Power Train Related Problems of the 2021 Hyundai Palisade

Table 1 shows one common power train related problems of the 2021 Hyundai Palisade.

Table 1. Power Train related problems of Hyundai Palisade

Problem Category Number of Problems
Power Train problems
20

Power Train problem #1

I own a 2021 Hyundai Palisade and have experienced a complete transmission failure that I believe Hyundai had prior knowledge of and failed to address. Before my warranty expired, I contacted the dealership several times to report transmission symptoms I was experiencing. I was told that because no diagnostic code had been produced at that time, there was nothing they could do. Eventually, my check engine light came on with a p0741 code — torque converter clutch circuit performance. When I brought the vehicle in, the dealer flushed the transmission fluid, which came out dark and contaminated with metal particles. After running the vehicle, the fluid was still dark, indicating active internal damage already in progress. The dealership has now told me I need a full transmission replacement at my own expense. I am the second owner of this vehicle with approximately 105,000 miles. I have since learned that Hyundai issued technical service bulletin #20-at-005h-1 specifically addressing the p0741 code on the 2021 Palisade, instructing dealers to replace the solenoid and valve body harness. This repair procedure was never applied to my vehicle despite my early report of symptoms. I believe this is a known defect that Hyundai has failed to escalate to a recall, leaving consumers like me with thousands of dollars in repair costs for a problem the manufacturer was already aware of. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue and consider whether a recall is warranted for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade.

Power Train problem #2

The vehicle suffered a structural "seam leak" on the pressurized oil filter housing. This was verified by an authorized Hyundai dealer (dealer xxx, invoice #xxx). The failure is a structural crack in the housing component itself, not a maintenance-related seal or filter failure. This defect causes pressurized engine oil to spray directly onto the hot engine block while the vehicle is in operation, creating a severe and immediate fire hazard. Additionally, the rapid loss of oil and oil pressure poses a risk of sudden engine seizure or stalling at highway speeds, which could lead to a crash. Despite being a known manufacturing defect in a critical engine component, the manufacturer has refused to address the safety implications or offer a remedy. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Power Train problem #3

Vehicle experienced engine failure previously and received a Hyundai-installed replacement engine in February 2025. Replacement engine is now setting dtc p000a00 – intake camshaft position slow response (bank 1). Hyundai dealership master technician confirmed excessive variance between commanded and actual cam timing, indicating a vvt / cam timing failure controlled by oil and actuators. Hyundai is refusing to cover diagnosis and repair under replacement engine warranty and is requiring customer-paid tear-down despite fault originating within the engine assembly. Concern is for internal engine timing failure that may lead to engine damage or loss of power. This appears consistent with known Hyundai engine timing and oil control issues.

Power Train problem #4

The oil filter housing cracked and leaked engine oil at mileage 74992.

Power Train problem #5

The vehicle experienced premature transmission failure, including torque converter clutch malfunction, hesitation, jerking at speeds between 30–35 mph and 50–60 mph, and drivability issues. Diagnostic indicators are consistent with widespread complaints from other Hyundai Palisade owners. This failure presents a potential safety concern due to unpredictable vehicle response, hesitation during acceleration, and reduced control during highway driving. Dealer / manufacturer response: Hyundai motor America requires an authorized dealer to submit a warranty or goodwill claim for review. The servicing dealer, reliable Hyundai (springfield, missouri), has refused to submit the claim, preventing evaluation and resolution. This issue appears to be a known defect affecting multiple vehicles of the same model year. I am submitting this complaint to assist NHTSA in identifying patterns that may warrant investigation or recall action.

Power Train problem #6

My vehicle experienced a sudden and immediate loss of motive power due to a catastrophic internal engine failure, creating a severe road safety hazard. While driving and attempting to accelerate or merge, the vehicle exhibits extreme hesitation, severe misfiring on cylinder #2, and rough, unstable idling. This unexpected loss of drive power made the vehicle unpredictable and unsafe to operate under normal driving conditions, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. The vehicle is currently at the Hyundai dealership (fox ann arbor Hyundai) for diagnosis. The dealer has confirmed and documented the following internal mechanical defects at only 86,000 miles: compression loss in cylinder #2. Cylinder wall scoring and pitting. Evidence of blow-by and heavy carbon buildup in the combustion chamber. Misfire and rough idle. Oil consumption as a result of the cylinder failure. This failure is a premature mechanical defect, not normal wear. Failures of this nature (sudden loss of motive power due to internal engine defect) have been cited by NHTSA in other recalls and are known to increase the risk of a crash or fire. The manufacturer has acknowledged the defect by offering only 50% goodwill toward a repair, but this defect remains a critical, unresolved safety hazard that requires a full, safe engine replacement. ".

