Palisade Suspension Issues

Suspension Woes

Wading through the SUV market, the Hyundai Palisade has made quite a splash with its spacious design and family-friendly features. However, some owners have hit a few bumps on the road, literally and figuratively, with persistent rear suspension complaints surfacing frequently. Despite a technical service bulletin (TSB) issued by Hyundai in early 2022, these issues appear to be hanging around longer than expected.

Common Issues

The crux of the complaints centers around the rear shocks, with reports indicating failures anywhere between 20,000 to 60,000 miles. Even after replacements, some owners, like one who replaced his SUV’s rear shocks twice within 22,000 miles, find the problems coming back for an encore.

Awaiting Solutions

For Hyundai, this isn’t just a pothole problem but a reputational speed bump. A significant number of owners have taken to online forums and filed their grievances with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The reported failures are largely concentrated around higher-end models featuring Hyundai’s self-leveling suspension system. This technology, intended to keep SUVs level even when heavily loaded, seems to falter just outside of the SUV’s warranty coverage, leaving owners at a financial crossroads.

Aftermarket Options

Given the recurrence of these suspension failures, many Palisade owners are exploring aftermarket alternatives or opting to swap out the self-leveling setup with a simpler suspension from more basic models. These adjustments might curtail the convenience of the automatic leveling system but could provide a more reliable driving experience.

Driving Feel

Driving the Palisade is generally a pleasurable experience thanks to its powerful yet smooth 291-horsepower V6 engine and responsive handling. It aims to offer that comfortable, almost sedan-like ride while seating up to eight passengers. However, the hiccups with the rear suspension can put a damper on the ride, compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot, which maintain more consistent road performance without noted suspension troubles.

Legal and Manufacturer Response

The situation isn’t without its legal implications either. A lawsuit in California claims Hyundai concealed a potential defect involving ABS or traction control systems, causing possible skidding in challenging road conditions. This ongoing litigation could pressure Hyundai into a comprehensive reevaluation of quality control or lead to further recalls or fixes.

It’s crucial for Hyundai to address these lingering issues to maintain reliability and trust among its customer base. For those eyeing the Palisade, keeping an ear to the ground for updates on any resolutions or new models will be essential before making a purchase.