Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Complaints

1,199 consumer complaints on file.

#11714372January 29, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT: Sabotage of Safety-Related Engine Test via Unauthorized Modification DESCRIPTION: While my vehicle was undergoing an official manufacturer oil consumption test for a potential engine replacement warranty claim, a dealership in Lincolnwood, IL damaged the oil pan threads. Instead of a proper OEM repair, they installed a non-standard, oversized self-tapping "KKB" bolt without my knowledge or consent to conceal the damage. SAFETY RISK: Two independent certified mechanics have verified this as a hazardous "quick-fix." This non-OEM bolt relies on compromised aluminum threads and poses a severe risk of sudden, catastrophic oil loss, which could lead to engine seizure and fire while driving. MANUFACTURER NEGLIGENCE: The manufacturer has been presented with photographic and independent expert evidence confirming this unauthorized modification. Despite the clear safety hazard, the manufacturer has repeatedly delayed resolution through multiple follow-up postponements. CONSEQUENCES: This unauthorized modification has halted the engine safety test, leaving the vehicle with both a failing engine and an unsafe oil pan. The manufacturer has refused to provide safe alternative transportation while the vehicle is in this hazardous state during extreme winter conditions. I am seeking immediate intervention to ensure the vehicle is restored to factory safety standards and the engine safety test is completed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11713943January 28, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact stated that the repair coverage was denied because of the maintenance record of the previous owner of the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11713790January 27, 2026
ENGINE
My vehicle has approximately 152,000 miles, and I am currently experiencing a major engine failure. Oil consumption and knocking on engine Hyundai has had lawsuits in the past with unsafe unreliable engines.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11713385January 26, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof glass suddenly shattered while driving slowly into a parking lot.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11712008January 20, 2026
ENGINE
We have a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe with 130k miles on it. It has the 2.4 engine with known manufacturing defects. We are the 2nd owner and timely & proper maintenance was completed on it since it was new. My [XXX] driver was operating the vehicle on Interstate 75 in Middle Georgia when the vehicle started running very rough, slowed down dramatically and the check engine light started blinking. She was blessed that a large truck didn’t run her over as she tried to move to the side of the roadway. We called a tow truck to take it to the nearest Hyundai dealership- ALM Hyundai of Warner Robins, GA. They inspected the vehicle and stated that the engine had messed up and they wouldn’t replace it since the vehicle had 130k miles and outside their window for 120k mile replacement. We purchased the vehicle from the original owner in 2022. We verified that it had timely and proper maintenance on it. We were also aware of a potential engine issue but verified with a Hyundai service advisor at Five Star Hyundai in Macon, Ga that the vehicle would be eligible for engine replacement if it messed up due to a manufacturing defect as long as proper maintenance was completed. We noticed that the vehicle was significantly burning oil at around 110k miles and regularly had to put oil in it to make sure it would not run dry. We did have the safety recall performed on it for the engine knock issue that Hyundai mandated. These vehicles are a major safety hazard on the roadway and these effected engines should be replaced by the manufacturer. 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
#11711410January 16, 2026
ENGINE
My vehicle was serviced for an oil change at my dealership today. The mechanics are concerned about too much oil consumption in between oil changes. They have no evidence of a leak. Prior to getting my oil changed, a red oil light appeared when I brake. The dealership had mentioned of related recalls for this problem for this vehicle model.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710668January 13, 2026
ENGINE
Engine is burning oil as a default in manufacturing of engine, leaving little to know oil in the engine and causing other malfunctions that use the oil
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710589January 13, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the headlights suddenly illuminated without the vehicle being turned on, causing the battery to be drained. The contact recharged the battery to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the light switch failed to turn off the high beam headlights; however, the headlights and the indicators were no longer illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who stated that the junction block had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the contact was not sure of the cause of the failure and needed to repair the vehicle. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle that an interlock casing, fuse, and relay that had melted, and that the switches were not responding, but could not confirm what caused the failure. The contact learned that the vehicle was previously included in a recall for another junction box that had been repaired. The contact was unable to provide the recall campaign. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710285January 12, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH and approaching a stop, the vehicle stalled. The battery, check engine, and oil warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V810000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The warranty claim was denied. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11709095January 6, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Official Dealer Refusal to Perform Critical Safety Recall (VIN: [XXX] ) Description: I am reporting a formal refusal by the official Hyundai distributor in the Dominican Republic (Magna Motors) to perform critical safety recalls on my US-spec vehicle. Pending Recalls: Recall #251 (NHTSA 23V651000): ABS module fire risk. Campaign #953: KSDS software update. The dealer (Magna Motors) refuses to perform the service, claiming a "lack of tools," and has declined to provide a written explanation for this denial. This is a severe violation of safety regulations regarding life-threatening defects (Fire Risk). As the vehicle is a US-spec unit, I request NHTSA’s intervention to ensure the manufacturer (Hyundai) compels its local representative to complete these repairs immediately at no cost. PLEASE NOTE: I am using a US mailing address only to complete this form. The vehicle and I are physically located in the Dominican Republic. The local official distributor, Magna Motors, is failing to honor these NHTSA safety recalls." 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
#11708993January 5, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Component: Engine (Theta II 2.4L GDI) / connecting rod bearing-related failure risk with abnormal internal oil loss. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request (engine, oil level condition, diagnostic history, and dealer records). Safety risk: While driving on the highway (approx. 70 mph), the vehicle displayed a low oil warning, and I experienced concern for potential engine seizure/stalling and sudden loss of power, which could cause a crash. I reduced speed and sought service. This condition presents an ongoing safety risk because sudden engine failure can occur without adequate warning. Dealer confirmation: The problem was confirmed by a Hyundai dealer. After a routine oil change, the low oil warning appeared within ~1,700 miles. A Hyundai service center inspected the vehicle and documented the engine was approximately 3 quarts low with no external leaks, indicating internal loss/engine deterioration rather than a leak. Hyundai then required additional steps (combustion chamber cleaning and monitored mileage), and the abnormal internal oil loss condition persisted. Manufacturer inspection: The vehicle has been inspected by Hyundai dealerships, and Hyundai performed campaign-related actions, including KSDS/ECM update (T3G) and later knock sensor replacement. No police or insurance inspection. No crash or injury occurred. Warning lamps/symptoms prior to failure: Prior symptoms included a Check Engine Lamp with DTC P1326 (KSDS-related) documented by Hyundai service in 2025, followed by continued abnormal internal engine condition. The low oil warning occurred while the vehicle was in motion (highway speed). The issue remains unresolved, and I do not feel the vehicle is safe to operate due to seizure/stall risk. Additional: I reported this as a safety defect because similar Theta II engine issues are widely reported and can result in stalling, seizure, or engine fire. Hyundai denied engine replacement assistance despite the documented condition.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708379January 2, 2026
ENGINE
The knock sensor recall was done. Currently engine started knocking and became undrivable. This vehicle qualifies for the Hyundai engine replacement recall, but they denied my claim
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708416January 2, 2026
ENGINE, SERVICE BRAKES
I requested Engine oil consumption tests on November 12, 2020 and March 27,2021 at Vandergriff Huyndai, Arlington, Tx. Nothing was resolved,. I have been adding oil myself and getting oil changes regularly since. At 146,000 miles it's been worse. After just 2,000 miles after an oil change it was below low, my mechanic topped it off 3 weeks ago and I've had to add oil since. Took my car to Jerry's Huyndai, Weatherford, Texas on December 29,2025. Due to oil consumption, smoke, smell, and I'm wondering if the vibrating is from the engine or if I need new spark plugs. I was told that my valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. I feel like I'm still getting the run around and the car can't keep oil above low level. I've never seen oil under the car and when i took the car to Vandergriff in 2020 and 2021 they didn't see a leak they said. I also took my car in 8/21 and had the ABS repaired and as of recent its out again. I took my car into an independent mechanic shop today 1/2/2026 and he said he felt that the valve cover gasket is not the main problem he feels it would be a waste of money until the engine is replaced. I also heard a new noise today not knocking but tapping noise while driving. My car has hesitated recently, but Jerrys huyndai didnt have that happen while driving it. My car would be available for inspection any time requested. I am just concerned about the smoking if it will get worse, is there a risk of fire and I'm disabled, so I'm concerned if I will have a problem getting out of the car in time if that were to happen or if the car would stop in the middle of the street. This is my only car and I care for 2 sons that are disabled. I need a safe car. Also, the car manager Rachel at Jerry's Huyndai seemed focused that I would be charged 225.00 if it was not the rod bearings. It just seemed like she more focused on that instead of finding the problem. The only lights on is the ABS.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708246January 1, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
