Hyundai Santa fe problems
The Hyundai Santa Fe (Korean: 현대 싼타페) is an automobile produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 2000. It is a five-door crossover SUV that either has front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. It is named after the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and was introduced for the 2001 model year as Hyundai's first SUV. The Santa Fe was a milestone in the company's restructuring program of the late 1990s because the SUV was a hit with American buyers. Between 2006 and 2012, the Santa Fe was positioned between the smaller Tucson compact crossover and the larger Veracruz.
The third-generation Santa Fe introduced in 2012 was available in two versions, which are regular (short) and extended long-wheelbase version. The short model was sold as the Santa Fe Sport in North America (three-row seating was not available) and simply Santa Fe in global markets (three-row seating was standard or optional), while the extended long-wheelbase model is called the Santa Fe in the US, Santa Fe XL in Canada and called the Hyundai Maxcruz in South Korea. The fifth and current generation was released in 2023 and omits diesel engines in favor of petrol hybrid powertrains.
As of 2022, the Santa Fe is positioned between the smaller Tucson – which the Santa Fe shares platform with – and the larger Palisade in Hyundai's global crossover SUV line-up.
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Hyundai Santa fe model years
Common Hyundai Santa fe problems
Based on complaints from owners of Hyundai Santa Fe cars, common problems reported include:
- Transmission Problems:
Another common complaint involves transmission issues, affecting the shifting smoothness and overall driving experience. The 2017 Santa Fe, in particular, faced challenges with its transmission system, leading to difficulties with shifting and a rough ride for drivers.
- Suspension Problems:
Some owners have reported suspension issues, which can impact the ride quality and handling of the vehicle. Suspension problems can lead to a less comfortable driving experience and may require repairs to ensure the safety and performance of the Santa Fe.
- Electrical Problems:
Electrical issues have also been reported by owners, including problems with non-engine electrics, sat-nav, and the infotainment system. While most of these problems were fixed under warranty, they can still cause inconvenience and affect the overall functionality of the vehicle.
These common problems with Hyundai Santa Fe cars highlight the importance of regular maintenance and awareness of potential issues to ensure a satisfying ownership experience. Proper care and timely repairs can help mitigate these problems and maintain the reliability and performance of the vehicle over time.
What is the biggest problem with Hyundai Santa Fe?
Common Issues With The Hyundai Santa Fe
Some of the common issues reported by owners, according to RepairPal, include: Transmission Problems. Engine Issues. Suspension Problems.
Is Hyundai Santa Fe a reliable car?
With its overall reliability score of 94.3%, Hyundai ranked higher than Ford, Skoda and VW but below Lexus and Toyota. Based on this alone, the Hyundai Santa Fe should be more reliable than the rival Skoda Kodiaq, but less reliable than the Toyota Highlander.
What years did the Hyundai Santa Fe have engine problems?
In earlier models, the 2012 and 2013 Santa Fe to be exact, many drivers reported engine failure around 80,000 miles. This ultimately led to the full replacement of the engine, which can be very costly. Drivers from other model years have reported that their engine stalls or comes to a complete stop without warning.
How many miles will a Hyundai Santa Fe last?
Although it's marketed towards buyers on a budget, the Hyundai Santa Fe has developed a reputation for longevity, with many owners reporting achieving 150,000 to 200,000 miles with just regular maintenance. The Santa Fe could reach up to 200,000 miles with some next-level maintenance and timely repairs.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Santa fe years
We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Santa fe cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai Santa fe model years:
- Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Hyundai Santa fe 2007
- Hyundai Santa fe 2013
- Hyundai Santa fe 2008
- Hyundai Santa fe 2014
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Santa fe model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Santa fe years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Hyundai Santa fe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Santa fe , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Santa fe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Santa fe model years
A total of 317 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 fe model years
There were a total of 181 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 fe model years
There were a total of 270 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Santa fe model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 6627 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Santa fe . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Santa fe vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5NMS2DA11PH
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I am afraid of getting myself or someone else killed because there is a 1-2 second lag after stepping on the gas pedal after coming to a stop. This is extremely dangerous. My street empties onto a county road with a blind curve. I have had several instances when the delay between the car moving after I’ve stepped on the gas has lead to oncoming cars needing to slam on their brakes to avoid hitting me. I even called the county and asked that they put up a “dangerous curve sign. They put up a squiggly arrow instead which has not helped. My previous gas vehicles made this turn safely for 20 years. My nephew told me it’s a new feature in cars called “stop and gol meant to save gas. I think saving my life is more important than saving a little bit of gas. It happens all the time so I will put todays date in the space below.
