2003 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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Common 2003 Hyundai Santa fe problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources regarding common problems with the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe, several issues have been highlighted by owners:
- Off-Roading Damage: The Santa Fe is not designed for serious off-roading, and vehicles used for such purposes may have sustained damage. It is advised to check for signs of abuse, especially underneath the vehicle.
- Electrical Issues: The cabin of the Santa Fe is well-constructed with few reports of electrical problems. However, it is recommended to watch out for any signs of abuse that could potentially impact the electrical system.
- Servicing History: It is crucial to ensure that the car has a full history of servicing at reputable garages. This not only provides reassurance but also enhances the vehicle's resale value. For Santa Fes younger than five years, maintaining a complete service history is essential to safeguard the five-year warranty.
These common problems with the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe highlight the importance of regular maintenance, careful inspection for signs of abuse, and adherence to servicing schedules to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
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.
How many miles does a 2003 Santa Fe last?
Hyundai Santa Fe
Another Hyundai SUV that's known to last a long time is the midsize Santa Fe. The average lifespan of this popular SUV is 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 to 17 years. It can probably reach beyond 250,000 miles if you're a mindful driver who keeps up with routine maintenance.
Is Hyundai Santa Fe high maintenance?
The Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $515 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.
What is the best year model of the Santa Fe?
The Best Years: 2019, 2020, 2023
Equipped with the latest technological and safety features and quite good owner ratings from platforms like J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com, 2019, 2020, and 2023 are Hyundai Santa Fe's best and most reliable years in this generation.
2003 Hyundai Santa fe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Santa fe problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Hyundai Santa fe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Hyundai Santa fe
The NHTSA has received 307 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Hyundai Santa fe. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Hyundai Santa fe vehicles.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: The driver's side rear trailing arm lower broke again. Was driving all of a sudden felt it start fishtailing and pulled over and thank God I didn't crash
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-21
- VIN: KM8SC13D33U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Bought a set of duralast gold wrists a801116 asks since the day i put them in i had to replace parts whole charging a problem that turned out to be from the wires. Cause it was causing arcing in every one of the cylinders.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-22
- VIN: KM8SC13D33U
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger’s side front wheel detached without warning. The wheel bearing and hub were replaced by the owner. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted nor informed of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 190,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-16
