Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningOptional
- Forward collision warningOptional
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
- Lane departure warningOptional
- Forward collision warningOptional
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
Crash test #1NHTSA test 10571
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Recalls (2)
⚠ Park outside — urgent recall
NHTSA has flagged a recall on this vehicle as severe (fire risk — park away from structures). Contact a dealer immediately; recall repairs are free.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULECampaign 22V056000 · 03/02/2022Park outside
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.
Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BARCampaign 18V118000 · 17/02/2018
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The steering wheel assembly may break, possibly resulting in the steering wheel separating from the steering column while driving.
Risk: A steering wheel separation while driving can cause a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will check the production lot number of the steering wheel assembly, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 26, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 173.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- ENGINE53
- SERVICE BRAKES19
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER12
- HYDRAULIC12
- POWER TRAIN10
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM9
- STEERING8
- AIR BAGS6
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/29/2020· ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMFire
THE CAR BEGAN SHUTTERING WHILE DRIVING DOWN A MAIN STREET (45-50MPH). WHEN WE PULLED OVER WE SMELLED GASOLINE AND BURNING. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO HYUNDAI SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT INFORMED MY THE FUEL INJECTORS WERE LEAKING CAUSING A FIRE. THE ARE REPLYING THE FUEL INJECTORS AND TOLD ME IT WOULD BE WISE TO HAVE THEM REPLACE ALL SPARKS PLUGS ($190) WHILE THEY HAD THE ENGINE OPENED UP.
- 12/26/2018· POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
OCCASIONALLY STALLS WHEN STOPPED & TAKE OFF & TURN RIGHT OR LEFT AT A SLOW SPEED..ONE T IME DIED COMPLETELY ABLE TO PULL OVER & RESTART ENGINE. HAPPENS ON CITY STREETS. THE DATES IT STALLED ARE 9-14-18 10-5-18 10-18-18 11-16-18 11-28-18 12-04-18
- 12/20/2018· ENGINE
ENGINE PROBLEM
- 12/17/2019· STEERING
STEERING EXHIBITS "STICTION" AFTER DRIVING FOR 20-30 MINUTES. THIS BECOMES WORSE AS SPEED IS INCREASED. SMALL MOVEMENTS OF THE WHEEL PRODUCE NO STEERING EFFECT BUT RESISTANCE IS FELT. WHEN THE RESISTANCE IS OVERCOME, THE RESULT IS SLIGHT OVER STEER. UNDER THESE CONDITIONS IT IS DIFFICULT TO DRIVE IN STRAIT LINE AS CONSTANT CORRECTIONS AND RE-CORRECTIONS ARE REQUIRED BACK AND FORTH. THE EFFECT IS THAT THE STEERING FEELS TO "FREEZE" UNTIL A MINIMUM BREAK OUT FORCE IS APPLIED, RESULTING IN AN OVERSHOOT PAST THE INTENDED POINT. IT IS SIMILARLY NECESSARY TO APPLY A POSITIVE RETURN TO CENTER FORCE TO RETURN TO STRAIT, AS THE NORMALLY PRESENT SELF CENTERING FEEL IS NOT PRESENT FOR SMALL STEERING ANGLES. THE PROBLEM CAN SOMETIMES BE DETECTED AFTER BEING AT REST FOR A FEW MOMENTS BUT IS NOT INTRUSIVE AT SLOW SPEED. HOWEVER, FROM ~40 UP IT IS VERY TIRING TO STAY IN LANE. HAVE WORKED WITH ONE DEALER WHO PERFORMED A SAS CALIBRATION WITH NO IMPROVEMENT. THEY CLAIM "CANNOT REPRODUCE" BUT SPEND MOST EFFORT TRYING TO PERSUADE ME THAT THE STEERING IS NORMAL. HOWEVER, THE ISSUE DID NOT SHOW UP UNTIL ~ 10,000 MILES WHICH INCLUDED LONG ROAD TRIPS ON THE INTERSTATE WITH NO ISSUES. HAVE REFERRED ISSUE TO HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS WHO HAVE ASKED ME TO WORK WITH ANOTHER DEALER - CURRENTLY WAITING FOR A CALL BACK.
