2020 Hyundai Palisade Reliability & Problems
By Adrian V. LockhartUpdated All 537 NHTSA owner reports researched and classified
Owner complaints
537
23 report a crash, fire, injury or death
Recalls
5
1 with a park-outside warning
Most common problem
20%
of complaints: windshield cracking
Complaints per year filed
2019–2025 · peak 119
In short
Some known problemsThe 2020 Hyundai Palisade has some known problems, mainly an official park-outside recall for a trailer hitch fire risk and a seat belt investigation that ended in a recall. NHTSA has 537 owner complaints, and 23 report a crash, fire, injury or death. The most common are windshields that crack easily, engines that burn oil and stalling. There are 5 recalls.
Reliability
How Reliable Is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
This model year is rated Some known problems, and the rating rests mostly on official action rather than on a pattern in owner complaints alone. Recall 22V633000 tells owners to park outside and away from structures because debris and moisture on the tow hitch harness module circuit board may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire. NHTSA also investigated seat belts that unlatch on their own (PE24021), and the investigation closed with recall 25V607000. The complaints add to that picture. The most reported problem is windshields that crack easily, followed by engines that burn oil. Windshield cracks are a nuisance and a repair bill, but the engine complaints are the more serious ones, since several owners describe stalling or losing power while driving.
The engine complaints overlap and are worth reading together. Owners who report oil use, a missing warning light, stalling and complete engine failure often describe the same things: an empty dipstick, no oil light, a check engine light that came on late or not at all, and in some cases a seized engine. A few of the engine failure reports mention an engine compartment fire. The pattern is not proven to be one problem, but if you own or are shopping for one, treat oil level as something you check yourself rather than something the dash will tell you about. Seat belts that come unbuckled while driving and wipers that stop in heavy snow are smaller groups of complaints, but both affect safety.
Recalls cover some of this and not the rest. The seat belt recall addresses buckles that may fail to latch, and the remedy for the wipers is replacing the driver-side wiper arm, after a defect described as the wiper motor becoming inoperative. Owners in snow describe wipers that stop when snow builds up, so confirm the wiper recall was done and watch for it in winter. This model year has no recall for windshield cracking, oil use, stalling or engine failure, and the rear shock complaints have no recall either. Where owners reported repair results, most said the repair did not fix the problem: for windshields 18 of 22 said no, for oil use 16 of 19, and for rear shocks 16 of 19. Complaints lean toward repairs that failed, so a past repair is not proof a problem is gone.
Mileage helps when you look at an odometer. Windshield cracking, wind noise and wiper failure are reported early, with windshield reports centered around 4,100 miles and wiper reports around 11,000 miles. Rear shock complaints come later, around 64,200 miles. The engine problems appear at high mileage: oil use is reported around 90,000 miles, with the middle half of reports between 75,900 and 99,300 miles, and engine failure around 92,000 miles. Stalling is spread wider, around 72,300 miles. A low-mileage Palisade is therefore not tested on the engine complaints yet, and one past 70,000 miles deserves a close look at its oil history.
These counts show what owners reported to NHTSA, not how many vehicles are affected, and they cannot tell you how a particular vehicle was maintained. Many owners file early, so low-mileage complaints may be over-represented. For a specific Palisade, the most useful steps are confirming the recalls are done, checking the oil level and service records, and having a technician inspect it before you buy.
Top problems
The 9 problems owners report most
Named from 537 NHTSA complaints. Open a problem for symptoms, the fix, cost and owners' accounts.
1Windshield cracks easilySeriousAbout 1 in 5 complaints1,200–7,600 mi
Owners describe a crack growing from a small pebble or nick, sometimes into a long crack, while driving on the highway or freeway. Reports cluster at low mileage, with a median around 4,100 miles and the middle half between 1,200 and 7,600 miles. Owners report windshield replacement, sometimes more than once, and most who described the result said it did not fix the problem. No recall covers it.
What owners describe
- Cracks from a small pebble26%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: windshield replaced (8 reports).
Repair worked in 18% of complaints that describe one (complaints lean toward repairs that failed)
Mileage
4,100 mi
Middle half 1,200–7,600 mi · 84 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
20%
107 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
0%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“A small rock impact at the base of the windshield immediately spread and became a large semi-circle shaped crack.”
