2020 Hyundai Palisade
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is a popular mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a wealth of features for its price point. It offers a compelling value proposition, often praised for its luxurious feel without the luxury price tag. However, some owners have reported issues that potential buyers should be aware of. All 2020 Palisade models are equipped with a 3.8-liter Lambda II V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Common praises include its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and user-friendly technology. Common complaints include transmission hesitations, certain electrical glitches, and some build quality concerns.
Engine
3.8L Lambda II V6
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. The amount of oil loss varies, with some owners reporting a quart or more between oil changes.
- Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and addressing any leaks promptly is recommended. If consumption is excessive, a dealer inspection is warranted.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies; potentially covered under warranty if deemed excessive.
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Stalling
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the engine stalling unexpectedly while driving, typically at lower speeds or when decelerating.
- Solution: The remedy typically involves a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) or inspection of the fuel delivery system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies; software updates are often covered under warranty.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
- Hesitation/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: This is one of the most common complaints. Owners describe hesitation when accelerating from a stop, particularly in lower gears, and harsh or jerky shifting between gears. Some describe it as a lurching feeling.
- Solution: A software update to the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) is the typical first step. In some cases, a transmission fluid change or more extensive transmission repairs may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are usually covered under warranty. Fluid change can cost around $200-$400. If parts are needed for internal repairs to the transmission then it can range from $1,000-$5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
- “Limp Mode” Activation
- Description/Symptoms: In rare cases, the transmission can enter “limp mode,” limiting vehicle speed and gear selection. This is usually accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified technician is necessary. The cause could range from sensor issues to internal transmission problems.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the underlying cause.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infortainment System Freezing/Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, including the navigation and audio functions, may freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot.
- Solution: A software update is usually the first attempt at a fix. In some cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are often free or covered under warranty. Replacement head units can cost $500 - $1500+.
- Recalls: None Found
- Blind Spot Monitoring System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The blind spot monitoring system may intermittently fail or provide false alerts.
- Solution: The blind spot monitor sensors may need to be checked for dirt and damage, or the system may require recalibration.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Sensor cleaning and recalibration varies; replacement sensors can cost $200 - $500+ per sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the AEB system activating unnecessarily or failing to activate when needed.
- Solution: Recalibration of the AEB sensors is a common solution. In some cases, sensor replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Recalibration varies; replacement sensors can cost $300 - $800+.
- Recalls: 21V-756
Exterior
- Rear Liftgate Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic rear liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may become stuck.
- Solution: Check the liftgate struts and the motor. The liftgate motor or struts may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800
- Recalls: None Found
- Windshield Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported windshields cracking easily from minor impacts. It is possible that the windshield is too thin from factory.
- Solution: Replacing the windshield.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Odor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported an unpleasant odor emanating from the interior of the vehicle. This was linked to the Nappa leather seats in higher trim levels.
- Solution: Dealerships attempted various cleaning and odor-removal procedures.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies, but potentially covered under warranty if deemed a defect.
- Recalls: None Found
- Third-Row Seat Folding Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The power folding mechanism for the third-row seats may malfunction or become stuck.
- Solution: Check the motors and the wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade, while generally a well-regarded vehicle, does have some common issues. The most prevalent concerns involve the transmission’s shifting behavior and electrical system glitches. While the engine appears relatively reliable, some owners have reported oil consumption issues. Most of the issues are of moderate severity and can be resolved with software updates or component replacements. The cost of repairs can vary widely, with some fixes covered under warranty and others potentially requiring out-of-pocket expenses ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used 2020 Palisade before purchase.