Hyundai Santa fe sport 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 sport model years
Common Hyundai Santa fe sport problems
The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a popular compact SUV known for its affordability and wide array of features. However, like any vehicle, it has had its fair share of problems across different model years. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners:
- Airbag Sensor Problems: Drivers of early models reported that their airbag sensor would illuminate irregularly, which would then require the driver to take their car in to be serviced. A recall was issued to update this issue and ensure the correct deployment of airbags, but it's still worth noting for those looking to purchase an older model.
- Faulty Speakers: In more recent models, as late as 2017, drivers reported that around 50,000 miles, models equipped with navigation systems would stop playing sound from all speakers. This issue was often a quick fix and only required a quick reset of the system.
- Fuel Gauge Failure: Some drivers reported that their fuel gauge was not giving an accurate reading of the gas in their tank, which would sometimes result in the driver being stranded without any gas. This specific issue seemed to only affect the 2007 and 2008 models, and could be fixed by replacing the gauge entirely.
- Transmission Problems: The 2017 Santa Fe Sport has been reported to have transmission problems, including hesitation and stutters while shifting gears. This issue can be particularly frustrating for drivers and may require costly repairs.
- Suspension Problems: Some owners have reported suspension problems, including rough rides and difficulty steering, particularly in the 2017 model.
It's important to note that not all models will experience these issues, and many Hyundai Santa Fe Sport owners have reported reliable and trouble-free driving experiences. However, being aware of these common problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions when purchasing a used Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It's also recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing.
What is the most common problem with a 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 Sport a reliable car?
Common Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Problems. The Hyundai Santa Fe is a fairly reliable vehicle, and most models don't have significant problems.
What year did Santa Fe have engine problems?
Engine failure is the most challenging and expensive issue, with 2012 and 2013 models having to replace the engine after only 80,000 miles. Faulty fuel level sensors affect 2007 and 2008 Santa Fe, with the 2008 model being the worst hit.
What is the most reliable year for Hyundai Santa Fe?
Most Reliable Hyundai Santa Fe Years—Third Generation (Sold: 2013-2018)
- 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. Reliability Verdict: Thumbs Down. ...
- 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. Reliability Verdict: Thumbs Down. ...
- 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe. Reliability Verdict: Thumbs Up. ...
- 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe. ...
- 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. ...
- 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Santa fe sport years
We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Santa fe sport cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai Santa fe sport model years:
- Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Hyundai Santa fe sport 2013
- Hyundai Santa fe sport 2014
- Hyundai Santa fe sport 2015
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Santa fe sport model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Santa fe sport 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 sport car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Santa fe sport , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Santa fe sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Santa fe sport model years
A total of 15 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 sport model years
There were a total of 39 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 sport model years
There were a total of 15 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 894 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Santa fe sport . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Santa fe sport vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5NMZUDLB4HH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine is burning oil excessively despite on time maintenance. The engine was completely out of oil when I noticed because the oil light and other warning lights never came on.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5XYZT3LB5JG
- Components: ENGINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at speeds above 30 MPH, the vehicle shook and vibrated abnormally. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the intended destination. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, there were three small children inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with an oil leak and that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was informed that several unknown repairs were needed to prior to requesting an engine replacement by the manufacturer. The contact was informed that the unknown repairs were at the vehicle owner’s expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 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 sport 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5XYZT3LBXJG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The front passenger curtain airbags has failed and created a warning light that dealer indicated caused code B174900 and requires replacement.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH a knocking noise was present coming from the engine compartment, the check engine light had illuminated and the vehicle's speed suddenly reduced to under 30 MPH. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 166,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5NMZUDLB3HH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Excessive oil consumption burned off by engine despite registered oil changes by the dealership. No warning laps prior to issue being noticed by owner which can put risk of driver and passengers in danger of engine failure.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5XYZWDLA7HG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sports. The contact stated while depressing the accelerator pedal and attempting to overtake another vehicle, the vehicle failed to immediately respond, and the vehicle decelerated. Additionally, while driving at various speeds the vehicle suddenly lost automotive power and decelerated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure or determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 5XYZUDLBXDG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound while decelerating. The contact stated that 6,000 miles before the failure, there was an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that piston #3 was blown. The vehicle was not repaired due to the warranty being expired. The contact was advised by the local dealer that the failure was related to Technical Service Bulletins: 22-EM-001H-1 and 22-EM-002H-1. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 5NMZT3LB5HH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine failure - Yes, vehicle is available for inspection. Car started shaking violently and would hesitate or not move at all when trying to accelerate. I was left in a few dicey situations when it would hesitate while trying to accelerate. Hyandai will not confirm there is a problem with this particular engine problem, however I’ve read there are many other people with the same car, same problem- Excessive oil consumption which causes damage to the pistons, which can cause compression problems and eventually engine failure. I believe this is what happened to my car. Hyandai has done a diagnostic but failed to cover it under their extended engine warranty. Their claim is that they extended the engine warranty for rod bearing failure only which they could not find in my vehicle. My vehicle has had regular maintenance and only has 95k on it. Yes the engine light came on and I took it to my mechanic and then to All Star Hyandai, Pittsburg Ca
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 5XYZU3LB3GG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while her husband driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The driver was unable to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle failed to restart. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: KM8SN4HF4JU
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that there were holes underneath the front driver’s and passenger’s side seats. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the seats were removed; however, the seats were not replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 5XYZT3LB0HG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while merging onto the freeway at approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact was depressing the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle was not accelerating as needed. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the fuel pump gasket and fuel line needed to be replaced. The dealer checked the oil and found that there were metal shavings inside the oil pan. The contact was informed over 2 quarts of engine oil needed to be added. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred; however, the vehicle had not been taken back to the dealer. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: 5XYZTDLBXEG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. While the contact's son was driving 70 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road and the vehicle was turned off. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5NMZUDLB8JH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Stopped at a red light and car caught on fire under the hood
Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: 5XYW3LB4JG5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Santa fe sport
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 22 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Santa fe sport.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe sport 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 sport 2018
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-27
- 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 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could 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 multi-fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 237. This recall is an expansion of recall 22V-056.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe sport 2018
- Report Received Date: 2022-02-03
- 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 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
- 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 multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe sport 2017
- Report Received Date: 2022-02-03
- 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 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
- 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 multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.
- Model: Hyundai Santa fe sport 2013
- Report Received Date: 2021-04-28
- 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 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
- Consequence: An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.
Latest negative Hyundai Santa fe sport car reviews
Latest positive Hyundai Santa fe sport car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I recently leased a 2017 Santa Fe Sport and I absolutely love it! It has everything I was looking for in an SUV - reliability, low maintenance, and all the accessories that other high-end SUVs typically have. I opted for the premium and tech package, and although it was a bit more expensive, I definitely feel like it was worth the investment. The Santa Fe drives like a dream and is incredibly quiet and comfortable. This was my first time driving a Hyundai, and I'm already planning on being a repeat customer!
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Vehicle year: 2014
I bought this SUV just two months ago with only 1700 miles on it. It's the loaded version, complete with a tech package, leather seats, navigation, 19-inch wheels, and more. Now, it has 4600 miles on it. I must say, this is an amazing SUV that can easily compete with others in its class that cost thousands more. Although it may not have the same name recognition as some of its competitors, I don't mind at all. It's a comfortable and quiet ride, and if you don't drive it like a sports car, you can get great gas mileage. On a recent road trip of over 1100 miles with the AC running and the car fully loaded, I averaged 27.5 mpg at 70 mph. In the city and suburbs, I'm averaging 23.8 mpg on regular gas.
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hello Edmunds readers. I wanted to share an update about my 2013 Santa Fe Sport. I recently purchased a new 2023 Santa Fe with $2000 off and zero % interest, and I'm really happy with it! While my old Santa Fe had a great design inside and out, the new one is better in almost every metric. The 2.5 turbo is far more powerful and a hoot to drive, and the super bright LED headlights are a huge improvement. If you're considering buying an old 2013 Santa Fe, it's still a good vehicle if you can get a good price. However, the headlights are quite dim and can be dangerous. I'll be posting reviews of my new 2023 Santa Fe in another thread soon. As for my old Santa Fe, it's still running well after all these years, but the paint is chipping off again and some plastic parts are showing wear due to the heat and sun in Dallas. The ride is now quieter after replacing the struts and shocks, but the Michelin tires are not as quiet as I would like. Overall, it's a great vehicle, but if you're thinking of buying one, make sure to check the history of the engine replacement. Thank you for reading!They