Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade: Data-Backed Look at Long-Term Reliability

When the Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade face off, you’re looking at more than just a typical SUV rivalry. These two have become the superstars of suburban driveways, packing luxury features into a family-friendly price tag. But there’s a lot more to this story than styling and features.

I’ve spent a huge amount of time digging into their reliability data, owner feedback, and long-term value propositions. What I’ve found is that these SUVs aren’t just competing with each other. They’re changing what families expect from a daily driver, delivering dependability that rivals premium brands.

Market Overview of Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade

The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade consistently rank as top choices in the crowded three-row SUV market. It’s easy to see why. They deliver exactly what busy families need: comfort, modern safety tech, and enough space for everyone and their gear.

Since they first launched, both SUVs have built a massive and loyal fanbase. Because they are built on the same vehicle platform, they share a powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine and a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. The real differences come down to their unique exterior designs and interior layouts.

The sales numbers show just how tight this race is. In 2024, Kia sold 115,504 Tellurides, while Hyundai sold 110,055 Palisades. This razor-thin margin proves that buyers are almost perfectly split between these two heavyweights.

Their success is built on a smart formula: they blend everyday practicality with a near-luxury feel. This allows them to effectively compete with much more expensive options from premium brands, building trust through quality and reliable performance.

Most shoppers find themselves cross-shopping these two models directly. They are so similar in performance and features that the final choice often boils down to personal style or which dealership offers a better experience.

Reliability Ratings: Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade

When you look at reliability, both the Telluride and the Palisade are standout performers in their class. Major testing organizations like J.D. Power consistently award them high marks for dependability, giving you confidence right from the start.

In the influential J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study, which tracks problems in the first 90 days of ownership, their parent company, Hyundai Motor Group, was ranked the top corporation for the second year in a row. The Kia Telluride itself was named the number one vehicle in the entire Upper Midsize SUV segment.

The Hyundai Palisade also earned high praise, finishing third in the same category. This shows that both vehicles are built to a very high standard right out of the factory.

Based on extensive owner feedback from forums and reliability threads, both the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade have earned strong reputations as trustworthy family vehicles. The majority of owners report smooth, trouble-free experiences over tens of thousands of miles, with only minor issues like small interior rattles or occasional electronic glitches.

Of course, no vehicle is perfect. A smaller group of owners has reported more significant concerns, such as oil consumption or problems with the transmission or drivetrain that required warranty repairs or recall service. However, these appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.

The overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Both SUVs are seen as solid, comfortable, and reliable family haulers that easily handle the demands of daily life, with most issues being manageable rather than major deal-breakers.

Key Reliability Issues of Kia Telluride

While the Kia Telluride has a well-deserved reputation for being a dependable and comfortable SUV, it’s not without its quirks. After digging through owner forums, Reddit, and official NHTSA complaint data, a few consistent issues have surfaced.

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The good news is that these problems rarely involve the engine or transmission, which are typically the most expensive components to fix. Instead, they center on other parts of the vehicle.

1. Windshield Cracking and Glass Durability

One of the most talked-about issues is the Telluride’s windshield. Many owners report that the glass seems unusually susceptible to cracking from minor impacts like small rock chips. Forum posts suggest the windshield might be more fragile than those in other SUVs, leading to surprise repair bills that can range from around $330 to over $1,100 for an aftermarket replacement, and even higher for OEM glass.

2. Infotainment System Glitches

Some owners have also experienced intermittent issues with the large infotainment display. The system can sometimes freeze or become unresponsive, forcing a manual reset. Kia has pushed out several software updates to fix these bugs and even issued a recall in 2022 to address blank LCD screens.

3. Tow Hitch Wiring Harness Recall

A significant recall affected over 36,000 Tellurides from the 2020-2022 model years. Debris and moisture could get into the tow hitch harness module, creating a potential electrical short and increasing the risk of a fire. Kia urged owners to park their vehicles outside until the free repair was completed.

4. Power Seat Fire Risk Recall

One of the most serious recalls involved over 460,000 Tellurides from 2020 to 2024. A stuck power seat slide knob could cause the seat motor to overheat, which in rare cases could lead to a fire. As a precaution, Kia advised owners to park outside and away from structures until the fix was made.

The Bottom Line: Good Fundamentals, Fixable Flaws

Thankfully, none of these common issues point to fundamental problems with the engine or transmission, the kind of failures that can ruin your ownership experience. Most of these concerns are tied to specific components that can be repaired or replaced, often under warranty or through a recall.

So, while some Telluride owners have dealt with annoying issues, the SUV’s core mechanical reliability is strong. Since many of these problems have official recalls, they can be resolved at a dealership at no cost to you.

