Are Hyundai Palisades Easy to Steal?

Quick Answer

Yes, Hyundai Palisades can be relatively easy to steal — especially older models without advanced anti-theft features. Like many modern SUVs, they have been targeted by relay attacks and key fob signal amplification. But there are practical steps you can take to protect yours.

I’ll be honest — when I first heard people asking whether the Hyundai Palisade is easy to steal, I thought it was a bit of an odd question. But then I started digging into the data, and I understood why so many owners are concerned.

Vehicle theft has been rising across the United States, and certain SUVs and family vehicles have become prime targets. The Palisade, as a popular mid-size family SUV, hasn’t been completely immune to this trend. If you own one or you’re thinking about buying one, it’s worth understanding exactly what risks exist — and what you can do about it.

Let me walk you through everything I’ve learned about Palisade theft vulnerability, how thieves target these vehicles, and the best ways to keep yours safe.

Why Are Hyundai Palisades Being Targeted?

The Palisade is a three-row family SUV that Hyundai introduced in 2020. It’s spacious, reliable, and well-priced compared to competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Ford Explorer. That popularity is part of the problem.

Thieves tend to target vehicles that are common and in demand. When a vehicle is popular, its parts are worth more on the secondary market. A stolen Palisade can be stripped for parts — seats, wheels, infotainment screens, and catalytic converters — and resold for significant money.

Beyond parts value, newer SUVs often use keyless entry and push-button start systems. These are convenient for you, but they also introduce a specific vulnerability that thieves have learned to exploit.

The Hyundai and Kia Theft Wave

You may have heard about the viral “Kia challenge” that spread on social media a few years ago. It exposed a serious security flaw in many Hyundai and Kia vehicles — particularly models without engine immobilizers. A USB cable and some basic knowledge were enough to steal certain models in under a minute.

The Palisade itself was less directly tied to that specific exploit than cheaper models like the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte. However, the broader trend of targeting Hyundai and Kia vehicles has kept the brand in the crosshairs of auto thieves nationwide.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hyundai and Kia vehicles saw theft rates jump dramatically during this period, prompting the automaker to push software updates and anti-theft improvements.

How Do Thieves Steal Keyless SUVs Like the Palisade?

If your Palisade has a push-button start, it uses a proximity key system. Your key fob constantly emits a low-power radio signal. When you’re near the vehicle, it detects the signal and lets you unlock and start the car without pressing a button on the fob.

Sounds great — until you understand what thieves do with this system.

Relay Attack (Signal Amplification Theft)

This is one of the most common methods used on keyless vehicles today. Here’s how it works:

1. Thief #1 stands near your front door or wherever your keys are stored inside your home.
2. They use a relay device to capture your key fob’s signal — even through walls.
3. Thief #2 stands near your parked Palisade with another relay device.
4. The two devices amplify and relay the signal between each other, tricking your car into thinking your key is right next to it.
5. The car unlocks and starts — without your actual key ever leaving your house.

The whole process can take under 60 seconds. The thieves drive away, and you wake up to an empty driveway.

OBD Port Programming (Key Cloning)

Another method involves accessing the OBD-II diagnostic port inside the vehicle — usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. With the right equipment, a thief can program a blank key fob to work with your specific vehicle.

This method typically requires thieves to first get inside your car (by breaking a window or using a slim jim tool), so it’s slightly harder to pull off quietly. But it’s still a real threat, especially in less-watched parking areas.

Catalytic Converter Theft

The Palisade has also been targeted for its catalytic converter. SUVs tend to sit higher off the ground, making it easier for thieves to slide underneath and cut the converter off in just a few minutes. Catalytic converters contain precious metals and can sell for hundreds of dollars on the black market.

📝 Note

Catalytic converter theft isn’t unique to the Palisade — it affects most SUVs and trucks. But the Palisade’s ground clearance makes it a slightly easier target than lower-riding sedans.

Which Palisade Model Years Are Most Vulnerable?

Not all Palisade model years carry the same level of risk. Here’s a general breakdown:

Model Year	Engine Immobilizer	Relay Attack Risk	Overall Theft Risk
2020–2021	Standard	Moderate–High	Moderate
2022–2023	Standard	Moderate	Moderate
2024+	Standard + Improved Software	Lower	Lower

Hyundai has made incremental anti-theft improvements across model years. The 2024 Palisade includes additional software-based protections rolled out in response to public pressure and NHTSA investigations. That said, no vehicle is completely theft-proof.