Owner in VA3.8LFiled 2020NHTSA 11318642 “2 glass repair shops say they won't touch palisade shields bc the glass runs and breaks easily”
Owner in MS3.8LFiled 2020NHTSA 11324701 “The dealers confirmed that this model vehicle has a high incidence of cracked windshields”
Owner in TX3.8LFiled 2021NHTSA 11420352 2Engine burns oilSeriousAbout 1 in 6 complaints75,900–99,300 mi
Owners describe no oil on the dipstick, no oil or check engine warning light, and in some cases a seized engine or stalling when coming to a stop. Reports have a median around 90,000 miles, with the middle half between 75,900 and 99,300 miles. Dealers did oil changes, oil consumption tests and combustion chamber cleaning, and most owners who described the result said it did not fix the problem.
What owners describe
- No oil warning light15%
- Check engine light11%
- No oil on the dipstick8%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: oil change (3 reports).
Repair worked in 8% of complaints that describe one (complaints lean toward repairs that failed)
Mileage
90,000 mi
Middle half 75,900–99,300 mi · 32 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
17%
89 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
3%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“Hyundai’s service department charged me ~$500 and sent me back on the road without disclosing that this was a known issue.”
Owner in CT3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11684924 “These issues led to dangerous situations where I was afraid to drive the vehicle and feared for my family's safety.”
Owner in TX3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11649942 3Stalling or shutting off while drivingCriticalAbout 1 in 11 complaints29,500–93,500 mi
Owners describe the vehicle stalling on the interstate or highway and when coming to a stop, sometimes with a rough idle, a burning smell and a check engine light. Several also found no oil on the dipstick. Reports have a median around 72,300 miles, with the middle half between 29,500 and 93,500 miles. No recall covers it.
What owners describe
- Engine shuts off while driving44%
- Stalls when slowing or stopping16%
- Rough idle10%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: combustion cleaning (2 reports).
Mileage
72,300 mi
Middle half 29,500–93,500 mi · 20 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
9%
50 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
2%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“I need to fail three oil consumption tests (I have), complete a combustion cleaning (it has recently been completed), and fail one more consumption test”
Owner in PA3.8LFiled 2026NHTSA 11719422 “While idling at a traffic light on a busy city street all of the warning lights on the car went off and the car shut off on its own.”
Owner in NJ3.8LFiled 2026NHTSA 11717200 “Our car has died GOING DOWN THE ROAD WITH MY 4 kids and WIFE! Cars had to swerve to avoid a collision, 5 times this has happened”
Owner in OH3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11696971 4Rear shock failureSeriousAbout 1 in 11 complaints41,000–72,500 mi
Owners describe clunking, thumping or popping from the rear suspension over bumps and speed bumps, leaking shocks and a rough ride. Reports have a median around 64,200 miles, with the middle half between 41,000 and 72,500 miles. Most owners who described the result said repairs did not fix it, and no recall covers it.
What owners describe
- Clunk or thump from the rear13%
- Noise over bumps13%
- Poor ride and handling11%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: dealer will replace one shock only (1 report).
Repair worked in 13% of complaints that describe one (complaints lean toward repairs that failed)
Mileage
64,200 mi
Middle half 41,000–72,500 mi · 19 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
9%
47 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
0%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“The problem was ignored by my primary Hyundai dealer but identified by another and the shocks were replaced.”
Owner in NY3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11676457 “The rear shocks have gone bad 2 times already, and now are bad a third time at 28,000 miles.”
Owner in MN3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11671126 “No warnings from the vehicle other than clunking sounds from the rear of the car.”
Owner in FL3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11667629 5No oil warning before failureCriticalAbout 1 in 15 complaints70,000–95,400 mi
Owners describe no oil warning light, no oil on the dipstick and no check engine light before the engine ran rough, knocked or stalled, including in the middle of a busy highway. Reports have a median around 82,900 miles, with the middle half between 70,000 and 95,400 miles. No recall covers it.
What owners describe
- No oil warning light40%
- Engine knocking or running rough20%
- No oil on the dipstick11%
- Engine stalls or loses power6%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: oil change (3 reports).
