Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningOptional
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningOptional
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
No public crash-test footage is available for this vehicle.
Recalls (7)
⚠ 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 24V879000 · 21/11/2024
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Santa Fe HEV, Elantra, Elantra HEV and 2022 Elantra N and Santa Fe PHEV vehicles. Due to a damaged printed circuit board, the rearview camera image may fail to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2025. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 271.
- AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULECampaign 21V185000 · 17/03/2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Santa Fe vehicles. The Occupant Detection System (ODS) module may not deactivate the air bag upon detection of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: In the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
Fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ODS module, free of charge. All affected vehicles have been remedied as of May 12, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 202.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGSCampaign 21V524000 · 09/07/2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
Risk: A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 207.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONCampaign 22V746000 · 06/10/2022
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
Risk: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 236.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGSCampaign 21V308000 · 03/05/2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Santa Fe vehicles equipped with 2.5-litre Turbo engines. The fuel pipe connecting the high pressure fuel pump to the fuel rail may not have been tightened properly.
Risk: An insufficiently tightened fuel pipe may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers inspected and tightened the fuel pipe connection, free of charge. The affected vehicles have been repaired and therefore no owner notification letters will be sent. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 206.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- POWER TRAIN50
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER41
- ENGINE36
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM29
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE18
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM8
- VISIBILITY/WIPER7
- VISIBILITY7
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/30/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
I hadn't been begging Hyundai to help remove a public safety risk for years ! Today, The service lady witnessed my car have a severe safety defect. Although initially offering a rental car, ultimately denied due to my inability to provide insurance until the 1st. My insurance is valid until tomorrow. N they REFUSED to provide the rental without the insurance being dated for 4 days from today. The man in the service office asked if I needed a ride home!? Suggesting i drive the car home. Hyundai has witnessed this cars emergency parking failing, and are aware that this car has rolled out of gear TWO TIMES, W my son in it !!?? Until today, claiming unable to "duplicate" the defect. And unable to "substantiate " my claims due to not being able to duplicate the deflect. They duplicated the defect today. The car no longer has a safety system, that safely parks the car, when the door is open. The safety system fails, at more then half of the attempts,engage and the car will roll in either direction with the car door wide open The service department duplicated the defect today. They claim to have documented the defect . i would like to believe they will finally do what is right.. The realistic fact that they have chosen to disregard the safety of the community, and refuse to offer the rental car, is extremely dangerous to the community and neglectful to the laws of the Safety Act and my Consumer rights. With now, TWO (NOT AT FAULT) Rollaway accidents , insurers are refusing n to provide coverage for the vehicle. Some only offer liabilit, or want 4 xs the quoted rate. Hyundai is aware that this car is defective.. Hyundai has a recent consent order, for over 54 millionth dollars, for untimely recalls and falsafying reports to the NHSTA . They are now, as they then, are in violation of the Safety Act and the NHSTA Consent Order with Kia in the Theta II engines Class Action The purpose of the Safety Act, is to prevent serious injuries, from known defects before
- 12/30/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT ISSUED A REMEDY FOR THIS RECALL #22V746000 SINCE THE INITIAL FILING OF THE RECALL ON 10/6022.
- 12/29/2023· POWER TRAIN
The contact owned a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated received notification of Hyundai Recall Campaign Number: 236, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the 8-speed dual clutch transmissions (DCT) TCU software update was performed. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shut off temporarily and almost came to a complete stop. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was stated that he continued driving the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and scheduled an appointment for a diagnostic test; however, the contact decided to trade the vehicle due to safety concerns. The vehicle was traded for another vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,600.
- 12/26/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This vehicle has to replace car horn 3 time unsafe to drive this vehicle have opened repair . Unable to get load . have to Walt for service day .this vehicle have only 14000 mile I am disable person.