✅ Car IQ Report’s Take:
If you’re considering a Kia Telluride, it’s wise to check recall history and confirm that any outstanding service campaigns have been addressed. Once those fixes are made, most owners report a comfortable, reliable, and stress-free ownership experience.

📊 You can verify these issues and see full recall and complaint data using Car IQ Report before making your final decision.

Key Reliability Issues of Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade is known for its refined, comfortable ride and great value. However, like its Kia counterpart, it has a few recurring issues that potential buyers should know about. Most of these relate to cabin features and specific components rather than major drivetrain problems.

1. Exploding Sunroof Concern

A number of Palisade owners have reported the unsettling experience of their sunroofs unexpectedly shattering, sometimes while driving at highway speeds. Many of these reports on NHTSA records and owner forums claim there was no obvious impact, suggesting a potential stress-related failure in the glass.

While this issue is relatively rare and no official recall has been issued, it’s a significant concern for those affected. Dealerships have typically replaced the glass, sometimes under warranty.

2. Seat Belt Buckle Problems

In 2025, Hyundai announced a major recall for over 568,000 Palisades from the 2020 through 2025 model years. The seat belt buckles in the first and second rows may not latch properly, particularly in cold weather, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash.

This recall came after an NHTSA investigation that started in 2024. Hyundai dealers are replacing the faulty buckle assemblies free of charge.

3. Braking Performance Concern

Some owners of 2024 models have reported a “mushy” or inconsistent brake pedal feel, especially on uneven roads. According to NHTSA complaint data for the 2024 Palisade, issues with the service brakes are the most common owner complaint. A class-action lawsuit even alleges that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) may miscalculate wheel speed, leading to longer stopping distances.

The Bottom Line: Strong Reliability Where It Counts

The great news for anyone considering a Palisade is that it has not suffered from widespread engine or transmission failures. The most common issues tend to involve convenience features or specific components, not the expensive mechanical parts that keep the car running.

Despite these isolated issues, overall owner satisfaction remains very high. Drivers frequently praise the Palisade’s quiet cabin, smooth performance, and premium feel, cementing its status as a top-tier family SUV.

✅ Car IQ Report’s Take:
If you’re considering a Hyundai Palisade, it’s wise to check recall history and confirm that any outstanding service campaigns have been addressed. Once those fixes are made, most owners report a comfortable, reliable, and stress-free ownership experience.

📊 You can verify these issues and see full recall and complaint data using Car IQ Report before making your final decision.

Recall Histories: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Both the Telluride and Palisade have strong safety records, but they haven’t been immune to recalls. When you look at their histories, both SUVs share some similar issues, which isn’t surprising given their shared platform. For example, both models were recalled for a faulty tow hitch wiring module that could short circuit and pose a fire risk.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most significant recent recalls for each model to see how they compare.

Both Kia and Hyundai have been very proactive in handling these safety concerns. They are quick to notify owners and provide dealers with the necessary parts and instructions to perform repairs for free. This commitment to customer safety is a key reason why both brands continue to earn trust from buyers.

Technical Service Bulletins and Their Impact

Beyond recalls, both Kia and Hyundai use Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to help dealerships fix common, non-safety issues. Think of TSBs as memos from the manufacturer to technicians, giving them step-by-step instructions for resolving problems like software glitches or interior rattles.

For both the Telluride and Palisade, some of the most common TSBs relate to the infotainment and climate control systems. For example, dealers have received bulletins on how to perform software updates to fix laggy touchscreens. These fixes are typically done for free while the vehicle is under warranty.

This proactive approach has a positive impact on the ownership experience. Instead of forcing owners to live with minor annoyances, the companies provide clear solutions. For instance, Hyundai issued a TSB with detailed instructions for technicians to properly add insulation and sealing around the doors to fix wind noise complaints on some early Palisades.

It’s a very good sign that neither SUV has a long list of TSBs for major mechanical problems. Most bulletins cover small refinements that don’t stop you from driving the vehicle, which is a big reason owner satisfaction stays so high.

Real-World Owner Insights from Reddit Discussions

To get the real story, I spent hours combing through Reddit threads for both the Palisade and Telluride. Owners there share excellent, unfiltered feedback. On the r/KiaTelluride subreddit, users frequently praise the SUV’s comfort on long road trips and its solid reliability, with many reporting they’ve passed 100,000 miles with only minor issues.

Still, some complaints pop up regularly. One user noted that the door trim on some 2023 models has a tendency to fall off. Others express frustration with the automatic wipers being too sensitive and the transmission feeling a bit sluggish on cold mornings.

Over on r/HyundaiPalisade, owners are equally passionate, especially about the luxurious interior of the top-tier Calligraphy trim. But they also highlight some common quirks. Several users have mentioned a “clunking noise” from the rear shocks that can appear after 50,000 miles. Others complain about the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in a car that is otherwise packed with tech.

