Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
Crash test #1NHTSA test 10643
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Crash test #2NHTSA test 10644
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Crash test #3NHTSA test 10647
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Crash test #4NHTSA test 11603
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Crash test #5NHTSA test 14610
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.
- TRAILER HITCHESCampaign 23V181000 · 17/03/2023Park outside
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELDCampaign 21V00M000 · 28/12/2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.
Risk: A windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will remove and reinstall the front windshield panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 216.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- ENGINE74
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER40
- POWER TRAIN26
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM25
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE14
- VISIBILITY14
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM12
- SERVICE BRAKES10
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/29/2025· ENGINE
After 110,000, the engine started using oil and it began to knock. According to the history of these engines, it will lead to engine failure. They have a record of being a lemon engine and there is not a engine of this type that this does not happen. The engine needs to recalled and replaced, They are the Theda II GDI series of 2.0L and 2.4L four-cylinder engines from Hyundai/Kia.
- 12/26/2025· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I have a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2.0T. I recently experienced the following issues; gasoline fumes coming into the car at low speeds, difficulty starting the car when it is cold and hesitation when trying to accelerate quickly. The check engine light came on and the dealer diagnosed a faulty fuel pump and high pressure hoses......on a car with only 49100 miles! The repair cars are estimated at over $1800. This is totally unacceptable and there should be a manufacturer issued recall on the car where Hyundai covers the cost of the repairs.
- 12/25/2025· POWER TRAIN
Transmission issues with DTC light coming on, dealership did software update which did not resolve the problem. Transmission has rough shift and shuddering. Dealership is recommending complete transmission replacement.
- 12/23/2025· ENGINE
2020 Hyundai SantaFe Limited AWD ... burning excessive oil. This only was noticed because the low oil light intermittently started coming on, and has only started happening in the last few months. low oil indicator flashing - 4QT low, went for an immediate oil change 78788 miles - oil changed 80252 miles - low oil - added 1QT 80628 miles - low oil - added 1QT 81376 miles - oil changed 81999 miles - low oil - added 1QT 82755 miles - low oil - added 2QT These are the most recent events since we started logging it.
- 12/23/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
2020 SantaFe Limited AWD with ~81200 miles. This is the 3rd or 4th time the P07410 code pops up with the Engine Check light. Hyundai said they found no issues and cleared the code, again. There was once when the code came up and it cleared itself after 50 miles. Not sure exactly what the cause is and Hyundai is saying "there is nothing wrong". Most recent occurrence Sept.4.2025.
- 12/23/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was locked inside the car on 22 Dec 2022 and could not get out until somebody opened a door from the outside, inspite of the fact that the inside lock buttons by the opening handles showed red on the lock buttons. When the lock buttons were pushed in, they immediately popped right back out. If held in the opening handles still remained 'limp' and moved without engaging.the unlocking mechanism. The windows also did not respond to their controls. Thee above occurred whether the ignition was on or off. The vehicle was in "Park".The electric buttons on the door console also had no effect, including the child lock button. The key pendant also got no results even though it had allowed entry and starting only minutes before. There was no pre-warning and this had never happened previously. After a (locked) door was opened from the outside, all functions returned to normal. Outside temperature was 20° F. I did not try to open the hatchback. This is a fatally dangerous situation even though the malfunction would not likely be reproducible at the dealer service department. Meanwhile I plan to purchase a glass breaking escape tool. The Hyundai dealer had no suggestion for emergency exit.
- 12/23/2022· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
As I was driving on the highway, the engine oil light came on. As I was trying to safely get off highway, the engine light came on. The engine stopped operating, but I was able to coast to a safe spot off highway. Car would not start after that. Towed to dealership. Noticeable oil was on the flat bed. Have not received update on vehicle from the dealership. Car is available for inspection. The safety of me and my family were are risk due to not being able to accelerate on the highway. Oil light came on first. 5 minutes later engine light came on. DTC P123600 appeared in my Hyundai app. Car is owned by me and my wife (Jennifer Reardon)
- 12/20/2025· ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Excessive oil consumption under warranty, . Hyundai says its normal consumption within 1,000 miles. engine its doing stalls now.
