2020 Hyundai Palisade Owner Complaints

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.

NHTSA ID

11766809

Incident

Sep 2, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11766548

Incident

Sep 19, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11765325

Incident

Sep 14, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11764865

Incident

Mar 1, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11764275

Incident

Jun 28, 2002

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.

NHTSA ID

11763426

Incident

Sep 9, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11763168

Incident

Aug 31, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11762084

Incident

Aug 14, 2026

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

NHTSA ID

11759537

Incident

Jul 23, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11759355

Incident

Nov 25, 2025

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.

NHTSA ID

11758600

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11758456

Incident

Aug 18, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11757633

Incident

Aug 3, 2026

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)

NHTSA ID

11757193

Incident

Feb 20, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11757107

Incident

Jun 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the engine seized. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with spark plug and ignition coil failures. The contact was informed that the spark plugs and ignition coils needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the oil was a quart and a half low. The contact was advised to add a quart of oil to the engine every 1,000 miles. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failed solenoid. The contact was informed that the solenoid needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact stated that since the vehicle was purchased, the vehicle had displayed nineteen fault codes. The contact stated that months later, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger's side sunroof arm deflector detached. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the passenger's side sunroof arm deflector had detached. In addition, the contact was informed that the driver's side sunroof arm deflector was fractured. The dealer attempted a temporary repair using tape, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the dealer reapplied tape, but the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the temporary application of tape and debris had detached. The force of the wind caused the driver's side sunroof arm deflector to detach. In addition, the contact stated that the loud sound and the debris from the sunroof were over the contact's head. In addition, the contact's minor child was an occupant of the vehicle at the time o

NHTSA ID

11756952

Incident

Apr 7, 2026

Mileage

107,233 mi

Hyundai Motor America has been notified of the safety issue through the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, which required Hyundai to provide a written response within ten business days. Hyundai has not responded to the Attorney General, has not responded to follow‑up attempts, and has not provided any guidance or corrective action. The local dealership reports that Hyundai Corporate will not authorize warranty diagnostics or repairs, leaving the vehicle in an unsafe condition with no manufacturer support.

NHTSA ID

11754648

Incident

Aug 28, 2025

On or about XXX I brought my vehicle into the dealership as my 2020 Hyundai palisade suffered a severe, sudden engine malfunction while driving at highway speeds. The vehicle began shaking violently, losing power, and making loud mechanical noises forcing me to navigate dangerous highway traffic to get it to the dealership. Prior to the failure, in XXX, the vehicle was brought into an authorized dealership as the vehicle would not drive properly, very slow acceleration and the vehicle feeling like it was stalling causing a danger to the road. . The dealership performed an inspection on the vehicle and diagnosed "carbon buildup due to mileage and age," they performed an authorized emissions software update, changed the oil, and performed a paid fuel injection cleaning. The dealership did not issue a safety warning or advise against driving the vehicle long distance back to [XXX]. A few months after this service, the vehicle suffered total engine failure. Professional teardown of the Hyundai Lambbda ll V6 engine show that unresolved carbon buildup and software defects lead to piston ring failure, severe misfires, oil starvation, and sudden loss not motive power. Operating a vehicle experiencing severe mechanical shaking and power loss at highway speeds poses an immediate risk of an accident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11754052

Incident

Jul 21, 2026

When attempting to use engine braking to control descent on mountain roads, the vehicle failed to slow. Engine RPMs increased and speed increased requiring significant brake usage. Last year the vehicle performed as expected as deceleration was controlled via downshifting with much less brake usage. The only change was the application earlier this year of Hyundai service campaign 9C9.

NHTSA ID

11751687

Incident

Jul 12, 2026

Car seat when you press to collapse the third row press it once the seat activates to collapse if my granddaughter’s in the rear seat and she’s not sitting properly, it’ll collapse on her. Causing death or injury. It won’t retract unless there’s significant pressure to make it retract again. The press and hold will prevent accidental injury.

NHTSA ID

11749267

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V034000 (Air Bags) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list because the recall repair was completed by an authorized dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA ID

11749151

Incident

Jun 8, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V607000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that while parked on several occasions, the second-row driver-side and passenger-side seat belts buckles failed to latch and required three to four attempts to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was determined that an object might be stuck in the buckle assembly, and the seat belt buckle assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred approximately a week later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

NHTSA ID

11748777

Incident

Jun 15, 2025

Mileage

25,000 mi

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V607000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on several occasions, the rear passengers' seat belts buckles unlatched inadvertently. The contact was able to rebuckle the seat belts securely after each failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000.

NHTSA ID

11748596

Incident

Mar 2, 2026

Mileage

33,000 mi

The vehicle suffers from a severe manufacturing defect causing excessive engine oil consumption (burning more than 2+ quarts per 1,000 miles) with no warning lights or oil pressure indicators activating. With little to no warning, I could be driving and experience catastrophic engine failure. This defect creates an immediate safety hazard, as sudden engine seizure or stalling at highway speeds risks loss of power braking and steering, creating an imminent risk of a high-speed collision. The dealership has confirmed the oil consumption issue after we noticed the vehicle stalling and performing sluggishly until the oil was changed.

NHTSA ID

11748518

Incident

Oct 10, 2025

Was driving 70mph on the highway, all instrument cluster speed gauges go to 0mph and I lose ability to manage speed through cruise control. Was driving blind and had no clue what speed I was going and was extremely worried for my safely. Dealership said my instrument cluster has failed, won’t cover under warranty or as a safety issue. Ridiculous a 80k 6 year old car has a main gauge part fail.

NHTSA ID

11748509

Incident

May 1, 2026