Hyundai Motor America is also recalling almost 570,000 Palisade SUV models 2020-2025 because of faulty seat belt buckles that cannot latch. The recall covers the driver, front passenger, and second-row window seat belts, which may be a potential source of injuries in the event of a collision. The error is in the form of serial violation of components produced by supplier ZF Lifetec, which are among the parts of out-of-specification components that may lead to an interference in the latch channel.
Massive recall addresses safety defect
Hyundai is recalling nearly 570,000 Palisade SUVs from the 2020 through 2025 model years to replace faulty seat belts that may not latch properly, according to Consumer Reports. The problem affects driver, front passenger, and second-row window seat belts. According to the NHTSA filing, the subject vehicles are equipped with seat belt buckle assemblies in the front row and second row outer seating positions that may contain out-of-specification components manufactured by the supplier.
These components can cause interference within the latch channel, potentially increasing friction, particularly under cold ambient temperatures. Improperly produced seat belt buckles, combined with slow insertion of the seat belt tongue plate, may prevent the seat belt buckle from fully latching. An inability to fasten the seat belt in an occupied seat could increase the risk of injury to occupant(s) during a crash.
Investigation reveals manufacturing defect
According to the automaker, the problem was discovered after a 2024 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into complaints about seat belts not latching properly. Further investigation revealed that a sub-supplier had not properly manufactured a component used in the belt latch, and that it could increase friction within the buckle.
The NHTSA filing shows that ZF Lifetec noted a spike in buckle warranty claims during colder months. NASO, ZF Lifetec, and HMC conducted tests confirming that extreme cold temperatures could adversely affect the buckle performance. July 9, 2025 – ZF shared findings from a manufacturing audit of Microtech (Tier 2 latch guide supplier), revealing that its injection molding process was outside of manufacturing guidelines.
Recall timeline and remedy
In documents provided to NHTSA, Hyundai says it is aware of 546 complaints, but no crashes or injuries related to this recall. To date, Hyundai is aware of 546 unique reports received from September 4, 2019, through July 9, 2025, alleging degraded latching performance of seat belt assemblies used in the subject vehicles. None of these reports involves crashes, injuries, fatalities, or fires. Customers may notice a lighter-than-normal audible “click” during the fastening process and/or a recessed push button on the buckle housing.
Free repairs available
Hyundai will send a letter to owners to let them know when they can bring their vehicle in to have the seat belt assembly inspected and, if necessary, replaced. Until a free fix is available, Hyundai says that owners should “fasten the seat belt firmly into the buckle with quick and direct motion. Once buckled, pull on the belt to confirm the seat belt is fully secured.”
All owners of the subject vehicles will be notified by first-class mail with instructions to bring their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer for inspection and/or replacement of the applicable seat belt buckle assemblies (Front row and Second Row Outer seating positions), as necessary. This remedy will be offered at no cost to owners for all affected vehicles, regardless of whether the affected vehicles are still covered under Hyundai’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
The Hyundai Palisade recall highlights the critical importance of proper seat belt function in vehicle safety systems. While no injuries have been reported, the potential for seat belts to fail during emergencies poses serious risks to occupants. Owners should contact Hyundai at 855-371-9460 for more information and schedule repairs promptly when notified.