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2020 Hyundai Palisade

The Verdict

23 Check Engine

The 2020 Hyundai Palisade has 541 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are body (331 complaints) and engine (141 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 23/100, it earns a "Check Engine" rating. If you're shopping for a Hyundai Palisade, consider the 2025 model year which has 53% fewer complaints.

Safe Bet

The 2025 has 53% fewer complaints

View the 2025 Hyundai Palisade dashboard →

23

Klunk Score: Check Engine

More complaints than most vehicles. Known issues exist — budget for potential repairs.

How is this calculated?

The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.

Recalls 5

Active safety recalls from NHTSA for this vehicle year.

26V034000 AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Palisade vehicles. The side curtain air bags for third-row occupants may deploy improperly in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to...

Risk

Improper side curtain air bag deployment increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

The remedy is currently under development. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed beginning March 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final re...

Reported Apr 10, 2026

22V633000 TRAILER HITCHES

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling 2020-2022 Palisade vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyunda...

Risk

A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notifi...

Reported Apr 10, 2026

22V627000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Palisade vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.

Risk

Windshield wiper failure can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the driver-side windshield wiper arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 13, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460....

Reported Apr 10, 2026

25V607000 SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Palisade vehicles. The seat belt buckles in the driver, passenger, and second-row window seats may fail to latch.

Risk

Seat belt buckles that fail to latch may not properly restrain occupants in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Passengers are advised to insert the belt firmly into the buckle with a quick and direct motion, pulling on the belt to confirm the seat belt is fully secured, until the recall remedy is performed....

Reported Dec 9, 2025

19V802000 AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Palisade vehicles. The mounting bolts used to secure the side curtain air bags may damage the side curtain air bags during deployment.

Risk

Damaged side curtain air bags may not inflate properly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover on the mounting bolts, free of charge. The recall began December 20, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1...

Reported Jul 11, 2019

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Under the Hood

Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.

YearBodyBrakesElectricalEngineTransmission
202033184814113
20213019566415
20222121129567
202321777464027
2024110219362111
20251039038175

By Category

Body
331
Engine
141
Electrical
48
Transmission
13
Brakes
8

By Severity

1
269
2
249
3
3
4
20

Worst Problems

Compare Against

See how the 2020 Hyundai Palisade stacks up against rivals.

Complaints

Body 2

Windshield has cracked multiple times

12d ago
Body 2

On three separate occasions, when turning left, the steering wheel locked briefly at the 11pm position and there was a clunking noise. It released after a second or two. Obviously having steering lock is a severe safety issue. I have had it at Haselwood Hyundia in Bremerton, WA for a week and because they cannot reproduce the issue themselves, they are sending me home with the car unfixed. There were no warnings or other notifications and apparently no diagnostic codes.

17d ago
Electrical 1

My 2020 Hyundai Palisade experienced repeated instances of the engine cooling fan continuing to operate after the vehicle was completely shut off. In one instance, the fan ran for about 90 minutes after shutdown. After the vehicle was driven again, it ran for approximately another 45 minutes after shutdown. On a subsequent occurrence, the fan continued running until it discharged the battery enough that the vehicle would not start. Southtowne Hyundai in Newnan, Georgia subsequently diagnosed the cause as an internal PCB block failure and replaced the engine-room PCB block pursuant to Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 26-EE-007H, which addresses battery drain caused by continuous cooling-fan operation after the vehicle is turned off. The dealer installed PCB block part number 91959-S8000-FFF. The failure was intermittent and did not occur every time the vehicle was shut off. My concern is that the defect could unexpectedly discharge the battery while the vehicle is parked, leaving it unable to restart. I am filing this complaint so NHTSA has a record of the failure and can determine whether similar failures are occurring in other Hyundai Palisades.

18d ago
Engine 1

My 2020 Hyundai Palisade (3.8L V6) suffered an engine failure at approximately 108,000 miles. On September 3rd,2026 , while driving at about 65 mph, the engine began knocking loudly. There was no warning before this happened and the engine light had not come on. The vehicle was taken to Shottenkirk Hyundai, an authorized Hyundai dealer, which diagnosed a connecting rod bearing failure. The repair order states: "Replace engine assembly due to piston slap on front bank caused by rod bearing failure." The dealer says the entire engine must be replaced. The vehicle has been maintained with regular oil changes. The failure was internal and was not caused by a crash, impact, or outside damage. I believe this is a safety defect. A connecting rod bearing failure can cause the engine to stall or seize without warning while driving, including at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. A failed rod can also break through the engine block and leak oil onto hot engine parts, which is a fire risk. The vehicle is past Hyundai's 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. I have opened a case with Hyundai Consumer Affairs (case # 43347615) and am waiting for a decision. The vehicle and failed engine are available for inspection at the dealer. I am asking NHTSA to investigate connecting rod bearing failures in the 3.8L V6 engine in the 2020 Hyundai Palisade.

