Last updated: 2026-04-20

2020 Hyundai Palisade Reliability Report
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade scores 59/100 ("Mixed"). With 7 recalls and 521 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
7
Complaints
521
Complaint Rate
63.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$573
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,700–$2,850
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (100)
- SUSPENSION (56)
- ENGINE (49)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is the first model year of the First generation (LX2; 2018).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2020 model year.
- Refreshed in 2022.
- 1st generation Palisade (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2020 pricing and recall counts against 2021+ before deciding.
2020: First generation (LX2; 2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
A 59/100 score puts the 2020 Hyundai Palisade in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Complaint volume sits above average at 521 owner complaints alongside 7 recalls. Issues in visibility wiper (100) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put visibility wiper (100) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, which scored 2 points higher.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −VISIBILITY/WIPER: Owners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with windshield... (100 complaints)
- −5 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
- −Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2020 Hyundai Palisade With

2020 KIA Telluride
Reliability: 55/100

2020 Volkswagen Atlas
Reliability: 57/100

2020 Toyota Highlander
Reliability: 71/100

2020 Buick Enclave
Reliability: 68/100

2020 Honda Pilot
Reliability: 60/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 7 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- VISIBILITY/WIPER (100)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (57)
Recall Overview
7
recalls on record
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade has 7 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
63.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 21.2
Safety Incidents
17
Crashes
5
Fires
23
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Hyundai Palisade Recall Details
7 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
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 comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Consequence
Improper side curtain air bag deployment increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 292. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 24, 2026.
SEAT BELTS
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.
Consequence
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. Dealers will replace the seat belt buckle assemblies, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed beginning October 23, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated February 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 283. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 13, 2025.
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 Hyundai dealership. 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.
Consequence
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 notification letters were mailed May 18, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 235.
Buying a used 2020 Hyundai Palisade? Check its history first
Every 2020 Hyundai Palisade has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Hyundai Palisade NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.9%
Safety Technologies
Hyundai PalisadeRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$573
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
21–22 MPG
Running cost: $3,250–$3,400/yr
Fuel + repair
19 city / 24–26 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palisade FWD 3.8L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 26 | 22 | $2,700 |
| Palisade AWD 3.8L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 24 | 21 | $2,850 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Hyundai Palisade.
Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil levels and looking for oil stains under the vehicle
Inspect rear suspension for clunking or knocking noises during a test drive
Test drive to check for transmission shudder or hard shifting
Verify that the instrument cluster functions properly, especially in hot weather
Ensure the windshield is free of cracks and inspect for previous repairs
Check for any recalls related to engine or suspension issues
2020 Hyundai Palisade Common Problems by Component
521 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
100 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with windshield fragility and wiper malfunctions. Complaints indicate that the windshield is prone to cracking from small debris impacts, with some owners experiencing multiple cracks within the first few months of ownership, often at low mileage. Additionally, wipers reportedly stop functioning in snowy conditions, with some instances linked to snow build-up or potential motor overheating. These issues pose visibility hazards, particularly during inclement weather, which could affect driver safety. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, as they may impact both repair costs and driving safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
57 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring issues with the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. Common complaints include sunroof malfunctions, such as spontaneous shattering and failure to open or close properly, often occurring at highway speeds or during operation. Some owners experience engine-related problems, including excessive oil consumption and engine stalling, sometimes leading to loss of power, with incidents noted around 55,000 miles. There are also reports of unexplained fires, with one vehicle catching fire while driving, posing significant safety risks. Additionally, issues with the air compressor and braking system are noted, with some owners mentioning unintended braking activation. These patterns highlight potential safety implications and repair costs that prospective buyers should consider.
SUSPENSION
56 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with the rear suspension, particularly involving the self-leveling shock absorbers. Common symptoms include clunking, knocking, and popping noises, as well as a bouncy and unsettling ride, which can occur as early as 20,000 miles and often require repeated replacements. Several complaints highlight that these suspension problems can lead to a loss of vehicle stability, especially when navigating bumps or corners, posing potential safety risks. Used car buyers should be aware of the recurring nature of these issues and the possibility of needing frequent shock absorber replacements.
