This bulletin provides information related to the changes introduced in the 2025 1st Navigation Map and Software Update. The changes may vary depending on vehicle type, model, and navigation system as described in this TSB.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Hyundai Palisade electrical problems
severe 31 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Complaints
31
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
1crash
4injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 31 electrical complaints filed for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 31 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 6 model years of Hyundai Palisade in our records for electrical problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides information related to the changes introduced in the 2024 2nd Navigation Map and Software Update. The changes may vary depending on vehicle type, model, and navigation system. Refer to the 2024 2nd Navigation Map and Software Update Improvements section in this TSB for a list of specific changes. The software can be downloaded via Navigation Updater (NAU) and updated by USB. The NAU website is https://update.hyundai.com/US/EN/navigationUpdate. For certain models equipped with a relevant Bluelink package, the software may be downloaded and applied via OTA update.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some vehicles may exhibit a loss of connectivity or interruptions in the middle of using Bluelink Service functions. This may be due to an irregular disconnection on Verizon’s communication network. Follow the procedure in this TSB to reestablish the connection via the AVN pinhole reset method.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some vehicles may exhibit a loss of connectivity or interruptions in the middle of using Bluelink Service functions. This may be due to an irregular disconnection on Verizon's communication network. If you are experiencing issues with remote commands, or other Bluelink services, please see the instructions below to reestablish the connection via the AVN pinhole reset method.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some vehicles may exhibit a loss of connectivity or interruptions in the middle of using Bluelink Service functions. This may be due to an irregular disconnection on Verizon’s communication network. Follow the procedure in this TSB to reestablish the connection via the AVN pinhole reset method.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report widespread electrical system failures in 2020 Palisades. The instrument cluster fails repeatedly—speedometer, RPM gauge, fuel gauge, and temperature display either stop working or show zero while the vehicle is moving. The issue often happens in cold weather or when the vehicle sits, and sometimes resolves after a few minutes but returns. Restarting the car temporarily fixes it.
Multiple owners report the A/C compressor failing and not blowing cold air. Hyundai issued a Technical Service Bulletin acknowledging this defect, but dealers refuse warranty or goodwill coverage, citing VIN-specific limitations. One owner was quoted nearly $5,000 for repair.
Alternators are failing around 65,000–70,000 miles with no warning, causing complete loss of electrical power, steering, brakes, and headlights at highway speed. The vehicle rolls to a stop.
Advanced driver-assistance systems are malfunctioning: the blind spot warning system deactivates randomly; the emergency braking system engages without obstacles nearby; and the Forward Collision Avoidance Assist system failed to activate during an unintended acceleration event that resulted in a multi-vehicle collision.
Other recurring electrical issues include the tow hitch losing power after recall repairs (making the $5,000+ towing system useless), power window failures due to junction box defects, navigation screen unresponsiveness in cold weather, and transmission slipping into neutral while braking.
One owner reported an electrical shock from the trunk handle resulting in a second-degree burn. Several vehicles have shut off completely while driving without warning.
Same Hyundai Palisade electrical reports on nearby years: 2021 · 2022 · 2023
Failure modes owners describe
Instrument Cluster Failure
Digital and analog gauges (speedometer, RPM, fuel, temperature) become inoperative or unresponsive, sometimes intermittently. Needles flutter or stick, digital displays show 0, and warning lights fail to illuminate.
When: Variable; occurs after 2,100 miles up to 85,000+ miles; often triggered by cold weather or after vehicle sits
Symptoms owners cite: Speedometer and RPM gauges stuck or reading zero; Fuel gauge reading empty or erratic despite full tank; Digital speed display shows 0 mph while driving; Needle flutter on analog gauges; Screen unresponsive to touch in cold weather; Screen gets hot before failing; Warning lights and cruise control become inactive; Parking sensors become inaccurate
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reported dealership unplugged battery and reset to factory settings; another required instrument cluster replacement; some resolved after 5-20 minute wait
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 22-01-058H referenced by one owner; one dealership initially told customer repair was not covered
A/C Compressor Failure
Air conditioning system does not blow cold air or stops working entirely. Hyundai has issued a TSB acknowledging the defect, but dealers refuse coverage citing VIN-specific or condition-specific limitations.
When: One vehicle purchased December 2023 with issue shortly after; another just outside warranty period
Symptoms owners cite: A/C does not blow cold air; No cooling function in hot weather; Defroster may not work properly if A/C fails
Repairs/costs cited: One owner quoted nearly $5,000 for repair; another dealership charged $350 diagnostic fee
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB issued; dealers denied warranty and goodwill coverage; one dealership reluctant to diagnose without fee
Alternator Failure
Alternator suddenly fails, causing rapid battery depletion and loss of all electrical power while driving. Loss of power steering, brakes, lights, and instrument cluster.
