SANTA FE SPORT

Hyundai Santa Fe Sport — MPG, VIN Decoder, Recalls, Reliability & Specs

Everything on the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport — 23 recalls, common problems, the best & worst years, full specs, MPG and NHTSA safety, by model year.

Data · NHTSA & EPA · 2013–2018 · 6 model years · Updated Jul 26, 2026 · 4.5 ★★★★★★★★★★ ForCar Score
Quick answer

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport spans 2013–2018 with 23 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2018, 2017, 2013 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 2016, 2015, 2014. It delivers up to 24 mpg combined and 5-star NHTSA safety.

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2013–2018
Years
23
Recalls
24
Top MPG
5★
NHTSA
1237
Complaints
FIG.01·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport — ForCar Reliability Score
4.5/5
★★★★★★★★★★
ForCar Reliability Score
Our editorial rating · 6 model years
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Safety (NHTSA)5.0
Recall record3.7
Complaint severity4.3

How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.

Overview

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2013 to 2018 across multiple generations.

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How to read a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport VIN — every digit explained

Every Hyundai Santa Fe Sport carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.

FIG.02·How to Read a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport VIN
1–3 · WMIKM8
4–8 · VDSCM826
9 · Check5
10 · YearR
11 · PlantA
12–17 · Serial004352
  • WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Hyundai and the country it was built in (real Hyundai codes below).
  • VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
  • Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
  • Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
  • Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Santa Fe Sport.
  • Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Real Hyundai WMIs — the first 3 VIN digits by build country
  • South KoreaKM8 · KMF · KMH · KMT · KMU · KPH
  • USA5NM · 5NP · 5NT · U5Y
  • SingaporePFD
17 CHARS·SOURCE SAE / ISO 3779 · NHTSA vPIC

Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Santa Fe Sport, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.

How many recalls does the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport have?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has 23 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2013–2018. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 4

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module22V810000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 237. This recall is an expansion of recall 22V-056.

Air Bags:side/window17V801000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.

Risk. If the component detaches during deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, if the detached component were to enter the vehicle occupant compartment, there could be an increased risk of occupant injury.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 171.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module22V056000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.

Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.

Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs17V577000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The front coil springs may have been improperly manufactured and, as a result, may fracture under certain loads while driving.

Risk. If the coil spring fractures, it can puncture the tire, causing a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. All of the affected vehicles are currently unsold on dealer lots. Dealers will replace both front coil springs, free of charge prior to the vehicle's sale. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 167.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 3

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module22V056000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.

Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.

Seat Belts:front:anchorage17V365000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the bolt for the driver's seat belt anchor might not have been sufficiently tightened during assembly.

Risk. If the bolt was not sufficiently tightened, driver's seat belt may come unanchored in a collision, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will verify that the driver's seatbelt anchor is properly secured, free of charge. The recall began July 7, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for the recall is 165.

Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch17V358000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk. If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 1

Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch17V358000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk. If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 3

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module20V520000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by NHTSA Recall 21V-303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V-303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module21V303000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.

Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch17V358000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk. If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 5

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module20V520000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by NHTSA Recall 21V-303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V-303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module21V303000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine17V226000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Risk. Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 162.

Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch17V358000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk. If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

Engine18V934000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, allowing fuel to leak from the pipe.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport recalls 6

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module23V651000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module20V520000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by NHTSA Recall 21V-303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V-303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module21V303000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine17V226000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Risk. Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 162.

Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch17V358000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk. If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

Engine18V934000

What's wrong. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, allowing fuel to leak from the pipe.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.

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Best and worst years for the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 6 tracked years, the worst years are 2018, 2017, 2013 and the best (fewest complaints) are 2016, 2015, 2014.

ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.

FIG.03·Best & Worst Years — Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
YearOwner complaintsTop issueVerdict
2013 Santa Fe Sport189EngineAvoid
2014 Santa Fe Sport156EngineBest
2015 Santa Fe Sport78EngineBest
2016 Santa Fe Sport64EngineBest
2017 Santa Fe Sport338EngineAvoid
2018 Santa Fe Sport412EngineAvoid
ROWS 6·SOURCE NHTSA + ForCar
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What are the most common Hyundai Santa Fe Sport problems?