- VIN: KM8SC13D83U
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: BROUGHT MY VEHICLE IN FOR A ALIGNMENT AND THEY DISCOVERED THE RUSTED AND CORRADIATED REAR LEFT TRAILING CONTROL ARM ON MY 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, I BROUGHT TO DEALERSHIP AFTER THAT TO GET A RECALL AND THE TOLD ME THAT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT IN ND AND THAT STATE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL THEY WILL DECLINE THE WORK, EVEN THOU MINN. IS RIGHT NEXT DOOR LIKE I LIVE ABOUT 1 MILE TO MN THEY STILL WOULDN'T EXCEPT THE RECALL, IT IS OBVIOUS THE PART THAT IS ON RECALL FITS MY CAR, WHEN LOOKING ON THE RIGHT SIDE ARM THERE IS NO RUST OR CORROSION. THE DEALER STATES IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE VEHICLE, BECAUSE THE ARM IS STARTING TO BEND ALSO. SO WHAT DO I DO NOW, IT WILL BE VERY COSTLY TO FIX,
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-16
- VIN: KM8SC13D73U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE SUBFRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH. IT WAS GARAGE KEPT AND DOESN'T EVEN HAVE 150,000 MILES ON IT.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KM8SC73D53U
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: MY VEHICLE CALLS FOR A SWAY BAR N LINK IT DOES NOT HAVE ONE OR A PLACE TO PUT ONE FOR THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. WHEN I GO OVER A BUMP IT MAKES A REAL LOUD NOISE. I REPLACED BOTH SHOCKS. NOISE IS STILL THERE. THERE ARE 4 RECALLS ON THIS CAR. RECALL #03V030000, #14V435000,#09V123000,03V520000. IN MOTION *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-26
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR TRAILING ARM CORRODED AND BUSTED WHILE IN MOTION. CAUSED REAR END TO COLLAPSE AND FISHTAIL. PASSENGER SIDE SNAPPED, DRIVERS SIDE IS VERY CORRODED. JUST PURCHASED THIS CAR A COUPLE WEEKS AGO, HAD NO IDEA THESE PARTS WERE UNSTABLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-27
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE REAR END OF MY SANTA FE HAS RUSTED THROUGH AND THE BACK WHEELS WILL NOT TRACK IN A STRAIGHT LINE. HYUNDAI HAD A RECALL NR 09V123000 IN 4/16/2009 TO FIX THIS EXACT PROBLEM BUT ACCORDING TO HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE, THIS RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO ME BECAUSE MY SANTA FE WASN'T PURCHASED OR REGISTERED IN A SPECIFIC STATE. MY GRANDSON WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND NEARLY WRECKED. HYUNDAI WOULDN'T EVEN OFFER A TOW INTO A DEALERSHIP TO INSPECT THE PROBLEM.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-04
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MICHELIN X RADIAL LT2 P225/70R16 101T TIRES WITH DOT NUMBERS AP4V 003X 2614, AP4V 003X 2714, AP4V 003X 2614,AND AP4V 003X 2114. ALL 4 TIRES INSTALLED 09/04/2014 @ 80,421 MILES. 08/31/2019 ODOMETER AT 97,528 MILES. 17,107 MILES ON 75,000 MILE WARRANTY TIRES. TIRE DRY ROT AND CRACKING FIRST NOTICED IN 2015 AND HAS PROGRESSED TO THE POINT WHERE A TIRE PROFESSIONAL HAS STATED THAT THE TIRES ARE NO LONGER SAFE TO DRIVE WITH ON 08/31/2019. THERE IS A NEED FOR A DETERMINATION ON WHAT SIZE OF SIDEWALL AND TREAD CRACKING THAT WILL CAUSE A SAFETY RISK AND WHEN A MANUFACTURER SHOULD RECALL AND REPLACE FOR THESE DEFECTS. I HAVE TIRES FROM THE SAME MANUFACTURER THAT ARE YEARS OLDER THAT HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO THE SUN A LOT MORE THAT DO NOT HAVE DRY ROT CRACKING ON THE SIDEWALL OR IN THE TREAD.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-23