- 12/23/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Rearview Camera does not work (Signal Loss message appears). I nearly hit 1 adult and 2 small children that were passing behind my vehicle in a parking lot. I felt the need to report this even though a recall is being put into place. I have an appointment already to have the camera repaired.
- 12/18/2024· BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V879000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 12/16/2022· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V746000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. 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.
- 12/15/2022· POWER TRAIN
Vehicle warning alarm activated, car went into limp mode for about 20 seconds, and then lost all drive. Warning message for Transmission Control Unit problem. Several previous temporary failures with no stored codes over past two or three months, one previously reported to NHTSA. Drive would not engage even after multiple restart attempts. The short amount of time and reduced speed could cause a serious accident. Very fortunate that I knew what I was happening and reacted quickly to get vehicle to side of highway. Dealer service has confirmed problem. Awaiting new transmission.
- 12/12/2022· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer however, the mechanic was unable to retrieve a fault code. The contact stated that while her husband was driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact was able to coast off the roadway. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V746000 (Power Train). The approximate failure mileage was 13,000.
- 12/12/2022· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
I was accelerating after being at a stop sign onto a major two lane road when all of the warning systems came on and the car stalled while the front of the car was partially on the major two lane road. The alarms, including the collision warning were going off, and it took me several minutes to restart the engine. I was very lucky that I was not hit by oncoming traffic. This was immediately reported to our local Hyundai dealer. They took two weeks to schedule our appointment and then told us nothing was wrong and that everything "checks out". Today, I receive the recall notice telling me the loss of power "could increase the risk of a crash" and yet they do not yet have a fix for it. This means I am paying for a car that is unsafe to use with no remedy in sight. Had this occurred on the highway, I would have been killed.
- 12/10/2022· POWER TRAIN
The issue first came up in June 2022. When driving the vehicle and coming to a stop the vehicle lost power and would not drive at all. After a few seconds the check engine light came on. After multiple attempts to shift into gear and restart the vehicle the vehicle did have power but for only about 10 miles before doing it again. We ended up having the vehicle towed to the Hyundai dealership. They told us it was a transmission electric oil pump going out (which is now recalled). They replaced the pump but immediately after getting the vehicle and driving down the road less than a couple of miles, the vehicle lost power again and did the exact same thing. The dealership towed the vehicle back and this time said they will need to replace the whole transmission assembly. After waiting over 3 months they finally replaced it. We got the vehicle back and currently is able to drive. However, the transmission shifts hard and there have been times where the transmission lags for a long time before shifting into gear to make the vehicle move. When it does finally go into gear the vehicle will take off real hard and quick. I do not feel safe in this vehicle. Considering how the vehicle lags and takes off real hard at times, I feel this is putting me at risk for a wreck. This is absolutely unacceptable for a vehicle this new and so few miles. Unfortunately, I do not feel Hyundai will back up their poor product and give a fair refund. We have received a recall notice for the oil pump but they have no solution. This recall does not take into account how poorly the transmission now shifts after being replaced.
- 12/09/2022· POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I have been aware of this SAFETY DEFECT/RECALL for over 2 months now yet Hyundai has no remedy planned thus placing owners and others on the road in serious danger. This is unacceptable and I wish to file a formal complaint with the NHTSA. (NHTSA recall number 22V-746)
- 12/08/2022· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while making a turn from a complete stop, the vehicle responded but suddenly stopped. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle 5 minutes later. However, upon depressing the accelerator pedal, the engine made abnormal roaring sounds. The contact was able to drive after several attempts and pulled into a parking lot, however, the failure reoccurred. The contact restarted the vehicle and pulled into a parking spot. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated. An unknown software update and an unknown repair were completed; however, the vehicle hesitated to respond while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer, Key Hyundai (4660 Southside Blvd #100, Jacksonville, FL 32216) where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced and that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V746000 (Power Train). However, the parts for the recall repair were not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 11,900. Parts distribution disconnect.