Mileage
82,900 mi
Middle half 70,000–95,400 mi · 13 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
7%
35 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
0%
of these complaints
Show 4 more problemsShow fewer problems
6Engine failureCriticalAbout 1 in 16 complaints87,500–103,600 mi
Owners describe a seized engine, sudden loss of power at freeway speed, new oil leaks and in some cases an engine compartment fire. Reports have a median around 92,000 miles, with the middle half between 87,500 and 103,600 miles. Dealers told some owners the engine needed replacing, and most who described the result said it was not fixed.
What owners describe
- Loss of power while driving24%
- Engine seized12%
- Engine compartment fire6%
- New oil leak6%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: new engine needed (2 reports).
Mileage
92,000 mi
Middle half 87,500–103,600 mi · 15 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
6%
33 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
9%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“My vehicle experienced a sudden and total engine failure, despite being properly maintained.”
Owner in GA3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11682068 “He checked the oil and said that I had low oil however my low oil light did not come on.”
Owner in TX3.8LFiled 2026NHTSA 11730639 “Suddenly the engine started knocking without an engine light or oil light coming on”
Owner in OH3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11659631 7Wind noise or whistling from doorsMinorAbout 1 in 20 complaints175–1,900 mi
Owners describe whistling or loud wind noise from the driver door or window, usually above about 30 to 50 mph and sometimes within two weeks of purchase. Reports come very early, with a median around 500 miles. A few owners said dealer attempts, including new seals, did not stop it.
What owners describe
- Whistling from the driver door22%
- Worse at higher speed22%
- Wind noise from the door or window19%
- Blind spot warning errors11%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: 3 fixes including new seals (1 report).
Mileage
500 mi
Middle half 175–1,900 mi · 24 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
5%
27 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
0%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“The dealer say it is been researched and is hard to reproduce therefore is doing nothing about the issue.”
Owner in AZ3.8LFiled 2021NHTSA 11389751 “I discovered this on a 2000 mile trip I took recently, and my ears are still ringing two weeks later.”
Owner in OK3.8LFiled 2019NHTSA 11290629 8Seatbelts come unbuckled while drivingSeriousAbout 1 in 21 complaints40,800–85,000 mi
Owners describe driver, second-row and captain's chair belts that unlatch while driving, or will not catch on the latch. Some report it happens in a share of drives with no clear pattern. Recall 25V607000 covers seat belt buckles that may fail to latch, and owners mention it in their reports.
What owners describe
- Belt unlatches while driving32%
- Second-row belts release20%
- Belt will not latch12%
- Belt unlatched alert8%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: engine and rear seat belts diagnosed as needing replacement (1 report). Recalls 25V607000, 26V034000.
Mileage
67,000 mi
Middle half 40,800–85,000 mi · 6 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
5%
25 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
0%
of these complaints
In owners' words
“I took it to the dealer and they said they needed replacement but not under warranty even though it has always been an issue.”
Owner in PA3.8LFiled 2025NHTSA 11645475 “An infant rode in the vehicle in a car seat, and there is no available option to secure the car seat inside the vehicle”
Owner in SC3.8LFiled 2026NHTSA 11728478 “The seatbelt defect has resulted in seatbelts becoming unlatched while my children were restrained in the vehicle.”
Owner in MD3.8LFiled 2026NHTSA 11742875 9Wipers stop workingSeriousAbout 1 in 30 complaints5,200–16,700 mi
Owners describe wipers that stop in snow, sleet or rain, sometimes forcing them to pull over to clear the windshield area, and in a few cases with no forward visibility. Reports have a median around 11,000 miles. Recall 22V627000 covers a windshield wiper motor that may become inoperative, and owners mention it in their reports.
What owners describe
- Wipers stop in snow72%
- Pulling over to clear the wipers17%
- Wipers will not turn on11%
- No forward visibility6%
Fix
Most common repair owners describe: vehicle in the shop (1 report). Recall 22V627000.