What stands out most is that despite these specific complaints, the vast majority of owners in both communities say they would absolutely buy their SUV again. They feel they made the right choice and are always willing to help each other with tips and advice.

Best and Worst Years for Kia Telluride

Generally, the newest Telluride models (2022-2024) are considered the most reliable. By these model years, Kia had worked out many of the early production kinks, leading to fewer owner complaints about electronics and interior fit-and-finish.

The 2020 model, being the Telluride’s debut year, naturally had the most growing pains. It logged the highest number of complaints with the NHTSA, though the total of 479 is still relatively low compared to many other vehicles. Early issues included:

• Infotainment screen freezing or going blank
• High-beam headlight failures that resulted in a recall
• Premature wear on some interior trim pieces
• Noisy self-leveling rear shocks on certain models

Kia made noticeable improvements in the 2021 model, and by 2022, most of the early bugs were resolved. The 2023 and 2024 models have benefited from even more refinement and updated technology.

If you’re shopping for a used Telluride, I’d recommend focusing on 2022 or newer models. They offer a more polished experience. If a 2020 model fits your budget, just be sure to verify that all recall work has been completed by a dealer.

Best and Worst Years for Hyundai Palisade

Just like its cousin, the 2022-2024 Palisade models are your best bet for reliability and owner satisfaction. Hyundai made consistent improvements to interior materials, software, and cabin quietness in these later years.

The 2020 Palisade, as the first model year, had the most issues. Early owners frequently reported a few specific problems:

• Noticeable wind noise coming from the doors at highway speeds
• Intermittent software glitches in the infotainment system
• An unpleasant, garlic-like chemical odor from the Nappa leather headrests
• A recall for windshield wipers that could stop working

Hyundai was quick to address most of these early complaints. By the 2022 model year, and especially with the 2023 refresh, the Palisade had become a more refined and polished vehicle.

If you’re shopping for a used Palisade, I’d suggest targeting a 2022 or newer model to get the best overall value and avoid potential headaches. For 2020 or 2021 models, make sure a dealer has performed all software updates and recall campaigns.

Warranty Coverage and Owner Experiences

One of the biggest advantages of buying a Kia or Hyundai is their incredible warranty coverage. Both brands offer the same industry-leading package, which is a huge selling point.

• 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
• 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty
• 5-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance Plan

This coverage is significantly better than what rivals like Toyota or Honda offer, which is typically a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This long warranty gives owners incredible peace of mind, knowing the most expensive components are covered for a full decade.

It is important to know that the full 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty only applies to the original owner. If you buy the vehicle used, the powertrain coverage is reduced to 5 years/60,000 miles from the original sale date. Even so, this transferable warranty helps keep resale values high for both SUVs.

Long-Term Value Assessment: Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade

Both the Telluride and Palisade have proven to be fantastic investments, holding their value much better than most competitors in the midsize SUV category.

This isn’t just an opinion, it’s backed by data from trusted sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB). The Kia Telluride won the KBB Best Resale Value award for its class in 2022 and 2024, and the Hyundai Palisade took home the same award in 2023. This proves just how in-demand these vehicles are on the used market.

Day-to-day operating costs are also nearly identical. Since they share the same engine, they get very similar fuel economy.

• Kia Telluride (FWD): EPA-estimated 20 City / 26 Highway MPG
• Hyundai Palisade (FWD): EPA-estimated 19 City / 26 Highway MPG

Hyundai does offer one nice perk that Kia doesn’t. New Palisades come with Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance, which covers normal factory-scheduled services (like oil changes and tire rotations) for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles. This can save you a few hundred dollars in the first few years of ownership.

Summary Comparison Table

Here’s a clear, side-by-side look at how the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade compare in the key areas we’ve covered.

As the data clearly shows, these two SUVs are incredibly well-matched. The differences are found in minor, specific issues reported by some owners, not in any major gap in overall quality or long-term durability.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Wins the Reliability Race?

After diving deep into the data, owner feedback, and long-term value, it’s obvious that both the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are winners when it comes to dependability. They are so closely related that trying to name one the absolute winner would be splitting hairs.

Their shared foundation means they have nearly identical strengths. The choice between the Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade almost never comes down to a question of reliability.

Instead, your final decision will likely come down to your personal taste. Do you prefer the bold, rugged look of the Telluride or the more elegant, upscale design of the Palisade? You truly can’t go wrong with either one of these excellent family SUVs.

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle that won’t break the bank on maintenance, a Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride deserves your attention. While no vehicle is perfect, it’s important to note that certain model years have had less than stellar reliability rankings. That’s why it’s essential to do your homework. Use Car IQ Report’s reliability ratings to zero in on the safest and most dependable vehicle for your money.

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