- 12/07/2022· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
There were two warning (?) "bings" from the instrument cluster and then vehicle completely lost power and would not exceed maybe 2 MPH. Vehicle had forward drive, but no willingness for engine to speed up beyond idle speed. Was like this for several city blocks until I was able to restart at a traffic light and then it resumed normal operation. Did not notice any warning lights and no messages popped up in the instrument or vehicle display. Just the two "bings" before power loss. This is actually the second time this has happened. Last time was while accelerating on a freeway onramp, but vehicle corrected itself more quickly and without need for restart.
- 11/30/2022· VISIBILITY/WIPER
The windshield has waves through it causing parts of the windshield to be blurry.
- 11/13/2022· STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
While driving the crash avoidance emergency braking came on out of nowhere, and the steering locked up. I was driving on a straight and level roadway with no vehicles in front of me when suddenly the whole dash lit up with warning lights and the car, a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, came to a emergency stop, the steering wheel was shaking and wouldn't turn. This was the second time this happened. The first time on 09/29/22 I called the car dealer and was told that "They knew of the problem and that there was no remedy". This is extremely dangerous, both times it happened while I was driving on a highway at a steady speed, thankfully the roadway was dry if it had been raining I would have probably crashed.
- 11/06/2022· VISIBILITY
While backing out of our garage, the “eyebrow” glass portion of the panoramic sunroof shattered. Nothing struck the glass. Our insurance is paying for the repair and rental car for a week. Hyundai will not cover the glass damage under the warranty. Online searches indicate that Hyundai has a lengthy history of faulty panoramic sunroofs.
- 11/03/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
While driving in the fast lane on the freeway at speed limit the car suddenly began to slow/stop, after which a warning flashed on the display that said Danger, collision imminent, or something like that. There was no one close in front of me when that happened. This exact scenario has happened three times now in this car, in the same way! I felt my life was endangered every time by the sudden and unnecessary braking of my car.
- 10/29/2025· POWER TRAIN
My transmission failed, even after the #236 recall in 2022. My car was recalled for Recall #236 in 2022. My car was updated and "fixed" and now in 2025 is showing the p1c2d03 code and requiring a new transmission. The same recall, without the fix.The car is in great health and never had issues until I was going 60 miles per hour on a busy highway and it reduced to 26 miles per hour during busy traffic. Causing me to almost get rear-ended multiple times and people swerving off the highway to miss me. My car was not going, even with the gas pedal down. I had no warnings, it happened out of nowhere.
- 10/27/2022· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The vehicle will not move forward or reverse, when drive or reverse is selected. The car has been at the dealership since 10/11/2022. I was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. No one in the hyundai organization (including the dealership) can tell me when replacement will be.
- 10/23/2021· POWER TRAIN
10/22/21, Mileage ~720, while driving on the highway I had two incidents when the car did not respond to throttle application. In the first instance while attempting to accelerate mildly on a level road the rpm went to 3500 with no acceleration. I backed off the throttle and the car resumed normal operation. In the second instance while attempting to accelerate mildly on a level road the rpm showed about 1500 with no acceleration. I backed off the throttle and the car resumed normal operation. I had no further incidents and returned home safely. There were no warning lights, messages. This is the first problem I have experienced. I think this may be a transmission problem. Similar incidents have been reported online by Hyundai owners with the wet DCT that my car has. I have not yet contacted my dealer about this problem.
- 10/22/2025· ENGINE
While traveling Interstate 75in Florida en route to Venice Hyundai for routine oil change at 65 mph, vehicle rapidly slowed to 40mph, driver pressing on gas pedal but vehicle would not accelerate( while being tailgated by semi that was flashing warning headlights at me). There was burning smell while this was happening. Pulled onto shoulder and called Hyundai service for assistance tow truck brought me in. Vehicle inspected by Hyundai Venice technicians ran through computer tests all ok, tech drove vehicle not able to reproduce problem. Oil changed tired rotated. Instructions included not able to do any repair because cannot find anything wrong with vehicle please contact us if problem recurs. I have had several conversations with service advisor voicing serious safety concerns regarding driving this vehicle and informing him that what occurred was my car went into failsafe/limp home mode which is what happens when there is serious problems with vehicle and should not be driven till repaired. And cannot repair until computer finds a code signifying problem.