asked me to update this review of my Santa Fe Sport. It now has 90K miles. Everything below still holds true and I still love my Santa Fe. However, I did experience a big issue at about 80K miles when the engine quit and went into limp mode. Luckily, I was within a couple of miles of the dealership in a residential neighborhood and was able to drive it very slowly there. The dealership was very helpful and put me in a brand new 2019 Santa Fe rental for 10 weeks at no charge while they replaced my engine for free. Evidently, this engine failure is a known problem to Hyundai, but they were very accommodating and replaced it without any pushback. I fell in love with the 2019 while I had it, except it did not have the turbo and was a bit slow. When I got mine back, I realized how much that extra power added to the enjoyment factor. It won't push you back in your seat, but it's more than adequate and feels effortless when accelerating. I had my 2013 painted to cover the myriad rock chips it had picked up on the hood over the years, and voila!, I felt like I had a new vehicle! As of this writing, it has about 90K on it. The interior still looks like new and is as comfortable as ever. Interestingly, with the new engine, my mileage dropped significantly. Now I get about 18 mpg around town and 24 mpg on the highway, which is still good. Other than the engine failing, I've had zero mechanical or any other problems. So now I've got a 2013 Santa Fe Sport with a new engine, new paint job that still looks sharp and drives well. At this point, I feel like I can easily squeeze two or three years out of it, and why not? Now I own it outright and it looks good and runs great. I see that the new Hyundai Santa Fe is coming out with a But I still love this car for all the amazing details it has. It has proven to be a fantastic buy and car companion over the years. If you're reading a review about a 2013 Santa Fe Sport, I would have to guess you are thinking about buying a used one. As an original owner, I can say that Hyundai treated me great. However, I would advise you to do a ton of due diligence before buying a used model from those years. If you find one with a replaced engine, I would jump on it. I love my Santa Fe Sport! Edmunds asked me to update my review, and I'm happy to say that I've now had my Turbo Sport for going on 4 years and 54 thousand miles. The only problem I've had is the plastic trim came undone around the bottom of the driver's seat, but Hyundai fixed it for free. Also, I have a few rock chips on the nose and a couple of door dings, but overall, it still looks great. The turning radius is a very tight 38.5 feet, and you really notice how easy it is to whip in and out of parking spots or make a U-turn. No other SUV comes close :) I'm a 63-year-old short, fat guy in Dallas, TX, and I can say that the Santa Fe Sport hits the sweet spot for me. I drove the CRV, RAV-4, and the CX-5, and I owned the GMC Terrain. As they say, when I sat in the Sport, I found it just right. I got the turbo with leather, and none of the others were as comfortable as the Sport, which I know is a very individual thing. Also, for me, the Sport has just the right amount of room without being too small. I especially like the design of the open cubby below the dash, which is perfect for tossing in my GPS and cell phone. The interior looks like new! Bottom line is that I still love my Sport and would buy another one.The Santa Fe is a spacious and comfortable car, with seats that can accommodate even those with an 'executive' body style. While the turbo is quick, it does have a mediocre gas mileage of around 20 mpg in mixed city driving. However, after 2 and a half years and over 40,000 miles, I still love my Santa Fe and have had zero mechanical problems. I now average about 22 mpg in mixed driving and have even gotten as much as 28 on steady speed highway driving at or below 70 mph. The car has a tight turning radius and plenty of power with the turbo, making for a very comfortable drive. Although the steering could feel a little tighter, it's still a great car with excellent storage capacity. I only had to replace the tires about 5k miles ago and other than that, just routine maintenance. I would definitely buy another one :)
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Vehicle year: 2014
Edmonds asked me to review my car again, so here we are at 5 1/2 years and 78,000 miles. It has been a fantastic car up until now. However, I recently experienced an issue with the engine. The check engine light came on and the car went into 'limp' mode, so I had it towed into the dealership. This is apparently a common problem with Hyundai engines, but the service rep was very helpful and followed Hyundai's protocol to fix the issue. Hyundai has been great throughout the process, paying for the tow, rental, and engine replacement. Although it has taken three weeks so far, they anticipated up to six weeks, and I'm hopeful that the car will come back fixed. Other than this issue, everything else is well with the car. I still love the ergonomics, and the interior still looks great. The gas mileage is about 22 mpg on average and up to 26 mpg on the highway. I'm planning on getting the paint on the nose of the hood fixed once the engine is sorted. I just drove from Dallas to Knoxville and back, and the car was a great cruiser, very comfortable and quiet. I averaged 25 mpg overall for the trip cruising at about 80 most of the way with it set on ECO. My Sport measures up very favorably to my brother's brand new Lexus RX350, which is almost the exact same size. I still love my Sport, and at 42,000 miles, I haven't had a single problem. I did have to change out the tires at 35K.Nice highway cruiser with plenty of power. It still gets about 22mpg in mixed driving and can get up to 28 mpg on the highway if I'm going the speed limit. One of the things I love about this vehicle is its tight turning radius, which makes a big difference and makes it feel smaller. The turbo gives you plenty of power without pushing you back into your seat. Although the steering is a little slow/loose feeling, it's still a great car. However, beware of the enormous blind spot. The third back windows are small and sweep up, which gives a nice look from outside but makes it difficult to see anything. I highly recommend getting the blind spot warning! Overall, I still love everything about this vehicle and will certainly get another one when the time comes!
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Vehicle year: 2018
Love the safety features! The blind spot monitor is excellent for highway driving, and the back-up camera is handy for parallel parking. However, I was disappointed with the torque (4L, turbo) and the ability to maintain control during low to moderate wind (even though I'm an experienced driver). Additionally, the gas tank size is quite small, and at 20 mpg, I feel like I'm always refilling the tank. So far, it seems to be a good value, and as a first-time Hyundai owner, I'm quite pleased. I was considering other SUVs, but they would require a premium trim level to have the same safety features.
