Hyundai Santa cruz problems

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The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a four-door compact pickup truck manufactured and marketed by Hyundai. Released in 2021 for the 2022 model year, the Santa Cruz is the first four-door pickup truck sold by Hyundai in the North American market. The vehicle is based on the Tucson crossover SUV, and uses a unibody chassis design.

Industry analysts expected the Santa Cruz to attract car or crossover buyers instead of people who have owned a larger, traditional pickup truck.

Overview

The Santa Cruz was previewed by a concept pickup truck at the 2015 North American International Auto Show with the same name.

The production model debuted in April 2021 for the North American market. Marketed as a "Sport Adventure Vehicle", it is closely related to the fourth-generation Tucson, sharing the same project code (NX4, with additional 'a' to denote American production and 'OB' suffix, meaning 'open bed'), production site, and dashboard design. It also features a similar styling introduced on the fourth-generation Tucson, with its front end dominated by the grille with integrated daytime running lights.

The Santa Cruz uses a front-wheel-drive configuration as the base model, with an available upgrade to the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system. The HTRAC system allows for the rear wheels to receive up to 50 percent of the drive power via a lockable clutched center differential. It is equipped with strut suspension for the front wheels and a multi-link independent suspension in the rear. The rear suspension is equipped with self-leveling shock absorbers to keep the truck level even when there is weight on the bed or a trailer on the hitch.

photo of Hyundai Santa cruz car production

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Hyundai Santa cruz model years

hyundai santa cruz 2024 photo
Santa cruz 2024
Hyundai

15

1

22

4.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai santa cruz 2023 photo
Santa cruz 2023
Hyundai

50

2

18

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai santa cruz 2022 photo
Santa cruz 2022
Hyundai

152

4

20

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Hyundai Santa cruz problems

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup truck that has been praised for its car-like driving experience and versatile design. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the Hyundai Santa Cruz:

  • Interior quality: Some owners have criticized the interior of the Santa Cruz for its use of shiny, unsubstantial-feeling black plastics. These materials are prone to showing fingerprints and dust, and can feel cheap. Additionally, the back seat space is limited, especially if the driver and front passenger are tall. This can make it difficult for a family of four to travel comfortably.
  • Exhaust problems: Some owners have reported issues with the exhaust system, including leaks and failures of the muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and heat shields. These issues can result in loud noises, decreased performance, and reduced fuel efficiency.
  • Engine temperature control unit failure: One owner reported a failure of the engine temperature control unit in their 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. This failure can result in overheating of the engine, which can cause serious damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Water leaks: Some owners have reported water leaks into the cargo bay of their Santa Cruz, even with a factory-installed tonneau cover. This can result in damage to cargo and decreased functionality of the truck.
  • Rough shifting: Some owners have reported rough shifting and slipping transmission issues, which can result in decreased performance and reduced fuel efficiency. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged transmission components, low transmission fluid levels, or issues with the transmission computer or sensor.
  • Noises and leaks: Some owners have reported noises and leaks from the engine, including engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, and oil leaks. These issues can result in decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased risk of engine failure.
  • Premature clutch replacement: Some owners have reported the need for premature clutch replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including aggressive driving, towing heavy loads, or issues with the clutch assembly itself.
  • Windows, locks, and latches: Some owners have reported issues with the windows, locks, and latches of their Santa Cruz, including problems with the doors, sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, and glass. These issues can result in decreased functionality and reduced safety.
  • Paint and trim: Some owners have reported issues with the paint and trim of their Santa Cruz, including fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking. These issues can result in decreased aesthetic appeal and reduced resale value.

In conclusion, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz is a popular and versatile compact pickup truck, it is not without its issues. Common problems reported by owners include transmission issues, interior quality, exhaust problems, engine temperature control unit failure, water leaks, rough shifting, noises and leaks, premature clutch replacement, windows, locks, and latches, and paint and trim. These issues can result in decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased risk of engine failure, and can be costly and time-consuming to address.

Hyundai Santa cruz

What are the issues with Santa Cruz?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Body Hardware. ...
  • Steering And Suspension. ...
  • Engine Electrical. ...
  • Fuel System/Emissions. ...
  • Electrical Accessories. ...
  • Drive System. ...
  • Brakes. ...
  • Climate System.