Mileage
11,000 mi
Middle half 5,200–16,700 mi · 13 reports
Repair cost
—
Fewer than 10 owners report a repair cost
How common
3%
18 of 537 complaints
Crash, fire or injury
6%
of these complaints
Buying one
Should you buy a used 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
What to check before you buy, based on the complaint and recall data.
Before buying, check with a Hyundai dealer that recalls 22V633000 (trailer hitch fire risk) and 25V607000 (seat belt buckles) have been completed, and ask about 26V034000 for the third-row curtain air bags. Ask for service records showing how often oil was added or changed, and have the seller show you the oil level on the dipstick. Check the windshield for chips or cracks, and test every seat belt buckle and the wipers. Be cautious if the owner mentions stalling or a check engine light.
- 1Run the VIN for open recalls. NHTSA lists 5 recalls, and 1 carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning (22V633000). Check at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- 2Test-drive for stalling. It's the most common safety-critical complaint, in about 1 in 11 owner complaints, usually around 72,300 miles.
- 3Check for windshield cracking. The most common complaint, in about 1 in 5 owner complaints.
- 4Get a pre-purchase inspection. An independent mechanic can spot leaks, stored fault codes and accident repairs that a test drive misses.
Hyundai Palisade model years
Which Hyundai Palisade years to avoid? Every model year compared
Early complaints are those filed in a model year's first 3 years. They follow how many were sold, so they don't show which years are better. Each tag is that year's verdict from our research of its owner complaints.
- 2020This year213 early complaintsCheck recall
- 2021164 early complaintsCheck recall
- 2022159 early complaintsCheck recall
- 2023318 early complaintsCheck carefully
- 2024387 early complaintsAvoid
- 2025248 early complaintsCheck recall
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings.
| SUV AWD | SUV FWD | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Frontal crash | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Side crash | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Rollover | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Rollover risk | 14% | 16% |
Owning one
If you already own one
Find your symptom, see when problems tend to show up, and check which recalls apply.
Park outside and away from structures until recall 22V633000 is done. Check the dipstick regularly, because some owners found little or no oil without any warning light. If the engine stalls, loses power, knocks or runs rough, get it checked before driving further. Press each seat belt firmly into its buckle and tug it to confirm it is latched. Ask a dealer whether recalls 25V607000, 22V627000 and 26V034000 have been done on your vehicle.
- Windshield cracks easilySeriousAbout 1 in 5 owner complaints107 of 537Median 4,100 mi
Most common repair owners describe: windshield replaced (8 reports).
- Engine burns oilSeriousAbout 1 in 6 owner complaints89 of 537Median 90,000 mi
Most common repair owners describe: oil change (3 reports).
- Stalling or shutting off while drivingCriticalAbout 1 in 11 owner complaints50 of 537Median 72,300 mi
Most common repair owners describe: combustion cleaning (2 reports).
- Rear shock failureSeriousAbout 1 in 11 owner complaints47 of 537Median 64,200 mi
Most common repair owners describe: dealer will replace one shock only (1 report).
- No oil warning before failureCriticalAbout 1 in 15 owner complaints35 of 537Median 82,900 mi
Most common repair owners describe: oil change (3 reports).
- Engine failureCriticalAbout 1 in 16 owner complaints33 of 537Median 92,000 mi
Most common repair owners describe: new engine needed (2 reports).
- Wind noise or whistling from doorsMinorAbout 1 in 20 owner complaints27 of 537Median 500 mi
Most common repair owners describe: 3 fixes including new seals (1 report).
- Seatbelts come unbuckled while drivingSeriousAbout 1 in 21 owner complaints25 of 537Median 67,000 mi
Most common repair owners describe: engine and rear seat belts diagnosed as needing replacement (1 report).
Show all 11 problemsShow fewer problems
- Wipers stop workingSeriousAbout 1 in 30 owner complaints18 of 537Median 11,000 mi
Most common repair owners describe: vehicle in the shop (1 report).
- Clunks or knocks from the suspensionMinorAbout 1 in 49 owner complaints11 of 537Median 71,000 mi
- Sunroof glass shattersSeriousAbout 1 in 54 owner complaints10 of 537Median 26,700 mi
of complaints that list mileage (138 of 163) came in before 25,000 miles. A low odometer reading is no guarantee.
