170
Complaints Reported

Complaints by Component

ENGINE
68 complaints
The engine in my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0T shut off suddenly while driving and would not restart. The dealership confirmed the engine is seized, has bottom-end knocking, and FAILED the BCT (bearing clearance test). Hyundai denied assistance claiming ‘maintenance neglect,’ but the mechanical failure is consistent with known Hyundai GDI engine defects. This presents a serious safety hazard because the vehicle lost power unexpectedly while in motion and could have caused a crash.
Nov 24, 2025
Number 4 piston developed a hole in it. Also the engine has been going through a lot of oil
Oct 25, 2025
The engine shut down into Limp mode. I was on the interstate and this caused me to slow down and cause traffic problems. Yes, I have taken my car to McCarthy Olathe Hyundai and was told there was a recall for Knocking and would not be fixed because I needed a new engine. My engine light came on and the car slowed down. As soon as this happened I took the car to the dealership to be fixed. I did not drive the car anymore.
Sep 18, 2025
Check engine light came on at 100,400 mile while on the freeway and car went into limp mode. Mechanic found P1326 code and the engine knocking. Tried to drive it to the dealership and the engine seized up. Towed it to the dealership and waiting to hear if Hyundai will pay for a new engine under their extended warranty campaign.
Sep 05, 2025
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.4L GDI engine failure due to known Theta II defect. Engine developed severe knocking and is unsafe to operate. The vehicle has experienced engine failure consistent with Hyundai’s recalled Theta II GDI defect (metal debris and bearing wear). Hyundai has refused to replace the engine, citing incomplete oil change records from a prior owner. This denial is unreasonable, as the defect is a manufacturer issue, not ordinary wear or maintenance neglect. The vehicle is unsafe to drive and at risk of stalling/fire. I request NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s refusal to honor its recall and extended warranty obligations.
Aug 18, 2025
+ 63 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
30 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed that the service brakes and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed; however, the contact was informed that the ABS fuse had been replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 189,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Jul 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Jun 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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.
May 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was informed that there was an issue with the ABS. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.
May 03, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
May 03, 2024
+ 25 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
9 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the odor of gasoline was present inside the cabin of the vehicle. While driving approximately 25 MPH, flames were present coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was parked and quickly became engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the fire. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed along was personal items inside. A fire report was taken at the scene that indicated the fire had originated in the engine compartment of the vehicle. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the fire. The contact indicated that the vehicle was recently serviced at the local dealer for a manufacture's campaign P-1326. The failure mileage was 159,000.
Aug 08, 2025
Fire: 1
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The engine warning light, battery, and ABS warning lights illuminated, with another unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle returned to function as intended; however, the failure recurred a short distance afterwards. The contact was able to pull over to a rest area and the engine seized. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed that the engine had seized, and metal shavings were found in the oil. The dealer declined to perform the repair. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact advised that the vehicle never passed inspection. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.
Jul 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was jerking abnormally. Additionally, the contact stated that while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle responded after several attempts and was significantly sluggish while responding. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the engine was replaced under an unknown recall; however, the contact stated that the vehicle had stalled several times while driving. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart within 45 minutes after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. Additionally, the contact stated that the air conditioning system was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the A/C hoses had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
May 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH a knocking noise was present coming from the engine compartment, the check engine light had illuminated and the vehicle's speed suddenly reduced to under 30 MPH. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 166,000.
Oct 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an unknown dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the dealer charged a fee for the diagnostic testing. The contact declined to pay the fee and towed the vehicle to her residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, who informed the contact that there was sludge in the engine and charged a fee for additional diagnostic tests. The contact declined to pay the fee. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
Nov 21, 2023
+ 4 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
On June 6,2025 my car caught fire under the hood on the way home from work. I was then told my car has an ABS module recall and thats whats caused the fire, as well as, electrical shortage. Hyundai finally came to get car on June 27. They refuse to fix or communicate with me on my car that I am still having to pay car note on. They refuse to give me an estimate of damages that results in total loss for insurance purposes
Aug 20, 2025
Fire: 1
THE CAMERA BACKUP STOPPED WORKING. I'VE SEEN ON YOUTUBE THAT THESE CAMERAS WERE POORLY MADE. IT'S VERY DIFFICULT TO SEE WHEN BACKING UP. I'VE CHECK WITH HYUNDAI THEY ARE VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPLACE.