- VIN: KM8SC13D53U
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SUB FRAME WAS REPLACED DUE TO HIDDEN ROTTING OF INTERNAL MOUNTING STRUCTURE SEPARATION OF SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, CAUSING POOR CONTROL OF VEHICLE AND TIRE WEAR IN AUG. 2013. UNDER BODY WAS EXPOSED TO CORROSIVE WATER IN JULY, 2017 ABOUT THREE YEARS AGO AND HAS TURNED THE STEEL TO " CRACKERS " RUST CONDITION AND MADE IT UNSAFE TO BE ROAD WORTHY DUE TO POSSIBLE SEPARATION OF SUB FRAME AT BODY MOUNTS.. ALL REPAIRS WHERE AT MY EXPENSE. I FOUND SOME RECALLS TO LATE ON THE COMPUTER. I`M IN THE PROCESS OF REPLACING THE UNIT. I KEPT ALL RECORDS OF REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE SINCE I PURCHASED IT USED. THE POWER TRAIN IS IN GOOD RUNNING ORDER. I`M NOT TO COMPUTER SAVEY ! I HAVE A FAX MECHINE. THANK YOU.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-01
- VIN: KM8SC73D53U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IN LATE AUGUST MY CAR WAS DUE FOR INSPECTION, SO I DROVE IT TO MY MECHANIC WHO INFORMED ME THAT EVERYTHING WAS GOOD TO GO EXCEPT WHAT I BELIEVE WAS THE FRONT ROCKER ARM(COULD BE WRONG) WAS RUSTED BUT WAS DO FOR A FREE RECALL BECAUSE OF RUST ISSUES. HE INSTRUCTED ME TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALER AND HAVE IT DONE FOR FREE, AND HE KEPT TELLING ME NOT TO LET THEM TRICK ME INTO PAYING FOR IT LIKE DEALERS TEND TO DO, SO HE HIGHLIGHTED ON THE RECALL THE LINES WHICH READS "ALL PARTS AND PROCEDURES WILL BE DONE FREE OF CHARGE" SO I DRIVE TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAY IT SHOULDNT TAKE MORE THAN A COUPLE DAYS, BUT MONTHS STARTED GOING BY WITH NO WORD FROM THEM AND ANYTIME I CALLED TO CHECK UP ON THE CARS STATUS, THEY WOULD LIE TO ME AND SAY "THE PART JUST ARRIVED AND WE'RE WORKIN ON ITNOW" BUT THEY TOLD ME THIS LIKE 6 TIMES, SO I ASKED THEM TO RETURN THE CAR UNTIL PARTS ARRIVED, THEY REFUSED AND CLAIMED LEGAL REASONS. THEN THEY DID RANDOMLY CONTACT MY SICK MOTHER AND TRY TO GET HER TO PAY 2400 DOLLARS! BEFORE THEY WOULD BEGIN WORK, EXPLAINING THEY WOULD BREAK SO MUCH STUFF IN THE PROCESS THAT IT WOULD COST 2400 FOR THE FREE RECALL, BUT 2 MECHANICS INCLUDING THE 1 THAT SENT ME ASSURED ME THAT WAS A LIE, AND THAT THE ONLY THING THEY SHOULD HAVE TO TOUCH DURING THE PROCEDURE IS BOLTS. SO I CALL THEM BACK AND ASK WHATS GOING ON WITH MY CAR AND FINALLY SOMEONE COMES CLEAN SAYING THAT WHILE THEY HAD MY CAR, THEY STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, SO THEY START TELLING ME THEY NEED TO WORK ON MY TRANSMISSION BEFORE RELEASING THE CAR. I SAID NO, DONT WORRY ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION, ILL WILL HAVE MY GUY WORK ON THAT AFTER THE RECALL IS COMPLETE. BUT THEY REFUSED TO WORK ON THE RECALL UNLESS I PAID THEM. THEY ALSO REFUSED TO RELEASE THE CAR, THEN A FEW MONTHS LATER I RECEIVED A LETTER TELLING ME TO HAVE MY CAR TOWED, THEY R NOT FIXING IT. SO NOW THE CAR I DROVE THERE NO LONGER WORKS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-12
- VIN: KM8SC13D13U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BREAKS LOCK UP WHILE DRIVING BAD SMELL CAR WONT MOVE
SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-18
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: I CAN HEAR A STRONG RUBBING AGAINST THE TIRE WHEN I COME TO SLOW DOWN AND STOP
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- VIN: KM8SC73D53U
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" MY DRIVER SIDE FRONT WHEEL FEELS LIKE IT'S GONNA FALL OFF ALL THE LUG NUTS ARE TIGHT