5 recalls, newest first
Open one for the risk, the remedy and what to do now.
Side/window › CurtainThe side curtain air bags for third-row occupants may deploy improperly in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to…Jan 23, 2026568,576 vehicles26V034000
- Defect
- The side curtain air bags for third-row occupants may deploy improperly in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Risk
- Improper side curtain air bag deployment increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will install a protective film over the rear window and remove padding, as necessary free of charge.
Rear/other › Buckle assemblyThe seat belt buckles in the driver, passenger, and second-row window seats may fail to latch.Sep 12, 2025568,580 vehicles25V607000
- Defect
- 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.
Trailer hitchesPark outsideDebris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical…Aug 18, 2022244,980 vehicles22V633000
- Defect
- Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
- 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.
- What to do
- Park outside and away from buildings until the recall repair is done.
Windshield wiper/washer › MotorThe windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.Aug 15, 2022122,949 vehicles22V627000
- Defect
- 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.
Air bags › Side/windowThe mounting bolts used to secure the side curtain air bags may damage the side curtain air bags during deployment.Nov 7, 201911,217 vehicles19V802000
- Defect
- 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
- Dealers will install a protective cover on the mounting bolts, free of charge.
What to do
Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If a recall is open, any dealer will fix it free. For NHTSA's full record of a campaign, search its number there (for example 26V034000).
Reliability history
Hyundai Palisade reliability by year
Complaints filed in each model year's first 3 years, by trouble spot. Darker cells have more complaints; counts aren't adjusted for how many were sold each year.
| Trouble spot | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission & drivetrain | 2020 Transmission & drivetrain: 5 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Transmission & drivetrain: 6 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Transmission & drivetrain: 5 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Transmission & drivetrain: 29 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Transmission & drivetrain: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Transmission & drivetrain: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Engine | 2020 Engine: 8 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Engine: 6 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Engine: 14 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Engine: 30 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Engine: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Engine: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Fuel system & stalling | 2020 Fuel system & stalling: 0 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Fuel system & stalling: 2 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Fuel system & stalling: 1 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Fuel system & stalling: 4 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Fuel system & stalling: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Fuel system & stalling: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Electrical | 2020 Electrical: 10 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Electrical: 24 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Electrical: 20 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Electrical: 29 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Electrical: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Electrical: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Driver aids & stability | 2020 Driver aids & stability: 8 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Driver aids & stability: 10 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Driver aids & stability: 12 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Driver aids & stability: 24 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Driver aids & stability: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Driver aids & stability: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Brakes | 2020 Brakes: 2 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Brakes: 3 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Brakes: 4 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Brakes: 77 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Brakes: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Brakes: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Steering | 2020 Steering: 8 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Steering: 7 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Steering: 9 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Steering: 10 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Steering: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Steering: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Suspension | 2020 Suspension: 6 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Suspension: 3 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Suspension: 9 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Suspension: 17 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Suspension: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Suspension: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Airbags & seat belts | 2020 Airbags & seat belts: 11 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Airbags & seat belts: 16 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Airbags & seat belts: 23 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Airbags & seat belts: 34 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Airbags & seat belts: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Airbags & seat belts: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Body, lights & visibility | 2020 Body, lights & visibility: 136 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Body, lights & visibility: 70 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Body, lights & visibility: 55 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Body, lights & visibility: 86 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Body, lights & visibility: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Body, lights & visibility: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Acceleration & speed control | 2020 Acceleration & speed control: 2 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Acceleration & speed control: 4 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Acceleration & speed control: 1 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Acceleration & speed control: 14 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Acceleration & speed control: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Acceleration & speed control: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
| Wheels & tires | 2020 Wheels & tires: 6 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2021 Wheels & tires: 0 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2022 Wheels & tires: 2 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2023 Wheels & tires: 4 complaints in the first 3 years. | 2024 Wheels & tires: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. | 2025 Wheels & tires: too new, fewer than 3 complete years. |
All problems
Every problem reported on the 2020 Palisade
Every problem found in the 537 owner complaints, by area of the vehicle.