What are the cons of the Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Industry. Pros: Fun and refined to drive; high-class interior; great tech; clever bed features Cons: Cramped back seat; high price; slow and inefficient base engine When we first drove and reviewed the Hyundai Santa Cruz, it was the best choice in a compact pickup truck segment of exactly one.

How reliable is the Hyundai Santa Cruz truck?

We expect the 2024 Santa Cruz will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, plus the Hyundai brand scores.

Did Hyundai fix the Santa Cruz transmission problems?

Hyundai finally sorted the 8-speed dual clutch transmission!

After the first recall, the Santa Cruz was almost undriveable as the shifting was even worse. We parked it for a while, until Hyundai issued a new recall – which seems to have taken care of most of the shifting problems.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Santa cruz years

We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Santa cruz cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Hyundai Santa cruz model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Santa cruz model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Santa cruz years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Hyundai Santa cruz car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Santa cruz , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Santa cruz vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Santa cruz model years

A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Santa cruz model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Santa cruz model years

There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 217 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Santa cruz . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Santa cruz vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF3NH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: First shift issue, no warning lights present, was able to get to dealer they hooked up computer and reset/restart vehicle and told me I probably hit gas and brake at same time and it was probably in limp mode. Month later went to store just fine, got back in my vehicle and check engine light was on, shift issues, was told to keep driving for over 2 weeks till they had available appointment, during that time battery died and check engine light went off but shift issues were still there and they had to drive it I believe they said 60 miles to get light to come back on so hyundai would approve transmission replacement. After that finally got replaced and I put almost 4k miles on their rental (yeah... took a while). I was back in less than a week before service transmission immediately indicator comes on, again got to my destination fine, got back in vehicle and I'm on my way back in the dealer again. I was told I was the third transmission back in to get replaced again after a week of being on the road. but wait, battery dies again, warning lights gone and they give back the vehicle. They were nice enough to offer me 10k less than what I purchased it for 6 months ago.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
  • VIN: 5NTJCDAE5PH
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Lack of power upon accelerating. I could slowly get car up to 40 MPH however when trying to accelerate it would lose power. I had to pull over for faster traffic to pass.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: 5NTJBDAE8PH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: On 3 separate occasions this has occurred . When accelerating, the engine or power train completely loses all propulsion. Twice I was starting a left hand turn and crossing oncoming traffic. On one occasion I was turning right onto a 50 MPH highway and quickly veered off the road onto the berm. The only item on dash board flashing on the third incident was the cruise control preset and it was flashing 20. At the time I was not using the cruise control and I did not set it for 20. No dash board warning lights lit during the first two losses of power. I reported it to the dealer. Today I had a maintenance appointment and inspection at the dealer. After that inspection, they informed me that they found no codes to identify the issue. I should let them know if it continues. My 3 failures happened at approximately 10,000, 15,000 and 20,000 miles. My safety and that of my passenger were most definitely affected each and every time. After 30 seconds to one minute the full functionality returns as if it never happened.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF4RH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Driver 1 will be the Hyundai Santa Cruz traveling northbound on [XXX] at [XXX] . Driver 2 crossed [XXX] 1 directly in front of my vehicle causing extensive damage to the vehicle as well as injuries to the occupants. Vehicle 1 was [XXX] months old at the time. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED! All airbags of the #2 vehicle deployed, ALL. Driver 1, was driving 45 mph northbound and never had a chance to slow down, impact was to the right front quarter panel of vehicle 1 to the left rear quarter panel of vehicle 2. The impact sent vehicle 1, the HYUNDAI, onto two wheels and into center media of [XXX] 1. As it rolled over the Dodge caravans left rear tire. The Passenger in vehicle 1, struck the passenger door and the dashboard on the passenger side as well as hitting her knee on the under dash area. The driver was thrown across and struck the passenger occupant on the left side and continued into the passenger. The point of this report is that the airbags never deployed and I have discovered this is a pending lawsuit by several attorneys. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF9NH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Hi, my car is a certified 2022 hyundai santa cruz I've been in touch with hyundai and they're very unhelpful. I'm experiencing jerking while creeping uphill or driving in traffic at low speeds as well as in reverse. and its way worse when i have any bit of load in the bed. its extremely invasive, its really dangerous particularly when in reverse, because its hard to modulate the speed properly, when you feather the brakes when rolling into a parking space or reversing to a hook up a trailer it either is dead on power or jerks at a slight speed which makes it difficult to control. this is something that passed hyundai's certified program but concerns me because there is no way its safe. I've lent my car to other people and they were concerned as well. please note i got my brakes and replaced and system bled but the issue persists. additionally I've experienced this issue for over 5000 miles (41k - 47k miles) please consider this complaint because its a legitimate safety issue and i have a feeling its related to this cars transmission woes. Thank you!
Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
  • VIN: 5NTJADAEXPH
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH with the cruise control engaged, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle slowed to approximately 15 MPH while depressing the accelerator pedal and failed to respond as needed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence. The contact turned off the vehicle and attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that a fuel injector had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 13,803.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