Power Train problem #7

The 2021hyundai Palisade at a four way light stop busy intersection. Upon giving has and making the left turn from cimmiron unto saratoga blvd the vehicle was making a clunking noise like if vehicle in 4wd but the vehicle is an awd and it loss like power in the middle of the intersection almost rear ended and hit by another vehicle because the light begun to change. Took the vehicle to Hyundai and found out online and at the dealer this is a common issue with awd Palisades. There is even a TSB bulletin for this issue, the 4wd coupling starts going bad and makes vehicle noises and lose power in drivetrain. This is very dangerous and action must be taken before lawsuits coming flying. For crying outloud I had my grand babies with me and almost got into a three-way car accident because the Palisade decided not to go in the middle of the intersection. Hyundai needs to fix all faulty awd couplings that make the tires turn properly. My friend has a 23 model and having same issues it is also an all-wheel drive Palisade. Do something before something bad happens Hyundai is aware and there is a forum on this issue but no recall this is insane.

Power Train problem #8

I own a 2021 Hyundai Palisade calligraphy with approximately 114,000 miles. The transmission had to be replaced at around 98,000 miles. Recently, before my next scheduled oil change (I had about 1,000 miles left), my vehicle suddenly began making a loud knocking noise and lost power. The dealer informed me that the engine may have blown. There were no warning lights, oil indicators, or overheating signs before this happened. The car has been regularly maintained and serviced with timely oil changes. This appears to be a premature engine failure possibly related to oil consumption or an internal defect, as many other Palisade owners have reported similar issues. Hyundai consumer affairs has been contacted, and a case number is being opened for review. I am filing this complaint to report a potential widespread engine problem and request investigation into 2021 Hyundai Palisade engine reliability and oil-related failures.

Power Train problem #9

Our 2021 Palisade is burning 2-3 quarts of oil per 500 - 800 miles. Customer states believes vehicle is consuming oil had oil change performed on 7/30/25 on ro 675582 @ 83769 miles would like part 2 of oil consumption test performed verified customer concern. Check oil level on dipstick found that the oil level is below the low mark. Submit a photo through stui of dipstick. Oil change was done on 07/30/25.

Power Train problem #10

Failed 4wd coupler: (part#: part#: 47800-4g500) 1st time: 95,471 miles - November 2024 2nd time: 106,702 miles - August 2025 hesitation when pulling out of parking lots or turning on to street. Problem acknowledged by dealer and replaced both times under warranty no warning lamps or message. Problem seems to be wide spread based on comments on facebook forum "Hyundai Palisade owners".

Power Train problem #11

We have been in Hyundai’s “oil consumption” protocol for the past 8-10 months. We’ve had 6 oil changes in that time. Each oil change was right a 1,000 miles. My engine is burning between 1. 5 - 2. 5 quarts of oil every 1,000 miles. They have been trying to drag this out not having to take ownership of the issue. After reading online, clearly there is an issue with 2021 Palisades and a recall needs to be issued.

Power Train problem #12

My vehicle is burning oil at an excessive rate causing vibration when the oil is nearly depleted and an unsafe driving condition. The vehicle will burn nearly all the oil in approximately 1000 miles. This has happened repeatedly. It is widely known amongst Palisade owners and the subject of numerous online posts. In addition, the dealership has acknowledged widespread issues with an oil burning problem.