When: 65,000 to 70,000 miles; failure occurs without warning during highway driving
Symptoms owners cite: Battery warning light flashes; All dash lights begin flashing; Complete loss of electrical power; Loss of power steering and brakes; Loss of headlights and instrument cluster; Vehicle rolls to stop
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator diagnosed as bad by parts stores and mechanics; expensive emergency roadside service required
Sudden Unintended Acceleration
Vehicle suddenly accelerates while driver has removed foot from gas pedal, despite being on an uphill incline where deceleration would be expected. Occurs at low speed during normal traffic.
When: Low speed (20-30 mph) in traffic; vehicle traveling uphill
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden acceleration after removing foot from gas pedal; Rapid speed increase on uphill incline; Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) system did not warn or brake; Wheels continued spinning after collision
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle totaled in resulting collision; airbag deployed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Insurance company sent engineer to review Event Data Recorder; results not provided to owner
Engine Seizure / Oil Loss
Engine seized and lost all function despite regular maintenance and recent oil change. Oil loss occurred silently without warning lights or dashboard messages.
When: Approximately 37,000 miles; less than 3,000 miles after last oil change
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shaking while in motion; Sudden loss of power and drivability; Dipstick reading dry despite alleged presence of oil at dealership inspection; Engine shut down and seized; No Check Engine Light, oil pressure warning, or dashboard message prior to failure
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership confirmed engine seized and submitted case to Hyundai; dealer found oil present at time of inspection
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Goodwill coverage denied; manufacturer did not physically inspect engine
Tow Hitch Electrical Failure
Trailer hitch wiring fails after factory recall repair. No power reaches hitch connector for trailer brake lights. Hyundai's interim repair (fuse removal) makes towing impossible.
When: After November 2022 recall repair; repeat failures in March 2023 and May 2023
Symptoms owners cite: No power output from tow hitch; Trailer lights do not function when connected; Fuse pulled during recall repair to address fire hazard
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership stated new wiring harness and system needed but not in stock at any dealership; owner performed own research
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Factory recall performed November 2022 with fuse removal as interim repair; repeated dealership repairs ineffective; escalation to Hyundai USA resulted in no assistance; no loaner or rental car provided
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) Malfunction
FCA system failed to provide warning or apply brakes during unintended acceleration event. No collision alert or braking intervention occurred despite system being equipped on vehicle.
When: During sudden acceleration incident at low speed
Symptoms owners cite: No collision alert warning; No automatic braking intervention; System completely silent during imminent collision scenario
Blind Spot Warning System Malfunction
Blind spot collision warning system (BSCW) and blind spot monitoring deactivate intermittently without vehicles or obstacles present. System controller shows error when attempting to re-enable.
When: After a few miles of driving on highway or city roads; low mileage vehicles (3,000 miles reported)
Symptoms owners cite: BSCW stops working after short drive distance; Blind spot monitoring turns on and off unpredictably; Message states system off due to electrical failure; Controller error appears when attempting manual adjustment; False blind spot alerts when no vehicles present
Repairs/costs cited: Restarting vehicle temporarily resets system but malfunction returns within short distance
Emergency Braking System Malfunction
Emergency braking system engages abruptly without vehicles nearby or collision threats. No collision alert precedes brake engagement. Warning light indicates system malfunction.
When: While driving 65-70 mph on highway; repeated incidents on different drives
Symptoms owners cite: Brakes engaged suddenly with no vehicles or obstacles nearby; Emergency braking malfunction message on dash; No collision alert warning prior to brake engagement; Triangle with exclamation mark warning light stays illuminated; System activates without collision threat
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership stated unable to recreate issue; manager suspected camera replacement needed based on prior similar cases
Electrical Shock from Trunk
Electrical shock delivered through trunk handle when attempting to close it manually. Resulted in second-degree burn injury to hand.
When: Approximately 67,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Electrical shock on contact with trunk; Second-degree burn to hand; Shock occurred during manual trunk closure
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle taken to dealer; diagnosis unknown; vehicle not repaired
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified and opened case; referred customer to NHTSA Hotline
Window and Sunroof Failure
Power windows and sunroof stop operating due to ICU (Integrated Control Unit) junction box failure. Part not readily available for new vehicles.
When: Driver side window failed one month after new purchase; both front windows and sunroof failed within two years
Symptoms owners cite: Power windows inoperative; Sunroof inoperative; ICU junction box failure
Repairs/costs cited: ICU junction box replacement required; not in stock when vehicle was new; 3-week repair wait time; part controls door locks as well
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership noted this could pose safety hazard by preventing exit but stated they could not be held liable for customer driving vehicle in this condition
Navigation Screen / Infotainment Failure
Touchscreen and backup camera display become unresponsive or completely inoperative. Cold weather exacerbates touchscreen failure, with screen heating abnormally before stopping.
When: Low mileage (128 miles); also triggered by cold weather
Symptoms owners cite: Navigation screen unresponsive or blank; Backup camera screen inoperative; Screen becomes very hot before failing to respond; Touchscreen does not respond in cold weather; Screen resumes operation without driver input after seconds; Fire risk concern noted by owner
Automatic Wipers Malfunction
Automatic wipers activate on their own without rain or debris present.