ENGINE (49 complaints)
ENGINE
49 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report excessive engine oil consumption, often without any warning indicators for low oil levels. Common symptoms include engine stalling, rough idling, and in some cases, catastrophic engine failure. Many complaints arise around or after 60,000 miles, with some owners experiencing complete engine failure at higher mileages, such as 96,000 miles. Safety implications include engine stalls while driving and one reported engine fire. Buyers considering a used 2020 Hyundai Palisade should be aware of these potential issues, especially regarding oil consumption and the lack of warning lights, as they may lead to significant engine damage or failure.
SEAT BELTS (32 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
32 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with seat belts unlatching randomly during use, with some complaints indicating this occurs across various seating positions, including the driver's seat, passenger seats, and second-row seats. Symptoms described include seat belts failing to latch securely or coming undone without warning, even when properly fastened. Several complaints note that seat belt tensioners lock unexpectedly, requiring the belt to be fully retracted to release. These issues are reported at varying mileage ranges, with no specific pattern emerging related to mileage. Safety implications include the potential for seat belts to fail in providing protection during a crash, as well as the inconvenience and risk of distraction while driving.
POWER TRAIN (31 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
31 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with excessive oil consumption, often noting that the vehicle burns oil at a rate of one quart per 1,000 miles or more, sometimes leading to complete engine failure. Complaints also describe transmission problems, including hard shifting, gear skipping, and grinding noises, with some vehicles requiring multiple transmission replacements under 100,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as reports include incidents of engine stalling while driving, a fire following abnormal noises, and a crash due to unintended acceleration. These issues typically emerge before 100,000 miles, making them particularly relevant for potential used car buyers considering this model.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (30 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
30 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the instrument cluster and alternator. Complaints often describe failures of the speedometer, fuel gauge, and RPM meter, with some reports indicating these problems are more prevalent in hotter weather or when starting the vehicle. Alternator failures are also mentioned, leading to a sudden loss of power and vehicle shutdowns, typically occurring around 65,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of a crash involving unintended acceleration and three injuries, as well as incidents of the vehicle shutting off while driving, posing risks of accidents. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly if considering vehicles with mileage around or above 65,000 miles.
STRUCTURE (23 complaints)
STRUCTURE
23 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with paint peeling and structural components like liftgate struts and sunroof wind deflectors failing. Complaints often describe paint peeling down to the metal in large sections, sometimes within a few years of ownership, and cracking or failure of plastic parts in the liftgate and sunroof mechanisms. Many owners note wind noise, particularly from the driver and passenger doors, becoming distracting at highway speeds. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of liftgate failures causing injuries and potential risks from sunroof glass issues. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, especially since some issues occur shortly after purchase or within a few years.
STEERING (14 complaints)
STEERING
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade frequently report issues with the steering system, including the steering wheel locking or becoming unresponsive, particularly at low speeds or during left turns. Several complaints describe a loud noise or "thud" when the steering wheel is turned completely, and some mention a whirring or whining noise. Instances of steering lock have led to three reported crashes, with one resulting in an injury. These issues often occur intermittently, making them difficult to replicate at dealerships. Additionally, some reports indicate problems with alignment, with vehicles veering to the right. These complaints often arise within the first few months of ownership, and in some cases, the steering motor or rack and pinion have been identified as malfunctioning components.
AIR BAGS (8 complaints)
AIR BAGS
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report multiple issues related to airbag functionality in the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. Complaints frequently mention airbag non-deployment during crashes, with three incidents involving injuries. There are reports of airbag warning lights intermittently illuminating, particularly when a passenger occupies the front seat, with some owners experiencing persistent issues despite dealer repairs. Mileage is not consistently mentioned, but one report notes the problem occurring at 100 miles. Safety implications include crashes where airbags failed to deploy and one instance of a vehicle fire, though the fire's connection to the airbag system is not specified. This information may be relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's safety and reliability.
When Do 2020 Hyundai Palisade Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Hyundai Palisade Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Hyundai Palisade Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Hyundai Palisade year is 2025 with a reliability score of 70/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (65/100) and 2024 (63/100).
Hyundai Palisade Years to Avoid
No Hyundai Palisade years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Hyundai Palisade maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Hyundai Palisade Reliability Score Trend
Hyundai Palisade reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 63/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 70/100 | Good |
Hyundai Palisade Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
How many recalls does the 2020 Hyundai Palisade have?
Is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Hyundai Palisade without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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