Power Train problem #13

In June of 2024, my Hyundai Palisade started shuddering every time I shifted from 20mph to 30mph. Twice the car shuddered and stopped at intersections and had to be shut off and restarted. I then received an engine light on my dashboard. I dropped off at safford Hyundai in June and after evaluation by mechanic was told several components should be changed. 1)replace three ignition coils 2)replace three injector gaskets 3)replace all 6 spark plugs 4)perform fuel injector cleaning service. Total cost was $2,875. 95. I was told the repair would take 1 day but received the car after 5 days and that too after many calls and emails. On the day we received the car, we had to drive long distance for our summer vacation. Within a few miles of our summer vacation, the car started shuddering again. This problem was supposed to be solved by the repairs that had just been done. I immediately informed safford Hyundai. When we got back from vacation, I took the car to a nearby well know mechanic and he immediately said that was a transmission issue and should have been covered by Hyundai warranty. I went back to safford Hyundai dealership and that is when they said indeed it was a transmission issue and was covered by warranty. This was on 8/7. Unfortunately because of the huge backlog of Hyundai transmission issues, I was told I wouldn’t receive my new transmission for 1 to 2 months. I contacted Hyundai corporate and pushed to get my car back. I was told they would expedite my transmission and was told to pick up the car on 8/30. I went to pick up the car and immediately noticed that the steering wheel sounded like it was being sandpapered every time I turned. My car steering wheel turned smoothly prior to the whole transmission change. I literally made a circle around the service center and turned my car in back for repair. I was told to leave my car at the Hyundai dealership and they would get back to me. My car is still in repair. Email several times.

Power Train problem #14

On 01/12/24 my vehicle cut off while driving and wouldn't allow me to shift from park to shift. The transmission also had a habit of jerking back and forth when under load going up a hill. Hyundai dealership suggested a transmission flush. After the flush the problem came back in may of 2024.

Power Train problem #15

When turning slowly or going over bumps at a lower speed, a thud or pop can be heard from the rear, which could be the shocks or struts in the rear. On a luxury vehicle, with this low of miles, these shouldn't need replacement so quickly. No warning lights or messages.

Power Train problem #16

Sudden powertrain failure. Car started to decelerate on its own. The car started to vibrate when accelerator was pressed. Car was in high speed and could have stalled and the passengers could have been killed. Hyundai has refused to honor the powertrain warranty and has attributed the entire transmission failure to bad gas which is very very unlikely. Have contacted Hyundai USA and got no substantial help. Hudson Hyundai is the dealer and is notorious in their treatment of customers. The company needs to issue a recall of 2021 pallisades before a major accident.

Power Train problem #17

This vehicle awd system failed, the assitance systems failed, namely: adaptive cruise, regular cruise, blind spot warning, emergency brake assist, lane keep assist, and parking collision warning.

Power Train problem #18

Had my car in shop for over 30 days on my last visit, was there 4 other times. When you reach speeds of 62 mph to 73 mph car has vibration in seat and steering wheel along with feeling it. They rotated tires, replaced drive shaft, replaced rear differential and fluids. Was told to come get car there is nothing they can do about it. Called Hyundai filed a complaint and someone higher up was going to call me back within 10 days. Its now 12 days and no call. I called today and asked for the person to talk to and got a new phone number. Been trying to call her and cant get threw. Guess my next step is to tell dealership about was is going on and contact my state to fill a report with them. Got 2,674 miles on car.

Power Train problem #19

The vehicle developed a vibration at speeds of 65-70 mph. It had less than 100 miles on it when it was first noticed. The dealership has balanced the tires twice, replaced the drive shaft, and replaced the rear coupler with no success. They do not know what's wrong with the vehicle. They are currently awaiting a read differential "to see" if that fixes it. They aren't sure that it will. The part is on backorder from korea and the vehicle has been sitting at the dealership for weeks.

Power Train problem #20

2021 Palisade calligraphy - while driving on highway (comfor mode - cruise control) htrac error light came on. After stopping and shutting car off the error resolved for a few minutes and then came back on while driving. Noticed no power to rear wheels while driving - snowed next day- awd vehicle became only fwd. Took to dealer and error code p182111 was assessed. Also water intrusion in a connection and the actuator (motor) seems to be faulty. Car has 812 miles on it when this occurred. Know of another user on Hyundai forum with same issues @ around 1000 miles. Waiting to hear what issues they are diagnosed with at dealer.


Power Train related problems in other Hyundai Palisade model year vehicles:



Palisade Service Bulletins
Palisade Defect Investigations