Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Complaints

1,199 consumer complaints on file.

#11660462May 12, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 50 MPH, the vehicle jerked and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact's husband was able to pull over to the side of the road and ended up inside a ditch before the vehicle came to a stop. The contact stated that there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had failed. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer, who confirmed that the engine had failed; and there was gasoline intrusion into the engine, causing engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that a manager would contact her. The vehicle remained at the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 99,501.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659640May 7, 2025
ENGINE
I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious engine defect in my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, which suffered rod bearing failure and now requires a full engine replacement at a cost of approximately $8,600. This failure occurred on April 13, 2025, despite regular oil changes and proper maintenance throughout my 1 year and 7 months of ownership. According to my certified mechanic, the vehicle was evaluated using Hyundai’s own rod bearing clearance test protocol, which it failed. The results were submitted to Hyundai by the repair shop, but the manufacturer denied the claim—despite their own diagnostic test confirming the issue. I later discovered that my vehicle may fall under NHTSA Campaign Number 17V226000 (Recall 162), which addresses machining errors in the Theta II GDI engine that can cause premature bearing wear. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether my vehicle should be formally included in this recall or covered under Hyundai’s extended warranty program for rod bearing failures. This issue represents a serious safety risk. The engine began knocking suddenly, without any warning lights or codes, and still had another month or 1,419 miles left till next service and oil level was normal. Vehicle had to be towed to a service facility. A failure while driving could have resulted in a complete engine seizure, placing my family and others at risk. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this issue and investigate Hyundai’s handling of such claims, especially where their own testing confirms a known defect.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659213May 6, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, ENGINE, SERVICE BRAKES
While driving on a highway in April 2025, my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport suddenly lost all power after approximately 10 minutes of normal driving. All dashboard warning lights illuminated, and both the accelerator and brake pedals became unresponsive. I was forced to stop the vehicle using the handbrake in the middle of a 65 mph highway, creating an extremely dangerous situation for myself and other drivers. Prior to this incident, the vehicle had displayed the P1326 knock sensor code multiple times over a 10-month period, each time accompanied by hesitation when accelerating. The knock sensor was replaced twice under used car warranty by Honda. Despite these interventions, the same code and symptoms recurred. The Hyundai dealership(Dec 2024 at Montgomery, Jan 2025 at Enterprise) repeatedly stated that there was “nothing wrong with the engine.” After the highway failure, the vehicle was inspected by a collision center and an independent mechanic. They confirmed that Cylinder 4 had no compression and diagnosed a burnt valve. Full engine replacement was recommended. Hyundai initially indicated that the engine might be covered under the extended warranty but later denied the claim, stating that the damage was due to a cylinder issue and can not check bearing failure. They also claimed it was too late to determine whether the bearing was the cause. This is not an isolated issue. Many Hyundai owners across the U.S. have reported identical symptoms—P1326 code, hesitation, cylinder compression loss, and ultimately engine failure—particularly in vehicles equipped with the Theta II engine. These failures often occur around or after 100,000 miles, despite regular maintenance. This ongoing and widespread cylinder-related engine failure presents a serious safety risk and must be addressed through manufacturer accountability, improved diagnostic standards, and proactive repair or recall efforts.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659228May 6, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
See attached document for complaint.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659336May 6, 2025
ENGINE
I’ve got a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport with a Theta II engine that’s failing—burning oil way too fast, coolant mixing in the cylinders, and throwing a P0304 misfire code. It’s been undrivable since late April 2025, and I’m worried about safety because the misfire and engine failure risk could cause it to stall on the highway, putting me and others in danger. It shakes when I try to drive, which feels unsafe. A Hyundai dealer confirmed the issue, finding coolant in the cylinders and the misfire, with no visible oil leak. Oil change receipts show the oil disappearing over a few weeks. The manufacturer reviewed my case but denied the warranty claim, saying it’s not covered since I’m a second owner and it’s not a rod bearing issue, even though the 2021 Theta II settlement should apply to this. The seller didn’t disclose the engine’s defect history when I bought it in 2023. The check engine light came on in early April 2025 with the misfire code, and I noticed the oil issue then. It’ll be out of service over 30 days by mid May 2025, so I’m taking legal action.