Body, lights & visibility
196 36%- Windshield cracks easilySerious107 20%typically at 4,100 mi · 18% fixed4,100–18%
- 27 5%typically at 500 mi500––
- Wipers stop workingSerious18 3%typically at 11,000 mi11,000––
- Sunroof glass shattersSerious10 2%typically at 26,700 mi26,700––
- Power liftgate or struts failSerious8 1%–––
- Sunroof fails to open or closeSerious8 1%–––
Show 17 more body, lights & visibility problemsShow fewer body, lights & visibility problems
- Strong chemical or garlic smell insideMinor4 0.7%–––
- Sunroof wind deflector breaksSerious4 0.7%–––
- Rear window glass shatters on its ownSerious3 0.6%–––
- Paint peelingMinor3 0.6%–––
- Captain chair comes unsecured2 0.4%–––
- Power third-row seat folds with someone in it2 0.4%–––
- Second-row seat not secured1 0.2%–––
- Walk-in seat button folds seat while moving1 0.2%–––
- Second-row walk-in seat no longer slides1 0.2%–––
- Automatic wipers come on with no rain1 0.2%–––
- Power windows stop working1 0.2%–––
- Door cuts leg when exiting1 0.2%–––
- Power seat will not adjust1 0.2%–––
- Rain-sensing wipers work wrong1 0.2%–––
- Electric shock from trunk1 0.2%–––
- Plastic trim and mirrors fail from sun damage1 0.2%–––
- Windshield washer does not spray1 0.2%–––
Engine
134 25%- Engine burns oilSerious89 17%typically at 90,000 mi · 8% fixed90,000–8%
- 50 9%typically at 72,300 mi72,300––
- 35 7%typically at 82,900 mi82,900––
- Engine failureCritical33 6%typically at 92,000 mi92,000––
- Oil leaks or low oilSerious9 2%–––
- Engine knocking9 2%–––
Show 12 more engine problemsShow fewer engine problems
- A/C stops workingMinor4 0.7%–––
- Misfires or head gasket failureSerious3 0.6%–––
- Fuel pump or fuel injector failureCritical3 0.6%–––
- Exhaust heat melts rear end near tow hitch1 0.2%–––
- Check engine light and vibration in heavy rain1 0.2%–––
- Limp mode after heavy rain1 0.2%–––
- Engine starts by itself1 0.2%–––
- Engine overheats1 0.2%–––
- Thermostat failure1 0.2%–––
- Engine not reaching temperature1 0.2%–––
- Gasoline in the engine oilSerious1 0.2%–––
- Front end shakes violently1 0.2%–––
Suspension
60 11%- Rear shock failureSerious47 9%typically at 64,200 mi · 13% fixed64,200–13%
- Clunks or knocks from the suspensionMinor11 2%–––
- Vibration while drivingSerious3 0.6%–––
Airbags & seat belts
42 8%- 25 5%typically at 67,000 mi67,000––
- Airbags did not deploy in a crashCritical4 0.7%–––
- Seat belt buckles hard to use in second rowSerious3 0.6%–––
- Rear seat belt buckle hard to latch2 0.4%–––
- Passenger airbag turns off with an adult in the seatCritical1 0.2%–––
- Airbag warning light stays onSerious1 0.2%–––
Show 6 more airbags & seat belts problemsShow fewer airbags & seat belts problems
- Seat belt will not buckle1 0.2%–––
- Seat belt retractors lock by themselves1 0.2%–––
- Second-row seat belts twist1 0.2%–––
- Third-row seatbelt buckles crushed by folding seats1 0.2%–––
- Seatbelt does not retract1 0.2%–––
- Third-row seatbelt reminder does not alert1 0.2%–––
Electrical
26 5%- Instrument cluster gauges stop workingSerious9 2%–––
- Many warning lights at onceMinor5 0.9%–––
- Screen or infotainment glitchesMinor4 0.7%–––
- Alternator fails and electrical system diesCritical4 0.7%–––
- Tow hitch power disabled after recall1 0.2%–––
- Battery drain or no-startSerious1 0.2%–––
Show 3 more electrical problemsShow fewer electrical problems
- Analog speedometer disagrees with actual speed1 0.2%–––
- Electronic parking brake engages on its ownCritical1 0.2%–––
- Starter solenoid failure1 0.2%–––
Transmission & drivetrain
