What are the most common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

The **seat belt system** is the primary concern, with numerous complaints and recalls related to unlatching or failure to latch. This requires immediate and thorough inspection.

How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade have?

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade currently has 18 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **seat belt system** is the primary concern, with numerous complaints and recalls related to unlatching or failure to latch. This requires immediate and thorough inspection. Potential fire risk associated with trailer hitch recalls necessitates verifying remedy completion and assessing residual risk. Windshield fragility and wiper system issues are noted, impacting visibility and potentially leading to costly replacements. Early-life failures in electrical systems and the AWD drivetrain suggest potential quality control concerns. Despite safety accolades, the high number of complaints and recalls indicates a need for heightened owner vigilance and proactive checks. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade.

2021 Hyundai Palisade Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The seat belt system is the primary concern, with numerous complaints and recalls related to unlatching or failure to latch. This requires immediate and thorough inspection.
Potential fire risk associated with trailer hitch recalls necessitates verifying remedy completion and assessing residual risk.
Windshield fragility and wiper system issues are noted, impacting visibility and potentially leading to costly replacements.
Early-life failures in electrical systems and the AWD drivetrain suggest potential quality control concerns.

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Overview

2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offers three-row SUV practicality and a comfortable ride, making it an appealing family hauler. However, used-car shoppers should be aware of its documented reliability issues. With 427 complaints and 18 recalls, particularly concerning seat belts and potential fire hazards from trailer hitches, a careful inspection is paramount. Its 5-star NHTSA safety rating is a strong point, but the high complaint volume and specific failure patterns warrant attention.

Critical Failure Risk

Numerous recalls and complaints highlight issues with seat belt buckle assemblies failing to latch or unlatching spontaneously. This poses a significant safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns18

Service Bulletins5

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

427

Seat Belts91

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and comfortable three-row SUV on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand near-flawless mechanical reliability and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Hyundai Palisade Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 7
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 21

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Most Common Issues

1. Seats

Most reported

Usage: 91 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 45 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Seat Belt Buckles and Latches

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (8 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

18 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is 5.2/10. Reliability score is 5.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 18. Owner complaints: 427.

How practical is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Seat Belt Buckles and Latches at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Seat Belt Buckle Assembly (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.

What transmission does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common seat belts problems on the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

Top complaint category: seat belts (91 reports, 21.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

This model year has 18 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Palisade?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Kia Telluride and 2021 Toyota Highlander.