  • VIN: 5NTJDDAF0NH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: - What component or system failed or malfunctioned: Code P019185 main fuel rail pressure regulator sensor. -Is it available for inspection upon request? Yes -How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? At highway speeds, sudden lose of power and speed. Unable to accelerate. -Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No, happens randomly, vehicle has to be shut down and restarted to resolve problem. -Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No -Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No warning, shortly after purchase and several time after purchase to date.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF2NH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 29K miles bought in March at CarMax. I had 6/8 fuel injectors replaced under warranty but it took MONTHS and 5 trips to the dealer. I first had an issue with cold starting the engine and I got a cylinder 3 misfire code, and the first time I dropped it off in April they said they could not repro and sent me home...and then the story got worse.... May 10, 2024 I dropped off the vehicle for a second time due to an intermittent issue with rough cold starts and check engine light. May 24, 2024 All 4 of the high pressure fuel injectors were replaced and I was able to take home the vehicle after two weeks. May 25, 2024 one day later, after the repairs were made, another check engine light DTC P23F5F0 came on while driving the vehicle. May 29, 2024 I dropped off the vehicle due to DTC P23F5F0 as reported by Bluelink . May 31, 2024 The DTC was cleared from the system after a brief diagnosis and I was sent home with the vehicle with no repairs being done. June 1, 2024 One day after I picked it up, DTC P23F5F0 showed up again for me on the Santa Cruz. June 2nd, 2024 I dropped it off for this DTC for the second time. They drove it 250 miles and could not get the light to come back on. July 12, 2024 They released the vehicle over one month later, doing nothing but clearing the light, citing that they needed to replicate the issue for Hyundai corporate to pay for a repair. July 13th 2024, the day after I picked it up for this DTC the second time, the same malfunction indicator DTC 23F5F0 light came back on for me. I finally got the vehicle back in August after they replaced 2 of the low pressure fuel injectors. I've heard from others that failing fuel injectors can cause catastrophic failures on the highway.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
  • VIN: 5NTJDDAF0RH
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: My truck lost power climbing a pass. My speed dropped from 60 mph to 20 mph while on a state highway outside Yellowstone NP where traffic can be heavy. My error codes have indicated that it is a problem in the fuel injection system. I have had electrical harness on that system replaced 4 times in 6 weeks, 2 of the times took place at the dealership during repair. My truck is still not operable.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF6NH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Loss of power transmission failure Recall issues continue
Hyundai Santa cruz 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 5NTJADAE1RH
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: Another driver ran a red light and hit a vehicle in front of me, which spun and impacted the right front corner of my truck. Impact did not seem that severe, my air bags did not deploy but both front seat belts were locked up after the accident. My damage seemed just cosmetic, grill, bumper, hood and right front fender & headlight were damaged. At repair shop, they determined that the right front frame rail was damaged and the vehicle is totaled, almost $19,000 to repair which is above Geicos’ 75% limit. If the impact was enough to damage the frame rail, why didn’t the air bags deploy?? I do not have an electronic copy of police report or damage assessment, only paper copy.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
  • VIN: 5NTJB4AE2NH
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz began shaking on the interstate and showing a check engine light on the dash. After pulling off the road to a nearby auto parts store, the ODB reader showed a DTC of P0301, which is a misfiring cylinder. A independent mechanic across the street from the auto parts store diagnosed the issue as a leaking fuel injector, but in order to get the repair cost covered, the vehicle had to be towed to a Hyundai dealership. The dealership did not have any loaner vehicles to offer and estimated 1-2 weeks to even officially diagnose the vehicle themselves. 2 weeks later, the dealership is estimating another 2-3 weeks or more, and Hyundai corporate will not approve any reimbursement for the out-of-pocket costs of hotel, towing, Uber, and rental until diagnosis AND repair is complete, which could be an unknown period of time.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
  • VIN: 5NTJDDAF5NH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: On [XXX] my new 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz’s transmission failed while driving. Vehicle down shifted with a noticeable loss in power and speed. This was a very dangerous condition as I was in traffic when this incident occurred. The vehicle’s odometer shows ONLY 4761 total miles since purchasing this car brand new at Sheehy Hyundai in Waldorf, Maryland INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
  • VIN: 5NTJEDAF1NH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: A check engine light illuminated and the transmission system malfunctioned. Vehicle lost acceleration and would not shift until RPM was over 3k. It also would not allow manual or paddle shifting. Reviewed recalls and saw there is one for possible need of transmission replacement. I contacted the dealership and they said all recall work was addressed (transmission has never been replaced). They may have changed a part and updated a computer related to this recall but they were ADAMANT my recall had already been addressed. They made noise like I needed to pay for diagnostics. I took the car to an independent shop and paid them to diagnose as I was hesitant the dealer was being 100% honest with me. As it turn out YES. The transmission has failed and needs to be replaced. They provided me with the documentation showing this issue is recall related. (38,000 miles). My concern is that dealerships may mislead customers about this recall and cause possible dangerous conditions.
Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
  • VIN: 5NTJDDAF5PH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: Loss of power during driving No warning or warning lights vehicle would not accelerate engine speed increased only to 3k rpm’s but vehicle would not accelerate This could have been life threatening if I was in traffic Shut vehicle off and restarted problem when away From looking on forums this is an issue with the Santa Cruz

Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Santa cruz

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Santa cruz.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Hyundai Santa cruz 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Tucson and Santa Cruz vehicles. The circuit board in the motor-driven power steering assembly may short circuit, resulting in a loss of power steering assist.
  • Consequence: A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the motor-driven power steering electric power pack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 261.
  • Model: Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2023-03-17
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: TRAILER HITCHES
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
  • Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
  • Model: Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-03-17
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: TRAILER HITCHES
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
  • Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
  • Model: Hyundai Santa cruz 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2023-01-31
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Tucson and 2022-2023 Santa Cruz vehicles. The roof moldings may detach.
  • Consequence: A detached roof molding could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace, or secure the roof moldings, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 241.
  • Model: Hyundai Santa cruz 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-01-31
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Tucson and 2022-2023 Santa Cruz vehicles. The roof moldings may detach.
  • Consequence: A detached roof molding could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace, or secure the roof moldings, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 241.

Latest negative Hyundai Santa cruz car reviews

  1. Rusty Koch 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2023

    The Santa Cruz Crew Cab has some areas for improvement. It has poor acceleration, a short trunk bed, a hard ride, and requires premium fuel, which can be uncomfortable for some. I opted for a lower cost vehicle, but I am now considering making a change to the Honda Ridgeline, which is known as the No. 1 mid-size truck for a reason.

  2. Abelardo Hirthe 2024-10-11

    Vehicle year: 2022

    The engine abruptly failed at 60mph, causing the dashboard to light up before shutting down completely. This occurred despite the vehicle being a 2022 SEL base model with only 28k miles on the engine.

  3. Lyric Crooks 2024-10-09

    Vehicle year: 2024

    The Santa Cruz Crew Cab has some areas for improvement. It has poor acceleration, a short trunk bed, a hard ride, and requires premium fuel, which can be uncomfortable for some. I opted for a lower cost vehicle, but I am now considering making a change to the Honda Ridgeline, which is known as the No. 1 mid-size truck for a reason.