Hyundai Santa fe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5XYZUDLB5GG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Hard Shift occurs between gear 1 and gear 2. The hard shift lurches the entire car. It occurs on both upshift and downshift. The hard shift occurs on cold starts. The problem goes away when you turn the vehicle off and then back on. There are no check engine lights. The dealer can't replicate the problem.
Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5XYZTDLB3HG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My car has 81,000 miles on it, I have had regular oil changes and after reading many recalls on here I see I am definitely not alone. My check engine light stays on, after paying $100. for dealer to check the codes I was told nothing in particular showed a problem even though I have to put oil in my car between oil changes and there are no leaks on drive. Apparently the 100K mile warranty is not being honored from the other reports I have read on here. Why ??? The price of new cars is beyond reach and if dealer is claiming there is a warranty there be should be way to make them honor it!!!
Hyundai Santa fe 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: KM8SRDHFXFU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The engine has basically come apart. There is a timing chain issue, the engine is not recalled and it is getting where the car cannot drive. There is a constant smell of burning electrical wires. There’s also issues with the heating and air that is related to electrical.
Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5XYZWDLA4HG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine seized. Driving at 55 mph on a 4 lane highway outside of city limits, the vehicle went into limp mode. Luckily, it was later in the evening with less traffic and I was fortunate enough to be able to turn into a left turn lane and coast into an office building parking lot. There was no shoulder available if I had been in the right lane and somewhat of a rural area. There were no sensors that alerted me prior to this happening. But, when it did happen the dash board lit up like a Christmas tree! It was 6:30 pm, I coasted into a parking spot in the lot and turned the car off. It would not start and I contacted a tow service. I had it towed to an automotive shop near my home. They confirmed the next morning, that there was no oil on the dip stick and the engine seized. They alerted me to the fact that this has become a common problem with this Hyundai engine. I then had the vehicle towed the Hyundai dealership where we purchased the vehicle. We are the original owner. The vehicle is sitting at Rosen Hyundai in Algonquin, IL and should be available for inspection. Monica at the dealership called me after the inspection and confirmed that this is a common issue with this vehicle. She at first used the word recall...and when I asked if there was a recall, she said not a recall, but Hyundai has issued a BULLETIN about this problem. At first, she stated that my maintenance records were in order and being the original owner I qualified to file a claim with Hyundai for engine replacement. 3 days later, she called and stated that Hyundai needed more proof of maintenance than what they could pull off Carfax or my claim was going to be denied. She sent me a picture of the engine and stated that the valves show neglect. I replied of course they do....the engine seized! There was never ever any low oil warning light, check engine or or any warning lights what so ever prior to the event! Hyundai admitted that there is no low oil sensor warning.
Hyundai Santa fe 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5XYZU3LB4DG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car has class action repair due to faulty engine crank shaft. The oil passages in the crankshaft causing rapid wear to the connecting rod bearings. The car stopped and broke down in the middle of the highway and engine broke down. The engine completely seized. I contacted Hyundai but they don’t wanna replace the engine. The class action lawsuit agreed to replace the engine but they don’t wanna help with my case
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5NMS3DAJ4PH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at approximately 65 MPH and depressing the brake pedal to slow for a vehicle that had passed and switched into the lane she was driving, the vehicle was shuddering. The contact stated that as soon as she had stopped depressing the brake pedal the shuddering ceased. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the shuddering when the brake pedal was depressed was intermittent but was recurring at various speeds while slowing down. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 18,756.