- 12/08/2019· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
SLOW TO ACCELERATED I HAVE TO RE PRESS THE PEDAL JUST TO TRY AN SPEED UP ON THE HIGHWAY IM GETTING HONKED AT TRYING TO GO UP HILLS I HAVE TO PRESS IT TO THE FLOOR TO GO UP HILLS AN IT IDLES OUT AN ITS VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE ON THE FREEWAY I CANT GO PAST 50MPH AN I USE SPORT MODE ITS DOSNT HELP IT THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL IN ALL THE HYUNDAI CARS .
- 11/27/2025· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Was driving and car turn off on me and wouldn't start I got it towed to Hyundai and they said my engine went out it had oil and everything we don't know why can stopped working has been sitting in my drive way for 3 years because we don't have 13000 that Hyundai told us
- 11/24/2022· ENGINE
I bought my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe 3.3L a year and a half ago with 58k miles from a dealer in Clarksville, MD. On October 18th 2022 with 70k miles my Hyundai Santa Fe starting making a loud noise in engine so I took it to a Hyundai dealer where I was told my engine would need to be replaced and was quoted 19.1k to replace it. I'm the second owner of the car so technically not under warranty. Hyundai is paying half of repair and rental extended warranty is paying the other half and a 10 day rental. Car has been there for a month parts still aren't there and was told it could take months to get my car back.
- 11/19/2024· ENGINE
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon checking the engine oil dipstick, the dipstick was abnormally dry. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who performed an oil consumption test over 1,000 miles, and found that the engine was consuming 2 quarts of oil. The contact was informed that the excessive oil consumption could cause damage to the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
- 11/14/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINEFire
In September 2024, my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe experienced an unexpected engine lock-up while driving, creating an immediate safety hazard. Vehicle lost power, began smoking, and posed a potential fire risk. Fire department responded to prevent the engine from catching fire and had to spray the engine compartment with high-pressure water. Following this incident, vehicle remained in Hyundai’s possession for ~9 months for engine-related repairs. When we picked up the vehicle after the prolonged repair period, front-facing camera had completely stopped functioning. This camera has always worked prior to the engine lock-up and was functioning the day of the incident. This was reported to the dealership, Hyundai Motor America. A case manager (Nemesh) took the case. Very supportive, helpful and provided a thorough process for investigating the situation. However, all the sudden case was assigned a new case manager (Bryan) and the process immediately changed and the claim was denied. Given the timing and circumstances, the camera failure appears to be the result of electrical or component damage caused during the engine failure/fire-prevention event. The dealership also confirmed that no independent inspector ever assessed the vehicle for secondary damage despite my repeated requests. Hyundai later denied responsibility without conducting any physical inspection of the damage. This sequence of events — sudden engine failure, required fire-response intervention, prolonged repair, and subsequent electrical component failure — raises significant concerns about safety and the potential for related electrical or wiring issues caused by the engine incident. I am reporting this because the underlying engine failure and fire-risk conditions represent a serious safety defect, and related component failures may indicate broader issues with damage resulting from these events. Also Hyundai not letting the independent inspector assess gives me great concern something was missed.
- 11/07/2018· STEERING
WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY AT SPEEDS HIGHER THAN 60MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEEMS TO STICK IN ONE POSITION AND JERK WHEN YOU TRY TO ADJUST THE STEERING IN THE SLIGHTEST.
- 11/07/2018· SEAT BELTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT FAILED TO MAKE AN AUDIBLE SOUND WHEN IT WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SPOKANE HYUNDAI (8801 E SPRAGUE AVE, SPOKANE VALLEY, WA 99212, (509) 922-1450) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAILURE COULD NOT BE FOUND. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V145000 (SEAT BELTS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,500.
