Hyundai Motor Company has issued a recall for more than 568,000 Palisade sport utility vehicles in the United States following concerns over faulty side curtain airbags. The issue, identified by federal safety regulators, centers on airbags designed to protect third-row passengers during serious collisions.
The Palisade, Hyundai’s flagship three-row SUV introduced for the 2020 model year, is widely marketed as a family-friendly vehicle. The recall impacts models manufactured between 2020 and 2025, a span that includes the bulk of the SUV’s time on the U.S. market.
Faulty Airbags Pose Increased Risk to Rear Passengers
The recall, which includes exactly 568,576 vehicles, was confirmed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in a notice published Thursday. According to the agency, the side curtain airbags in question may deploy incorrectly in the event of a crash, potentially increasing the likelihood of head injury or ejection for passengers seated in the third row.
As reported by Reuters, the airbags were supplied to Hyundai by Swedish company Autoliv, the world’s largest manufacturer of airbags and seatbelts. NHTSA specified that the malfunction affects the airbags’ ability to protect third-row occupants in rollovers or side-impact collisions. A fix for the issue is currently under development, and Hyundai has not yet shared the exact circumstances under which the airbags might fail.
At this time, the company has not released a detailed timeline or technical explanation regarding the nature of the defect. Owners of affected vehicles are expected to receive formal notifications by mail once a remedy is available. Typically, automakers are required to offer a repair or replacement free of charge in such recalls.
Consumers Urged to Verify Vehicles and Await Repair Program
Drivers who own a Hyundai Palisade produced between 2020 and 2025 can determine whether their vehicle is part of the recall by checking the NHTSA website or Hyundai’s official recall portal. This process involves entering the vehicle’s identification number (VIN) to verify inclusion.
The Palisade, introduced in 2018 and first sold in the U.S. the following year, has become a key product in Hyundai’s SUV lineup. It competes directly with the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, and has been noted for its spacious interior, upscale design, and extensive safety features. Automotive reviewers have frequently praised the vehicle for its comfort and value, contributing to its popularity among families.
In a separate development, Hyundai will also recall an additional 41,651 vehicles due to an unrelated issue involving a potential instrument panel display failure. According to Reuters, that problem is expected to be resolved via a software update.
As of now, Hyundai has not provided any public comment regarding the airbag recall. The NHTSA continues to monitor the situation and is working with the automaker to ensure compliance and resolution. Updates to the recall and its corrective measures are expected to follow once the manufacturer finalizes its plan.