How to Protect Your Hyundai Palisade from Theft

Here’s the good news: most car thieves are opportunistic. They want a quick, easy target. If your Palisade looks like it’ll take effort to steal, they’ll usually move on. Let me share the most effective ways to protect yours.

1. Use a Faraday Pouch for Your Key Fob

This is one of the cheapest and most effective things you can do right now. A Faraday pouch is a small signal-blocking bag that prevents your key fob from broadcasting its signal. When your keys are stored inside one at home, relay thieves can’t capture the signal.

You can find them online for under $20. Keep your keys in the pouch when you’re home or in any public place where your car is parked nearby.

2. Install a Steering Wheel Club or Lock

Old-school? Yes. Effective? Absolutely. A visible steering wheel lock is a powerful visual deterrent. Even if a thief manages to start your Palisade, they can’t steer it away. Most thieves won’t bother — they’ll just find an easier car.

3. Enable Hyundai’s Anti-Theft Software Update

Hyundai released a free software update for many of its vehicles following the theft wave. The update introduces an alarm activation requirement before the engine will start. Check with your local Hyundai dealership to see if your specific Palisade model year qualifies.

4. Park Smart

Where and how you park matters a lot. Try to:

• Park in well-lit areas with high foot traffic
• Use garages when available
• Avoid parking in isolated corners of large lots
• Back into spaces when possible — it makes it harder to quickly drive away

5. Install a GPS Tracker

A hidden GPS tracker won’t prevent theft, but it dramatically improves your chances of recovering the vehicle quickly. Many insurance companies also offer discounts for vehicles with tracking devices. Look for discreet, hardwired units that stay powered even if thieves disconnect the main battery.

6. Add an Aftermarket Immobilizer or Kill Switch

A secondary kill switch cuts the vehicle’s fuel or ignition circuit. Even if thieves start the car, it’ll die after a short distance. A professional auto electrician can install a hidden kill switch that only you know about.

7. Consider Catalytic Converter Protection

If you park outdoors often, a catalytic converter shield or anti-theft cable can make it significantly harder to cut the converter off quickly. Some local police departments also offer catalytic converter etching programs to deter theft.

💡 Pro Tip

Layer your protection. No single method is foolproof, but combining two or three of these strategies makes your Palisade a much harder target. Most thieves will give up and look for something easier.

Does Hyundai Palisade Have a Factory Alarm System?

Yes. The Palisade comes with a standard factory alarm system that triggers if someone tries to break in. However, experienced thieves know that car alarms go off so frequently in public places that most people ignore them. A blaring alarm alone is not enough protection.

The alarm is useful as a deterrent and a notification, but you shouldn’t rely on it as your only line of defense.

What Does Hyundai Say About Palisade Theft?

Hyundai took significant criticism over the theft vulnerabilities exposed in their lineup. In response, the automaker:

• Rolled out free software updates to millions of vehicles
• Worked with law enforcement agencies across the U.S.
• Began including improved engine immobilizers as standard equipment
• Partnered with NHTSA on investigations and safety improvements

The automaker also set up a dedicated page and dealer resources to help owners access these updates at no cost. If you haven’t already, contact your local Hyundai dealer and ask specifically about any available anti-theft software updates for your VIN.

Common Mistakes Palisade Owners Make

I’ve talked to a lot of car owners over the years, and I see the same mistakes come up again and again when it comes to vehicle security. Here are the ones I’d most want you to avoid:

• Leaving the key fob near the front door at home. This is the easiest way to become a relay attack victim. Keep keys away from doors and windows — ideally in a Faraday pouch.
• Assuming “it won’t happen to me.” Vehicle theft is random and opportunistic. Any neighborhood can be targeted.
• Not checking for the software update. Many owners haven’t bothered to ask their dealer about the free anti-theft update. It’s a 30-minute fix that could save you a major headache.
• Relying only on the factory alarm. As mentioned, alarms alone don’t stop determined thieves.
• Parking in the same spot every night. Predictable parking habits make it easier for thieves to plan a theft.

⚠️ Warning

Never confront someone attempting to steal your vehicle. Your safety is more valuable than any car. Call 911 immediately and stay at a safe distance.

Is the Hyundai Palisade Covered for Theft by Insurance?

If you carry comprehensive coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, vehicle theft is typically covered. Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision losses including theft, vandalism, and weather damage.