21d ago
Body 1

There is pre-mature failure of the rear shocks/struts. Vehicle is a 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited with 70,000 miles on it. Normal wear and tear with no excessive use and never towed anything. Hyundai dealerships are backed up for service appointments. I was finally able to get in for an appointment, and they confirmed pre-mature shocks/struts failure but parts are on back order. The dealership states the vehicle is "safe to drive" but I am concerned. We are a family of [XXX] and are worried about a bad outcome with all the extra bounce in the car on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

28d ago
Engine 1

My 2020 Hyundai Palisade (3.8L V6) has a persistent engine defect causing sudden stalling and severe oil consumption. Since mid-2019 the engine has stalled without warning when coming to a stop, idled roughly, and made loud puttering noises under light acceleration — a loss-of-power hazard in traffic. In 2026 the dealer began formal oil consumption testing. Although 1,000-mile checks were marked 'passed,' the engine was found completely dry (dipstick showed no oil) at 2,000 miles — 3.5 quarts low on a 6.1-quart system. On 09/02/2026 the vehicle FAILED an official oil consumption test at Hyundai of Kirkland and was held for service. The dealer performed a carbon-cleaning procedure, but the underlying oil consumption is unresolved and a re-test is now underway. Running an engine at less than half its oil capacity risks sudden seizure or stall at speed. I am concerned this is a systemic defect affecting other 2020 Palisades and request NHTSA investigate.

1mo ago
Engine 2

Defect & Safety Hazard: Severe internal manufacturing defect causing catastrophic engine oil consumption and sudden, un-warned engine stalling. The vehicle completely shuts down at highway speeds, on inclines, and at stops. This sudden loss of motive power deactivates power steering and braking assists, creating an immediate multi-vehicle collision risk. No low-oil or dashboard indicators illuminate prior to stalling, stripping the driver of any ability to take proactive safety measures. Indisputable Failure Data: Between 99,xxx miles (under warranty) and 103,xxx miles, the engine consumed 5.5 quarts of oil over a 3,000-mile interval. This equals an extreme burn rate of 1.83 quarts per 1,000 miles. Hyundai’s maximum corporate failure limit (1.0 qt/1,000 miles). Secondary diagnostics indicate this massive volume of un-combusted oil is actively pushing into the exhaust system, creating restrictive backpressure that induces stalling. Timeline & Dealer Obstruction:Rusty Wallace Hyundai: Inspected vehicle under 100,000 miles and initiated the first 1,000-mile consumption test, but subsequently refused documentation and further warranty services. A corporate national claim and customer service complaint were filed against them.Grayson Hyundai: Completed a second 1,000-mile test documenting a definitive failure. They confirmed this is a common, known systemic issue and recommended full engine replacement.Federal Violations: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, because the defect was reported to a dealer before warranty expiration, Hyundai is legally required to cover the defect. Forcing a vehicle that burns 5.5 quarts of oil onto public roads also violates strict EPA Clean Air Act emissions compliance standards. Hyundai's current demand for out-of-pocket payment must be rescinded for full corporate coverage.