- 10/22/2022· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Car was bought approximately a year and a half ago and it was working fine until last September 2022 when it started to stall the engine when having ISG (Idle Stop and GO) ON. It has no pattern, but during the last 2 months it has shut down more than a dozen times. I've taken the car for inspection at Hyundai (2 times so far) and they can't find any faults when running a scan and said that they car is just fine. They assured that an ECM update would solve the issue but it has not improved anything in the car. The car has continued the pattern , when you stop the car it starts to shudders before stalling the engine, all without any error lights. Next November will be the third time bringing the car for the same issue without any resolution. Also, as a minor problem, it has started disconnecting the cellphone from the apple car and you can't reconnect it unless you turn off the car.
- 10/17/2025· POWER TRAIN
The transmission in my 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has failed multiple times. The first failure occurred within the first two years of owning the vehicle. The car began jerking, hesitating, and struggling to accelerate, and the check engine light came on. The dealership confirmed a transmission issue and replaced the transmission under warranty. After that replacement, the same symptoms returned, and the transmission had to be replaced a second time, again under warranty. The most recent transmission replacement was only a few weeks ago, and the same symptoms are already returning — the vehicle hesitates, jerks, and occasionally loses power when trying to accelerate. These problems create serious safety concerns, especially when merging onto highways or crossing intersections. The hesitation and loss of power make it unpredictable and unsafe to drive. I have two young children who ride in car seats, and I no longer feel confident that this vehicle is safe for my family. Hyundai service employees have acknowledged that this is a known, recurring issue with this model’s transmission design. However, no permanent fix or recall has been issued, and I have been told to continue replacing the transmission under warranty until the coverage runs out. This approach does not address the underlying safety defect. The issue has been confirmed by Hyundai dealerships multiple times. The check engine light has come on before each failure. I am reporting this because repeated transmission failures that cause hesitation and power loss are a clear safety risk, and Hyundai has not provided a lasting solution.
- 10/07/2025· AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the controls on the steering wheel became inoperable. In addition, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with clock spring failure. The contact was informed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that the Department of Motor Vehicles declined the registration renewal due to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and several cases were filed. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall nor special program. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
- 10/04/2023· POWER TRAIN
Transmission goes out of gear while driving. It was taken to Hyundai for inspection 5 times. Goes out of gear when driving. Making a turn at a light, the car stopped in the intersection, I could have been hit by another car. Car was taken in for a transmission recall on 02/07/2023, ever since they reset the transmission, the car goes out of gear again. It didn’t happen before recall and computer reset. The car has been back to the Hyundai dealer on at least 5 times and has been there for a full week now. They still have the car. The dealership said they can’t reproduce the problem. No warning lights when taken for recall, however, transmission warning light came on the last 2 times taken to the dealership.
- 09/29/2023· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V746000 (Power Train) and linked the recall to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under the recall or warranty. A case was filed, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
- 09/28/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Car would not start; battery was too low to activate lights or locks, let alone starter. An attempted jumper cable connection to an older car was insufficient to make the motor turn, even after just running the assist car while connected for 20+ minutes. A subsequent jump from the AAA 2000 Ah jump pack did work although their ‘test’ indicated battery state-of-charge and state-of-health to be less than 30%. Their obvious recommendation was battery replacement and, with the vehicle now running, a drive to the dealership was attempted. At the first intersection a full vehicle stop engaged the engine Stop-Start function, but without sufficient battery for the ‘Start’ part. Not only would the vehicle not restart but there was insufficient battery power to put the transmission into PARK nor engage the emergency brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling into busy cross-traffic; only the service brake worked. Fortunately, a nearby motorist recognized the emergency and placed rocks under the tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling forward. The vehicle was towed to the dealership where the battery was replaced without significant comment on the total failure of nearly all systems in the event of battery failure. The outcome of this major battery failure could have been catastrophic as the ONLY system even marginally functional was the non-power-assisted service brake.
