Buyer Research

2020 Hyundai Palisade — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $26,000–$36,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.

Kestrel Take

The three-row that made buyers take Hyundai seriously as a family brand — genuinely upscale and spacious. First-model-year, so verify the early software and recall work. The 3.8L V6 is proven; the concerns are electronics and a first-year build.

Known Issues for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

First-year electronics and software gremlinsMedium

Early Palisades had assorted electrical and infotainment bugs addressed by software updates and campaigns. Confirm they were applied.

Repair cost range: $0 at a dealer

Ticking/knocking noise campaigns (some engines)Medium

Some owners reported engine noise; verify any related campaigns and that the engine is quiet.

Repair cost range: $0 if covered

Automatic emergency braking false activationsMedium

Reports of phantom braking; test the system.

Repair cost range: $0 software

Catalytic converter theft targetLow

Check for a shield or replacement.

Repair cost range: $1,200-$2,500

Walk-Away Red Flags

✗Software behind current
✗Engine noise
✗Phantom braking on the test drive
✗No dealer service history

Good Signs

✓All software updates and campaigns performed
✓Quiet engine
✓Remaining Hyundai warranty for an original owner

Found a specific Hyundai Palisade?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2020 Hyundai Palisade in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.