1mo ago
Engine 1

I am reporting severe and recurring oil consumption in my 2020 Hyundai Palisade that could cause engine damage, engine seizure, stalling, or a sudden loss of power while driving. On April 14, 2026, at approximately 89,950 miles, an authorized Hyundai dealership documented that the engine had consumed approximately 1.3 quarts of oil in only 1,275 miles, equivalent to approximately one quart every 982 miles. The vehicle failed Hyundai’s initial oil-consumption test. Hyundai then authorized a combustion-chamber cleaning. On May 12, 2026, at 91,087 miles, the dealership completed the follow-up test and stated that the vehicle passed at that time. On September 14, 2026, at 95,512 miles, I returned to the dealership because the engine again had no measurable oil remaining. Only 4,425 miles had elapsed since the May oil change. The dealership’s repair order states that the vehicle “has no oil again.” I also reported that the vehicle had begun stuttering and rattling when pressing the brake and coming to a stop, creating concern that the engine may already have sustained damage from insufficient lubrication. The dealership initiated another oil-consumption test and instructed me to return after 1,000 miles. However, the earlier combustion-chamber cleaning did not correct the underlying problem. I am concerned that the vehicle may again consume its oil without adequate warning and could stall, seize, or lose power while being driven, placing the occupants and other motorists at risk. Hyundai should investigate the cause of the recurring oil loss and determine whether 2020 Hyundai Palisade vehicles have defective piston rings, cylinders, valve components, PCV systems, or other engine components causing excessive oil consumption. I am requesting that NHTSA document and investigate this potentially dangerous engine defect.

1mo ago
Body 1

My 2020 Hyundai Palisade is affected by NHTSA Safety Recall 25V607 / Hyundai Recall 283 involving the first- and second-row seat belt buckle assemblies. The recall was initiated in 2025, and my vehicle remains unrepaired approximately one year later. This defect has actually occurred in my vehicle. Seat belts have released/unlatched while the vehicle was being driven, creating a serious risk that an occupant could become unrestrained while the vehicle is moving or in the event of a collision. The Hyundai dealership documented Recall 283 as outstanding on my vehicle in March 2026. I returned to the dealership in September 2026, and the recall remained unrepaired because the required parts were unavailable. Hyundai Motor America has since confirmed in writing that the required parts are back-ordered. Hyundai states that a set has been assigned to my vehicle, but there is currently no estimated time of arrival. Approximately one year after this safety recall was initiated, my affected vehicle remains unrepaired despite the seat belt defect having actually occurred while driving. I am concerned about safely transporting my family while waiting indefinitely for the required repair.

1mo ago
Engine 1

I am filing this safety complaint regarding excessive oil consumption in my 2020 Hyundai Palisade, which presents a direct vehicle stalling and engine failure hazard while driving at highway speeds. My vehicle is currently consuming approximately 5 quarts of engine oil every 3,000 miles. This severe oil loss occurs rapidly between scheduled maintenance intervals without any illuminated dashboard warning lights, low oil pressure indicators, or visible oil leaks on the ground. The oil is burning internally within the combustion chamber. This creates an extreme safety risk. If the oil level drops dangerously low before the next service, the engine is at risk of sudden catastrophic failure, severe overheating, or immediate stalling while in motion. A sudden loss of propulsion while driving in heavy traffic or at highway speeds places myself, my passengers, and other drivers at risk of a serious collision. Furthermore, the lack of an early warning sensor or dashboard indicator for low oil volume means the driver is left entirely unaware of the hazard until the engine begins to fail. Hyundai is well aware of this widespread oil-burning defect in their V6 engines, yet because my vehicle has reached 160,000 miles, they refuse to provide any diagnostic support, remedy, or warranty assistance. I am requesting that the NHTSA open a formal investigation into the 2020 Hyundai Palisade engine oil consumption defect to compel the manufacturer to issue a safety recall before a catastrophic stalling event causes a fatal accident.

1mo ago
Engine 2

I do not understand how Hyundai can approve its required testing process, have the vehicle fail that test, and then deny the engine replacement resulting from those findings. This is unfair and raises serious concerns about how Hyundai is applying its warranty procedures.Hyundai’s published oil-consumption procedures establish a process for diagnosing excessive oil consumption and determining when further repairs, including engine replacement, may be warranted. I am requesting that Hyundai explain exactly what requirement my vehicle allegedly failed to meet and provide documentation supporting the denial.I am requesting that Hyundai reverse the denial and fully cover the necessary engine replacement under warranty. I also request a complete review of my maintenance history, repair records, oil-consumption test results, diagnostics, and the dealership’s submission. This vehicle has been properly maintained and has only approximately 80,000 miles. I purchased it expecting a reliable vehicle that would last many years. An engine developing excessive oil consumption at this mileage is unacceptable, and I believe Hyundai should stand behind its product and warranty obligations.