When: Unknown timing
Symptoms owners cite: Wipers activate without precipitation or debris; Unprompted wiper deployment
Transmission / Neutral Slippage
Vehicle slips into neutral while slowing down for traffic and turns at low speed. Grinding sound when reengaging drive.
When: Unknown mileage; occurs while slowing to under 15 mph
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle slips into neutral unintentionally while braking; Occurs multiple times during single drive (4 occurrences reported); Slight grinding noise when re-engaging drive from park
Rough Idling and Unintended Park/Shut-Down
Vehicle idles roughly and unexpectedly shifts into park and turns off engine while in drive, though dashboard remains illuminated. Engine, oil, and battery warning lights appear and then disappear.
When: Recurring issue over 6+ months
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idling; Vehicle shifts itself into park without driver input; Engine shuts off unexpectedly while in drive; Dashboard remains on as if engine is still running; Engine, oil, and battery warning lights illuminate then extinguish; No diagnostic codes present
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple mechanic visits; no codes found; unable to determine cause
Complete Engine Shut-Off While Driving
Engine completely shuts off while vehicle is in motion, with all front panel warning lights illuminating before shut-off. Multiple occurrences on same drive.
When: Unknown timing; multiple incidents on single drive (4 occurrences reported)
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off while driving; All front panel warning lights illuminate before shut-off; Vehicle stops moving
Excessive Oil Consumption / Burning
Vehicle consumes 4-5 quarts of oil per month with only 1,500 miles driven. Strong oil burn smell and visible oil leak present.
When: Apparent at 85,000 miles on certified pre-owned vehicle
Symptoms owners cite: Rapid oil loss (4-5 quarts per month); Oil burn smell; Visible oil leak; Owner notes this is common on other recalled Hyundai vehicles
Poor Radio Reception
Radio signal extremely poor with static and high-pitched noises on stations. FM reception unusable.
When: Apparent within first year of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Static and high-pitched noise on radio stations; Cannot use regular FM stations; Poor signal reception while driving
HDMI / Android Auto Port Failure
HDMI port in center console works intermittently, causing repeated Android Auto failures.
When: Apparent within first year of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: HDMI port does not work consistently; Android Auto connectivity fails constantly; Port works roughly half the time
Windshield Crack Without Impact
Windshield cracks suddenly while driving without any impact from foreign objects.
When: Within first 500 miles of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Windshield cracks suddenly while driving; No foreign object impact; Crack forms on highway at speed
Wind Noise
Excessive wind noise while driving on highway. Hyundai unable to resolve issue despite multiple attempts.
When: Unknown timing
Symptoms owners cite: Loud wind noise on highway; Drone louder than radio (measured at 86 dB); Persistent issue across multiple service visits
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple dealer visits; unable to resolve
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership unable to solve despite attempts
Autonomous Engine Start
Vehicle starts on its own while parked in garage for hours with no driver input. Push Start button stops the engine.
When: Approximately 37,409 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine runs independently while parked; No warning light illuminated; Engine stops when Push Start button pressed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership unable to replicate; no failure found; manufacturer notified with no assistance provided
Acceleration Hesitation / Pause-Bumpiness
Vehicle hesitates or has bumpy pause when accelerating, sometimes followed by oxygen sensor smell.
When: Unknown timing
Symptoms owners cite: Pause and bumpiness during acceleration; Oxygen sensor smell after hesitation; Muffler baffles make weird sounds
Synthesized from 31 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
The instrument cluster seems to fail more so in the hotter weather. The speedometer, RPMs and gas gauge just stop working altogether. This seems extremely similar to the issues of other Hyundai vehicles that were recalled. The blind spot monitoring turns on and off as it pleases and there is a message that comes up sometimes that say it has been turned off due to electrical failure. The HDMI…
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The contact stated that the vehicle had been starting independently. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked in the garage for hours, the contact noticed that the engine was running. The contact stated that upon pressing the Push to Start button, the vehicle turned off. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer,…
We purchased our 2020 Hyundai palisade limited six weeks ago. Currently has 3000 miles. The blind spot collision warning system (bscw) has a malfunction and stops working after driving a few miles on both highway and city/country roads. There are no cars or trees/obstacles around the car when it deactivates. Restarting the car resets the bscw system, but it malfunctions again in a few miles.…
hyundai palisade sel 2020 frequently stops the speedometer ,rpm meter,fuel gauge ,lane departure. This may be due to defection instrument cluster,a recall should be immediately made as it might cause accident as speed of a vehicle cannot be knowing and also the lane departure is never turned on when this happen ,also driver won’t know how much is the fuel remaining . Attaching a photo
Had electrical trouble with your 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
It's a meaningful issue. 31 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Based on the 31 complaints filed, electrical issues most often appear around 28,291 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2020/Hyundai/Palisade.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.