Hyundai Recalls 68,500 Palisade SUVs Due to Power Seat Hazard
Hyundai has announced a recall affecting 68,500 Palisade SUVs due to a significant safety hazard concerning power seats. This action follows a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a two-year-old child in Ohio on March 7, highlighting the urgency for safety improvements.
Recall Details
Hyundai’s recall targets the 2026 Palisade models, specifically the Limited and Calligraphy trims. The company is taking immediate steps to address a malfunction in the power-operated second- and third-row seats. These seats fail to detect the presence of a person or object, posing a risk of injury through crushing during operation.
Incident Background
The fatal accident in Ohio has prompted heightened scrutiny of the power folding seats. Investigation into the incident is ongoing, but Hyundai has acknowledged the immediate danger associated with the seat mechanism. This issue does not only apply when folding the seats but also during the use of the second-row one-touch tilt-and-slide feature.
Hyundai’s Response
To mitigate risks, Hyundai advises consumers to exercise caution. Before engaging the second- and third-row power seat functions, users should ensure there are no individuals or objects in the vicinity of the seats.
Safety Measures and Updates
- Hyundai is developing an interim software update to improve seat contact detection.
- This software will be delivered as an over-the-air update by the end of March.
- The update is a temporary measure and will not constitute a permanent fix.
Hyundai has committed to a full recall procedure that will be reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The automaker is currently reaching out to affected vehicle owners, informing them of the situation and the next steps.
Customer Support and Temporary Solutions
In the meantime, Hyundai plans to offer affected customers a rental vehicle at no charge until a comprehensive solution is available. The company has yet to provide a specific timeline for when the permanent repairs will be implemented.
For any further inquiries, consumers are encouraged to contact the Hyundai Consumer Assistance Center directly.