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-02
- VIN: KM8SC73E23U
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, 180K MILES, 2ND OWNER. CUSTOMER STATES: FUEL LEAKING FROM FUEL TANK ONTO GROUND; SAFETY CONCERN & FIRE HAZARD. UNABLE TO PARK IN GARAGE/DRIVEWAY. FUEL LIGHT ON; LOW FUEL LEVEL. FILLED WITH $7.00 IN GAS ($2.70/GAL). AFTER FUELING, FUEL GAUGE HASN'T MOVED. ADDED MORE FUEL & SET GAS STATION FUEL NOZZLE TO AUTO STOP WHEN FULL. GAUGE SAYS 3/4 TANK (NORMALLY WOULD READ FULL TANK).THEN DROVE 12 MILES NO ISSUES. PARKED ON RESIDENTIAL STREET FOR 1-2 DAYS. SEARCHED ONLINE FOUND 'WARRANTY EXTENSION' ON FUEL TANK. DRIVING TO CERTIFIED HYUNDAI DEALER, 15 MILES AWAY. DROVE 5 MILES ON INTERSTATE, LOSING POWER. PULLED OFF AT NEAREST EXIT, DIED WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC, OVER INTERSTATE BRIDGE. OIL, BATTERY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, ETC. ON. CARS BEHIND ME MAD, HONKING, RUSH HOUR. GOT IT STARTED, NOWHERE SAFE TO PULL OVER, LANE IEADS ME TO INTERSTATE, NOW HEADED IN OPPOSITE DIRECTION TOWARDS HOME. LOST POWER, DIED AGAIN, <1 MILE FROM HOME ON EXIT RAMP. LET SIT 4-5 HRS. DARK;11PM. RESTARTED, DROVE FEW FEET, DIED. DARK OUTSIDE. PUT IN NEUTRAL, ROLL BACKWARDS, STEER ONTO SHOULDER FOR SAFETY. DOT/SHERIFF TAGGED CAR NEXT A.M. CALLED HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS & WAS ADVISED TO TOW TO DEALER. I DID. HYUNDAI STATING OUTSIDE OF MILAGE ALLOWANCE & NOT COVERED. WHY IS THIS NOT A SAFETY RECALL? THIS IS A PUBLIC SAFETY HAZARD! EVEN WHEN PARKED! FUEL LEAKS/ISSUES PUT THE PUBLIC AT RISK! NOT SAFE PARKING IN MY GARAGE/DRIVEWAY, PUBLIC/RESIDENTIAL STREETS, NEIGHBORHOODS, SCHOOLS, BUSINESSES/RETAIL PROPERTIES, LET ALONE DRIVING. WHAT IF A CIGARETTE IS TOSSED BY A PASSERBY, ROLLS UNDER A LEAKING FUEL TANK & LEADS TO FIRE, DAMAGES, INJURIES AND/OR DEATH(S) TO THOSE IN/AROUND VEHICLE? THIS SHOULD BE TAKEN MORE SERIOUSLY! IT'S A PUBLIC SAFETY HAZARD! MILEAGE SHOULDN'T MATTER (SEE LEXUS RECALL, JUNE 2018; CBS NEWS). CUST=SINGLE MOM & FT COLLEGE STUDENT=THE STRUGGLE IS REAL. PLEASE ADVISE.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-02
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, 180K MILES, 2ND OWNER. MY VEHICLE IS LEAKING GAS FROM THE FUEL TANK ONTO THE GROUND. I CAN'T EVEN PARK MY VEHICLE IN MY GARAGE OR DRIVEWAY DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL CATCH ON FIRE. I SEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND OUT THE VEHICLE WAS ONE THAT HAS HAD A WARRANTY EXTENSION ON THE FUEL TANK, WHICH IS 15 YEARS OR 150,000 MILES WHICHEVER COMES FIRST. MY FUEL LIGHT WAS ON INDICATING MY FUEL LEVEL WAS LOW. I LIVE 15 MILES AWAY FROM THE NEAREST HYUNDAI DEALER SO I WAS TAKING IT IN TO HAVE IT INSPECTED BY A CERTIFIED HYUNDAI DEALER. I FILLED UP MY TANK WITH $7.00 OF GAS ($2.70/GAL). AFTER FUELING I GOT INTO MY CAR AND STARTED THE CAR. I NOTICED THE FUEL GAUGE HAD NOT MOVED AFTER FUELING. I PROCEEDED TO FILL UP THE CAR UNTIL FULL. SINCE IT IS NOT SAFE BECAUSE I CAN SEE THE FILE LEAKING, I CANNOT PARK ON MY PROPERTY AND PARKED ON THE STREET, AS FAR AWAY FROM OTHER HOUSES. IT DID NOT FEEL SAFE ON A PUBLIC STREET, IN A RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD, JUST SITTING THERE BECAUSE THE POSSIBILITY OF IT CATCHING ON FIRE AND EXPLODING IN FLAMES. WHAT IF A DRIVER FLICKED OUT A CIGARETTE AND IT ROLLED UNDER MY VEHICLE, CATCHING IT AND ANYTHING AROUND IT ON FIRE? I ATTEMPTED TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, AFTER FILLING IT WITH A FULL TANK OF GAS. WHILE DRIVING TO THE