NHTSA Complaint #11699137 — 2020 HYUNDAI PALISADE

This report describes a catastrophic engine failure, framing the event in the context of the widespread Hyundai GDI engine oil consumption issue and its impact on oil-dependent systems like the CVVT/OCV. ​Description of Incident @ 148,000 miles my vehicle oil was changed. ​On May 15, 2025, @ 151,000 miles my 2020 Hyundai Palisade was serviced at Patterson Hyundai Tyler (3120 S SW Loop 323, Tyler, TX 75701) for the replacement of the oil intake valve (OCV/CVVT solenoid). With reports of oil consumption. This type of service is often necessitated by sludge or contamination from excessive oil consumption clogging the valve screens and restricting oil flow to the VVT system. ​Shortly after this service, on 05/22/25, the engine experienced a catastrophic failure. There was an immediate and loud metallic grinding noise (consistent with severe internal bearing/connecting rod damage), followed by complete loss of engine power and instantaneous stalling. ​The failure is assessed to be a result of the underlying GDI defect related to excessive oil consumption, which can lead to internal engine starvation. This starvation may have been triggered or exacerbated by a failure within the oil circulation path (potentially involving the recently serviced OCV or adjacent components). The vehicle is part of the population of Hyundai GDI engines known for issues where low oil levels—due to consumption—or contamination lead to bearing and connecting rod failure. The vehicle has all maintence records and can provide them. ​The vehicle is currently located at Greenville Hyundai at 5395 I-30 Frontage Rd, Greenville, TX 75402 and is available for inspection upon request. Service Manager is Isaac.