Hyundai Santa Fe Complaints (2024)

192 consumer complaints on file.

#11744065June 14, 2026
SEAT BELTS, POWER TRAIN
We just brought this vehicle in for the ongoing transmission problem (previously reported to your agency after the car self-accelerated), as well as the missed seatbelt recall that was not addressed at the last dealership. I advised the service advisor that the seatbelt recall needed to be fixed. The service advisor contacted us several hours later to tell us that they were replacing the transmission. 10 days later we picked up the vehicle after the transmission replacement, and the service advisor told us they did not do the seatbelt repair, citing lack of parts and/or special order. I asked if this was a safety issue and if I should leave the vehicle with them for longer, but was told not to worry about it, and to bring the vehicle back at another time. Fast forward to today, and the vehicle is rolling forward when we start it. This is worse than the way it rolled forward before the transmission replacement. Coupled with the disregard for the seatbelt recall, I believe there is a serious safety issue with this vehicle. I have notified Hyundai Corporate, as well as our attorney, and will be contacting the dealership to drop the vehicle off. I have a video recording of the car rolling forward during startup, but it appears I cannot upload it here. I have forward that video to the above mentioned entities, and am happy to share it with your agency as well.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11743672June 12, 2026
POWER TRAIN
I have had my vehicle inspected twice for an intermittent issue with the rear driver's-side brake light. The brake light continues to go in and out even though the issue has not been identified during inspection. Multiple people have informed me that the brake light was not working, but when checked later, it was functioning again. Because the problem is intermittent, I am concerned that it has not been properly diagnosed. In addition, I have experienced ongoing transmission and drivability concerns. While stopped at traffic lights, the vehicle has occasionally accelerated unexpectedly or surged, and it can be difficult to shift into gear to proceed. I have also experienced hard shifting when moving from Park or Reverse into Drive. These symptoms continue to occur despite being told that no problems were found during inspection. I am requesting a more thorough diagnosis of both the brake light issue and the transmission/drivability concerns, as these problems are ongoing and may present a safety risk.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11743243June 10, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS
Hola, he llevado mi coche al concesionario 4 veces las 2 primeras veces me dijeron que eran recall el auto en parking siguió caminado los volví a llevar después de 20 días dijeron que unos roedores se habían comido el harness ese fue el diagnóstico que me dieron hablé con el seguro y el seguro iba a pagar pa reparación cuando les pidió foto del problema cambiaron la versión de que no que disculpa que no está comido por roedores cuando ellos me dieron un papel que decía eso me cobraron 570 diales por otro diagnóstico ya el seguro no quiso arreglar eso pude una queja con Hyundai motor y nada nadie se hace responsable e llevado el auto a 3 talleres diferentes y nadie sabe que tiene el auto y el dealer cada vez que fuy me decía una cosa diferente que puedo hacer al respecto
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741652June 2, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
Hyundai - DAW - Driver Attention Warning / Forward Attention Warning System This issue warrants immediate consideration for a recall. Despite wearing glasses, sunglasses, or no glasses, the problem persists. I occasional do remove my glasses while driving, and the warning continues to sound. This occurs regardless of the time of day, weather conditions, or whether I am sitting upright or reclining. The warning randomly activates and deactivates, sometimes without any intervention. Occasionally, I simply allow the warning to sound without taking any action, and it remains active for a few seconds or until it triggers a warning that the system will be turned off, at which point it deactivates. I have attempted various troubleshooting methods, such as keeping my eyes open, adjusting my seating position, wearing and removing my glasses, and tilting them to minimize glare. None of these methods have proven effective in preventing the warning from activating or in making it deactivate. This is a persistent problem. Hyundai dealerships initially informed me that the warning might be an annoyance and their response was to simply refrain from using it. However, if a basic feature like cruise control in a 2024 & 2025 model is rendered unusable due to a design flaw (which this certainly is), it constitutes a clear violation of safety standards and should be addressed through a recall. The incessant alerts are highly disruptive and can be quite frustrating. For instance, driving with an arm in the 12 o’clock position triggers a warning, while wearing polarized sunglasses also results in an alert. The presence of a setting to disable the warning is a welcome feature, but the system’s persistent alerts can be overwhelming. The alerts continue even after taking a break. It is distracting and a safety hazard. Drivers should be able to adjust the sensitivity of the feature to turn off this feature. Currently, there is no way to disable or temporarily disable this feature.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740926May 29, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEATS
My 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX] ) is suffering from a severe, systemic vehicle-wide electrical network failure. The main digital instrument cluster screen has suffered four separate total blackouts (XXX), completely eliminating all driver visibility of the speedometer, odometer, safety malfunction telltales, and critical warning alerts while operating the vehicle at highway speeds. The vehicle has also experienced continuous battery collapses, recurring navigation freezes, and malfunctioning proximity key fobs/electronic door locks that fail to secure or unlock the vehicle.Most severely, on XXX, a defective, short-circuiting heated seat element experienced an uncontrolled thermal spike and caused physical thermal burn injuries to the right side of my body during an out-of-state trip. Photographic evidence of the physical body burns has been preserved. The authorized dealership was presented with this defect during an extended 38-day shop visit immediately following the incident but was completely unable to diagnose, or repair this severe electrical safety hazard. The vehicle remains unsafe to occupy. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11740922May 29, 2026
POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES
My 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX] ) was manufactured on March 14, 2024, in [XXX] . The vehicle is currently experiencing dual-clutch transmission (8DCT) juddering, shuddering, and extreme hesitation when trying to accelerate from a complete stop at traffic lights and intersections. This creates a severe lag in acceleration, leaving the vehicle dangerously exposed to oncoming traffic. This component failure directly mirrors the mechanical hazards outlined in NHTSA Safety Recall 263. Because my manufacturing date falls just outside the official recall window, this vehicle has not received a formal recall remedy, yet it actively exhibits the identical, dangerous powertrain defects, suggesting the recall's production scope may be too narrow. Furthermore, in November 2024, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic safety failure where it completely lost all propulsion power for approximately 30 seconds while moving through the middle of a live intersection. Most recently, on XXX, right after being released from an extended 38-day service stay at an authorized dealership, the electronic infotainment displayed an active warning screen stating the car should be shifted to park while the vehicle shifter was physically and securely locked in Park. Time-stamped video evidence of this active transmission/braking sensor failure has been captured and preserved. The vehicle remains an active, uncorrected threat to my physical safety on the road. 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
#11740884May 29, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS, POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the anchor in the third row detached. The vehicle rolled while in the drive position. The vehicle failed to accelerate. While reversing, the vehicle jerked. No warning lights The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on five occasions and was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was not available.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740318May 27, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, STEERING, STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
The contact's girlfriend owns a 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently swerved from side to side. The message “Consider Taking A Break” was displayed and the Driver Attention Warning (DAW) warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the Automatic Emergency Braking activated while driving near a vehicle or object, slamming the vehicle to a stop and causing the cruise control to deactivate. The message "Keep Hands On Steering Wheel" was displayed even though the contact's hands were on the steering wheel. The contact also stated that the front and rear driver's side doors were vertically bent from a manufacturing defect. The contact stated that his girlfriend feared for her safety while driving the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case a filed. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11739969May 25, 2026
POWER TRAIN, SEAT BELTS
We have had several transmission issues with this vehicle for over a year. On March 5th we dropped the car off for an oil leak, a malfunctioning middle row seat belt, and an on going transmission clunk and roll. The dealer repaired the oil leak, replaced the seat belt, (damaged the interior of the vehicle while doing so, then denied it) and said they were unable to replicate the transmission problem. The car went back to the dealer again on March 26 for the transmission clunk and roll. They kept it for 8 weeks, and said they couldn’t replicate the issue. I have confirmation that they didn’t even start the vehicle for 4 weeks. We picked up the Vehicle on May 22, and the issue persists. Yesterday, when pulling out of a gas station, the vehicle accelerated on its own until I intervened stepping on the brake pedal. When I typed in the issue to Google, I was made aware that the vehicle now has a front seat belt safety recall from April 6, which the dealer didn’t even advise us on or offer to repair. I am finding out about this on an interstate family drive and we are of course terrified of driving our vehicle now, based on the unintended accessories and now faulty front seat seat belts. I have asked Hyundai serval times for a buy back which they have refused. Corporate has asked us to bring the car back to the dealer this week, and we are about to sign papers with a lemon law lawyer tomorrow. I wanted to at least file this complaint so that it is in writing should something happen to us in our travels this week. This has all been so unacceptable with Hyundai. We bought this car new and it is paid off.