- 12/18/2025· ENGINE
My engine has been sucking up oil since the day I bought it. Once I hit 100k miles it started sucking up oil faster than the recommended oil changes. I was driving home two weeks ago. I went to get in a major highway and she would not go past 35 mph. I went to trade it in and was told it needs a new engine and a new turbo. This is a known problem and Hyundai will not fix it. This car is not even 4 years old. I got it in April 2021
- 12/11/2023· STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
La guagua a tenido problemas con el tren delantero. Comenzó con un sonido en el Guía. La Hyundai le reparo esa pieza y luego continuó con el mismo ruido. Ahora tienen que cambiarle el Rack and Piñogn. Mi guagua tiene solo 19,750 millas creo que vino mala de fábrica.
- 12/09/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHERFire
The vehicle seat caught fire overnight, Sept 26th, and was discovered the morning of Sept 27th 2024. The fire was contained to inside the vehicle and melted parts of the driver seat and lower part of steering wheel. The vehicle interior was covered in orange dust and had extremely toxic smell inside. Insurance 3rd party inspected and declared it a total loss. A few weeks later, a neighbor and fellow Hyundai SantaFe owner mentioned that he had heard of an issue with the Santa Fe catching fire. With this new information, I called Hyundai to alert them. Hyundai opened an investigation, but closed the claim since the 3rd party that declared it a total loss had already sold it as salvage. They also denied any recalls pertaining to my specific vehicle or knowledge that electrical fire was a potential issue for this model and year. There was a recall for a tow hitch that lead to fires....but mine did not have a tow hitch. Obvious concern is that this could be a wider issue than just 1 vehicle and lives and property of those owners and others could be at significant risk.
- 12/09/2020· FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING TRANSPORTED, THE CONTACT LEARNED THAT THE GAS CAP HAD DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO O'BRIEN HYUNDAI OF FORT MYERS (2850 COLONIAL BLVD, FORT MYERS, FL 33966; (239) 277-1222) WHERE THE GAS CAP WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND OPENED A CASE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,862.
- 12/06/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
I had been driving about 1.5 hours when I exited the Interstate and the car engine shut off at a traffic light. When I shifted the car into park and tried to restart the car, smoke filled the cabin. Unbeknownst to me, an oil leak occurred while driving. No warning lights or other indicators that anything was awry. I had the vehicle towed to the nearest Hyundai dealer. Though the suv is under warranty, they say the oil leak was caused by improper oil plug installation at the last oil change. The oil leak caused the motor to seize and the resulting damage is in excess of $10,000. Hyundai says the warranty won't cover this as it is a service issue. Jiffy Lube says their technician did nothing incorrect and they won't take responsibility for the repairs.
- 12/05/2025· ENGINE
Excessive oil consumption. Mechanic who changed oil said oil level was too low and he could find no leaks. He said this is a known Hyundai problem. The dealer acknowledged this. There was no warning light saying the oil was low. It was discovered during a routine oil change.
- 12/05/2022· ENGINE
Vehicle emitted smell of burning turned on check engine light and oil. Warranty service indicates that the fault corresponds to the oil pump, what is a safety hazard. Santa Fe 2020
- 12/04/2025· ENGINE
I had my oil changed at a reputable service center November 19, 2025 and the mechanic said my oil drip pan and plug needed to be replaced in the next few months because they were showing wear and could fail. He asked if I knew about a pending lawsuit against Hyundai concerning these items causing major issues. I said I was unaware, so I researched it. It seems to be legit. During my research there were multiple reports that many had oil leaking problems and some owners reported that the vehicle completely stopped running. That is especially dangerous driving on an Interstate. I was quoted about $350.00 to replace the pan and plug but I was told to contact the local dealership to see if they would replace it. They wanted $215.00 for a diagnostic plus parts and labor. That is quite a chunk of money for a drip pan and plug.
- 12/03/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
Back up camera glitches. Causes driver assist to take control at times when not necessary. Have has this in for service at least 4 times since purchasing vehicle in 2020. Service states repaired each time bit eventually happens again. This last time is getting more severe cause multiple electrical short in Overhead lights, Panoramic roof failure to close at times and rear hatch sometimes only partially opens. I saw recent recall for 2021 and 2022 Santa fe's, I believe this problem is what is happening with my 2020 Santa fe and the scope of the recall should be expanded.
- 12/01/2023· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while attempting to drive from a complete stop, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that he shifted to park(P), turned off, and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the failure had recurred 5 times while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that the immobilizer warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer three times; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 30,595.
- 11/27/2024· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at higher speeds, the vehicle experienced a momentary loss of motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. An unknown local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the vehicle was taken to Auto Zone where a diagnostic scanner was used to diagnose the vehicle. The contact was informed that the MAP sensor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to Advance Auto Parts where, the DTC code: P2565; was retrieved. The contact stated that the spark plugs, and the MAP sensor were previously replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,363.