DEALERSHIP, THE VEHICLE STARTED LOOSING POWER. I PULLED OFF ONTO THE NEAREST EXIT AND IT DIED, OIL LIGHT, BATTERY LIGHT, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON (ETC). CARS BEHIND ME WHERE HONKING DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. ABLE TO GET IT STARTED AGAIN AND DECIDED TO TRY TO GET HOME AGAIN. VEHICLE LOST POWER AGAIN & DIED, THIS TIME NOT RESTARTING, EVEN AFTER SITTING 12 HOURS. I CALLED A TOW TRUCK AND HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALER. HYUNDAI IS STATING I AM OUTSIDE OF THE MILES ALLOWANCE. WHY IS THIS NOT A MANDATORY RECALL? THIS IS A PUBLIC SAFETY HAZARD' EVEN WHEN PARKED! TIME/MILEAGE SHOULDN'T MATTER. MANY OTHERS LIKE MINE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-12
- VIN: KM8SC13D43U
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CURRENTLY THERE IS A NOISE UP FRONT OF THE CAR AND IN THE REAR A FRIEND THAT WAS RIDING IN MY CAR INDICATED THAT IT MAY BE A SUSPENSION PROBLEM. HE ALSO NOTED THAT THERE WAS A CLASS ACTION SUIT WITH HYUNDAI ABOUT A SUBFRAME RUST CORROSION ISSUE. THE NOISE HAS BECOME QUITE NOTICEABLE HE BELIEVES MIGHT CERTAINLY BE RELATED
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-08
- VIN: KM8SC73DX3U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHTS KEEP COMING ON - I AM NOW ON MY THIRD REPAIR TO FIX THIS ONGOING PROBLEM. I LIKELY NEED TO REPLACE THE AIRBAGS! SO COSTLY BUT IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE SO HOW CAN I NOT? THIS IS A KNOWN AND ONGOING ISSUE AND HYUNDAI SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE AND COVER THIS DEFECT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-10
- VIN: KM8SC73DX3U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT REMAINS ON SO THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. WILL I HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS? I REALLY DON'T KNOW THE HISTORY OF THIS VEHICLE I NEVER RECEIVED A CAR FAX ON IT. THAT IS WHY I NEED TO KNOW IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS ON THE AIRBAG WITH THE AIRBAG LIGHT REMAINS ON. I KNOW THIS MIGHT BE BECAUSE OF THE MODULE HAVING TO BE REPLACED.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-10
- VIN: KM8SC13E93U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING OR STOPPED THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE TO THE HIGHEST RATE OF SPEED, ON IT'S OWN, AND I HAD TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL TO STOP AN ACCIDENT FROM HAPPENING. THIS HAPPENED MORE THAN ONCE, ALMOST FATALLY INJURING SEVERAL PEDESTRIANS. WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR AND IT WAS SO UNSAFE DUE TO THE ACCELERATION PROBLEM THEY WOULDN'T EVEN DRIVE IT ! I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED BACK AND FORTH TO THE DEALER TWICE BEFORE THEY COULD EVEN FIGURE OUT WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. NOW THEY ARE SAYING IT IS THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY. $1,753.11 FOR A VEHICLE THAT WAS GARAGED AND ONLY DRIVEN IN THE WINTER. 53,567 MILES ON IT. FOR A PART THAT REGULATES YOUR SPEED? THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME THIS IS REPORTED - THERE WAS A CASE IN JAPAN WHERE PEOPLE ACTUALLY DIED - AFTER GOING TO COURT THEY SAID IT WAS DRIVER ERROR - STEPPING ON THE GAS INSTEAD OF THE BRAKE. I HIGHLY DOUBT IT NOW - THERE ARE MANY MORE CASES AND REPAIRS LIKE THIS ONE - SOMEONE NEEDS TO DO A LITTLE RESEARCH. I FOR ONE WOULD LIKE A LITTLE HELP - I'M 73 YEARS OLD AND BOUGHT THIS CAR NEW - IT'S ALWAYS BEEN TAKEN CARE OF - THE DEALER HAS THE RECORDS.
STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-30
- VIN: KM8SC13D03U
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AN I CAME YO A STOP AN BEGAN TO TURN UP A SIDE BLOCK WEN I HEARD SOMETHING LIKE IT WAS METAL IN MERSL SCRAPPING SO I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AN HAD TO CALL MY MECHANIC TO COME SEE WHAT WAS THAT AWFUL NOISE HE LAYER SHOWD UP LIFTED MY CAR IN THE AIR WHICH HE FOUND A LOT OF CORROSION AN RUST AN MY LOWER ARM CONTROL AN SUB FRAME NEEDING TO BE REPLACED UNDERNEATH MY CAR THATS WHY MY STEERING WHEEL WAS FREEWHEELING
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-02
- VIN: KM8SC13DX3U
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CAR HAS CLUNKING NOISE IN FRONT END. MECHANIC SAID IT'S THE SUBFRAME BUSHINGS GOING IN AND OUT OF THE SUBFRAME AND RECOMMENDED REPLACING SUBFRAME. SAID CAR IS "UNSAFE TO DRIVE IN THIS CONDITION." THERE IS A RECALL IN "SALT-BELT" STATES. NOT SURE IT THEY CONSIDER UTAH A SALT-BELT STATE, BUT SALT IS USED HERE EXTENSIVELY IN THE WINTER.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: MY AIRBAGS WERE DEFECTIVE. I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT, AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AFTER THE ACCIDENT, I WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL TO TREAT MULTIPLE BODILY INJURING, WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF THE AIRBAG HAD DEPLOYED. I WAS DRIVING IN TOWN WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED. I OVERSHOT A TURN AND HIT A POLL ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CAR. THE CAR FLIPPED AND WAS TOTALED. AGAIN, NO AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. I HAVE INCLUDED PICTURES OF THE CAR AFTER THE ACCIDENT. MY MAIN CONCERN IS THE ISSUE WITH THE AIRBAGS. I FEEL AS THOUGH THESE SHOULD HAVE WORKED PROPERLY AND THAT I AM FORTUNATE ENOUGH THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS NOT ANY WORSE, AS MORE SERIOUS INJURIES COULD HAVE THEN OCCURRED.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KM8SC73D93U
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: MY AIRBAGS WERE DEFECTIVE. I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT, AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AFTER THE ACCIDENT, I WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL TO TREAT MULTIPLE BODILY INJURING, WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF THE AIRBAG HAD DEPLOYED. I WAS DRIVING IN TOWN WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED. I OVERSHOT A TURN AND HIT A POLL ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CAR. THE CAR FLIPPED AND WAS TOTALED. AGAIN, NO AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. I HAVE INCLUDED PICTURES OF THE CAR AFTER THE ACCIDENT. MY MAIN CONCERN IS THE ISSUE WITH THE AIRBAGS. I FEEL AS THOUGH THESE SHOULD HAVE WORKED PROPERLY AND THAT I AM FORTUNATE ENOUGH THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS NOT ANY WORSE, AS MORE SERIOUS INJURIES COULD HAVE THEN OCCURRED. IF NEEDED, I HAVE MORE PICTURES; HOWEVER, DUE TO THE FILE SIZE ALLOWED, I HAVE LIMITED IT TO KEY PICTURE. PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-12
- VIN: KM8SB12B23U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE DIED MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE IN OPERATION ON A CITY STREET GOING STRAIGHT, APPROXIMATELY 35-40 MILES PER HOUR AND ON HIWAY GOING APPROX. 60 MPH TWICE. WE NO LONGER DRIVE IT ON A HIWAY. REPAIR SHOP CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG.