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5NMS54AL4PH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Currently have 518 Diagnostic History Codes (DTC)in memory. Additionally, I have 3 Active DTC’s. The codes are: DTC C160C87 DTC System CHASSIS DTC Sub System LKAS, and DTC C160C87 DTC System CHASSIS DTC Sub System SCC, and DTC C163881 DTC system CHASSIS DTC Sub System SCC FIRST OCCURRENCE: during actual assembly in Montgomery, AL plant. I have asked three Hyundai Service dealers for help. All have tried. Noting noted that contributes to the issues above. At first, my dealer replaced the front camera. Was told it was a heating issue. I have contacted Hyundai BLUELINK service for help. An information report was filed, TWICE. The first report I received feedback that Hyundai’s engineers had corrected the issue. On the following day, the codes returned. A second concern was filed with Hyundai BLUELINK. Hyundai Motor America Case#: [XXX] to wit: “Thank you for contacting Hyundai Motor America. We are in receipt of your e-mail and one of our representatives will get back to you shortly. Sincerely, Hyundai Motor America” Is my vehicle going to fail and cause me injury while operating it on an Interstate highway? This is quite concerning as I drive my car. All I want from Hyundai is to get this issue repaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5NMS5DAL8PH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake rotors warped. Beginning at approximately 5k miles, the steering began exhibiting a juddering upon applying braking. Over time, the juddering became more pronounced. At approximately 15k miles, I took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer confirmed that the brake rotors were warped. The defective brake components put my safety at risk, as well as the safety of my passengers and others traveling on the road by impairing my ability to safely stop the vehicle and impairing my ability to safely operate the vehicle while braking. There were no safety lights or warnings. I am aware that there has been a technical service bulletin for this exact issue for this model/year vehicle. Neither Hyundai nor the dealer ever altered me to the possibility that the brake rotors might warp due to defective components. Hyundai has thus far refused to cover the full cost of repairs, totaling over $1,400.00.
Hyundai Santa fe 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: KM8S5DA16NU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Was driving home from work on the highway at highway speeds and suddenly lost the ability to accelerate with a "Check Hybrid System" warning. At the time of loss of power, I was crossing a bridge and got stuck in the middle of the bridge. I also notice the oil indicator light come on. The engine remained on as far as I can tell but it wouldn't go with the accelerator pedal pressed. I placed the car in park and turned off the vehicle while blocking bridge traffic. 15 seconds later, I turned the vehicle back on, vehicle said ready to drive. I put the car in drive and everything worked normally as best I can tell. Still nervous driving the car for fear of it happening again. Called dealer service but they were closed. What I don't understand is there was 2 recalls for Hyundai Sante Fe hybrids 2022 but when I put in my VIN it said no recalls. Why is it only associated with a VIN?
Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: KM8SM4HF3HU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal ticking noise detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated the noise was coming from cylinder #3 and the lifters. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure while starting the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer Service Center at Gurley Leep Hyundai (5302 Grape Rd Suite #3, Mishawaka, IN 46545); who determined that the cam shaft and pump electronic body sensor, ABS, and harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5NMS5DA16PH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: I have pinging sound coming from the engine when I accelerate. Transmission seems to skip during acceleration. Took it to the dealership for repair since the car is under warranty. Dealership replaced a bearing in the axle and replaced the turbo. I’m still having the same issues. Dealership had my car for 5 weeks dealing with this issue. I feel they don’t know what’s causing the problem.
Hyundai Santa fe 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: KM8SR4HF0JU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while conducting a routine inspection on the vehicle, the contact noticed that the coolant was low in the coolant reservoir. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer where the vehicle was inspected. The contact was informed that engine needed to be replaced. The dealer suggested that the vehicle remain at the dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 58,000.
Hyundai Santa fe 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5XYZW3LAXEG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My drivers side door will not close. Everytime I close it, it doesn’t latch and remains open. There is absolutely no way to close the door. This happen while I was driving my car, the door flew open and when I shut it, it wouldn’t latch.
Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: KM8SN4HF0HU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The liftgate randomly closes and I have to jump out of the way to avoid it hitting me. This obviously poses a huge risk to my young children when they are nearby. In addition to that, the liftgate will sometimes only open a quarter or half of the way, sometimes all the way then suddenly reverse and start closing, and sometimes does not open at all. I've gone on Hyundai forums online and found numerous other people with the exact same complaint. Seems to be effecting cars made from 2016 - 2020. I have multiple videos of this but can't upload them as you only accept pictures.
Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Santa fe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 78 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Santa fe.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe 2020
- 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 fe 2019
- 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.