Feb 13, 2019
ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS OVER LAST MONTH MY VEHICLE RPM SHOOT WAY UP AND THE ENGINE REVS UP WHEN EXCELLERATING FROM A STOPPED POSITION. COULD BE A STOP LIGHT, TO MAKE A TURN OR FROM BACKING UP AND GOING INTO DRIVE. LASTS ABOUT 15-30 SECONDS. WHEN THIS HAPPENS THE VEHICLE JERKS FORWARD. THERE ARE NO CHECK ENGINE OR ANY OTHER LIGHTS THAT COME ON. I HAVE TAKEN TO TWO SEPARATE SHOPS AND THEY SAY THEY CAN NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE THE ENGINE LIGHT DOESN'T COME ON. I CARRY SMALL CHILDREN IN MY VEHICLE AND I AM CONCERNED OF OUR SAFETY. I HAVE SEEN MULTIPLE REPORTS OF PEOPLE'S VEHICLES ACCELERATING ON THEIR OWN AND CAUSING CRASHES.
Dec 29, 2018
HYUNDAI IS UNABLE TO TRANSFER OWNERSHIP WHEN YOU BUY A USED VEHICLE IN REFERENCE TO THE BLUE LINK CONTROLS. THE ORIGINAL OWNER WILL MAINTAIN REMOTE CONTROL OF THE DOOR LOCK/UNLOCK FEATURES AS WELL AS REMOTE START AND STOP FUNCTIONS. YOU WILL BE UNABLE TO PURCHASE THE SAFETY FEATURES AND UNABLE TO CONTACT EMERGENCY SERVICES SHOULD THE NEED ARISE. I AM ABLE TO PROVIDE FULL EMAIL CONVERSATIONS WITH HYUNDAI BLUE LINK WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY UNHELPFUL UP TO THE POINT THEY STOPPED COMMUNICATIONS WITH ME BY IGNORING MY REPEATED INQUIRIES. I DO NOT KNOW WHO TO FILE A VEHICLE COMPLAINT WITH. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET THIS FIXED SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE 9 MONTHS AGO.
Jul 23, 2018
SANTAFE WON'T START. EVERYTHING COMES ON DASH AND RADIO AND AC BUT CAR WON'T EVEN TURN OVER. I TALKED TO A MECHANIC WHO SAID THIS HAS BEEN A REACURING PROBLEM. JUST WONDERING WHY NO RECALL IF IT KEEPS HAPPENING. I CAME HOME AND WHEN I TRIED TO LEAVE IT WOULDN'T START. WAITED AND IT STARTED. THEN I GOT UP THE NEXT DAY AND AGAIN WON'T START.
Jun 28, 2018
+ 3 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle intermittently lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, and the starter was replaced. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign. The local dealer was contacted; however, it was unclear if the vehicle had been diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the same local independent mechanic, where the alternator was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 192,000
Oct 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, several warning lights illuminated and remained illuminated. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle several times, the warning lights turned off. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 172,000.
Oct 02, 2023
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE JERKED, LOST POWER, AND ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT VEERED TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD, TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, AND WAITED FOR A FEW MINUTES. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND FAILED TO RESUME NORMAL OPERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE TO HYUNDAI OF LONG ISLAND CITY (34-54 44TH ST, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, (718) 819-6160) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED TWO ADDITIONAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 23,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.
Dec 04, 2019
I WAS DRIVING NORTHBOUND ON A FREEWAY TO PICK UP MY 3 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER. MY CAR ENGINE COMPLETELY DIED/STALLED WHILE DRIVING 65MPH. AS SOON AS I TRIED TO GET INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE, I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. I GRABBED MY PURSE WHICH WAS ON THE PASSENGER SEAT NEXT TO ME, AND I EXITED THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY . AS SOON AS I EXITED THE VEHICLE, THE ENTIRE ENGINE AND FRONT OF MY CAR WAS IN FLAMES. THE FIREMAN ARRIVED ON THE SCENE WITHIN 5-10 MINUTES, BUT BY THE TIME THEY HAD GOTTEN THE FIRE OUT, MY ENTIRE CAR WAS TOTALED. I HAD A RECALL ON MY CAR FOR POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE WHILE DRIVING A YEAR AGO, I TOOK MY CAR INTO SACRAMENTO HYUNDAI WHERE THEY TOLD ME THEY HAD FIXED IT, ALONG WITH MULTIPLE OTHER RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE THAT I WAS UNAWARE OF. NOW, A YEAR LATER AFTER HYUNDAI SAID THEY FIXED MY RECALLS, MY CAR STALLED WHILE DRIVING, BUT THIS TIME THE ENTIRE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE WITH IT, AND THE ENTIRE CAR IS TOTALED. IT WAS THE SCARIEST, MOST TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE I'VE EVER BEEN THROUGH. IF I DID NOT EXIT THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY, I MIGHT NOT HAVE MADE IT OUT SAFELY.