2003 Hyundai Santa fe recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Hyundai Santa fe.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model Year 2001-2006 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured from March 31, 2000, through February 15, 2006, that are registered and operated, or which were originally sold and registered, in the following 20 salt belt" states and the District of Columbia: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The affected vehicles may experience front coil spring corrosion from road salt, causing the coil spring to fracture and make contact with the tire.
- Consequence: If the front coil spring fractures due to corrosion it could cause the coil spring to make contact with the tire, possibly puncturing the tire and increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the coil spring, free of charge. The recall began on October 24, 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 124.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 83,355 MY 2001-2003 SANTA FE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ROAD SALT APPLIED IN THESE JURISDICTIONS DURING THE WINTER MONTHS MAY RESULT IN PROGRESSIVE, INTERNAL CORROSION OF THE REAR TRAILING ARMS, WHICH COULD LEAD TO THINNING OR PERFORATION OF THE REAR TRAILING ARM STEEL. OWNERS MAY SEE OR FEEL SLIGHT TO MODERATE CHANGES IN VEHICLE OPERATION WHICH WILL INCREASE IF THE VEHICLE IS NOT REPAIRED. THESE CHANGES INCLUDE A LOWERING OF VEHICLE HEIGHT THAT CAN LEAD TO TIRE MISALIGNMENT AND STEERING PULL. OWNERS MAY ALSO NOTICE A CREAKING SOUND.
- Consequence: IF THE CORROSION IS ALLOWED TO PROGRESS, THE REAR TRAILING ARM MAY FRACTURE WHILE DRIVING, THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR TRAILING ARMS FOR INTERNAL CORROSION DAMAGE. IF SPECIFIED LEVELS OF CORROSION DAMAGE ARE FOUND, THE REAR TRAILING ARMS WILL BE REPLACED. REAR TRAILING ARMS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REPLACEMENT WILL HAVE DRAINAGE HOLES ADDED AND WILL BE TREATED WITH RUST-PROOFING MATERIAL TO ARREST THE CORROSION PROCESS. INSPECTION, TREATMENT AND REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES WILL BE CONDUCTED AT NO COST TO OWNERS. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.
- Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5 LITER V-6 ENGINES, 4-WHEEL DRIVE AND ANTILOCK BRAKING SYSTEMS (ABS), IF THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED AT SPEEDS BETWEEN 3 AND 12 MPH WHEN THE BRAKE PAD FRICTION SURFACES ARE WET, A VIBRATION MAY OCCUR BETWEEN THE BRAKE DISCS AND PADS CAUSING ABS SENSOR ELECTRONIC SIGNAL NOISE TO DEVELOP. AT SPEEDS BELOW 5 MPH, THE ABS SENSOR SIGNAL NOISE MAY CAUSE THE ABS ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) TO ACTIVATE THE ABS, EXTENDING THE STOPPING DISTANCE.
- Consequence: IF AN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE OCCURS, IT COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ABS ECU. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 24, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.
- Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."
- Consequence: THE TIRE PRESSURE LABELS DO NOT CONTAIN THE INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A CORRECT LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 29, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.
Negative 2003 Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
Positive 2003 Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
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Hyundai's are awesome vehicles....I have owned three already. The warranty is outstanding as is the reliability of the vehicles. Drive really nice too.
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We bought this car new while my husband was in grad school. We've now had the car for over 6 years and have never had a single issue with it. We get all the scheduled maintenance, plus the recommended maintenance, and the result is a perfectly operating SUV that gets pretty good gas mileage (especially for a 6 cylinder SUV) that's beyond reliable. As a note, my sister has a 2001 Hyundai Elantra that she loves, too. Just like us, she loves her car and has never had any issues. Hyundai has come a long way; their cars are super reliable now!