- 11/06/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
•Year/Make/Model: 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe •Mileage: ~91,502 •Date Purchased: April 2023 Description of Problem / Safety Concern: I am reporting a safety-related engine defect in my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The vehicle has developed engine knocking, metal shavings in the oil, and potential timing chain/bearing failure, all of which create a serious risk of engine failure while driving. The vehicle was purchased at 50,855 miles and currently has 91,502 miles, demonstrating that these serious engine defects developed at relatively low mileage. I have attempted to have the issue addressed under Hyundai’s extended warranty, referencing the TXX8 Service Bulletin which provides specific instructions for inspecting, diagnosing, and submitting claims for this type of engine defect. Despite this, two Hyundai dealers have refused to inspect the vehicle or submit a warranty claim: •Hyundai of Trenton refused to inspect or submit any claim. •A second Hyundai dealer demanded nearly $2,000 in fees ($195 diagnostic, $550 additional, $1,200 bearing test) and then denied coverage citing “no codes,” even after acknowledging metal flakes in the oil filter and noisy valve train. I have also contacted Hyundai Corporate three times (two online complaints, one phone call), but the company continues to direct me back to the dealers without resolving the issue. Safety Risk: The ongoing engine defects jeopardize vehicle safety and could result in catastrophic engine failure while driving. Based on research and reports from other owners, these issues may affect other 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles with similar Theta II engines
- 10/30/2023· STEERING
I have noticed for the past year that my steering column feels loose. It makes a popping noise and really makes noise on rough pavement. I feel like the steering wheel is just gonna come off into my hands. It's very loose to turn and you can feel the pops within the steering wheel. I took my car to local repair shop and they told me there was a recall and that I should take to dealer. I called dealer but my Vin # is not listed within the actual recall. However I read the recall itself and that is what is happening to my Hyundai. It makes no sense that my exact Vin # would not be included in recall since I am having that problem.
- 10/29/2024· ENGINE
Was on my way home from work, and suddenly my engine threw a rod and now my engine is blown.
- 10/26/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- 10/22/2024· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
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 the 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.
- 10/18/2019· SEATS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE THE CONTACT'S FATHER WAS DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, HE NOTICED AN ABNORMAL ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS HOME, THE CONTACT OPENED THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR AND NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT HAD BURNED WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WAS NO INDICATION OF ANY FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREEN HYUNDAI (1200 S DIRKSEN PKWY, SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703, (217) 525-1370) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE SEAT COVER WAS CUT BY AN OBJECT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED THE SEAT AND CONFIRMED THAT IT WAS BURNED BY A FAULTY SEAT WARMER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 23,845. *LN*JB *TP
- 10/17/2023· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
We took our 2018 Santa Fe in for service because the check engine light came on and we lost power when accelerating. We were told that it has "catastrophic engine failure" and that we need a full engine replacement. On a less than 5 year old car. We are being blamed for this although we have kept up with regular oil changes and service. We were told that we could not get any warranty on the engine. We have been quoted $7,500 for an engine "replacement" and a 1 year warranty. They do not make the engine any longer so it is not even a true replacement. We brought it in to Hyundai of Metairie. They will not answer or return our calls. Do not buy a hyundai.
- 10/16/2018· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
WHEN DRIVING ON A BACK ROAD GOING ABOUT 35-40 MPH, ALL OF A SUDDEN THE RPMS SPIKED WAY UP AND THE CAR STARTED SHAKING. AS I PRESSED THE GAS PEDAL THE CAR WOULD BARELY MOVE BUT THE RPMS WOULD GO EXTREMELY HIGH. EVERY TIME I HAD A STOP LIGHT AND TRIED ACCELERATING ONCE THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN THE CAR WOULD BARELY MOVE AND RPMS WOULD JUST KEEP REVING UP REAL HIGH. I WAS AFRAID I WAS GOING TO GET HIT OR REAR ENDED. HUGE SAFETY CONCERNS.
- 09/28/2023· AIR BAGS
My airbag light came on 1000 miles over the warranty mileage while on vacation. Had the issue checked and it was a 'pre tensioner', driver side, that shorted out and in turn shorted out the airbag module. This is a huge safety problem and should not happen. It should also be covered, due to no fault of my own. I have tried to resolve the issue with Hyundai customer care, but no help from them. I had to, because I'm not driving unprotected, get the car fixed on my own. I'm retired, a veteran and on a fixed income. $2300.00 is a lot to absorb. I've asked Hyundai for help, but no response.