1mo ago
Body 1

I am reporting a serious safety defect involving the A/C system on my 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The A/C system has failed due to a manufacturer acknowledged defect in the compressor pulley and hub assembly. Hyundai has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSB 21‑HA‑003H, 24‑HA‑003H, 25‑HA‑003H / 003H‑1) documenting this exact failure pattern. These TSBs confirm Hyundai is aware of widespread A/C failures in this model. Despite acknowledging the defect in writing, Hyundai has refused to repair the vehicle, citing “time in service and mileage,” even though the failure is directly tied to a known defective component. This refusal leaves a safety‑critical defect unaddressed. This is not a comfort issue. This vehicle is used for medical transportation of a medically needy child who requires strict temperature regulation. Loss of A/C in Florida heat creates a dangerous and medically hazardous environment inside the vehicle. The cabin temperature rises rapidly, creating a risk of heat‑related medical complications. This is a clear safety hazard, not a cosmetic or convenience problem. The A/C failure is sudden, unpredictable, and cannot be mitigated by the driver. The defect results in: Complete loss of cooling in high‑heat conditions Inability to maintain medically safe cabin temperatures Documented component failure acknowledged by Hyundai Manufacturer refusal to correct a known defect Increased risk of medical harm to a vulnerable passenger Hyundai’s denial of assistance despite multiple TSBs proving the defect demonstrates a failure to address a safety related mechanical issue that directly impacts occupant health. This defect should be investigated as a potential widespread safety problem affecting 2020 Hyundai Palisade vehicles. I am requesting NHTSA’s review and investigation into this defect due to the significant safety risk, the manufacturer’s documented knowledge, and the potential for medical harm caused by the failure of the A/C system.

1mo ago
Engine 1

On August 14, 2026, while driving and decelerating, I heard a knocking sound from the engine and the vehicle had difficulty downshifting. As the transmission shifted from second gear to first, the engine stalled immediately and the vehicle dropped into neutral while on the roadway. I lost propulsion in traffic. The vehicle behind me nearly rear-ended us due to the sudden stall. My children were in the vehicle. All dashboard warning lights illuminated at the moment of the stall. I was able to restart the engine and move the vehicle slowly, in first gear only, into a nearby parking lot. The check engine light came on at that restart and has remained on since. The vehicle sat parked and off for approximately 90 minutes. Before restarting, I checked the engine oil level and it was within the normal range. On startup, my children and I both heard a loud knocking sound and noticed an unusual smell, and the engine idled roughly while in Park. I drove approximately 15 minutes home with the rough idle continuing. On arrival the vehicle smelled hot, with a burning odor, although the temperature gauge read approximately mid-scale and was not in the high range. The check engine light remained on and the oil level was again confirmed to be within range. The vehicle has been out of service since the incident and is currently at a dealership awaiting diagnosis. This is a 2020 Hyundai Palisade with approximately 93,000 miles at the time of failure. A sudden loss of motive power in a travel lane is a safety defect.

1mo ago
Body 1

The paint on the roof of my 2020 Hyundai Palisade is peeling off in large sheets, rather than typical chipping or wear. The peeling originates from the center of the roof and has begun spreading toward the area near the front windshield edge. This is not consistent with normal wear and tear, curb rash, or impact damage — the affected areas show clean separation of paint layers down to a lower coat/primer, consistent with a manufacturing defect in paint adhesion or application. Rust is beginning to be visible. Based on research, this appears to be a widespread issue among other 2020 Hyundai Palisade owners, many of whom report similar peeling on roofs, hoods, and wheels, suggesting a systemic paint defect rather than an isolated incident. Date first noticed July 2026 Current mileage 32,006

2mo ago
Engine 2

My 2020 Hyundai Palisade (3.8L GDI Lambda II V6) consumes engine oil at a rate that empties the crankcase between scheduled oil changes, with no warning lamp illuminating before the oil is gone. This creates a risk of engine seizure and sudden loss of motive power in traffic. The vehicle has repeatedly run rough and felt as though it would stall when slowing or stopping. On 3/10/2025 at 57,026 miles I brought it to a Hyundai dealer because it felt like it was about to stall at traffic lights. The technician found no measurable oil on the dipstick, 4.5 quarts low, and found the camshafts out of time as a result. On 11/25/2025 at 69,851 miles the oil light flickered and the engine ran rough and stuttered. The dealer checked the dipstick and again found no oil on it at all. This was only 5,614 miles after a documented oil and filter change performed by that same dealer. No warning illuminated until the crankcase was already effectively empty, which I consider inadequate warning of imminent engine failure. Consumption has continued and worsened: 1 quart low at 77,202 miles (4/22/2026), 1.5 quarts low at 81,350 (5/14/2026), and 1.2 quarts low at 82,927 (8/11/2026), the last only 1,577 miles after an oil change. Hyundai TSB 23-EM-008H sets the failure threshold at 1 quart per 1,000 miles for all gasoline engines. The dealer twice billed Hyundai operation code 21000FCC, which that bulletin defines as payable only after an initial oil consumption test result of NG (failed). Two combustion chamber cleanings were performed at Hyundai's expense (1/2026 and 5/2026). Neither resolved the consumption. On 5/14/2026 the dealer submitted a request to Hyundai Motor America to replace the engine. Hyundai denied it verbally and has provided no written decision, case number, or reason. This is our family's primary vehicle and remains in service. I must check the oil weekly to keep the engine from running dry. Complete dealer service records are available.