Oct 31, 2018
Fire: 1
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, TWO WEEKS AGO MY 2013 HYUNDAI SANTAFE SPORT TURBO (WHICH I PURCHASED NEW IN 2013) EXPERIENCED AN ENGINE STALL AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. I WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN EXPERIENCED AN ENGINE FIRE THAT HAS CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE, BUT NOT BEFORE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE HAD BEEN CAUSED. I HAD MY CAR TOWED TO MY LOCAL AUTO SHOP AND THEY HAVE QUOTED THE DAMAGE IN EXCESS OF $2,000 AND INDICATED THAT THEY BELIEVED THE FIRE WAS DUE TO A SHORT IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. UPON DOING SOME QUICK RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET, IT SEEMS THAT MY EXPERIENCE IS NOT UNCOMMON. I SEE THAT AN OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED IN JULY 2018, YET THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL YET. IF A RECALL HAD BEEN ISSUED, I WOULD NOT HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS LOSS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT COURSE OF ACTION I SHOULD BE TAKING. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE.
Oct 01, 2018
Fire: 1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the doors were locked using the door lock button on the driver’s side front door; however, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the doors unlocked unintendedly. The failure occurred without warning. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Apr 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while closing the driver's and passenger's front doors, she noticed that the rubber piece covering the metal had deteriorated. The doors failed to lock while inside or outside the vehicle. The interior lights failed to turn off after closing the doors. The door ajar message was displayed. The contact was unable to view the fuel gauge. The thumb-to-touch feature was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who repaired the driver's side door. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who informed the contact that the vehicle was not under recall. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the door actuator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 186,872.
Dec 11, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that when the lock button was depressed, the locks engaged for less than a minute before unlocking. Additionally, the front passenger’s side door was shown to be unlocked even though the doors were all securely locked. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Jun 07, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the driver’s side door failed to lock as designed. The instrument cluster was flashing, and the interior lights were illuminated. The door ajar message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that door lock assembly needed to be replaced and there was an internal failure. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. While driving with a young child occupying the passenger’s side rear seat, the rear passenger’s side door opened. The contact stated that she was unable to determine if the doors were locked. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case number was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000. The contact stated that the failure happened twice and was repaired both times after each failure. However, they do not believe that this is a regular wear-and-tear issue.
May 31, 2023
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE HOOD FLEW OPEN WITHOUT WARNING AND CRACKED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO MOVE THE VEHICLE OFF OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V358000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES). THE CONTACT CALLED FIESTA HYUNDAI AT (505) 428-7100 (LOCATED AT 1955 ST MICHAEL'S DR, SANTA FE, NM 87507) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE IN A MONTH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 10493675. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 69,000.
Aug 15, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
4 complaints
While driving the car, started to smell gas and saw smoke. Tried to pull over and ABS lights came on and lost brakes. Was able to stop using emergency break. Car was completely engulfed in seconds.
Sep 06, 2025
Fire: 1
On Aug 2, 2025, while traveling back from vacation with our family of 4, our engine failed and completely seized up on a very busy highway. The vehicle completely shut off in a lane of travel near an exit ramp, and we were unable to even pull off on a shoulder for safety. We were unable to restart the vehicle or reproduce the issue because the vehicle will not turn on. There were no warning lamps or other messages. However, the car has historically consumed an extraordinary amount of oil, even with routine oil changes and service. Two quarts of oil were added to the vehicle the day before this happened. The vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealership and the incident was reported to Hyundai USA. We've been told the dealership can not run tests or inspect the vehicle until Aug. 21, nearly three weeks after it happened. We were told this is because they have numerous other vehicles with similar problems. This was an incredibly terrifying experience that put the safety of our family of 4, including two young children, at risk. A bystander called 911 and a state trooper arrived to set up flares and expedite a tow truck. We were told the spot we broke down is an incredibly busy part of an interstate where fatal accidents happen every other day.