- 09/27/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle lost complete control of steering, as it felt "loose" during a left turn at an intersection. Vehicle could not be controlled by steering wheel causing me to drive into oncoming traffic lanes until vehicle slowed to a stop.
- 09/26/2018· STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
YESTERDAY WHEN I WAS TEACHING MY VEHICLE I SUDDENLY MARKED STEERING WHEEL ON THE BOARD. AND ON THE BRAKES EVERY TIME I PUT THE EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE IT MAKES A LOUD SOUND ON THE LEFT REAR SIDE.
- 09/25/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Reverse Camera malfunctioning most days. A few days a year it works, but usually it's just a blue screen. Other 3 cameras work fine all the time.
- 09/16/2024· SEATS
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.
- 09/09/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My vehicle is available for inspection upon request. On multiple occasions the fluid in coolant reservoir has drained out. There is no visible signs of coolant on the under carriage nor is there a puddle on the floor of my garage and no warning lights have come on. In the span of approximately 2 weeks the fluid dropped 1/4 of an inch. Hyundia of Wesley Chapel (in Wesley Chapel, Fl) has had my vehicle on two occasions for this issue. They documented a lose of pressure in the coolant system of 10psi after an extended pressure test on a cold engine. Various other tests were performed but the source of the loss of coolant has not been found. The vehicle also intermittently experiences a loss of power when trying to accelerate from a full stop. The above mentioned dealership has not been able to replicate this issue either.
- 09/09/2020· TIRES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE EQUIPPED WITH KUMHO TIRES, TIRE LINE: CRUGEN PREMIUM KL33 N/A, TIRE SIZE: 235/55/R19 N/A, THE DOT NUMBER: 000JTYANH4419. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE WAS SHAKING ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT DROVE TO A TIRE SHOP AND NOTICE THAT THE TREAD BELT WAS SEPARATING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, IN APRIL THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRES EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 23,758.
- 09/05/2024· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
See attached document for complaint.
- 09/04/2018· POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 6,000.
- 09/03/2025· ENGINE
Engine stopped abruptly without warning while driving vehicle.
- 08/30/2021· AIR BAGS
2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. CONSUMER WRITES REQUESTING THAT AIRBAG SENSOR IN VEHICLE BE DEACTIVATED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIRBAG WOULD NOT ACTIVATE DUE TO BEING PETITE. THE CONSUMER QUESTIONED IF THERE WAS A FIX.
- 08/26/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am the original owner almost at the end of my powertain warranty. At 93 - 94,000 I started to notice whe accelerating, like a distinct shift into different gears at anywhere between 5-7miles and in incrediments up to 40-45 mph. I have brought to the dealer and this week, will be the four time, which they keep telling me if they can not get a code or necessarily re enact there is nothing they can do. I currently have 97,000 and am bringing it back in this week. PLease help.
- 08/24/2023· ENGINEFire
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal rattling sound and there was fire coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that she immediately veered to the side of the road and exited the vehicle with her son. The contact stated that the fire died out before the fire department arrived. A fire department report was filed. There was no police report filed. There was no injury sustained. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that a fractured rod in the engine block had caused the engine to explode, and the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer also informed the contact the fire had burned the electrical wiring. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to cover half of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 142,732.
- 08/23/2021· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This will be the fourth time our vehicle has to go to the dealer. We purchased this car in April of this year and the car has lived more at the dealer service department than with us. The first time, the car started smoking and left us stranded. The dealer changed out the fuel injectors. When it randomly started smoking it smelled strongly of gas and we were scared that the car would catch fire. The other times were due to the car not accelerating as it should on the highway making it quite difficult to merge and speed up as needed on the highway. This time, it's the same thing. The car does not want to shift gears and it's very dangerous when you are trying to accelerate to get to the right speed and you have cars coming in close from behind and there is no way to signal to them that the car is having trouble shifting. This problem started again yesterday. The check engine light turned on yesterday as well and we took the car to Autozone to scan it. the only code that came up was abs. The car just got towed to the dealer yet again but I have lost hope that they will be able to fix the issue as they have failed 3 times already. (one of these times the dealer failed to refill my radiator coolant after the flushed it causing the car to overheat as well and the car ac malfunctioned as well as a result.
