Palisade owners should use extreme caution when using the power-folding second- and third-row seat features.
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- Hyundai is recalling more than 60,000 Palisade SUVs due to an issue with power-folding seats.
- This recall affects the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Limited and Calligraphy trim levels.
- Hyundai advises owners to avoid using power seat buttons and to check that there are no obstructions in the area before operating them.
Hyundai has decided to discontinue sales and plans to recall more than 60,000 Palisade SUVs following a fatal accident that is currently under investigation, a news release from the company announced.
The Palisade is a popular mid-size family SUV model, similar to the Kia Telluride. This is the Korean automaker’s largest SUV and one of the few models with three rows of seats.
Hyundai’s Palisade has received a lot of attention from car critics and fans of the brand after its redesign for the 2026 model year. Why is it recalled and what should Palisade owners do to avoid accidents?
Why is Hyundai recalling the Palisade?
According to a Hyundai release regarding the issue, Hyundai is recalling the Palisade because “in certain circumstances, the second- and third-row power seats may not detect contact with occupants or objects as intended.”
Powered second and third row seats experiencing this detection issue may continue to fold regardless of whether or not someone or an object is sitting in the seat row.
The tragic death of a 2-year-old girl in Ohio on March 7th is under investigation in connection with the Palisade, according to the company’s cease-and-desist notice.
“While Hyundai does not yet know the full story and the incident is still under investigation, a young child lost her life. Hyundai extends its deepest condolences to her family,” the company said in a statement.
Which Hyundai Palisade models are recalled?
One model year and two trims were recalled.
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade Limited
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
These upper trims come standard with a power-folding third-row seat. Hyundai Motor North America has announced the discontinuation of sales of the 2026 Palisade Limited and Palisade Calligraphy models in the United States and Canada.
What should I do if my Hyundai Palisade is recalled?
“Hyundai urges owners to use caution when operating second- and third-row power seat features and to ensure that there are no people or objects, including children, in the seats or seat folding area before operating the power seats,” the company said in a statement.
If you own a 2026 Hyundai Palisade Limited or Palisade Calligraphy, “avoid pressing the seatback button when getting in or out,” Hyundai advised.
The safest course of action if you need to use the second and third row electric folding feature is to only use it when the vehicle is completely empty. This allows owners to adjust seating and cargo space to suit their needs without causing injury to passengers.
Owners who are aware of this recall should use extreme caution when using these features before the fix is issued and implemented.
What is Hyundai doing to address the problem of power folding seats?
Hyundai has submitted final recall details to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Recall repairs are “currently under development” and Hyundai plans to provide rental cars to customers “until a complete remedy is available.”
An over-the-air software update is also being developed that will “enhance the system’s response to contact with occupants or objects.” Hyundai says the update will be available by the end of March. While it may not solve the recall, it can help prevent tragedy until all affected vehicles are repaired.
Owners can contact Hyundai’s customer support center with questions regarding the recall.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Please contact CSingh@Gannett.com.
