2021 Hyundai Palisade Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2021 Hyundai Palisade
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade.
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 reportedUsage: 91 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 45 reports
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
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is 5.3/10. Reliability score is 5.3/10. 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 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (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.