It’s not often that a recall sweeps up nearly every model a brand has sold, but that’s exactly what’s happening with the Hyundai Palisade. The Korean automaker has announced a recall of 568,580 SUVs built between 2020 and 2025—basically the entire first generation—after discovering a problem with the seatbelt buckles.
The issue affects the driver, front passenger, and second-row outboard seats, where some buckles may not latch properly. In practice, that could mean a lighter-than-usual “click” when fastening the belt—or worse, a buckle that doesn’t fully lock into place. For a vehicle designed with families in mind, that’s no small concern.
The root of the problem lies with a supplier, ZF Lifetec, which used an injection molding process outside of proper manufacturing specs. Those out-of-spec parts can create extra friction inside the buckle, especially in cold weather, and sometimes prevent the belt from securing completely.
NHTSA began investigating after receiving complaints from Palisade owners dating back to 2020. By mid-2025, Hyundai confirmed the defect and noted an unusual spike in warranty claims during colder months. The company has since acknowledged 546 reports of the issue, though importantly, no accidents, injuries, or fatalities have been linked to it.
For now, Hyundai and federal regulators say it’s safe to keep driving your Palisade. The advice? Buckle up firmly with a quick, direct motion, then give the belt a tug to make sure it’s secure.
Dealers will soon begin inspecting and replacing faulty buckles free of charge, for all affected owners, warranty or not. Interestingly, the Palisade’s close cousin, the Kia Telluride, escapes this recall—proof that even mechanical twins don’t always share every part.
While only about 1 percent of recalled vehicles are expected to have the faulty component, Hyundai isn’t taking chances. After all, a seatbelt that doesn’t work properly undermines the most basic promise any vehicle makes: keeping its passengers safe.