- 09/28/2021· FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Smart Cruise Control relies on the inconsistent and consequently unreliable performance of the of the front-mounted radar. Otherwise-reasonable operation of the Cruise Control would abruptly terminate 1/3 to 1/2 of the intended use-time, illuminating the master warning light (the amber triangle with internal ‘!’) that was accompanied by either a ‘1’ or ‘2’ encircled by red and may or may not have included the Collision-Avoidance warning light. Subsequent examination of the rectangular shield in the center of the grill very rarely revealed more than 2 bug remnants. When the Smart Cruise Control was in operation it would abruptly apply the brakes when approaching or passing a truck in the lane to taffiche right. There appeared to be no similar conditions to the size or shape of the truck or trailer when these events would occur. None of these events applied to congested tr conditions, just otherwise open road. The ’21 Hyundai Santa Fe does not appear to accommodate any mechanism to revert to conventional cruise control, omitting the influence of the erratic front radar system. Trips to two dealerships have yielded no redress to this malfunction.
- 09/26/2022· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
This SUV has been plagued with issues, and yet after 5-6 visits to the dealership, they don't seem to be able to fix them all. The vehicle (2.5T AWD) currently has around 14k miles and within the past month the gas pedal suddenly became unresponsive, worst of all while carrying my kids and wife in the car. Coming to a dead stop to cross an intersection, went to accelerate to join traffic and the car wouldn't accelerate. Last time on 9/23 when I almost got into a head-on accident while making a left turn as the car barely moved into the first of three incoming lanes, would not accelerate and so forced me to quickly hit reverse, outrageous! Other three times while making a right turn. Auto engine-off has been disabled on all occasions (hate it); two times happened while driving on smart mode, another one on comfort and another one on sport mode. Car has been always using Mobil, Shell or Chevron gasoline. Which also brings me to another point, the vehicle suddenly started consuming crazy amounts of gas, currently at 16mpg for the past 4 full tanks! The vehicle was dropped off at dealership on 9/26/22 and already filed for Lemon Law in FL as this is absolutely unreliable and dangerous to carry my family on. According to manager at Rick Case Hyundai of Davie, an update for the transmission just came out this week after a recall and so they were going to reprogram. I am still getting rid of this p.o.c.
- 09/23/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
April 2022 My 2020 one, Honda Santa Fe started rolling backwards in rolling to a flagpole as I was walking away from the car. I tried to to catch up with the car. It had my family inside screaming. But I was unable to stop it from slimming into the fireplace. I let Hyundaiusa know. They recommended that I take the car to the dealer. They promised to reimburse me for rental car after the diagnostic came back. they found nothing wrong with the car and never paid for the reimbursement Now September 2023. Same thing just happened again. I was in McDonald's drive through and I drop my debit card so I got out to get my debit card. I got out of the car and had to close the door and as I bend down at sensed the car start starting to pull away. The car once again started running away for me. I was outside the vehicle, but I was able to jump in the car and apply the brake before it slammed into McDonald's. I have made a police report. And I have a witness from McDonald's That saw the incident. I had already reached out to the attorney General's office About the first time the car rolled away from me in April 2022. They claim that my Hyundai found nothing wrong with the diagnostics. There was no argument I can make except for Being called a liar. The mechanic did a little demonstration showing us how the safety mechanism in the Santa Fe makes it impossible for the car to roll out of park if the doors open or. How it's impossible. Even if the door is open, it shifts back to park. If you hit the drive button with the doors open It automatically shifts to park. .. So there's supposed to be "no way. The car can shift out of park into drive or neutral." It rolled away in 2022 April, and it did it again September 2023.