The most-reported Hyundai Santa Fe Sport problems are Air (8 reports), Other (1 reports) and Seats (10 reports) — out of 1,237 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:

22
involved a crash
60
involved a fire
22
injuries reported
0
deaths reported

Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:

Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.

Hyundai Santa Fe Sport specifications & dimensions

The 2013–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport measures 185″ long on a 106″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 3,616 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport window sticker.

FIG.04·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Dimensions by Generation
YearsLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseCurb weight
2013–2018185″74″67″106″3,772 lb
ROWS 1·SOURCE NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada

Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.

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Hyundai Santa Fe Sport cargo space, seating & interior room

How much the Santa Fe Sport holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 108 cu ft of passenger volume and 35 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.

108
Passenger ft³
35
Cargo ft³
143
Total interior ft³

Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.

Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

Hyundai Santa Fe Sport tire size, oil type & owner specs

The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.

Wheels & tires
Wheel sizeby VIN
Tire sizeby VIN
Bolt patternby trim
Tire pressure32–36 PSI
Engine oil
Oil typeFull synthetic
Gradeon oil cap
Capacityby engine
Battery
Main battery12V · group by trim
Key-fob cellCR2032
Wiper blades
Front bladesby generation
Rear bladeif equipped
Fuses
Fuse boxeshood + dash
Diagramon box lid
Light bulbs
Headlightby trim
Tail / brakeby trim
Fogif equipped

Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.

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What MPG does the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport get?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport returns up to 24 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,600/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:

The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (2.4L 4-cyl) gets 24 mpg combined and costs about $2,600/yr to fuel, emitting 379 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 5/10, smog 5/10) — about $2,000 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.

FIG.05a·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport MPG, CO₂ & smog — 4-cyl
YearCityHwyCombFuel/yrCO₂ g/miSmogEngine
2018 Santa Fe Sport212724$2,6003795/102.4L 4-cyl
2017 Santa Fe Sport212724$2,6003797/102.4L 4-cyl
2016 Santa Fe Sport202723$2,7003876/102.4L 4-cyl
2015 Santa Fe Sport202723$2,7003876/102.4L 4-cyl
2014 Santa Fe Sport202723$2,7003876/102.4L 4-cyl
2013 Santa Fe Sport212924$2,6003756/102.4L 4-cyl
ROWS 6·SOURCE EPA (ForCar database)

Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.

See how the Santa Fe Sport stacks up against the most fuel-efficient SUVs, or calculate this Santa Fe Sport's real yearly fuel cost.

What engines does the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport have? Power & range

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is offered with 1 powertrain — 2.4L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.

FIG.06·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Powertrains
EngineDisplacementTransmissionDriveFuel
4-cyl2.4L · 4-cylAutomatic (S6)FWDRegular
ROWS 1·SOURCE EPA + NHTSA vPIC

Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

Can a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport tow? Towing & payload

As an SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is built to tow and haul. The exact maximum towing capacity and payload depend on the engine, drivetrain and whether it has the factory tow package, on a curb weight near 3,616 lb.

What sets your Santa Fe Sport's tow & payload rating:

  • Engine — a larger or turbocharged engine tows more than the base unit.
  • Drivetrain & axle — 4WD/AWD and the axle ratio shift the rating.
  • Tow package — the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, transmission cooler) raises the max.
  • Payload & GVWR — GVWR caps the combined load; more passengers and cargo lower how much you can tow.

Exact towing capacity, payload and GVWR are added per engine, drivetrain and trim — decode your VIN above, or check the driver's door-jamb and hitch labels. Curb weight from vehicle specifications.

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How much does a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport cost to own?

A used Hyundai Santa Fe Sport sells for a median of about $11,495 for a 2018 — most listed between $8,495 and $14,500, from 302 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:

FIG.07·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Used Prices by Year
YearTypical priceMarket rangeListings
2018 Santa Fe Sport$11,495$8,495–$14,50059
2017 Santa Fe Sport$10,950$8,500–$13,994104
2016 Santa Fe Sport$6,999$5,995–$11,29932
2015 Santa Fe Sport$7,999$6,995–$9,90041
2014 Santa Fe Sport$6,995$5,985–$9,95045
2013 Santa Fe Sport$7,500$5,800–$9,50021
ROWS 6·SOURCE ForCar market · real US listings

For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Santa Fe Sport is worth today, or browse used-market prices for SUVs.