- 11/27/2023· ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light flashed on the instrument panel, prompting her to pull into a parking area and contact Roadside Assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the knock sensor. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was again towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a general failure with the engine, requiring a replacement engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 14,500.
- 11/25/2025· TRAILER HITCHES,ENGINEFire
The contact owned a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH onto the ramp, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle stalled and shut off, and the contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact was calling for Roadside Assistance and noticed white smoke coming from under the hood. The stated that the smoke then turned dark brown and then black, and then flames appeared under the hood. The contact grabbed several things of value and exited the vehicle and started running. The vehicle was engulfed in flames, and the EDR was destroyed. The contact sustained minor scratches after falling while running away from the vehicle. No medical attention was sought. The Police and Fire Department were called to the scene. The contact stated that a Police report was not filed due to the incident not being related to a crash. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The local dealer where the vehicle was purchased was contacted; however, no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle had been purchased two months prior to catching on fire. The vehicle was inspected by the Insurance provider and declared a total loss. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V181000 (TRAILER HITCHES); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 94,400.
- 11/25/2024· ENGINE
While driving down the highway my car started slowing down and would not accelerate. All the lights came up on the dash board and would not let me accelerate. I had to merge 2 lanes to the shoulder on a busy highway where my car ended up dying and would not turn over. I was concerned for my safety and the speed limit was 70MPH and my car rapidly went down. After 5 minutes my car came back on and then immediately stopped working again. I had my car towed to the local Hyundai dealer where they said I would need a new engine on a 4 year old car. My make and model are in the recall for engine issues but my VIN # was not included. I spoke to Hyundai a few times and they stated there was nothing they can do and we needed to pay for the new engine.
- 11/23/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Unknown Sometimes when i stop the vehicle the engine shuts off and wont come back on until i put the car in park and turn the ignition off. Not safe at all when your in heavy traffic
- 11/23/2023· ENGINE
My engine light came on December of 2022. I took it to Autozone and had them to a diagnostic text to read the code. They stated it was a misfire on 3. My vehicle was also burning oil. I took it to the dealer(Napleton). They changed the spark plug. That didn’t fix the issue. I took it back because the check engine light came back on. Napleton Downtown Chicago, IL, kept the vehicle for 5 months because they stated they had to replace the engine. About 2 weeks ago my check engine light came back on. I made an appointment to take it into to Napleton Downtown Chicago on November 27, 2023. Yesterday November 22, 2023, my vehicle cut off, started smoking and didn’t cut back on, I had to have it towed to Napleton in Urbana, IL. Clearly this vehicle is having engine problems. I been telling Napleton Downtown Chicago that there’s a defect with this vehicle and to replace it. Please look into for me.
- 11/21/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
White pearl paint is chipping off from the vehicle by itself without any outside force. This is outbreaks over all Hyundai white pearl paint vics and they are not account for their defect. This problem eventually cause erosion on the body of the vehicle and treat safety of the drivers and people around it. This seems common issue with my research, please look close into this problem and protect driver and customer who have no power to defend their right.
- 11/17/2023· ENGINE
On 01/21/2023 after exiting thr highway and pulling into a shopping center signals started popping up on my dashboard and ny car lost speed. I tried making it down the rd to a tire discounters but ny car lost complete power and would not turn on. A tow truck toad it to the tire discounters and once on the flat bed it was a puddle of oil and a trail of oil coming from my car. Once there tire discounters states that my car needed to go to a dealership. It set at kerry hyundai Alexandria until may 2023 waiting to be diagnosed. Once diagnosed it stated that ny car was missing the drain plug and that I needed a brand new engine. I had a oil change at car x on 12/10/2023 and hyundai blamed car x stating that they didn't tighten my plug. But car x denied. I got a lawyer n began to sue car x when car x lawyer responded stating that there were other people having the same problem and hyundai was being investigated. My car is currently still sitting at hyundsi because I don't have 7800 for a engine and hyundai will not cover the engine under warranty
- 11/13/2025· ENGINE,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle started shaking and lost power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted immediately. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had an air leak with the fuel. The contact added that the leak was stopped after an undisclosed repair, but the failure reoccurred a day later. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was then taken to the same dealer and was diagnosed and determined that the throttle body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred two days later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,700.