- 09/23/2022· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Car was without power after 16 months and 7500 miles. Got it jump started. Two days after that, car would not start again. Second time jump started. Taken to the dealership (Alexandria Hyundai) where two days after that they found "nothing wrong with the car" and returned it to me. Before that, I asked them to change the battery, they denied my request and I paid out of pocket for a new battery as maybe that was the problem. One month approximately after that, car would not even open. Got it jump started again. Drove to blocks and completely and suddenly shut off in the middle of a busy intersection posing a major safety concern for myself and third parties. Involved 911 and towing. Had to spend 40 minutes depressing the brake for the car not to roll down and avoid an accident. Taken to the dealership again. 5 days after that, dealership found "nothing wrong with the car". 7500 miles inspection done in parallel "supposedly" put the tires at 35 psi per report issued but dashboard shows tires at 30 psi. Do not trust dealership, car poses significant driving and safety concern for me and third parties.
- 09/20/2021· FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V524000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available and would not be available for another three months. 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.
- 09/19/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The horn on my 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has completely stopped working. This is a severe safety hazard. I recently attempted to warn another driver who was drifting into my lane but was unable to, forcing me to swerve and nearly resulting in a head-on collision. The horn failed without any warning. After researching online, I have found that this appears to be a known issue with the Santa Fe model and Hyundai vehicles in general. I am requesting a diagnostic and repair as this is a safety feature failure that could lead to a serious accident. Please let me know if this issue qualifies for a recall. Thank You
- 09/14/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have a problem with the horns on this vehicle. The horns have been replaced by the dealer 5 times so far and they are out again. THE HORNS LAST ABOUT 1 TO 2 MOUNTHS. There is no warning that the horn stopped working, and if it's needed in an emergency to avoid an accident and doesn't work, myself and others could get hurt. This is ongoing problem that should to be addressed.
- 09/14/2023· ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
During low speeds the car stalls out which could cause a safety issue for my family
- 09/13/2022· BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while the back-up camera was activated, the screen display turned to a green color and no image was visible, creating a visibility hazard for the driver. The contact indicated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure or retrieve a fault code. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 21,000.
- 09/01/2021· POWER TRAIN
I bought a new 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL in January 2021. The vehicle occasionally will not shift out of first gear unless you slow down to almost a stop and then accelerate again. It began within the first month or two of owning. Hyundai has had it in the shop three times. Two times they said they couldn't duplicate. One time they said they showed it went to 4000 RPM's without shifting on the diagnostics before it was slowed down as I told them. They did an update on the TCU and reset the transmission on May 10, 2021. On August 4, 2021 the transmission stuck again. (It went to 5000 RPM's without shifting before I slowed it to almost a stop) This problem has happened about eight times since it began. The GM at the dealership I bought it from said Corporate wouldn't buy it back or get involved without them duplicating the problem. I emailed Hyundai consumer complaints on August 17, 2021 and on August 18 received an email stating I had a case # and would be contacted shortly. On August 24 I called Hyundai customer complaint and was told I had a case manager assigned and they had until August 31 to reply. They did not reply and on September 1, 2021 I called Hyundai complaints again and they said I did NOT have a case manager and that they had not sent it to corporate yet but someone would call me at some point. I feel Hyundai is not concerned about this dangerous problem with their vehicle or my safety. I am beyond frustrated. Jeremy Kimrey
- 08/25/2022· SEAT BELTS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Emergency braking comes on with no vehicles in front for 1/4 mile. Passenger front seat belt is no working properly. Caution Collision comes on sporadically. Clock does not show correct time. Stop-Start System works sporadically. A/C fan blows out defrost sometimes. Remote start does not always work or shuts off too soon. Case Manager does not return calls. Changed Case Manager but NO BETTER. Hyundai DOES NOT CARE.