Aug 08, 2025
ON OCTOBER 7TH 2018 WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED ON A FOUR LANE HIGHWAY MY HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT TURBO BEGAN TO MAKE NOISES IN THE ENGINE (NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON) THEN SUDDENLY THERE WAS A POPPING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. I COASTED TO THE SHOULDER AND FOUND SMOKE COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN I OPENED THE HOOD I FOUND THE WHOLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE CAR COMPLETELY BURNED OUT WHILE AWAITING THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Oct 08, 2018
Fire: 1
PURCHASED 2013 SANTA FE SPORT IN JAN 2018, WITH 60K MILES. 7K MILES ADDED, TO DATE. MAY 2018, DROVE THROUGH A CAR WASH, WATER ENTERED THE CAB THROUGH A SEAL ABOVE THE DASHBOARD. HYUNDAI SERVICE INVESTIGATED, REPLACED MOON ROOF SEAL, AND THEN REPORTED THAT THE MOON ROOF SEAL WAS NOT THE CAUSE, FURTHER INVESTIGATION NEEDED, AT A COST, TO US, OF $400. WE RESPECTFULLY DECLINED. WATER ENTERING THE VEHICLE, DURING A HEAVY RAIN, COULD PROVE TO BE VERY DANGEROUS. 6/02/18, MERGED ONTO HIGHWAY, SPEED OF 75 MPH, 9:45 AM, CLEAR SKIES, FAIRLY MODERATE TRAFFIC. WITHOUT WARNING, ENGINE LOST ALL POWER, ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE, NEGATIVE RESULTS, NON-RESPONSIVE. VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLOW, TURNED HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS ON, AND COASTED TO THE NEXT EXIT. THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY 4 CARS BEHIND ME WHEN I LOST ENGINE POWER. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO SAFELY EXIT, THE FREEWAY, AND COAST DOWNHILL, TO A NEARBY CHEVRON STATION, WITHOUT CAUSING A MAJOR ACCIDENT. (WOULD MY WIFE OR CHILDREN HAVE BEEN AS FORTUNATE?) TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND THEN ON AGAIN. THE VEHICLE HAD ELECTRICAL POWER AND INITIATED A SELF CHECK, RESULTS UNKNOWN. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT/BATTERY LIGHT/OIL LIGHT WERE ALL VISIBLE ON THE DASH BOARD. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PERFORMING A SELF DIAGNOSTIC TEST...A CLOUD OF SMOKE/BURNING SMELL EMITTED FROM THE AC VENT LOCATED NEAR THE RADIO. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE HYUNDAI DEALER, WHERE PURCHASED. A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK AND VISUAL INSPECTION REVEALED THAT THE ENGINE HAD SEIZED AND WAS RELATED TO PREVIOUS ENGINE RECALL. PROBLEM: MACHINING ERRORS DURING THE ENGINE MANUFACTURING PROCESS MAY CAUSE PREMATURE BEARING WEAR WITHIN THE ENGINE, THIS COULD RESULT IN THE ENGINE SEIZING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. FIX: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE ENGINE AND REPLACE THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK, AS NECESSARY, FOR FREE. DANGEROUS, BUSY HIGHWAYS, HIGH SPEED.... FATALITIES PROBABLE.