It’s worth reviewing your policy right now to confirm you have comprehensive coverage. If you’re financing or leasing your Palisade, your lender likely requires it anyway. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has solid consumer guidance on understanding your auto insurance coverage and what to do if your vehicle is stolen.

If your Palisade is stolen, you’ll typically need to file a police report first, then contact your insurance company. Keep a record of your VIN, license plate number, and photos of your vehicle in a safe place — you’ll need them.

How Does the Palisade Compare to Other SUVs for Theft Risk?

How does the Palisade stack up against other popular mid-size SUVs? Here’s a general comparison based on known theft patterns and security features:

Vehicle	Keyless Entry	Standard Immobilizer	Relative Theft Risk
Hyundai Palisade	Yes	Yes	Moderate
Toyota Highlander	Yes	Yes	Low–Moderate
Ford Explorer	Yes	Yes	Moderate
Honda Pilot	Yes	Yes	Low–Moderate
Kia Telluride	Yes	Yes	Moderate

No mid-size SUV in this class is immune to theft. The Palisade sits at a moderate risk level — not the highest, not the lowest. Your biggest variable is what protective measures you put in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hyundai Palisade easy to steal without a key?

It’s more difficult than some older Hyundai models that lacked immobilizers, but it’s not impossible. Relay attacks on the keyless entry system and OBD port cloning are the two main vulnerabilities. Using a Faraday pouch and adding a secondary theft deterrent significantly reduces the risk.

Did Hyundai fix the theft problem on the Palisade?

Hyundai released software updates that added additional security steps to the ignition process. These updates help, but they don’t make the vehicle completely theft-proof. Contact your dealer to make sure your Palisade has the latest anti-theft updates.

What is the best anti-theft device for a Hyundai Palisade?

A combination of a Faraday key pouch, a visible steering wheel lock, and the Hyundai anti-theft software update is a solid and affordable starting point. For maximum protection, add a hidden GPS tracker and a secondary kill switch installed by a professional.

Is the Hyundai Palisade’s catalytic converter a target?

Yes, like most SUVs, the Palisade’s catalytic converter can be a target. Installing a catalytic converter shield or cable is worth considering if you park outdoors regularly or in a high-theft area.

Does the Palisade have a built-in GPS tracker?

The Palisade does not come with a standard factory GPS tracker, but it does offer Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car service, which includes remote location tracking through a subscription. Check with your dealer about current Blue Link features and subscription pricing.

Will my insurance cover a stolen Palisade?

If you carry comprehensive coverage, yes. Check your policy or call your insurer to confirm. Comprehensive coverage handles theft, vandalism, and other non-collision losses.

Where should I store my key fob at home to prevent relay attacks?

Store your key fob away from exterior doors and windows. Use a Faraday pouch or a metal tin to block the signal. A simple test: put your keys in the pouch and try to unlock the car from close range — if it doesn’t work, the pouch is doing its job.

When Should You Talk to a Professional?

Most of the anti-theft measures I’ve described are DIY-friendly. But there are a couple of situations where I’d recommend talking to a professional:

• Kill switch or immobilizer installation: Wiring mistakes can cause real electrical problems. Have a qualified auto electrician handle this.
• After a break-in attempt: If someone tried to steal your Palisade and failed, have a mechanic or dealer check the OBD port, ignition, and any damaged wiring before driving it.
• If your key fob is acting strangely: Unexpected behavior from your keyless entry could indicate tampering. A dealer can check the fob and vehicle systems.

The Car Care Council is a great resource for finding trusted maintenance advice and understanding when a professional inspection is worth the investment.

🔑 Final Takeaway

The Hyundai Palisade carries a moderate theft risk — higher than it should be for its price range, but manageable with the right precautions. The biggest vulnerabilities are relay attacks on the keyless entry system and catalytic converter theft. The good news is that simple, affordable tools like a Faraday pouch and a steering wheel club can make a real difference. Get the Hyundai anti-theft software update if you haven’t already, consider adding a hidden GPS tracker, and park smart. Layer your defenses, and you’ll dramatically reduce your risk. Don’t wait until something happens — take five minutes this week and start with the easy steps.

Got questions about keeping your Palisade safe? Drop them in the comments — I’m happy to help. And if you found this useful, share it with other Palisade owners who might not know these risks exist.

Stay safe out there. — aautomotives.com