ElectricalLow
Infotainment reboots, blind-spot camera glitches.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screens, cameras and driver-assist features.
2020–2024 Hyundai Palisade · common problems & known faults
The Palisade is a well-equipped three-row SUV. It's reliable overall with a few electronic and minor mechanical quirks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2020–2024 Hyundai Palisade are Knocking noise from the rear over bumps and visible sagging due to failed self-levelling rear dampers, 8-speed automatic occasional harsh shifts and 3.8L V6 occasional tick and oil consumption on some cars. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Hyundai Palisade.
6.0/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Hyundai Palisade problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
8-speed automatic occasional harsh shifts.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive through low-speed shifts.
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Build the inspection planEngineMedium
3.8L V6 occasional tick and oil consumption on some cars.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and listen for engine tick.
BodyLow
Interior rattles and door-seal wind noise.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Listen for rattles over bumps and at speed.
InteriorMedium
Pungent, chemical or garlic-like odour emitting from the Nappa leather headrests.
- Typically appears
- 10,000-30,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Close all windows, turn the cabin heater on high for a minute, and smell the front and middle-row headrests directly for chemical odours.
SuspensionHigh
Knocking noise from the rear over bumps and visible sagging due to failed self-levelling rear dampers.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Push down firmly on the rear boot floor to check rebound damping, and visually inspect the rear shock absorbers in the wheel arches for fluid leaks.
ExteriorLow
Premature tarnishing, milky clouding, or peeling of the dark chrome window surrounds and front grille trim.
- Typically appears
- 20,000-40,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Wipe a microfibre cloth over the front grille and window surrounds; check closely for milky discolouration or flaking metallic finish.
ElectricsMedium
Windscreen wiper motor failure or severe linkage judder, occasionally stopping mid-sweep.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Run the wipers on the highest speed setting with washer fluid for 20 seconds to check for linkage binding, juddering, or motor hesitation.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai Palisade reliable?
Yes — it's one of the better three-row SUVs, with mostly minor issues.
Does the Palisade have engine problems?
Generally solid; check oil use and any engine tick on higher-mileage cars.
What should I check on a used Palisade?
Infotainment, transmission feel, oil consumption and rattles.
Does the Palisade require special suspension components for towing?
Models equipped with the factory towing package feature self-levelling rear dampers. These are thicker than standard shock absorbers and do not use electronic air bags, relying instead on internal hydraulic valving to pump up under load. They are expensive to replace if they fail, so always check for leaks during an appraisal.
What are the servicing requirements for the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system?
The HTRAC system uses an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch in the rear differential. Hyundai states the transfer box and rear differential fluids are filled for life under normal use. However, for vehicles subjected to heavy towing or frequent short journeys, replacing both fluids every 40,000 miles is highly recommended to prevent premature wear.
Does the 3.8-litre V6 engine use a timing belt or a timing chain?
The 3.8-litre Lambda II V6 engine utilises a maintenance-free steel timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt. There is no scheduled replacement interval for the chain. However, maintaining a strict oil change schedule is critical, as degraded engine oil can cause the hydraulic chain tensioners to fail, leading to chain stretch.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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