- 08/23/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The panoramic sunroof which is made of tempered glass is a large piece above the back passenger. There is also a small piece above the windshield. The sunroof sits in between these two pieces (not made of tempered glass). I noticed a crackling sound driving my daughter to day care on Friday August 11. I couldn’t figure out what it was. The next day I was on the highway, my husband driving our car and my toddler in the back when there was a loud pop like a gunshot. We pulled over assessed the car and realized the panoramic roof was shattering. We drove it home and realized the front piece above the windshield was also shattering and there was no impact. I googled this and apparently it’s happening to a lot of people and the dealerships aren’t helping saying it’s not a manufacture defect when in fact it is. There was no impact that caused this. Anyone else would have lost control of the car and crashed hearing that loud pop or if the shade was open we could have had glass showering down on us. This is unacceptable if anyone would have mentioned this would happen I would have never bought this vehicle. I filed a claim and State Farm paid the claim to have it replaced but this car is only 2 years old and it should be under warranty and this is a definite defect. Please google panoramic roof shattering and see what comes up. I don’t think enough people have reported this although some people have commented that they have so I’m not sure if this is currently under investigation. If not please help
- 08/22/2023· ENGINE
I have been having problems with the vehicle. Apparently it has problems with the start-stop system ; the car turns off even while driving , sometimes it turns on and off by itself while driving . Took it to the dealer and unfortunately this continues to happen. It worries me because while driving on the expressway it turned off and then on by itself leaving me without control of the vehicle for a few seconds . Another incident was in a drive thru, it turned off completely ; i hit the breaks but everything got locked / hard making me hit the yellow pole of the drive thru . Very upset with this vehicle another issue is the Ac stopped working only with 26k Miles. Still waiting for the appointment it’s been 2 weeks and no one solves this issue. My lease is also over but i want to let everyone know this is not vehicle for you. I do not recommend.
- 08/20/2021· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
This vehicle is the first Santa Fe that only comes with adaptive cruise control and there is no way to disable it and set regular cruise control. Here are just a few examples of the safety risk. We were on State Highway 29 which is a rural 4 lane highway. There were 4 cars near us. Our cruise was set for 70mph. A vehicle came in front of us to pass which it did. There was no issue. However, our vehicle saw this as a threat and our vehicle slowed from 70mph to 50mph until the other vehicle was out of the set car length distance. Meanwhile the other cars around us had no indication or warning why we would have slowed down this much and we were nearly rear ended. There was screeching of tires and brakes suddenly applied by the other vehicles. All for nothing. I am on the highway with the cruise set at 75mph when again vehicles will come in front of me and my vehicle slows from 75 mph to 54mph, causing the surrounding vehicles to not know what is going on and I hope they are paying attention because there is nothing really going on other than normal driving. It is terrifying to have your vehicle control itself and you don’t know when it will start to accelerate again so for the most part, I am shutting the cruise control off and on constantly. At our most recent Hyundai service appointment for this problem, we were told by Hyundai Care Manager that this is exactly how it’s designed and there is no problem. And we’ve been told just simply don’t use the cruise control at all. That is not a solution. We feel like all these “safety” features are creating a sense of driver coma on our roads. Instead of the left lane being used for faster cars as a passing lane, the adaptive cruises are creating a chain of vehicles that are well under the speed limit
- 08/19/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While on a high speed highway in New Jersey the transmission suddenly lost power and the car was unable to move. It had to finally be towed to the Hyundai dealer on 7/26/2022 where it remains awaiting a new transmission. Neither dealer or Hyundai Corporate has any information as to when new transmission will arrive and be installed.