2mo ago
Body 2

I am experiencing an issue with the power liftgate struts on my 2020 Hyundai Palisade SEL that appears to be a common problem among other Palisade owners. The liftgate support struts are beginning to fail, causing the liftgate to no longer stay fully open. When the liftgate is opened, it slowly falls back down instead of remaining securely in the fully open position. The struts appear to have lost their ability to properly support the weight of the liftgate and are essentially failing. This is particularly concerning because the liftgate can unexpectedly fall while someone is loading or unloading the vehicle, creating a potential safety hazard. Given the number of similar complaints from other Palisade owners, this appears to be a recurring issue with the liftgate struts. I would like Hyundai to recognize this as a potential common defect and provide a proper repair or replacement of the failing liftgate struts.

2mo ago
Electrical 4

I believe this is related to RECALL 235, Veh was parked on the street, thank god. The Palisade then spontaniusly caught fire, fire department had to be called and insurance company says its a total loss. Fire started in the rear driver side.

2mo ago
Engine 1

This vehicle has suffered two identical, catastrophic electrical failures causing an immediate and total loss of engine power while traveling at highway speeds. The first incident occurred after the engine was replaced under a Hyundai extended warranty. The dealership service department blamed that failure on a loose engine ground strap and released the vehicle back to me. On August 3, 2026, the exact same failure occurred for a second time while driving at high speed on the highway. The vehicle lost all propulsion, leaving me exposed to oncoming traffic with zero engine power. The vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealership. The dealership identified a blown "Sensor 4" fuse causing an intermittent dead circuit, but they have been unable to locate the short circuit after two weeks of troubleshooting. After demanding the diagnostic data logs, the dealership abruptly halted all repairs and ordered me to pick up the vehicle. Furthermore, due to excessive, repetitive diagnostic cranking and idling in 90+ degree heat while under the dealer's care, the vehicle's starter solenoid has now suffered collateral failure. The vehicle is currently completely disabled, undrivable, and the underlying highway stalling hazard remains completely unresolved. This is a recurring, severe life-safety issue that leaves the vehicle prone to sudden stall events in high-speed traffic without warning.

2mo ago
Electrical 2

In my 2020 Palisade with automated third and second row seats, the third row automated seat button was accidentally pushed and started to close on my grandchild who was sitting in the third row. The seat did not detect that anyone was sitting in it and kept closing. Luckily I was able to hit the button to stop it. This same problem also happened in the automated second row seat with a grandchild in it. Another [XXX] old child pushed the button on the entry side of the captain’s seat and the seat did not detect that there was someone sitting in it and began to close on them. Once again we were lucky and was standing there and able to push the button to stop it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

2mo ago
Body 2

Sunroof was opened and a slim metal piece fell down into the car landing in the console. I wasn’t sure where it came from so I tried to close the sunroof. It would slide to close but would not go down the last inch or so on the back. I tried to open and close it a couple times to see if it was just sticking and another slim metal piece fell down. I am afraid to drive much and over 25-30 mph because I am afraid the roof may fly out. A long silver piece was flopping around (I assume a wind deflector) so I laid it in the backseat. It’s a shame that I have a vehicle that’s basically unusable on rainy or windy days and can’t drive over 30 mph because roof may fly out and hit someone. I also cannot lock and set alarm because roof shows open and horn blows. I care for my elderly parent with dementia so this is not helpful when nearest doctor visits or Hyundai dealer is minimum 45 minutes away drive.

2mo ago

541 total

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