  4. Conrad Abernathy 2024-07-26

    Vehicle year: 2022

    Hello! I hope you're having a great day. I wanted to share an experience I had with my 2022 sel. Unfortunately, after the first hard rain since my purchase, I noticed that the floor on the passenger side was quite wet. I had recently installed a tonneau cover, so I took it to the dealer to have it looked at. However, they were unable to determine the cause of the issue and suggested that it may have been due to the cover installation. Although it wasn't covered under warranty, they removed the cover and reinstated the original screws, but the issue persisted. I was a bit disappointed with the after-sales support, as the dealer didn't seem too interested in finding a solution to the problem. Nonetheless, I remain hopeful that we can work together to find a solution. Thank you for your time and attention.

  5. Garfield Toy 2024-07-22

    Vehicle year: 2022

    The truck rides great, but unfortunately it has already had 3 recalls. I've never had a car with this many recalls in just one year. There are a few reasons why I'm not a big fan of it: Firstly, there are some blind spots due to the wide drop from 'car' to truck mode in the back. Secondly, the electrical components are located before the cup holders, which means that if you spill something, it could potentially ruin the unit. Lastly, in less than a year, the inside handle started to peel.

Latest positive Hyundai Santa cruz car reviews

  1. Giuseppe Hudson 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2022

    So glad to hear that you have no dislikes about the vehicle! It's great to hear that you are impressed with it so far.

  2. Norberto Wilderman 2024-11-18

    Vehicle year: 2024

    It's not exactly traditional, and some may find it unattractive, but many people absolutely adore it. Whenever I'm out and about, I'm constantly stopped by people who want to take a closer look. Personally, I love how unique it is. I don't really see it as a truck - to me, it's more like an SUV with a small bed that handles like a sports sedan. The seats are super comfortable, and it's loaded with all sorts of great features. I honestly can't find anything negative to say about it. So far, I haven't had any issues with it, and it gets around 25 mpg mixed. It's easily the most practical vehicle I've ever owned. I was even able to fit a large washing machine in it, which would have been a real challenge in a traditional SUV. Plus, the metal tonneau cover and electric tailgate are fantastic. I'll definitely keep you updated as I put more miles on this vehicle.

  3. Johnathon Weissnat 2024-11-17

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I'm so happy with my trucklet! I've only driven 150 miles so far, but every minute behind the wheel has been a joy. The OTA software updates have been really helpful, and my neighbors have even stopped by to check it out. The bed trunk (brunk) is incredibly useful, and the full-time AWD is always ready for any conditions - whether it's snow, rain, or mud on a 90° day. The entertainment system is nicely equipped, and most of the pertinent safety features are included. Plus, it's a really fun driving experience - quiet and smooth handling in most situations. Overall, I think my trucklet would work for about 60% of truck owners.

  4. Ariel Donnelly 2024-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2024

    Fun truck to drive! It has a powerful engine and looks really cool. I love it!

  5. Colten Walker 2024-11-06

    Vehicle year: 2022

    I saw the Santa Cruz while I was at Kia getting service done. I told my husband about it and we came back to see it, but found out it was sold. Kia notified CMA's Hyundai salesperson, Alex, and he came to the Kia parking lot to talk to us. We went to meet him at Hyundai and got the paperwork started. Alex was incredibly helpful and stayed with us through the entire transaction. I had to put a holding amount on the Santa Cruz since they only had three on the incoming truck. We received the call on Thursday that my Santa Cruz had arrived and picked it up on Friday. We sold them our Kia Forte (2019). We were going on vacation the following week and were hoping it would arrive earlier than the expected date (7-12-22). My husband and I are thrilled with the Santa Cruz and have received many compliments on it from people of all ages. We told them where we got it and they were going to check to see if it was at the Norfolk Hyundai Dealership. If not, they will be checking out CMA's Hyundai. Alex is an awesome person who kept us informed on everything and even gave me a guided tour of how my Santa Cruz operates. He even programmed my 70's music for me. He went above and beyond to make sure we were happy and knowledgeable about our purchase, and we are definitely satisfied. Our trip was enjoyable and the Santa Cruz is great on gas. Thank you, Alex, and may you be blessed in all you do.

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