A Hyundai Santa Fe Sport depreciates at about an average rate. A typical example keeps roughly 46% of its value after five years — losing about 54% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.

80%
Value @ 1 yr
61%
Value @ 3 yrs
46%
Value @ 5 yrs
$13,000
Est. 5-yr fuel
FIG.08·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Depreciation & Resale
$
AgeValue retainedEst. resale valueLost to depreciation
Year 180%$24,000−$6,000
Year 270%$21,000−$9,000
Year 361%$18,300−$11,700
Year 453%$15,900−$14,100
Year 546%$13,800−$16,200
ROWS 5·SOURCE ForCar estimate

What goes into the five-year cost to own:

  • Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Santa Fe Sport loses about 54% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
  • Fuel — ≈ $13,000 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
  • Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Santa Fe Sport ages.
  • Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.

Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.

How much is a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport to insure?

A Hyundai Santa Fe Sport costs about $1,353 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 6% below the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (94, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.

FIG.09·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Insurance Cost
$1,353/yr
estimate · typical driver · full coverage · US average
$1,353
Est. / year
-6%
vs average car
$1,150–1,556
Typical range
94
HLDI loss index
CheaperAveragePricier
Where the money goes · full coverage
Liability (BI + PD)$649
Collision$379
Comprehensive$162
Other (UM / PIP)$162
LOSS INDEX 94·UNIT est. $/yr·SOURCE HLDI × NAIC
★ This is a typical-driver estimate. Go Pro to dial in your coverage, age & deductible — and see this car inside the full 5-year cost-to-own.Upgrade to Pro →

Estimate = US-average premium × the Santa Fe Sport's HLDI loss index. See Hyundai insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport safe?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall safety — real government crash-test data. Ratings by year:

FIG.10·Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Safety Ratings
YearOverallFrontalSideRollover
2018 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
2017 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
2016 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
2015 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
2014 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
2013 Santa Fe Sport★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
ROWS 6·SOURCE NHTSA NCAP

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested model years.

Want the safest pick? Compare crash-test scores across the safest cars and SUVs.

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How many miles does a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport last?

A well-maintained Hyundai Santa Fe Sport typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.5/5.

SANTA FE SPORT

Check your Hyundai Santa Fe Sport’s VIN — history, recalls & specs

Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.

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All Hyundai Santa Fe Sport model years

A year-by-year snapshot of the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.

FIG.11·All Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Model Years
YearRecallsBest MPGSafety
2018 Santa Fe Sport4 recalls24 mpg★★★★★
2017 Santa Fe Sport3 recalls24 mpg★★★★★
2016 Santa Fe Sport2 recalls23 mpg★★★★★
2015 Santa Fe Sport3 recalls23 mpg★★★★★
2014 Santa Fe Sport5 recalls23 mpg★★★★★
2013 Santa Fe Sport6 recalls24 mpg★★★★★
ROWS 6·SOURCE NHTSA + EPA

Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).

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Frequently asked questions

What are the worst years for the Santa Fe Sport?

By owner-complaint volume, 2018, 2017, 2013 drew the most reports. 2016, 2015, 2014 have the cleanest records.

How many recalls does the Santa Fe Sport have?

23 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2013–2018. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Hyundai recalls and reliability across every model.

What MPG does the Santa Fe Sport get?

Up to 24 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.

Is the Santa Fe Sport safe?

The Santa Fe Sport earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall crash-test safety; ratings vary by model year.

How many miles does a Santa Fe Sport last?

A well-maintained Santa Fe Sport typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.

Is the Santa Fe Sport reliable?

Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Santa Fe Sport is 4.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.

What's the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport warranty?

New Hyundai models carry a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 10 years / 100,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Hyundai dealer.

Where is the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport made?

The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Santa Fe Sport's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Hyundai may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.

How much does a Santa Fe Sport weigh?

The Santa Fe Sport's curb weight is around 3,616 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.

How much ground clearance does the Santa Fe Sport have?

Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.

Data sourced from NHTSA (recalls, complaints, safety ratings) and EPA fueleconomy.gov (MPG). Best/worst-year analysis is ForCar's own aggregation of complaint volume. Last updated Jul 2026. — ForCar Editorial Reviewed by , founder of ForCar.
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