- 11/12/2020· LANE DEPARTURE
HYUNDAI 2020 SANTA FE LIMITED BLIND SPOT COLLISION-AVOIDANCE ASSIST (BCA) SYSTEM WHEN SET IN ACTIVE MODE AND UNDER THESE CONDITIONS ITS ACTIVATION IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS: IN THREE (3) OR MORE LANES OF TRAFFIC. IN NEITHER OF THE OUTER LANES. PASSING A TRUCK IN THE LANE ON THE IMMEDIATE RIGHT. VEHICLE(S) IN THE LANE ON THE IMMEDIATE LEFT. VEHICLE(S) IN THE LANE ON THE IMMEDIATE RIGHT. AT SPEEDS OF 50 ' 70+ MPH. WHEN THE SANTA FE APPROACHES THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK, THE BOW WAVE OF AIR FROM THE TRUCK PUSHES THE SANTA FE TOWARDS THE LEFT LANE LINE ACTIVATING THE BCA, WHICH VIOLENTLY JERKS THE SANTA FE TO THE RIGHT. WHEN THIS OCCURS AND THE SANTA FE IS MOVED VIOLENTLY TOWARD THE RIGHT LINE LANE, THE BSA DETECTS THE TRUCK (OR OTHER VEHICLES) IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE, AND VIOLENTLY JERKS THE SANTA FE TOWARD THE LEFT HAND LANE. UPON DOING SO THE SANTA FE BSA AGAIN DETECTS VEHICLES IN THE LEFT HAND LANE AND AGAIN IMMEDIATELY JERKS THE SANTA FE TOWARD THE RIGHT HAND LANE. THIS ACTION CONTINUALLY OCCURS UNTIL THE DRIVER FORCIBLY REGAINS CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL, AND/OR DEPRESSES THE BRAKE. THIS REPEATED VIOLENT JERKING THE SANTA FE BACK AND FORTH ACROSS THE LANE IT'S IN HAS VERY NEARLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT IN AT LEAST TWO (2) OCCASIONS (OCT 27 & 28, 2020) UNTIL WE FOUND THAT THE BCA COULD BE DEACTIVATED AND SET TO WARNING ONLY. THIS VIOLENT ACTION OF THE BCA SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM THE SANTA FE VEHICLE TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS.
- 11/10/2025· ENGINE
While driving the oil light started flashing then the check engine light started flashing with no prior warning. The car was checked, it had burnt up the oil in it and then I put 3 quarts in it. It was 200 miles from needing an oil change. The engine had little to no power once oil was put in it. It died on the side of a highway. It had to be towed to a mechanic. There was no prior warning to this incident that the oil was low. This car put me and my child at risk of car accidents when on the road trying to get home with traffic behind me because the car wouldn't accelerate. I called Hyundai and they said they wouldn't help with no recall or extended warranty on the car.
- 11/09/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The metal cable that holds the spare tire snapped off while the car was driving out of our driveway. And the tire flew off the car nearly causing it to crash.
- 11/06/2025· ENGINE
I recently inquired about this vehicle that was for sale at Grayson Hyundai. It's has a KSDS that needs service immediately and the pre-owned manager is not willing to do that; in fact he's refusing because "They aren't Hyundai" when that is a lie and his dealership can definitely do that service. Safety is a huge concern because the engine could potentially catch on fire or worse. Nothing has been inspected or replaced or fixed at this dealership. I did not go to the dealership myself so I don't know what lights could be on. But with the recalls and this KSDS campaign service needing to be done I don't think there is anything else wrong with the vehicle.
- 11/06/2023· ENGINEFire
After having a warranty repair for a valve cover gasket' at CENTEREACHHYUNDAI, I picked up my car. Only 8 minutes into my drive home the engine light went on and engine error code appeared. At that piont smoke was coming from the hood when I heard a pop and flames appeared at my passenger side window. I turned the car off removed my phone and exited the vehicle. No one else was in the car but within minutes the fire was totally involved. I also noted it took the fire department very long to arrive. If anyone was trapped in the car they would have peristed.
- 11/05/2023· ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Oil leak from oil pan area. Took the car to the dealer twice to get it fix and the problem temporarily stop but now is continuing to leak again. All they did was retighten the oil plug the first time and then the second time replaced the oil plug with a new one. They said it was a bad oil plug washer and now it should stop the leak, but now it’s leaking again. Took notice of the leak when the car was parked in garage overnight and a pool of oil formed under the car again. This is scary because losing oil like this is not normal and if it continue it could seize the engine while the driver is driving it risking the safety of the driver and car.