- 08/17/2022· ENGINE
This car since 6/7/22 has been plagued with issues where is starts cutting out and stalling followed by the check engine light coming on flashing. This has happened many times and just happens while driving down the road. It is a very dangerous condition as you can not predict when it's going to stall out. The car has been in the dealership 3X for this problem and spent over 40 days there. Hyundai replaced the fuel injectors claiming that was the problem. It was over 35 days to get the back ordered parts. They were replaced and the car seemed to be running OK. I drove it for about 150 miles and it ran like new. Then on 8/13/22 while driving in traffic on NH Highway US1, it started doing it again. I went into the Hyundai dealership since was right there. I brought the technician out and showing him my running car with the running car with blinking CEL. They pulled into into the shop and ran a scan on it. They said there was no active codes. I asked to leave the car with hem so it could be investigated and there response we "we don;t have a car for you until next Tuesday". I was forced to drive off in a confirmed dangerous car. I pulled out into traffic on US1 and the car immediately lost power and started cutting out and the CEL was back on and blinking. I turned around on the very next street, turned the car off and back on and the CEL cleared. I pulled back onto US 1 and the car immediately lost power and started cutting out and the CEL was back on and blinking again. This very nearly caused a 2nd accident as ad zero power to accelerate. My concern is Hyundai has no idea what the problem is. They know there is a dangerous problem. The service manager drove the car/confirmed himself there is a serious issue. My other concern is the Hyundai dealership knowingly sent me away in a car they had confirmed for themselves was unsafe nearly causing a accident on the highway. I had to speak with the General manager to get a loaner to leave my defective car.
- 08/16/2023· POWER TRAIN
Once again on 7/18/2023 (P1C2D03) and 8/15/2023 (P1C2E92) DTC for TCU issues VERY DANGEROUS condition, fails to accelerate from stops at signs and traffic lights, then nearly stalls in traffic lane bogging down, and cuts out decelerating when accelerator pushed to floor, risking being rear-ended by following cars. By the time car is ready to take to dealer for analysis the fault has corrected and there is no active code for diagnosis – been repaired twice but continuing TCU codes. SEEMS to be same issue as Recall 236, don't believe the fix is effective
- 08/13/2025· VISIBILITY
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, a bystander noticed that the glass partition had shattered without impact. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the part replacement was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 46,677.
- 08/08/2022· VISIBILITY/WIPER
The sun visor does not meet the A Pillar. There is a large gap there. This gap frequently allows the sun glare to impact the driver.
- 08/06/2025· FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
For a few month now the light of ABS have been turning on. At the beginning there was no diagnosis specific, cause kept turning off. Two or three months ago again turn on and gave code of back caliper on the left and was changed. An now yesterday August 5, 2025 the diagnosis its need of change of the SBS module whole.
- 08/04/2022· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
Seat full forward, into the dash with no input from operator. SECOND OCCURRENCE 08/04/2022 at 1700 Central time when parking the Santa Fe in the garage. When turned off, the driver's seat ran full forward and reclined forward into the dash - unsafe and potential injuries -- have a photo. I will be contacting the local dealership tomorrow to schedule an appointment for an inspection and routine maintenance. Since this is no longer an isolated occurrence we will be asking our dealer for assistance. Complaint Number 11475184
- 08/04/2021· FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Unnecessary emergency brake activation has occured 3 times. Vehicle lease new 3/31/2021. 1. First incident late April, early May at approximately 1,000 miles. Cruise control was not on and car abruptly stopped when there were no other vehicles in front of mine. Traveling at about 35 miles a hour on local two lane road. (Activation setting on normal) 2. Brakes activated at highway speed of about 60 mph. Car was passing on right side. No threat in front of vehicle. Cruise control was off. (Activation setting on normal) 3. Was following well behind the car in front of me at approximately 30-35 mph. Other vehicle turned right into parking lot and was completely off the road when brake warning appeared on dash. (Activation setting on "late" warning) We are concerned we will be unnecessarily rear ended and causing a multi car accident. Vehicle was in for service 8/2-8/3/2021. Dealer did all they could including 62 mi test drive. Per Hyundai, no parts were replaced due to the inability to dupicate the problem.