As driving, the passenger side rear wheel disconnected from the subframe. A lot of suspension parts (e.g. rear suspension mounting bolt is absent from the subframe; rear control arm toe link detached from its mounting point; severe corrosion present on subframe control arm And bushing sleeve; rusted and degraded mounting hole) were subsequently affected which significantly impacts driver and passenger safety as well as other surrounding vehicles. The mechanic indicated that if we were on the highway at a higher speed this would of caused a major accident with potential several deaths.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11707578December 29, 2025
ENGINE
The vehicle developed loud engine knocking and abnormal noise consistent with known Hyundai engine defects. The vehicle is unsafe to operate and has been retained at an authorized Hyundai dealership since October 25, 2025. Hyundai vehicles with similar engine failures have been documented to catch fire, including while parked. Despite the known defect pattern, the manufacturer is refusing warranty coverage, alleging lack of complete oil change records, without providing proof that maintenance caused the failure. This represents a serious safety risk to occupants and the public. My family includes a child with a motor disability, which significantly increases the danger in the event of fire or engine failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11707342December 28, 2025
POWER TRAIN
I have maintained my car regularly. I use LOFSYNBLEND oil at 7500 mile intervals per car and oil manufacturer. At 70000 mile oil change the tech showed me that less than a quart of oil came out of the crankcase during the oil change. There were no visible leaks, no visible smoke coming out of the exhaust when I drove the car, and NO warning light. This was the first time that this issue was present to my knowledge. I am taking the vehicle to the dealer for an Official Oil Consumption Test.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11706822December 23, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and blinked intermittently. The contact stopped at a gas station. The contact filled up the fuel tank and checked the coolant reservoir. When the contact restarted the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH without shaking or vibrating. The check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The engine coils or the starter sensor and the O2 sensors were replaced before the independent mechanic informed the contact that the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the engine had failed. The contact was informed that the vehicle was under a service warranty and the vehicle would be repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. However, the manufacturer refused to replace the engine and offered the contact monetary compensation. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 167,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11706574December 22, 2025
ENGINE
Dealer failure to to remedy engine replacement under settlement. I am entitled under the March 1, 2022, Settlement Agreement (the “E2 Settlement”) due to recurring Theta II engine failures caused by the oil-starvation/connecting-rod bearing defect. Vehicle stalling on highways and heavy traffic, Repeated codes and failures of MAP sensors, VVT solenoids, camshaft position sensors, starters (×3), batteries (×2), turbo wastegate, fuel pump, EVAP canister, thermostats/housings, etc. — all downstream symptoms of oil starvation and bearing failure Hyundai dealers (Hyundai of Palm Springs and others) have continued to misdiagnose and charge me for unrelated repairs while refusing to acknowledge the covered defect in the replacement engine. Relief Demanded Under the E2 Settlement Pursuant to Settlement ¶¶ 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, and 6, I demand the following within fourteen (14) days: Full replacement of the failed engine with a new or remanufactured long-block assembly at $0 out-of-pocket cost to me, including all related gaskets, hoses, sensors, turbocharger, and PCM reflash: Full reimbursement of all out-of-pocket repair expenses incurred since the 2022 replacement (approximately $8,178.50+ $150 for two maxed out Triple A cards, and a new rental car for this week at $1500.00 total to date $10,148.50— Reimbursement of all towing and rental-car expenses (receipts enclosed); Compensation for diminished value of the vehicle. Confirmation that the Lifetime Warranty remains in full force on any future engine. In the alternative, a cash buyback of $25,000 in full satisfaction of all claims. This vehicle has suffered two qualifying Theta II engine failures, the second occurring in a warranty replacement engine. Hyundai of Palm Springs continued refusal to properly honor the settlement has caused extreme hardship, safety risks (multiple freeway/intersection stalls), and thousands of dollars in unnecessary expense
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11706191December 19, 2025
ENGINE
Engine seized while driving. Recall-covered failure mode. Hyundai denial despite recall. Screenshots showed recall with VIN for engine recall and suddenly removed by Hyundai next day.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704566December 11, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The door latch assembly. It continues to show warning lights that my doors are still open when they are not. As well as my key fob when pressed twice, my car will not make any audible sounds. It continues to drain my power and kill my batteries. Have had my engine replaced due to engine recall. I have also had my hood latch replaced from a recall. My car sound be eligible for the door lock assembly recall. I have two children under 6 years old and safety of the door being shut properly is of the utmost importance to me. I have already taken the vehicle to the dealership and they have quoted me the problem as stated above. I can provide the quote! There is also a TSB 14-01-004-1. Which my car should be able to qualify for. Thank you.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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