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11739792May 24, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The vehicle has experienced repeated transmission-related failures beginning at approximately 5,000 miles. The dashboard warning “Transmission System Error – Check Transmission Oil Immediately” first appeared while driving and was accompanied by sudden loss of power. When this occurs, the vehicle loses acceleration and drivability while in motion, creating a safety risk in traffic. The only way to temporarily clear the warning is to pull over, shut the vehicle off, and restart it. Photographs of the warning message were documented at approximately 6,738 miles on [XXX] and again at approximately 12,664 miles on [XXX]. The vehicle was returned to the selling dealer in Massachusetts multiple times for the same issue. During the first visit, the dealer drove the vehicle approximately 19 miles but stated they could not duplicate the problem. During the second visit on or about 3/25/2025, the dealer kept the vehicle for approximately six days while providing a loaner vehicle, but again stated they could not duplicate the condition. The vehicle was later inspected by another Hyundai dealer in New Hampshire on 8/19/2025 for the same dashboard warning and loss of power condition while driving. That dealer found the transmission fluid level below specification but stated they could not duplicate the warning message during inspection. Following that visit, the transmission warning did not reappear until [XXX], when the same “Transmission System Error – Check Transmission Oil Immediately” warning returned again while driving. On [XXX], the situation escalated into a possible rollaway event. While at an auto detailing facility, the vehicle was reportedly placed in Park with the engine running after being repositioned. The operator stated the vehicle indicated it was in Park. Moments later, after the operator exited the vehicle, the vehicle moved from its parked position and rolled into a building. The event was documented in writing by the detailing facility. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION A
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11738780May 19, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VISIBILITY/WIPER
I was trying to back up a few times and not being able to see some objects behind while looking at the rear view camera on my Hyundai Santa Fe 2024.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11737216May 12, 2026
POWER TRAIN
When starting the vehicle, a transmission system error occurs because goes away when the car is shut off then restarted. When the error occurs the vehicle does not accelerate properly.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11737038May 11, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I bought the 2024 Santa Fe XRT Pro new off the lot Sept. 2024. Brought it in for 3 different recalls but the electronic system panel is new: The panel lit up with every warning sign it can convey: from the engine light to the coffee break, to the emergency warnings. This has happened twice; once a few weeks ago and again a few days ago. My car is back at the dealership for repair to the electronic panel. The first time, the dealership replaced the entire panel as it is still under warranty. It's at the shop again and I don't know what they will do this time. I would trade it in, but the trade-in value sucks.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11736861May 10, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
3 times now, I am driving and the vehicle goes into limp mode, the "D" on the dash is flashing but the vehicle sends no codes. The tech said the vehicle can immediately delete the code and they can't fix it if they can't duplicate it. It also hesitates when accelerating and is dangerous to myself, my 4 children and anyone driving around me when it goes into limp mode. There is no code, therefore they say they can't do anything about it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11736056May 6, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned on and shifted into park, the vehicle unexpectedly rolled away with no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle then collided with a tree. The contact also stated that the air bags did not deploy during the crash. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was provided. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where full body repairs were completed. The vehicle was later taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure recurred, and during the second incident the contact’s spouse attempted to stop the vehicle and was almost run over. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was provided. The contact stated that the their arms and fingers are hurting during the failure, The contact stated that the vehicle then collided with an area of the contact’s home. The contact stated their concern that there vehicle is very hazardous and very unsafe and the failure could have been worse for the contact's spouse. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11734840April 30, 2026
SEAT BELTS, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
My seat belts and rear safety camera are not functioning. I have been dealing with my local dealer who seems not to care and Hyundai Corporate for 3 months to try to resolve thissafety issue and have gotten no where
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11734590April 29, 2026
TIRES
Size & Description 245/45R-21 I just took my 2024 Santa Fe Caligraphy with 20k miles to get it inspected and I have 3 bad tires due to bubble/buldge. I can see that a lot of people are having this issue online. The tires are 500 each. I purchased this car new a year ago and the tire place said they had another one with the same issue. Looking for some help
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11734398April 28, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, WHEELS
Hi vibration after 55mph, tire balancing and wheel alignment doesn't help
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11734394April 28, 2026
TIRES
Hi vibration over 55 mph
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11732714April 21, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The glass in the sun roof imploded. It it available for inspection. The glass would have been propelled into the vehicle if the sun roof was open. The problem has been reported to the dealer and acknowledged. There was no warning prior to the implosion.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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