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657371April 28, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I own a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T which has had door latch issues. Recently, the front passenger side door latch needed to be fully replaced due to a failure which caused the door to be loose latching and the latch sensor always showing open. I paid out-out-pocked for this repair as the Hyundai dealership said there are models which this exact issue was identified, but they said the parts extension had not been placed for my exact vehicle. They were also confused as to why this was not being covered as they see so many of these same repairs. Now, less than one month later, the front driver's side door is now experiencing lock issues in which a loud grinding noise is occurring when the vehicle attempts to lock or unlock the door. Additionally, the door does not unlock some of the time from the external and the manual door handle on the interior is getting harder and harder to open. Both of these issues are consistent with other recalls for other Hyundai models and consistent with the door latch module and actuator failure. I would like to file a complaint regarding this issue as it seems to be a common issue with Hyundai models using this door latch module. I believe the parts extension and repairs for these door latches should be covered by Hyundai especially as this becomes a large safety issue with driving the vehicle with concerns of door latch stability and security.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656873April 25, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 63,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656213April 23, 2025
ENGINE
Dear NHTSA, My 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (VIN: [XXX] , 2.0L Theta II, 64,000 miles) suffered engine failure with knocking and power loss, matching NHTSA Recall #20V-746 (Hyundai #198). This defect risks stalling or fire, threatening my safety and others’. Hyundai Motor America and Hyundai of Tacoma (Tacoma, WA) refused repair, citing the rebuilt title, despite the factory defect. Recall #20V-746 addresses Theta II bearing wear. My vehicle’s symptoms align, yet the dealer denied service, claiming the title voids eligibility. Hyundai’s April 2025 email noted three unrelated recalls (turbo oil pipe, ECM update, hood latch) were completed but ignored #20V-746, redirecting me to the dealer without addressing the engine or title issue. I’ve called Hyundai (1-800-633-5151) and emailed multiple times since March 2025, receiving only generic responses. The dealer’s refusal and Hyundai’s inaction leave the vehicle inoperable, posing a ongoing safety hazard on the road. The rebuilt title should not exempt a factory defect tied to a safety recall. The low mileage (64,000) supports my claim. I haven’t obtained a diagnostic report but am willing to pay for one (~$100–$200) if required. Hyundai’s refusal to honor #20V-746 violates safety obligations. Please investigate Hyundai’s denial, confirm if the Knock Sensor Detection System was installed, and clarify if a rebuilt title excludes eligibility. I seek engine replacement per the recall or a clear explanation. This issue has caused significant financial and safety concerns, and I urge swift action. Contact me at [XXX]or [XXX] Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656372April 23, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES, LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
Parts of the ABS system under the hood burned, while the vehicle was parked in my garage, affecting electrical and other parts. I found information online about a recall for this same problem. I have never received a notification of this recall before. I went that same day [XXX] to my local dealer. They gave me an appointment for service for the next day and left the vehicle with them on 04/03/2025. I called the dealer after one week and they told me they already verified the vehicle and notified Hyundai company and are waiting for them to approve the repair. I called the dealer again today 04/23/2025, after 3 weeks and the they told me they are “still waiting for Hyundai Company to approve the repair. That they don’t know how much time this may take and that it may take a lot more time”. In the meantime, and after the bad and risky experience, I have one car less in my house. I understand this is a process but also, considering that this was caused by a factory defect I understand they should be responsible and solve the problem in a timely manner. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656374April 23, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the engine and oil lights illuminated whenever the brake pedal was depressed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the cause of the failure was due to the engine. The dealer informed the contact that the pistons were not covered, and the engine was consuming an excessive amount of oil. The dealer instructed the contact to continue to drive for 1,000 miles and come back to the dealer for an evaluation. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656028April 22, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
Back up camara is shorting out due to the location it is getting wet and corroding. Without the camara it can be a safety Hazzard. In doing research this seems to be a common problem due to the location of the camara. Poor design and could cause an accident. Failed after only 69k miles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656052April 22, 2025
ENGINE