24 4%- Transmission failure needing replacementSerious7 1%–––
- Hesitation or slipping while drivingSerious5 0.9%–––
- Harsh, jerky shiftingSerious5 0.9%–––
- Delayed engagement pulling away from a stopSerious4 0.7%–––
- Shifter system malfunction warningCritical3 0.6%–––
- Drops into neutral or loses drive while movingCritical2 0.4%–––
Show 5 more transmission & drivetrain problemsShow fewer transmission & drivetrain problems
- Transmission shudder or judderSerious2 0.4%–––
- Vibration at highway speed1 0.2%–––
- Loses power when shifting with paddles1 0.2%–––
- Cannot change gears with no electrical power1 0.2%–––
- Power transfer unit (PTU) or 4WD failureCritical1 0.2%–––
Driver aids & stability
18 3%- Automatic emergency braking activates for no reasonCritical7 1%–––
- Blind-spot warning system faultMinor5 0.9%typically at 500 mi500––
- Lane-keeping steers toward center lane1 0.2%–––
- Backup camera pixelates and fails1 0.2%–––
- Parking sensor error message1 0.2%–––
- Forward collision assist disabled, radar blocked warning1 0.2%–––
Show 3 more driver aids & stability problemsShow fewer driver aids & stability problems
- Driver-assist system stops car from moving1 0.2%–––
- Blind spot monitor turns off1 0.2%–––
- Front camera failure disables driver aids1 0.2%–––
Steering
11 2%- Loss of power steeringCritical5 0.9%–––
- Steering motor failure1 0.2%–––
- Vehicle pulls to the right1 0.2%–––
- Whirring noise from steering1 0.2%–––
- Steering column sheared off in a low-speed crash1 0.2%–––
- Whining noise from steering1 0.2%–––
Show 1 more steering problemsShow fewer steering problems
- Sticky or notchy steeringSerious1 0.2%–––
Wheels & tires
9 2%- Steering wheel locks or sticksCritical4 0.7%–––
- Excessive rust on wheel hubs1 0.2%–––
- Cracked or bent wheel1 0.2%–––
- Grinding noise from worn wheel bearings and cupped tires1 0.2%–––
- Stripped lug nuts1 0.2%–––
- Spark plugs fail1 0.2%–––
Brakes
8 1%- Brake pedal sinks or brakes failCritical5 0.9%–––
- Rear brake caliper fails1 0.2%–––
- Shaking and jerking forward when braking1 0.2%–––
- Fails to slow with engine braking1 0.2%–––
Fire
7 1%- Vehicle catches fireCritical7 1%–––
Acceleration & speed control
6 1%- Sudden or unintended accelerationCritical5 0.9%–––
- Loses power and will not accelerate1 0.2%–––
Other
2 0.4%- Cannot transfer owner on the Hyundai app1 0.2%–––
- A/C compressor failure1 0.2%–––
Fuel system & stalling
1 0.2%- Fuel leaksCritical1 0.2%–––
108 problems found in all 537 complaints. One complaint can describe more than one problem, so counts add up to more than the total. Not counted as a defect: 36 about recall paperwork or parts delays, 4 describing no vehicle defect. Typical miles, repair cost and fix rate show only when enough owners report them.
The data
Behind the numbers
Every figure comes from NHTSA's complaint file and APIs.
- Complaints
- 537
- Recalls
- 5
- Crashes
- 13
- Fires
- 7
- Injuries
- 16
- Deaths
- 0
Crashes and fires count complaints that report one; injuries and deaths count people.
FAQ
2020 Hyundai Palisade questions
Is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade reliable?
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade has some known problems, mainly because of official action. Recall 22V633000 tells owners to park outside because of a trailer hitch fire risk, and NHTSA investigated seat belts that unlatch on their own (PE24021), which closed with recall 25V607000. NHTSA also has 537 owner complaints, and 23 of them report a crash, fire, injury or death.
What are the most common 2020 Hyundai Palisade problems?
