JAKARTA - South Korean automotive manufacturer Hyundai has officially issued a global sales suspension order for its flagship SUV, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade model. This drastic step was taken following a tragic incident in the United States that claimed the life of a toddler.
The main problem was identified in the second and third row electric seat systems that failed to detect objects or passengers when they were being operated.
Launching the Carexpert website, Monday, March 16, this order to stop sales was triggered by an incident that occurred in Ohio, USA, on March 7, 2026. A two-year-old child reportedly died due to a sensor failure in the electric seat folding mechanism.
"Hyundai is aware of the tragic incident involving the Palisade. Although we do not have complete details and the investigation is still ongoing, a small child has lost his life. Hyundai expresses its deepest sympathies to the family," wrote Hyundai Motor North America's (HMNA) official statement.
Sensor Fails to Detect Passengers
Initial investigations indicate that on certain variants, the second and third row power-operated seats cannot detect contact with passengers or objects as they should. This danger arises in three scenarios, namely during power-folding seat operation, then when using the one-touch tilt-and-slide function in the second row, until when passengers try to enter or exit the third row.
Affected Models
Not all Palisade variants are affected by this. The sales suspension and recall plan only applies to models equipped with electric rear seats, namely the Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy (Model 2026) and the Hyundai Palisade Limited (US market only).
The Palisade Elite variant and all previous generation models (LX2 series) are declared safe because they still use a manual (non-electric) seat folding mechanism. It is estimated that there are around 68,500 units in North America and around 2,260 units in Australia affected by this problem.
Hyundai is currently developing an Over-the-Air (OTA) software update as a temporary mitigation measure that is targeted to be available by the end of March 2026. This update aims to improve contact detection sensitivity and add seat braking system safety features.
While waiting for permanent repairs, Hyundai issued a stern warning to vehicle owners.
"Make sure there is no one, especially children, or any objects in the seat area before operating the electric folding feature. Avoid pressing the seat back button when passengers are getting in or out of the third row."
Hyundai is also committed to providing replacement vehicle facilities (rental vehicles) for consumers who are concerned until the physical repair solution (recall) is fully available.
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