Hyundai has initiated a critical safety recall for its widely popular Palisade family SUV in the Australian market. This urgent action follows a devastating incident in the United States where a two-year-old girl lost her life after a power-folding rear seat was activated.
Immediate Sales Halt and Recall Details
The automotive manufacturer has immediately ceased sales of specific 2026 Hyundai Palisade models, notably the high-specification Limited and Calligraphy versions. This decisive step was taken due to identified faults with the power-operated second- and third-row seating systems.
Hyundai has confirmed that these seats may fail to adequately detect contact with an occupant or object as originally intended during their operation. This serious malfunction can occur during the power-folding operations of the second and third rows, as well as when utilising the second-row one-touch tilt-and-slide function designed for accessing the rear of the vehicle.
Official Safety Warnings Issued to Owners
In response to this grave safety issue, Hyundai has issued stark warnings to all current owners. The company strongly advises drivers to be extremely careful when using any of the powered seat functions. It is imperative to ensure that no individuals, particularly young children, and no objects are in the pathway before operating these mechanisms.
The guidance specifically states: "When using the second-row one-touch tilt-and-slide feature to access the third row, customers should avoid pressing the seatback button during entry or exit." Hyundai Australia is proactively contacting the owners of the affected Palisade SUVs to communicate these vital safety instructions directly.
Global Response and Technical Fixes
Hyundai expressed profound sadness regarding the child's tragic death in the United States. As part of its global response, the company is currently developing an interim over-the-air software update planned for release worldwide by the end of March.
While this update does not constitute the permanent recall repair, it is engineered to enhance the system's responsiveness to contact with occupants or objects. It will introduce additional operational safeguards and improve the overall safety of the seat mechanism. Hyundai's US division emphasised that this is a crucial interim measure while a comprehensive solution is finalised.
Australian Market Impact and Statistics
The recall affects the latest iteration of the Palisade in Australia, a model that only launched locally in November of the previous year. A spokesperson for Hyundai Australia confirmed the company is now actively processing the official recall and reaching out to impacted customers.
Official sales data reveals that a total of 2,364 Palisade vehicles were sold throughout Australia in 2025, indicating the scale of this safety campaign. Owners of these vehicles are encouraged to contact Hyundai Australia immediately through multiple channels for further guidance and support.
Contact Information for Affected Owners
Hyundai Australia has established dedicated contact points for concerned owners. Individuals can reach the company by calling the toll-free number 1800 186 306, sending an email to customercare@hyundai.com.au, or visiting their nearest authorised Hyundai dealership in person for direct assistance and information regarding the recall process.