Windshields that crack easily are the most common, with 107 complaints, about 1 in 5 owner complaints. Engines that burn oil follow with 89 complaints (about 1 in 6), then stalling with 50 (about 1 in 11) and rear shock failure with 47 (about 1 in 11). Windshield cracks are reported early, around 4,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2020 Hyundai Palisade have?
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade has 5 recalls. Recall 22V633000 is a park-outside warning: debris and moisture on the tow hitch harness module circuit board may cause an electrical short and a fire, so owners should park outside and away from structures until it is repaired. The others cover third-row side curtain air bags (26V034000), seat belt buckles (25V607000), the windshield wiper motor (22V627000) and side curtain air bag mounting bolts (19V802000). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Does the 2020 Hyundai Palisade have engine problems?
Owners report engine problems, mainly engines that burn oil (89 complaints), stalling (50) and engine failure (33). Many describe no oil on the dipstick and no oil warning light. Oil use is reported around 90,000 miles, and no recall covers these engine complaints. Owners should check the oil level themselves and get stalling or power loss looked at before driving further.
Does the 2020 Hyundai Palisade have seat belt problems?
Yes, owners report seat belts that unlatch while driving or will not latch, with 25 complaints, about 1 in 21 owner complaints. Recall 25V607000 covers seat belt buckles in the driver, passenger and second-row window seats that may fail to latch. Until the repair is done, owners are advised to push the belt firmly into the buckle and pull on it to confirm it is secured.
What are the crash test ratings for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
NHTSA gives the 2020 Hyundai Palisade 5 out of 5 stars overall. Frontal and side ratings are each 5 out of 5 stars, and rollover is 4 out of 5 stars. The all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive versions have the same ratings.
What should I check before buying a used 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm recall 22V633000 (trailer hitch fire risk) and recall 25V607000 (seat belt buckles) are done, and ask about 26V034000 for the third-row curtain air bags. Ask for service records showing oil use, check the dipstick, look for windshield cracks, and test every seat belt buckle and the wipers.
Which Hyundai Palisade years should you avoid?
Avoid the 2024 Hyundai Palisade: owner complaints for that year show serious known problems. The 2023 is worth checking carefully: complaints show some known problems. For the 2020–2022 and 2025, make sure the recall repairs were done: an urgent recall matters more than their complaint pattern. The 2026 shows no pattern of serious problems. Every model year is compared on the Hyundai Palisade years-to-avoid page.
Methodology
How we researched this
- Complaints. NHTSA's owner complaint file, counted as unique complaint numbers for make HYUNDAI, model PALISADE, model year 2020. Data through Oct 4, 2026.
- Verdict. Judged from this model year's own complaints, not against other models, using shares rather than counts. Serious known problems: one serious problem (transmission, engine or stalling, steering, brakes, airbags, fire, fuel leaks) is in a quarter or more of complaints; or a smaller but clear cluster comes with an unusual share of crash, fire, injury or loss-of-power reports or early failures; or an urgent recall or NHTSA investigation matches a top complaint. Some known problems: one of those signals on its own. No pattern of serious problems: none of them; this doesn't mean the vehicle is trouble-free. Too few complaints to judge: under 50 complaints. Why this verdict: A park-outside recall (22V633000) for a fire risk in the trailer hitches; An NHTSA investigation into inadvertent seat belt unlatch (PE24021, closed with recall 25V607).
- No grade or class ranking. Raw complaint counts favor models that sell fewer cars, so we don't score or rank this vehicle against other models until we can adjust for sales.
- Trouble spots and history. Complaints grouped by the part owners chose when filing. The history grid counts complaints filed in each model year's first 3 years so older and newer years compare fairly; years with fewer than 3 complete years are marked too new.
- Named problems. Every one of the 537 complaints was researched and classified by its problems, severity, symptoms, repairs and any cost the owner mentions; the counts, costs and fix rates on this page are tallies of those classifications. Quotes are verbatim excerpts, checked against the original text. Engines are decoded from partial VINs with NHTSA's vPIC service.
- Repair costs and fix rates. Shown only when at least 10 owners report a repair cost, or at least 10 complaints describe whether a repair worked.
- Not adjusted for sales. Not affiliated with NHTSA. Page updated Nov 4, 2026.