- 08/19/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- 08/19/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number 22v056000(SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. The VIN tool confirms parts distribution disconnect.
- 08/18/2023· ENGINE
while driving on a highway the engine lock up, and I was fortunate to get to the side of the road. Vary scary
- 08/17/2018· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
LED HEADLIGHTS PARTICULARLY ON UNLIGHTED ROADS PRESENT A DARKEN SHADOW ON THE TOP HALF OF THE WINDSHIELD WHILE CAR IS IN MOTION. NARROWING VIEW IS A SAFETY HAZARD AS ONE IS UNABLE TO SEE APPROACHING TRAFFIC OR PEDESTRIANS. DEALERSHIP AND HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SUPPORT STATED THAT HEADLIGHTS MEET SPECS. SERVICE MANAGER DROVE CAR AT NIGHT AND TOLD ME THAT HE SEES THE ISSUE BUT HAS NO FIX. HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SUPPORT SAID IT WAS NOT A WARRANTY ISSUE, BUT A DESIGN ISSUE AND I COULD MODIFY THE HEADLIGHTS AT MY EXPENSE AND BREAK THE WARRANTY. I WILL ATTACH A PICTURE AND CAN BRING THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT AGENT TO VALIDATE.
- 08/12/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received recall notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect
- 08/10/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Failed oil pressure sensor which was leaking oil through the wiring harness; could have caused a fire from oil dripping on exhaust system. Oil pressure sensors should only fail electrically, not from allowing high pressure oil to leak out. Dealer states there have been some cases where the oil flowed through the wiring harness to the vehicle ECU, rendering a severe problem in controlling the vehicle. Dealer repair invoice attached. Besides the oil pressure sensor the wiring assembly had to be replaced from the oil contamination.
- 08/09/2022· AIR BAGSCrash
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while his fiancee was driving at 45 mph, a deer impacted the driver's side of the vehicle. No air bags deployed. The contact stated the air bag warning light was illuminated after the impact. The contact stated no one was injured nor sought medication attention. No police report was filed. The driver continued driving to their residence. The contact took the vehicle to the repair facility, where it was being serviced at the moment. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
- 08/08/2023· ENGINE
This vehicle has 113,000 miles on it and the engine is blown. The warranty for these cars expires at 100 thousand miles. This vehicle was properly maintained and should not fail. I cannot claim this under auto insurance and the dealer wants to charge me 185 dollars to tell me on paper that I need to pay 20000 dollars for a new engine.
- 08/06/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My driver side passenger door will not open from the inside or the outside. You can hear the locking mechanism lock and unlock, however the door is stuck shut. It locked my 2 year old in. Put her in, drove about 15 minutes down the road then was no longer able to open her door. This is obviously not safe for anyone of any age. There are multiple forums of multiple people with the same issue with a malfunction of Hyundais doors. Hyundai needs to make their vehicle safe.
- 08/05/2024· ENGINE
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe SE with 98000. miles lost power while driving, would not accelerate. No warning prior to event. No check engine light prior.Had the vehicle towed to Dealership for diagnostics. Dealership technician pulled codes P0018; P0300; P0302; P0304; P0306. I was told the repairs needed were: Replace left intake camshaft, CVVT, and timing chain tensioner. I had requested the dealership contact the National Consumer Affairs for Hyundai Motor America to put in a claim on the 100,000. mile warranty. After several weeks they declined to fix or offset the repair costs for this claim. they stated the following; "HMA Is Declining To Provide Assistance Due To The Malfunction Being Out Of Warranty Caused By The Time In Service And Mileage Of The Vehicle. No Goodwill Assistance Is Being Offered At This Time." I believe that that this issue is a common occurrence after reading many other customer complaints with the same issues. Why would HMA state "no assistance at this time". It appears that they would rather ignore this concern until the car is past the warranty period.
