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.
Social links
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
-
Vehicle year: 2018
My wife and I, both in our seventies, have found that ease of entry and exit is becoming increasingly important when it comes to our main mode of transportation. Many of our friends have had knee and hip replacements and are a bit on the heavier side, so they have the same needs as us. After much research, test driving, and comparison, we realized that we needed an SUV. Our previous car, a 2013 Toyota Avalon, was a tough act to follow in terms of driving dynamics, performance, and efficiency. We looked at SUVs that, when comparably equipped to our previous car, cost upwards of $60,000. However, we kept coming back to the Santa Fe. Although my wife liked the size of the Lexus RX350, we both thought the styling was hideous, especially the front end. We eliminated one vehicle after another until we finally decided that the Santa Fe was the best option for us. The fact that it was the best value for our money was just the icing on the cake. After following the manufacturer's break-in recommendations to the letter, we made our first trip to see our grandkids. We have made this trip many times before, so we were pleasantly surprised to see that the average mileage was 27.3 MPG going down in windy conditions and 29.5 MPG coming back. Our Avalon averaged around 30-31 MPG. The seat comfort was outstanding, and the seats fit us like a glove. The ride comfort was just the way I like it - firm but not harsh and well-controlled. There were a fair share of hills and turns on our route, and the handling was very Avalon-like once we started to trust it and drive it accordingly. When we loaded up the grandkids and their parents for a short trip, they gave rave reviews. The youngest loved the climate controls in the third row and enjoyed the simulated surround sound of the killer 12-speaker sound system. Our son-in-law was amazed at how favorably the vehicle compared to their new Acura.I found every feature of this car easy to use and I love the old school buttons and knobs, as opposed to the latest touch screen menu drive stuff that is the current fad. The GPS is a snap to program, even easier than the Avalon. It's almost as good as my Garmin, which is still my favorite over all. The only issue I have with this car is that the driver's seat has a noticeable ripple in one of the panels in the bottom edge of the seat. It might go away with a little use, but if not, I will talk to the service manager and Hyundai about it. That's about it for complaints. An update as of 3/17/18: We had a long drawn out replacement of the glass roof required because of endless creaking noises. To be fair, during most of this process, which required an inspection by a Hyundai engineer, we had a new base model Santa Fe to drive, which was deeply appreciated. Unfortunately, many attempts to mask the problem with sound-absorbing material had to be tried before the eventual roof replacement was authorized. It was very frustrating. Actually, I was friends with the shop owner who eventually did the replacement and was advised that it is a universal problem with these glass roofs and there are a couple of universal suppliers for all manufacturers. In fact, he had recently replaced the glass roof on a new Mercedes-Benz with the same problem. This was done about three months ago and not a sound can be heard from the roof, so we are happy campers. If we were in the market, we would definitely buy this car again because we find that it offers everything we want in the size package we need, and we both just enjoy driving it. We think it offers the best bang for the buck in its segment. In fact, it is the only vehicle in its class with a 6-way passenger power seat, which was a big item on my wife's wish list. The headlights are the best I have ever had on a vehicle so far, hands down, with great range, and they turn in the direction you are turning. We still love this thing.For the record, I wanted to let you know that the fuel economy of this vehicle is actually better than the EPA ratings, especially at highway speeds where it can reach very high 20's. I absolutely love the adaptive cruise control feature!
-
Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased the Santa Fe for its price, appearance, and build quality, and I am pleased with all aspects except for the fuel efficiency. The small gas tank and lower-than-advertised mileage require frequent refueling. The mileage in town has been around 15.5-16 MPG, and the best I have achieved on the highway is 20.5 MPG, even on remote two-lane roads at 60 MPH.
-
Vehicle year: 2014
It's great to hear that you're enjoying your SUV! It sounds like it handles really well and the six-cylinder engine is impressively quick. It's also fantastic that you haven't needed any maintenance besides an oil change in the 14 months you've owned it. Although it's important to be mindful of speed limits, it's understandable that the smooth driving might make it easy to accidentally go faster than intended. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with this vehicle!