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Santa fe sport?
Floyd Bogan 2025-01-22
Vehicle year: 2018
I am a proud owner of three Hyundai cars, but unfortunately, my latest purchase has been a disappointment. Despite driving it almost exclusively on the highway, the engine failed after only 10 months and 11,653 miles. However, I was impressed with the car's advanced technology, which alerted me to the problem and connected me with a technician who was able to assist me. Although the technician was unable to diagnose the issue, they promptly arranged for my car to be towed to the nearest dealership. While the engine failure was disappointing, I am confident in the expertise of the dealership and the manufacturer to resolve the issue. I understand that the engine for my model has had some issues, but I am confident that the manufacturer will provide a solution soon. Despite the inconvenience, I remain a loyal Hyundai customer and look forward to continuing my relationship with the brand.Despite the unfortunate experience I had with Hyundai, I am grateful for my state's Lemon Laws which require them to purchase my car back from me. However, the process is taking longer than expected and I am still without a vehicle. This experience has made me hesitant to consider purchasing another Hyundai, such as the Tucson, in the future. It is important to exercise caution when making a purchase.
Deonte Lehner 2025-01-17
Vehicle year: 2017
The Hyundai Sport AWD Ultimate is an attractive and well-executed car that handles corners with ease. Although we have driven 30,000 miles, mostly in the city, I must admit that I regret buying it. The driver's seat is incredibly uncomfortable, unlike the rest of the seats which are comfortable enough. The seat material is of high quality, but the seat itself is hard as a rock and short in depth, which makes it uncomfortable for the thighs. Additionally, the seat does not tilt as I would like, only going up and down and back and forward. It takes time to figure out all the technology, but the entertainment and technology are very well done with quality materials throughout. I would recommend renting one and driving it for a week before making a decision. The Pathfinder SL in 4-wheel drive and the Highlander SE are better buys. I wish the car had a comfortable driver's seat and actually got 19-24 mpg, then it would be a good one. I just wish I could get my money back. The car listed at $39,800, but I paid $34,200 plus $3,300 tax, $500 DMV, $1,700 for prepaid maintenance for 7 years, and $2,000 for an extended bumper-to-bumper warranty. Note that extended warranties are not from Hyundai, but from the dealer, so be careful. Good luck if the dealer goes out of business. The fuel pump went out at 20k, but it was covered under warranty. Now that it is 5 years old, the used car value is about $25k.The car is very quick with 2t. It handles ideally in the city, but it may be uncomfortable and too small for road trips lasting 4 hours or more. However, the technology is sound and there are no gripes. Additionally, the car has proven to be reliable without any issues.
Casimer Stoltenberg 2024-10-22
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe used in 2015 with 22,000 miles. Since then, I have added another 25,000 miles. The turbo is fantastic and accelerates quickly. The heated seats and steering wheel are great features. The surround sound and speaker systems are also very impressive. However, the car does ride rough and has loud road noise. The interior feels a bit cheaply made and there are some squeaks and rattles. For the price, you do get a lot of features, but I personally would not choose to buy another Hyundai.
Kyleigh Mante 2024-10-19
Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I recently leased the Santa Fe Sport 2.0T with the navigation package, but I've been having a few issues. Unfortunately, I'm only getting around 17 mpg in the city, which isn't great. Additionally, I've been having trouble connecting my phone to the Bluetooth, which is a bit frustrating. I've had success connecting my phone in my 2013 Toyota Camry and my older Tucson, but not in this Santa Fe. The seats are a bit hot in the current summer weather, but I'm hoping they'll be more comfortable in the winter. I do wish I had gone with a Jeep, Subaru, or Toyota instead, as they were a bit pricier but may have been worth it in the end. Thanks for listening!
Maximillian Kutch 2024-10-10
Vehicle year: 2016
I purchased a used 2016 Santa Fe Sport with 56,000 miles in February 2021. Over the next year, I put 14,000 miles on it with regular maintenance and found it to be reliable and relatively comfortable. Unfortunately, the engine seized one day on my way to work. I was able to get it to the closest mechanic in limp mode and it was eventually towed to a Hyundai dealership. After inspection, they found metal shavings and informed me that the engine needs to be replaced. I am currently waiting for Hyundai's approval of the replacement under warranty. Although I wish I had done more research prior to purchasing the car, I have learned that the Theta 2.4L engine that comes standard on the Santa Fe is faulty. In fact, there was a court settlement on the engines in 2020 that acknowledged this issue. While I was initially happy with the vehicle, this issue has caused significant financial and convenience costs as I have been renting and borrowing vehicles for the past month. I have given a rating of 2 stars based on my experience over the first year, but I hope that Hyundai will swiftly remedy the situation at their cost under warranty, otherwise my rating will have to be reduced to 1 star.