs.
Is a Used Hyundai Palisade More Reliable Than a Kia Telluride?
Neither the Hyundai Palisade nor Kia Telluride has a clear reliability advantage across every model year. The two SUVs require comparison by year, recall history, complaint pattern, mileage, and individual vehicle condition.
The Palisade and Telluride compete in the same three row SUV segment. Buyers often cross shop them because they offer similar passenger capacity and ownership use cases. Reliability differences become more useful when compared at the model year level.
Recent data sets show only small overall differences between the two models. One current reliability comparison gives the Telluride a score of 66 out of 100 and the Palisade 65 out of 100. The same source reports fewer sales adjusted complaints for the Telluride.
Another analysis of NHTSA complaint data also reports a lower complaint rate for the Telluride. However, the two models show the same reported crash involvement rate in that data set.
These comparisons do not mean every Telluride is safer to buy than every Palisade. Reliability changes by model year. Recall completion and maintenance can also change the risk of an individual SUV.
A clean 2022 or 2023 Palisade may be a stronger purchase than a poorly maintained Telluride from a problematic year. The opposite can also be true.
Compare equivalent vehicles whenever possible. Match the model year, mileage, service history, accident history, trim, and purchase price. Then check recalls and complete an independent inspection.
Choose between a used Palisade and Telluride based on the specific model year and vehicle history. Do not select one solely because of its brand level reliability reputation.