Cars

Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Reliable? Full Problems Guide

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Reliable? Full Problems Guide

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is one of the most anticipated three-row SUVs on the market. As the flagship SUV in Hyundai’s lineup, it combines luxury, space, and advanced technology in a competitively priced package. However, for buyers considering a long-term investment, reliability remains a top concern. With new model years introducing fresh features and updates, it's essential to examine both historical performance and what the latest changes may mean for durability. In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the reliability of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, explore known problems from previous models, evaluate expert opinions, and offer real-world insights to help you make an informed decision.

What Makes the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Stand Out?

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade builds upon the success of earlier versions with a redesigned exterior, upgraded interior tech, and improvements in safety and powertrain efficiency. It features a bold new front grille, sleek LED lighting, and a more aerodynamic profile. Inside, the Palisade now includes a dual 12.3-inch digital display setup, enhanced infotainment with over-the-air (OTA) updates, and improved cabin materials for a more premium feel.

Under the hood, the 2025 model retains the proven 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai has fine-tuned the suspension for better ride comfort and handling, and added more driver assistance features as standard, including Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

While these features make the Palisade a strong contender against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Highlander, the big question remains: Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade reliable?

Hyundai Palisade Reliability Ratings: What the Experts Say

Reliability ratings from trusted automotive sources provide a snapshot of how well a vehicle is expected to perform over time. Here’s a look at what the experts are saying about the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, based on early assessments and data from previous model years.

J.D. Power Reliability Score

J.D. Power assigns a predicted reliability score based on engineering analysis, brand history, and early owner feedback. The 2024 Palisade scored a 4 out of 5, indicating above-average reliability. While the 2025 model is too new for a finalized score, early indications suggest a similar or slightly improved rating due to software refinements and build quality enhancements.

Consumer Reports Predicted Reliability

Consumer Reports uses data from actual vehicle owners to predict future reliability. The 2023 and 2024 Palisade models received a “Better than Average” predicted reliability rating. The 2025 version is expected to maintain this rating, with particular improvements noted in infotainment stability and transmission performance.

U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News gives the 2025 Palisade a reliability score of 4.5 out of 5, citing Hyundai’s strong warranty coverage and consistent performance across model years. They highlight that major mechanical issues have been rare, and that the brand’s investment in quality control is paying off.

Potential Problems with the 2025 Hyundai Palisade

Despite high ratings, no vehicle is entirely immune to issues. Based on recalls, owner complaints, and dealer service reports, here are the most commonly reported and potential problems associated with the 2025 Hyundai Palisade.

1. Infotainment System Glitches

One of the most frequently mentioned issues in recent Palisade models is the infotainment system. The 2025 version introduces a new software platform, which, while more responsive, has seen reports of:

Hyundai has acknowledged these bugs and has already released an OTA update for early 2025 models to address the stability of the system. Owners are advised to ensure their software is up to date to minimize these issues.

2. Transmission Shifting Issues

The 8-speed automatic transmission in the Palisade has generally been reliable, but some 2023–2024 owners reported:

The 2025 model includes revised transmission software calibration to smooth out gear changes. Early reviews suggest significant improvement, but long-term data will be needed to determine if the issue is fully resolved.

3. Engine Oil Consumption (Earlier Models)

Some 2020–2022 Palisade owners reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, particularly in the 3.8L Lambda II V6 engine. Symptoms included:

Hyundai addressed this issue through technical service bulletins (TSBs) and updated piston ring designs in later production models. The 2025 Palisade uses an updated version of this engine with further refinements, and no oil consumption issues have been reported so far in early units.

4. Suspension and Ride Comfort Concerns

The Palisade is designed for comfort, but some owners have found the suspension setup too soft, leading to:

The 2025 model features retuned shocks and updated adaptive suspension settings (on higher trims), which engineers say improve control without sacrificing comfort. Independent road tests confirm better handling and reduced wobble over potholes and highway seams.

5. Power Liftgate Malfunctions

A recurring issue across several model years has been intermittent failure of the power liftgate. Complaints include:

This is often attributed to sensor interference or software bugs. The 2025 Palisade includes a redesigned liftgate actuator and improved sensor calibration, which should reduce these occurrences. Hyundai also extended warranty coverage on liftgate components to 7 years.

6. Wind Noise and Cabin Insulation

Several owners have noted higher levels of wind noise, especially at highway speeds. The 2025 model includes additional sound-deadening materials, thicker side glass, and improved door seals. Early test drives report a quieter cabin, particularly noticeable on long-distance trips.

7. Adaptive Cruise Control Quirks

While Hyundai’s Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go is advanced, some drivers have reported:

The 2025 version upgrades the radar and camera systems and incorporates machine learning algorithms to improve response accuracy. Early adopters report smoother operation and fewer false alerts.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Recalls are an important indicator of potential reliability issues. As of mid-2025, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade has had the following recalls and TSBs:

1. Software Recall: Infotainment Overheating (NHTSA Recall #25V-103)

Issue: Certain early production units may experience infotainment system overheating, leading to temporary shutdowns.

Solution: Hyundai issued a software update that reduces processor load and improves thermal management. Owners are notified via mail and can receive the update at dealerships or remotely via OTA.

2. TSB: Transmission Calibration Update (TSB #HTB-25-04-A)

Issue: Some vehicles may exhibit harsh shifts between first and second gears.

Solution: Dealers are instructed to update the transmission control module (TCM) software. This fix is automatic during routine service visits.

3. TSB: Windshield Washer Pump Failure (TSB #HTB-25-02-C)

Issue: Intermittent failure of the washer pump due to debris buildup in the reservoir.

Solution: Dealers recommend regular cleaning and, in some cases, replacement with an updated pump design.

Overall, the number of recalls for the 2025 Palisade is low—just three in the first six months of production—indicating strong quality control compared to industry averages.

Owner Feedback and Real-World Experiences

While expert reviews and TSBs provide valuable insight, real-world owner experiences paint a fuller picture of long-term reliability.

Positive Feedback

Most 2025 Palisade owners praise the vehicle for:

Many families appreciate the Palisade’s ease of use, intuitive controls, and advanced safety tech. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system is frequently mentioned as a standout feature for long commutes.

Common Complaints

Despite overall satisfaction, some owners report minor frustrations:

These are more usability issues than reliability concerns, but they’re worth noting for prospective buyers.

Long-Term Ownership Trends

Based on data from the 2020–2024 models, Palisade owners typically keep their vehicles for 7–10 years. The most common repairs after 60,000 miles include:

Major component failures (engine, transmission, differential) remain rare. In fact, the 2023 Palisade had a 97% trouble-free ownership rate at the 5-year mark, according to a major auto club survey.

Hyundai’s Warranty: A Key Factor in Reliability Perception

One of the biggest advantages of buying a Hyundai is its industry-leading warranty, which significantly boosts confidence in long-term reliability.

1. 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty

The 2025 Palisade comes with Hyundai’s acclaimed 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. This covers the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and related components. It’s one of the longest warranties in the industry and provides peace of mind for high-mileage drivers.

2. 5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty

This covers nearly all components of the vehicle, including electrical systems, air conditioning, and infotainment. It’s transferable to subsequent owners, which can boost resale value.

3. 5-Year/60,000-Mile Complimentary Maintenance

Hyundai offers free maintenance for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles—whichever comes first. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, multi-point inspections, and brake fluid checks. Few competitors offer such extensive coverage.

4. 3-Year/36,000-Mile 24-Hour Roadside Assistance

In case of breakdowns, lockouts, or flat tires, owners can call for help anytime. Hyundai also includes trip-interru