2021 Hyundai Palisade used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Excessive oil consumption36 owner complaints

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Seat belt won't latch or retract36 owner complaints

  Pull every seat belt out fully and make sure it retracts and latches.

• Sunroof shattered27 owner complaints

  Look underneath for rust, especially on the frame and brake lines, and check that door and panel gaps are even.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 26V034000, Jan 22, 2026
• Seat beltsRecall number 25V607000, Sep 11, 2025
• Visibility/wiperRecall number 23V180000, Mar 17, 2023
• Trailer hitchesRecall number 22V633000, Aug 18, 2022
• VisibilityRecall number 22V627000, Aug 15, 2022
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 21V840000, Oct 27, 2021

Repairs the maker may still cover

Warranty extensions can cover a known problem beyond the normal warranty. Check whether this car is still within the time or mileage limit.

• Excessive paint peeling or bubbling of the primer/paint film on the exterior metal body panels: hood,...Aug 26, 2026
• Engine oil leakage at the engine oil filter housing assembly due to deterioration of the housing sealAug 3, 2026
• Clunking or thumping noise from the rear of the vehicle while driving over rough roadsJul 15, 2026
• Clunking or thumping noise from the rear of the vehicle while driving over rough roadsJun 11, 2026
• Engine oil leakage at the engine oil filter housing assembly due to deterioration of the housing sealMay 30, 2026
• Peeling or bubbling on metal body panels: hood, fender(s), roof, door(s), quarter panel(s), and tailgate/trunkApr 28, 2026
• Peeling or bubbling on metal body panels: hood, fender(s), roof, door(s), quarter panel(s), and tailgate/trunkApr 28, 2026
• Clunking or thumping noise from the rear of the vehicle while driving over rough roadsDec 13, 2025

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This bulletin provides information related to the navigation and head unit software changes introduced in...Oct 27, 2026
• Higher-than-expected engine oil consumptionOct 8, 2026
• Higher-than-expected engine oil consumptionOct 7, 2026
• Battery drain due to continuous operation of the cooling fan after vehicle ignition has been turned off,...Jun 17, 2026
• Certain Palisade (LX2) vehicles equipped with 3.8L GDI Lambda II engines may not meet engine-out NOx...Feb 3, 2026
• Certain Palisade (LX2) vehicles equipped with 3.8L GDI Lambda II engines may not meet engine-out NOx...Feb 3, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.