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport - [XXX] [XXX] System failed or malfunctioned: Sudden Engine Failure while driving at highway speed. Indication: Illumination of flashing warning light, while operating the vehicle on the highway. The vehicle entered into “protection mode”, driving at a slower acceleration and limited engine speed. Safety risks: Defective Engines: A manufacturing defect in the engine, particularly in the connecting rod bearings, can cause them to wear out prematurely. Potential for Stalling: the bearings wear, they can fail, potentially causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Risk of Crash: a sudden stall while driving can significantly increase the risk of a crash. Engine Fire: in some cases, a damaged connecting rod can puncture the engine block, leading to oil leaks that can ignite on hot engine surfaces, causing a fire. Recalls: there have been multiple recalls related to these engine issues. Hyundai Motor America, the automaker has issued recalls for vehicles with these defective engines. Other Potential Issues: some 2013 Santa Fe Sports have been recalled for a potential fire risk due to a faulty ABS module. The problem has been inspected and identified by a certified Hyundai Dealer. The vehicle has not been directly inspected by the Manufacturer. Warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure: Illumination of flashing warning light, while operating the vehicle on the highway. The vehicle entered into “protection mode” INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654862April 15, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, VISIBILITY/WIPER
Windshield was broken by a rock on the highway.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654340April 13, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle has an excessive oil intake and it is constantly blowing out the spark plugs and coil packs causing poor performance on the vehicle overall. My vehicle's VIN number was listed as a qualifier in a class action lawsuit, but the manufacturer says it is not making the noise it needs to make in order to have it checked. Was also informed I need to pull out my spark plugs and clean them regularly because of the oil buildup. This problem has caused other problems with the performance of the car the excessive oil intake has caused countless problems terrible performance of the vehicle and is attributing to other poor performance issues. This has been an ongoing problem and have only recently been told by the dealership of this instance. Even though my vehicle is one of the ones in the extended recall because it's not making the noise they like they won't do anything about it. This vehicle is still being financed and I am refusing to pay for anything until the matter is resolved. I have a case filed with the dealership I am speaking to an attorney Monday I am processing an email to my state's attorney of Missouri and have completed the better Business bureau complaints. After phone calls service dates and emails I feel that Hyundai is not doing anything to resolve this situation whatsoever and could use any assistance from you possible.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654023April 11, 2025
ENGINE
Oil consumption issues, can cause engine failure while driving. Car burns 2-3 quarts every 1,000 miles car takes just over 5qt to fill. Issues stated at around 70,000 now at 82,000. This is a long standing issue that needs to be addressed on hundreds of thousands of vehicles with the GDI engines
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653918April 10, 2025
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the side view mirror displayed an amber signal light; however, when the sun was extremely bright, the contact was unable to see the amber light. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the diagnosis was undetermined; however, the dealer informed the contact that the light could not be changed. The contact was informed the amber light could not be switched from amber to red. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653943April 10, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE
1. Abs module stopped working. Car no longer has abs. Will not cover under warranty due to computer component. 2. Engine burns oil. 3 quarts in 1k miles. Combustion cleaning done. Now Engine light is one, oil light comes on, car smells of gas & oil.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11652988April 6, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My vehicle is burning through oil. I am getting the oil change for the highest amount of mileage, usually driving sparingly throughout the week, and still having to get oil added in between oil changes. I have been told by the company completing oil changes that because of the gdi motor I will need to routinely check my oil, even if there is no oil light on.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11652765April 4, 2025
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving at 50 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to exceed 50 MPH. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an Advance Auto Parts Store, and it was determined that there was no oil in the engine. The contact added oil to the engine to be able to drive to the residence. The dealer was contacted the next business day. The contact stated that the dealer diagnosed the vehicle with a crack in the oil pan. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that a week after the repair, the contact noticed that the oil level was low. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and an oil change was performed; however, the vehicle failed to exceed 50 MPH. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,693.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11652815April 4, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
The engine was replaced under a recall related to an engine knock code. About two weeks later, the vehicle lost all power while driving. The dealership confirmed a failure in the high-pressure fuel line and that the turbo had failed at the same time. The same visit revealed oil leaks, and shortly after, the vehicle began emitting white and black smoke. Their technician stated the failures were due to “consequential damage from engine failure.” The problems have continued to return, and I’ve been told the vehicle is unsafe to drive. Hyundai is now refusing to fully cover the cost of repair, offering only 15% off, despite all of the damage being directly linked to the replacement engine. I transport children in this vehicle. My safety and theirs have been at risk multiple times because of these unresolved and ongoing failures.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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