Latest negative Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
Latest positive Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I leased this vehicle to downsize from a minivan, and I wasn't sure if I would like something smaller. It has 3 rows, and while the third row can be a little hard to get into, it's okay once you're sitting. It's not the best for carrying cargo when using the third row, but it's a great car for hauling kids around. I have the Ultimate, and while it doesn't feel luxurious, it's still a great car. The leatherette seats feel like vinyl, but they're comfortable enough. Overall, I'm happy with my choice!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I've been driving this car for 4 months and 5000km since I bought it used. Although the ride can be a little rough and you can feel some bumps on the road, it's still a comfortable and roomy car. Occasionally, the fan and AC system can be a bit unpredictable, turning on by itself after I turn it off. However, I've found that adjusting the fan speed and hitting OFF can help me get around this issue. While merging onto the highway and stepping on the accelerator, there can be a slight delay in acceleration for about 2 seconds, but then it accelerates normally. The only other issue I've noticed is that the center armrest between the driver and passenger sometimes creaks. Overall, I think it's a pretty good car.
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Vehicle year: 2019
The Ultimate's safety features are definitely worth checking out! The heads up display is a BIG help, allowing you to always know the speed limit and how fast you are going without taking your eyes off the road. Plus, the 8
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Vehicle year: 2023
I recently sold my 2013 Santa Fe Turbo 2.0 and upgraded to a red Santa Fe Limited. I am absolutely loving this vehicle! Although I've only had it for two weeks, I can already share my first impressions. Let's start with the negatives, but don't worry, there aren't many. Unfortunately, there's no sunglasses holder like the one my 2013 had. It was a purpose-made little holder above the rearview mirror that I absolutely loved. The 2023 model doesn't have one, and the storage bin between the seats is smaller than my 2013's. My sunglasses have to sit diagonally in the little top removable shelf, and the bin below is also smaller. However, it's still spacious enough for most of your junk. The wireless charger doesn't work, and my phone won't sit in it straight up and down either. This could be a one-off issue, and I'm going back to the dealer when I get time. My sales rep did tell me that it was an issue, so we shall see. Now, let's talk about the good news! There is a storage space under the console due to the push-button shifter, which not only is fairly large, but it also has power outlets. So, I have my charging cord plugged in down there, and I can snake the wire up to the console area and charge my phone the old-fashioned way. Speaking of storage, there's just less of it than in my 2013 around the driver due to the design. However, the 2023 model has a very nice feature on the passenger's side. There's a shelf built-in across the top of the glove box that's partially recessed with a lip and a rubberized top. It's just perfect for my fiancé's cell phone and other little stuff. The only other disappointment is the standard stereo on the Limited. It's better than the one on my 2013, but not by much.Hey there! I was really excited to try out the sound system on this vehicle, but I'm still tinkering with it to get the perfect sound quality. The stereo is good, but I feel like it could be better. However, that's the only negative thing I have to say! Overall, this vehicle is amazing and I'm blown away by it. As a short, 5'6'', older (68) guy, I was looking for a comfortable ride and this vehicle definitely delivers. It's extremely comfortable and fits me perfectly, even with my 'fat butt'. If you're short and on the heavier side, this is definitely a winner. The turbo is exactly what I was looking for and it's incredibly powerful. It has more torque and really pushes you back into your seat. Plus, when you switch to sport mode, it completely changes the personality of the vehicle and makes it a blast to drive. On my one-hour highway trip, I got 28 mpg, which is better than my previous vehicle with extra power. Around town, I'm getting 24 mpg, which is great. I'm still getting used to all the tech, but so far, everything works great. The adaptive cruise control and lane assist are amazing features, and I love the blind spot camera views on the dash. There are a lot of beeps and tugs on the wheel, but I'll get used to them. Overall, I'm really happy with this vehicle!I'm counting on this to save me at least once with all these bells and whistles as I get older 😉. So there you have it for now. If you're in the market, I highly recommend the turbo version of the Santa Fe. It's fast, drives like a dream, is supremely comfortable and gets really good gas mileage considering the power. It's mainly just me 90% of the time or me and my fiancé. We wanted something fast and somewhat sporty (okay, I did, she couldn't care less), but also some utility for weekend Home Depot runs and loading up for vacations. Roxy (did I mention I named her Roxy?), fits the bill. She's really a nice ride. I'm counting on her to get me to my dotage 😉 when they take the keys away from me. Put it on your short list. I think you'll be impressed.
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Vehicle year: 2015
The only issue we encountered was that the 2nd row seat does not fold down flat for cargo. As we enjoy taking several 14-21 day road trips each year, we found it difficult to place a cooler or picnic basket behind the front seat without it sliding back out of reach. However, our experience with the dealer was great and the warranty provided was excellent. We did not face any major issues even after ten days. Although, we feel that the resale value could have been better.