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I really enjoy driving this four-cylinder car. It has a great design and reminds me of my old Monte Carlo, but without the GM branding. The five-speed transmission is smooth and well-designed, and even though I weigh over 320 lbs and have to drive nearly fifty miles one way, I find it very comfortable. I also appreciate the fold-out rear table that covers the spare tire, which allows me to have small and intimate lunches on the road. Overall, I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a comfortable and practical vehicle.
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I never really considered getting an SUV, but my wife spotted the Santa Fe and thought it looked really nice. We decided to check it out and after taking it for a spin, we were both really impressed with how comfortable and smooth the ride was. The quality of the car was also top-notch, and the warranty was a great bonus. We ended up buying it on the spot to replace our old station wagon, and we've been extremely satisfied with it after driving 8000 miles. I also have to give a shoutout to the great dealer who helped us out!
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I just bought the Santa Fe and I love it! Not only was it priced right, but the style is terrific and the ride is surprisingly comfortable for an AWD. I also love the shiftronic. I have the 6-disc changer which sounds great. The warranty is the best, so like all cars, they do have problems from time to time, but Hyundai will fix it for 10 years.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Hyundai Santa fe problems:
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe.
What are common problems with 2003 2.4L | Hyundai Forums
Mar 27, 2012 ... The transfer case on the santa fe is known to slowly leak(and there is not a lot of fluid) and the gears will go bad if it gets low enough. It's ...
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability - Consumer Reports
If the front coil spring fractures due to corrosion it could cause the coil spring to make contact with the tire, possibly puncturing the tire and increasing ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD System
Sep 7, 2020 ... Good luck. Let me know. Please rate my answer if I have helped, ask for additional info if needed . Thank you.
Other years of Hyundai Santa fe
Are you having problems with your 2003 Hyundai Santa fe?
Eric Hill 2024-11-28
I have experienced repeated issues with my vehicle's transmission, having already had it replaced once within the 1.5 years of ownership. Recently, during an oil change, metal scrapings were found in the transmission fluid, indicating further problems. Despite contacting the dealership, I was informed that they are currently unable to provide a loaner car or schedule an appointment for another two weeks. As a young buyer with future vehicle purchases ahead, I expect a higher level of service and attention to rectify this situation. It is disappointing to say that I will not be purchasing another Hyundai.
Craig Runte 2024-09-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a story with you about our experience with a used Santa Fe we bought for our daughter's senior year in high school. We were really hoping it would get her to college! After doing all the usual things you do when you purchase a used car, like changing the oil, points, plugs, and tires, we drove it for about two months before the exhaust became clogged. It turns out that the catalytic converter had disintegrated and clogged the entire exhaust system. We're not sure if it's worth fixing or not, but we're keeping our fingers crossed! Take care.
Ludwig Ondricka 2024-08-20
Hyundai Santa Fe is a car that requires a lot of maintenance. The car had multiple major problems, including timing belts, transmission, and catalytic converters that needed replacement. The tires and brakes also needed replacement multiple times. Despite these issues, I was able to handle a difficult situation where my car wouldn't accelerate above 30 mph on a highway. I took it to the dealership, who misdiagnosed the problem multiple times, but I was able to handle the situation with confidence. Although the customer service and service department were less-than-acceptable, I was able to handle the situation with professionalism.
Khalil Kirlin 2024-02-14
Although this SUV is over 10 years old now, I find it hard to believe that even when it was new, it ran with no problems. I should have listened to my instincts and made a different choice. I have had to replace the serpentine belt once and the pulleys twice, and it still makes noise. I have also had to replace a front axle, and there are still check engine and airbag lights on that need to be addressed. Additionally, the clear coat suddenly started to come off on the paint rapidly after I bought it. I used to think foreign cars were better than American ones, but this SUV has changed my mind. If you are looking for an SUV, you might want to consider an Equinox or an Explorer. Thank you for considering my experience.