- 11/03/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2020 Sante fe with 59000 miles on it. Air stops blowing cold, I look it up and there is a TSB for the Evaporator Temperature Sensor from May of 2021. This is a safety issue because if you run the air conditioning or defroster if the sensor is bad it clicks off the compressor which can affect the fan and overheat the car. I watched it happen on my car when they ran the diagnostic trying to fix it. It came up as a bad sensor, and it clicked off the compressor. The fact that a 6 year old car with 59000 miles needs work on an air conditioner is ridiculous and in this case not safe.
- 10/18/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Numerous different occasions since I bought the vehicle this year in March 2023 when on highway, side streets and even in parking lots with nothing, no cars no objects or humans in front or behind the vehicle my forward collision warning and rear end collision warning has came on which caused the car to break on its own and it is a safety concern. I have been to the dealer numerous times since I’ve bought the vehicle and currently have reached out to Hyundai Motors of America and pretty much got told to suck it up nothing they can do for me as the computer isn’t showing any codes or issues my car has now been at dealership where I bought it for 2 weeks now and no resolution besides come get the car and figure it out on my own and as a single mother with a child with disabilies I don’t know what else to do.
- 10/16/2024· ENGINE
Vehicle has developed excessive oil consumption. No leaks to be found. Using approximately one quart a week.
- 10/14/2025· AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTSCrash
To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally report repeated safety system failures in my Hyundai vehicle that have resulted in significant injury and ongoing hardship. The first incident occurred in 2021, when my vehicle was struck from the front by another driver who fled the scene. Despite the impact causing visible front-end damage, the airbags did not deploy, and the seatbelt did not engage properly. The vehicle was repaired by an authorized Hyundai dealership, yet at no point was I informed that the vehicle’s safety systems might be compromised or that it should not be driven. The second and more severe incident occurred in December 2024, when my vehicle was rear-ended by a commercial truck and subsequently pushed into four other vehicles. Once again, neither the airbags deployed nor the seatbelt engaged, resulting in multiple bodily injuries for which I am still undergoing treatment. After reporting this second failure to Hyundai, I was informed that the airbags and seatbelts may not activate when the vehicle is struck from behind. However, this explanation does not address the fact that the same safety failures occurred in the 2021 front-end collision as well. I believe these repeated malfunctions indicate a serious defect in the vehicle’s safety restraint and airbag systems that poses an ongoing danger to drivers and passengers. I am requesting a full investigation into these safety system failures, including whether the dealership’s repair process or Hyundai’s design or manufacturing contributed to these malfunctions. Due to these failures, I have experienced significant physical injury, emotional trauma, and ongoing medical issues, and I am seeking appropriate accountability and resolution.
- 10/12/2023· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
Catalytic converter is failing Lane collision warning failing driver side rear view mirror
- 10/06/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My rear window suddenly shattered while I was driving. My safety was put at risk as it sounded like someone shot into my back window. The vehicle was inspected by state police.
- 10/06/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This is the 1st of two 2020 Santa Fe's that this has occurred on as well as a 2019 Santa Fe that we formally owned within the last 2 years. The windshield does not take rock hits well. On all three vehicles a rock strike on the windshield not only left a large star impact, but the crack from the impact reaches all the way to the roof pillar. The crack is long. I believe the windshield glass is substandard and needs to be looked into closer as being a possible safety risk. Replacing the windshield and camera recalibration is expensive.
- 10/06/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This is the 2nd 2020 Santa Fe that this has occurred on as well as a 2019 Santa Fe that we formally owned within the last 2 years. The windshield does not take rock hits well. On all three vehicles a rock strike on the windshield not only left a large star impact, but the crack from the impact reaches all the way to the roof pillar. The crack is long. I believe the windshield glass is substandard and needs to be looked into closer as being a possible safety risk. Replacing the windshield and camera recalibration is expensive.