-
Vehicle year: 2007
I've always been a GM guy, and my last ride was an '03 Avalanche. Unfortunately, it wasn't the most reliable vehicle. I wasn't expecting to buy a Hyundai, but when I saw it and took it for a spin, I was sold. I test drove an Acura RDX, a Murano, a Lexus, a Honda, a Torrent, and two Toyotas, but none of them met my basic needs: room for four sets of golf clubs, a good stereo, and a good-looking vehicle, all for a reasonable (not cheap) price. The Santa Fe ticked all the boxes. So far (600 miles, two weeks), I'm still pleasantly surprised by it. It's getting gas mileage of 22+ and looks like it's only getting better. I hope all the good things I've been reading about Hyundai's overall quality improvement hold true.
-
Vehicle year: 2018
I am thoroughly impressed with the Santa Fe. Despite having owned Toyotas and Hondas in the past, I decided to give Hyundai a try and I am glad I did. This SUV is the perfect size for us - not too big, not too small - making it easy to park while still being able to accommodate all of us and our belongings. I even installed a Curt trailer hitch myself, which was a breeze. The Santa Fe offers a plethora of options for the price, including the surround view camera which I find incredibly useful when parking. The visibility is also excellent. Although there are a few rattles coming from the back seat, I am confident that the dealer will be able to resolve this minor issue. In my experience, these types of rattles are usually caused by a cable rubbing or a piece of trim that needs a small adjustment. I am also looking forward to seeing how the car performs with more miles, but I am reassured by Hyundai's long warranty. Overall, the Santa Fe is a well-built car with a logical layout and controls in the interior.
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Santa fe?
Heber Hagenes 2025-08-01
Vehicle year: 2001
Although I had some initial issues with my 2001 Santa Fe, I was able to address them promptly and effectively. Despite the high cost of repairs, I made the decision to invest in my vehicle and ensure its longevity. While I may have had some negative experiences with the dealership, I am confident in my ability to make informed decisions about my car and its maintenance. Overall, I am satisfied with my purchase and look forward to continuing to drive my Santa Fe for years to come.
Baylee McLaughlin 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 2002
This vehicle has some great features. It accelerates well from a stop and has a fair amount of power in its engine. The ride is comfortable and reasonably smooth. In terms of fuel economy, it gets about 20 MPG in the city and 27 on the highway. However, it's worth noting that maintenance can be a bit difficult for this vehicle. For example, changing all the spark plugs requires removing an intake manifold from the engine. Additionally, we recently discovered that the front suspension is set up in a way that can be costly to fix if something goes wrong. Despite these potential issues, we believe that this vehicle has a lot to offer in terms of performance and comfort.
Jettie Hessel 2025-07-24
Vehicle year: 2013
We're sorry to hear about the issues you've been experiencing with your 2013 Santa Fe Sport. We appreciate your feedback and want to ensure that you have the best possible driving experience. Have you considered taking it for a 30 mile highway test drive before purchase? This may help you get a better feel for the car's handling. If you continue to experience issues, we recommend bringing it back to the dealer for further inspection. We hope to resolve this issue for you soon.
Rodrigo Brakus 2025-07-20
Vehicle year: 2005
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Santa Fe that I bought back in October 2008. My wife and I decided to get a 4 wheel drive vehicle in case of bad weather. While I expected the mileage to go down some from the sedan I had, I figured with conservative driving, I'd at least get in the low to mid 20's. Unfortunately, I'm averaging closer to 16 to 18 miles to the gallon even with mostly highway driving at 70. However, it runs smoothly and is very comfortable to drive. Snow/slick road handling is so-so, but my wife's Mazda 6 actually handles a lot better in snow & ice which kind of defeats the purpose of getting the four wheel drive Santa Fe! I will probably end up going back to a sedan. Thank you for listening to my experience!
Damien Grant 2025-07-15
Vehicle year: 2022
I purchased the SEL version and it drove exceptionally well, with an impressive interior. However, after a week, I noticed an annoying loud wind noise coming from the passenger side. Despite taking it to the dealership three times, the issue remains unresolved. I am currently in the process of negotiating with Hyundai to buy the car back. It is unclear whether this is a common issue or if I simply received a faulty car.