Hyundai Recalls Over Half a Million Palisade SUVs for Seat Belt Buckle Defect

Hyundai Motor America is initiating a recall of approximately 568,580 model year 2020-2025 Hyundai Palisade vehicles due to a defect in the seat belt buckle assemblies. According to a report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the front row and second-row outer seating positions of these SUVs may have seat belt buckle components that were manufactured with out-of-specification dimensions. This issue can lead to increased friction within the buckle, particularly in cold weather, potentially preventing the seat belt from fully latching.

The defect stems from components within the seat belt buckle assemblies manufactured by ZF Lifetec, a Tier 1 supplier based in Washington, Michigan. These out-of-specification components can cause interference within the latch channel. When combined with a slow insertion of the seat belt tongue plate, this interference may result in the seat belt buckle not latching securely. While the recall report notes that customers might hear a lighter than normal “click” when fastening the belt or observe a recessed push button on the buckle, the primary safety concern is the increased risk of occupant injury during a crash if the seat belt is not properly fastened. The report clarifies that the Palisade is equipped with visual and auditory notifications for unbuckled seat belts in all seating positions.

The recall affects Hyundai Palisade vehicles produced between April 10, 2019, and June 16, 2025. Hyundai Motor Company manufactured these vehicles in Korea for the U.S. market. While an estimated 1% of the involved vehicles are thought to have the defect, the company is taking comprehensive action.

Hyundai became aware of potential issues after NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened a preliminary evaluation in August 2024 regarding seat belt latching performance on certain Palisade models. Subsequent investigations, including joint reviews of recovered parts by NHTSA and Hyundai, and analysis by the supplier ZF Lifetec, identified that the latch guide within the buckle was the primary contributor to increased friction. A changeover in the latch guide supplier was implemented in July 2025 to correct the condition in production.

As a remedy, Hyundai will notify owners by first-class mail with instructions to bring their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer. At the dealership, the applicable front and second-row outer seat belt buckle assemblies will be inspected and replaced as necessary. This service will be provided at no cost to owners, even if the vehicle is outside of its standard warranty period. The replacement seat belt buckles will contain in-specification latch guides. Hyundai will also reimburse owners for any out-of-pocket expenses they may have incurred to address this recall condition.

Owners of affected vehicles are advised that they can continue to drive their vehicles. However, Hyundai recommends fastening the seat belt firmly into the buckle using a quick and direct motion, and then pulling on the belt to confirm it is fully secured.

Dealer notification is scheduled for November 10, 2025, with owner notifications and the recall remedy also planned to begin on the same date, implemented in phases. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) for affected vehicles will be searchable on the NHTSA website starting September 13, 2025. Hyundai reports that as of July 9, 2025, they are aware of 546 reports alleging degraded seat belt latching performance. Crucially, none of these reports have involved crashes, injuries, fatalities, or fires.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Hyundai Motor America

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