- 08/04/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 08/01/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
I am writing to formally request your review and potential intervention regarding a serious and potentially widespread mechanical issue involving Hyundai vehicles, along with the manufacturer’s refusal to honor their well-advertised 100,000-mile powertrain warranty for subsequent (non-original) owners. I am the current owner of a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX] ) that is experiencing a Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) system failure, which has led to a critical engine malfunction. The estimated cost of repairs exceeds $7,000, an unexpected and significant financial burden. Despite the vehicle being well within the 100,000-mile threshold, Hyundai has denied warranty coverage solely on the grounds that I am not the original owner. This policy effectively strips coverage from second-hand buyers and, in my view, is misleading given Hyundai’s extensive advertising of the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It creates a false sense of long-term reliability and warranty protection. This is not an isolated case. Numerous complaints have surfaced from Hyundai owners experiencing similar catastrophic engine and powertrain failures—including CVVT malfunctions, rod bearing issues, and engine seizure—raising serious questions about: The safety and reliability of Hyundai's engine systems; The fairness and transparency of Hyundai’s warranty terms and advertising; Potentially systemic manufacturing or design flaws impacting thousands of vehicles on U.S. roads. I respectfully urge the NTSB to review whether such defects present broader safety implications and to assess whether Hyundai’s current warranty practices reflect responsible corporate and consumer protection standards. Please let me know if additional information is required, including repair estimates, maintenance records, or correspondence with Hyundai representatives. I appreciate your time and attention to this matter that is affecting many vehicle owners beyond my individual case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 07/28/2025· STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
At 118,000 miles Downhill brake, transmission and 4 wheel drive were damaged from the hyundai dealership not fullfilling warranty. They disconnected my tow hitch and my transmission was burning .. smelled like a bon fire. Took me 1 year to repair and have transmission changed through warranty but they didnt change the other components that were damaged due to negligence from the hyundai dealership. The dealership was very rude and didnt dedication their attention or care to truly finding what was wrong with my vehicle.
- 07/21/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The oil pressure switch has a faulty seal causing oil to leak out onto the engine block. This causes oil on the underbody and ground, smoke amd smell from oil on got surfaces, knocking noises from the engine, reduced power or hesitation, illumination or the check engine light and oil pressure light, high speed stall, and will also cause fire in the engine compartment resulting in death or sever injury. I have taken my car to the Red McCombs Hyundai dealership in San Antonio TX for repair and they have confirmed that it is the oil pressure switch seal that failed. The oil leak has also damaged electrical components causing a malfunction in the dash cluster and steering wheel control.
- 07/19/2019· ENGINE
A RECALL LETTER FROM HYUNDAI ON MY 2018 SANTA FE ON A KNOCK SENSOR TOOK IT TO MY DEALERSHIP THEY DID WHAT EVER THE RECALL WAS 3 MILES DOWN THE ROAD MY CAR WENT INTP LIMP MODE TOOK ME FROM 70MPH TO 30 CALL THE DEALER HAD TO LIMP IT BACK THEY HAH IT FOR 3 WEEKS HAD THE WIRE HARNESS REPLACED ASKED THEY HAD ANY TROUBLE WITH THIS AS WE WERE GOING ON VACATON THEY SAID NO HALF WAY THROUGH OUR TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA IT WENT INTO LIMP MODE AGAIN THIS TIME THE SPEED WAS 80MPH ON THE HIGHWAY I CALLED HYUNDAI DOESNT SEEM THEY CARE IF WE WERE KILLED OR NOT OFFERED A FEW HUNDRED DOLLARS OUR VACATION WAS RUINED I DONT FEEL SAFE IN THIS SUV BUT CANT SEEM TO GET HELP FROM HYUNDAI I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER ONE
- 07/19/2019· ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFire
I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO REPORT A HOT SMELL IN MY CAR ON TUESDAY. THEY TOLD ME TO BRING IT IN FOR SERVICE INSPECTION. THURSDAY MORNING THE CAR WAS DRIVEN FOR A SHORT TIME AND PARKED IN THE DRIVE WAY AFTER. APPROXIMATELY TWO HOURS TO TWO AND A HALF HOURS LATER THE CAR CAB WAS FULL OF SMOKE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT BOTH ARRIVED ON SCENE.
- 07/18/2022· ENGINE
With no dashboard lights illuminated, the engine completely seized while driving 60 MPH on the highway. I was thankfully able to get it off to the side. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership and is currently awaiting a warranty approval for a new engine.