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Santa fe?
Glennie Funk 2025-11-09
Vehicle year: 2019
We purchased this car a few months ago because I had a great experience with a Hyundai in the past and found it to be very reliable. Unfortunately, we have been experiencing some issues with this one. When it goes into Auto off mode, it jerks a bit and this past week, while I was at a red light, the engine turned off and a loud alarm noise came on. The dashboard instructed me to put the car in neutral/park and restart it. Since this had never happened before, I was quite worried (especially with my 1-year-old in the car) and turned on my hazards so that other cars could go around me. After several tries, the car finally turned on and we were on our way again. However, the car kept doing this at random times and wouldn't turn on until after several tries. We took it to the dealership where we bought it, but they couldn't figure out what was wrong. Since we didn't want to drive the car with our baby, we called a different dealership and they were very helpful. They told us to bring the car in the next day as soon as possible. They did an update that they said might fix the issue, and while the car did run smoother, it still wouldn't turn on after a couple of hours and would turn the engine off whenever we came to a stop. We called the dealership and took the car in, and it is currently being inspected. If anyone else is experiencing similar issues, please let us know in the comments. We were initially very happy with this car, but after all these issues, we are unsure of what to do next. It's a shame, especially since it's brand new!
Elmo Paucek 2025-11-09
Vehicle year: 2015
We purchased our 2014 Santa Fe Limited brand new, with high hopes that it would be a reliable vehicle for the long haul. It boasts great features, technology, and storage. Unfortunately, we have experienced some reliability issues since the beginning. We have owned it for two years and put 25k miles on it. The first issue we encountered was a crack in the black edge of the windshield, which we noticed a few days after driving it off the lot. The dealership was very helpful and replaced it for us. A year later, the replacement windshield also developed a stress crack and needs to be replaced. We also had to have the hood repainted due to rust spots forming on the corners. Additionally, the blind spot detection system failed, requiring the passenger side mirror to be replaced. During the last snowstorm, we noticed that the car was leaking anti-freeze, and the navigation system occasionally goes blank and requires the car to be turned off and back on again to resolve it. Although the warranty has covered most of the issues, we have had to pay for the anti-freeze leak and new windshield. While we may have been unlucky and received a bad one out of the bunch, we remain hopeful that these issues will be resolved. We can only imagine what we'll be dealing with at 100k miles.
Eleazar Wiza 2025-11-08
Vehicle year: 2004
It's great to hear that you've had your car since it was brand new and that you've loved it all this time. Even though you haven't been too punctual with routine maintenance, the car has still performed well for you. It's impressive that you made it to 100k miles on the original clutch, which is a record for you. You didn't even replace the timing belt until 110k miles! The only issues you've had were a faulty clutch pedal sensor when you bought it and a crank-shaft position sensor that died just before you replaced the timing belt. However, recently the Catalytic converter broke and the Exhaust manifold cracked, which required a $2600 repair. But it's great that your son will pay for it to buy the car from you instead!
Jimmie White 2025-11-06
Vehicle year: 2004
I purchased my Santa Fe brand new in 2004 and have driven it for over 150,000 miles. Unfortunately, it has experienced more issues than any other car I have owned. Despite this, I have found that it still rides and drives well. While I have had to replace the crank sensor six times, the throw-out bearing and clutch, the radiator, the catalytic converter, and the power steering pump shaft, among other things, the transmission has remained solid. Although it is no longer my daily driver, I still use it to haul a lot of stuff when it is running. I did purchase an extended warranty, which proved to be a wise investment as it paid for itself many times over.
Kristopher Daugherty 2025-11-04
Vehicle year: 2010
I have been experiencing issues with my car since I purchased it from West End Hyundai in Edmonton on Oct 20, 2010. Unfortunately, my car has been in the shop for 44 days and I have not received any updates from the dealership in a week. Despite my frustration, I have been in contact with the dealership regarding the issues I faced while driving in severe weather conditions on the Coquahalla. However, I did not receive a reply. The car has also had multiple issues such as the window not going down, the truck not opening, and the car not going into gear. I have taken the car to the service centre five times and they have informed me that the part needed to fix the car will take 10 days to arrive from Korea by boat. I am disappointed with the situation and the lack of communication from the dealership, but I am confident that the issue will be resolved soon.