- 10/04/2025· ENGINE
Car was burning a significant amount of oil in between oil changes. The driving down the highway the car started missing and almost stalled out at 60 mph almost causing a accident now vehicle will not run properly and is blowing black smoke out of the tailpipe
- 10/04/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sitting in parked vehicle. Opened the rarely-opened panoramic sunroof. Heard unusual sound,. Looked next day and noticed a stationary glass panel forward of the sunroof had shattered all the way around but had not collapsed (yet--have tape on it to keep it intact until repairs can be made). Hyundai does not consider this to be a warranty issue. The warranty states in the "What is not covered" section: "- Action of road elements (sand, gravel, dust or road debris) which result in stone chipping of paint and glass." Dealer documented it and basically said "too bad". Since the issue being reported was NOT caused by road debris etc., This should be a warranty coverage matter. Similar instances have happened to others (entire sunroof) and has been reported. This glass should be LAMINATED--not tempered--but is not. This could be a major safety concern.
- 10/03/2023· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Intermittently when you turn the left turn signal, it will be a delay of 2-3 seconds to actually turn on the lights. Usually it happens in the morning when cold.
- 10/02/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD, VIN [XXX] , 30,000 miles. Air conditioning fails to blow cold air; climate control displays -10°F, indicating a defective evaporator temperature sensor per Hyundai TSB 21-HV-002H (2021). Dealer diagnosed evaporator/thermostat failure, quoted $2,500, despite TSB specifying a $30–$50 sensor replacement. Vehicle is 9 months past 5-year warranty but under 60,000 miles. This known defect causes driver discomfort and potential visibility issues (fogging in humid conditions). I have dash photos and dealer quote. Request NHTSA investigate for recall due to widespread HVAC issues in Hyundai models. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 10/01/2025· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. After scanning the vehicle, the contact received a code for torque converter damage. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the TCM update was needed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The oil light was illuminated and then turned off. The contact became aware that the engine oil was 4 1/2 quarts low, and it was determined there was an oil consumption issue with the engine. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
- 09/27/2025· ENGINE
On [XXX}, my 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.0T (VIN: [XXX] ) experienced sudden complete engine failure accompanied by a strong burning smell. The vehicle would not start or turn over, stranding me and creating a safety hazard. The burning smell indicated potential fire risk. This appears to be related to the known Theta II engine defect that has caused multiple recalls and engine fires in Hyundai vehicles. Despite dealer confirmation that the engine was clean and well-maintained with no customer fault, Hyundai has denied warranty coverage. The sudden failure pattern with burning odor represents a serious safety defect that could endanger drivers and passengers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 09/27/2022· POWER TRAIN
On 07/12/2020 My 2020 SANTA FE Slipped out of park while in garage. It rolled backward until it hit neighbor's porch damaging my tailgate and tail light. It was taken to Hyundai dealership and they said they could not replicate the problem. On about 08/28/22 The next incident was the transmission slipped down into low gear and would not go over 40 MPH. Again the dealer cannot replicate and the car is still at he dealer.
- 09/26/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHERCrash
I am writing to formally express my serious concerns regarding an ongoing safety issue with a certified used vehicle I purchased from McDonough Hyundai, [XXX] , in December 2024 and the dealership’s repeated failure to resolve the issue, even after a car accident occurred due to this malfunction. Two months after purchase, I discovered that my horn did not work when I attempted to use it. I brought the vehicle back for service and was told the issue had been resolved. However, the horn continued to malfunction. I have returned to the dealership approximately five times with the same complaint. Each time, I was told the horn works, yet it continues to fail intermittently. In June 2025, I was involved in a car accident and was unable to alert the other driver because the horn did not work. Despite the severity of the situation, no one at the dealership has taken appropriate action to identify or correct the issue. During my most recent visit, Service Manager [XXX] witnessed firsthand that the horn did not work. His technician pressed it once, and because it worked in that moment, the vehicle was returned to me without further inspection. This intermittent failure has still not been addressed. I have time-stamped video evidence showing the horn failing just two days after the last service visit. A non-working horn is a major safety hazard. The repeated dismissal of this issue is unacceptable. I expected better from a pre certified used vehicle. I would be happy to provide any information needed to resolve this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 09/25/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WITH LESS THAN 1000 MILES ON THE CAR, THE HORN STOPPED WORKING INTERMITTENTLY. (THE MAJORITY OF THE TIME IT DIDN'T.) THE DEALER KEPT THE CAR FOR A WEEK. THE DETERMINATION WAS THAT THE "DRIVER AIR BAG CLOCKSPRING HAS INTERNAL MALFUNCTION". THE PAPERWORK SHOWS THAT IT WAS REPLACED. YESTERDAY, APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS AFTER THE REPAIR, THE HORN FAILED TO WORK AGAIN WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. (BASED ON PAST EXPERIENCE, SPEED DOESN'T SEEM TO BE A FACTOR.)