Jun 02, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
4 complaints
THIS CAR WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL OF OVER 1.5 MILLION HYUJDAI AND KIA VEHICLES DUE TO A FACTORY DEFECT THAT CAN LEAD TO PREMATURE ENGINE FAILURE. THIS CAR BROKE DOWN ON APRIL 28TH, 2019. I AM HAVING IT TOWED TO THE HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE "WHAT TO LOOK FOR" SECTION ON HYUNDAI'S WEBSITES LISTS A NUMBER OF SYMPTOMS OF THIS RECALL ISSUE AND WHAT I EXPERIENCED WHEN MY CAR LEFT ME STRANDED ALONG THE HIGHWAY IS EXACTLY WHAT IS DESCRIBED ON THE HYUNDAI WEBSITE. THE ENGINE ALSO SHUTDOWN GOING 65MPH ON THE HIGHWAY.I WANTED TO BRING THIS TO YOUR ATTENTION SINCE THE NHTSA WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN ORDERING THIS RECALL. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
Apr 29, 2019
I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE BRAND NEW AND HAVE HAD PROBLEMS RANDOMLY WITH THE VEHICLE STALLING OR TURNING OFF WHILE AT A LIGHT OR GOING SLOW. I HAVE TO RESTART VEHICLE AND WHEN I DO IT'S LIKE IT CAN NOT ACCELERATE AND IT VIBRATES OR IS BUMPY. I FEEL AT DANGER NEVER KNOWING WHEN THIS CAN HAPPEN LUCKILY I HAVE NOT BEEN SMASHED INTO YET THANK GOD CONSIDERING I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN. I HAVE BROUGHT THIS CONCERN AND HAVE HAD MY VEHICLE LOOKED AT BY THE HYUNDAI DEALER AND THEY SAY NOTHING IS WRONG. I AM VERY UPSET WITH THE PROBLEM AND HYUNDAI NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT EXCEPT OFFERING ME A FREE APPRAISAL FOR A TURN IN:-( THIS IS HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE I WILL NEVER BUY A HYUNDAI AGAIN AND WILL ADVISE FAMILY, FRIENDS AND COWORKERS OF THIS PROBLEM.
Oct 05, 2018
VEHICLE HAS SLIGHTLY OVER 78,000 MILES. ENGINE SEIZED WHILE MERGING ONTO THE HIGHWAY. I AM NOT BEING TOLD THAT THE ENGINE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALERSHIP SOLD US THE WRONG WARRANTY, GAVE US AN OUTDATED CAR FAX REPORT, AND IS SAYING THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE.
Feb 22, 2018
ON DEC 18TH DRIVING ON A COUNTY ROAD OUTSIDE OF GUNNISON, CO MY 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT WAS IN MOTION AND A CLICKING NOISE BEGAN IN ENGINE. AFTER ~1 HR AND AFTER CHECKING FLUID LEVELS A LOUD POP IN THE ENGINE CAUSED IT TO CEASE FUNCTIONING WHILE IN MOTION (~45-55 MPH) LEAVING MY STRANDED IN DANGEROUSLY COLD TEMPERATURES THAT NIGHT. I WAS FORCED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP WHERE, WITH NO LOANER CARS AND A 6 WEEK WAIT ON A NEW ENGINE, WAS FORCED TO PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE FROM HYUNDAI WITH NO EXPLANATION OF WHAT HAPPENED TO THE ENGINE. A FEW WEEKS AGO I RECEIVED A NOTICE FROM HYUNDAI CORPORATE STATING THERE IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V-226). IT IS CLEAR THAT HYUNDAI KNEW OF THIS PROBLEM AND NOT ONLY DID NOT REIMBURSE ANY EXPENSES RELATED TO THE ENGINE ISSUE AND PUT ME IN A SITUATION REQUIRING ME TO PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE FROM THEM.
Jun 21, 2017
POWER TRAIN
4 complaints
2 WEEKS AGO MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HOME PASSING THRU A NEIGHBORING SUBDIVISION AT AROUND 25-30 MPH. AS SHE WAS TURNING SHE HEARD A LOUD POP FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. SHE FIRST THOUGHT IS WAS A TIRE BLOWN. AFTER INSPECTING SHE NOTICED FLUID COMING OUT REAR OF VEHICLE. SHE PROMPTLY DROVE THE VEHICLE TO A FRIENDS HOUSE JUST UP THE ROAD WHOM IS A MECHANIC. AFTER INSPECTION HE SENT ME PICTURES OF THE THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING AND IT WAS COMPLETELY CRACKED IN HALF. CAR WAS TAKEN FOR REPAIR WHERE WE FOUND OUT THAT THE 10/100K MY POWER TRAIN WARRANTY IS ONLY VALID FOR THE FIRST OWNER. THAT IS A LOAD OF CRAP AND A PATHETIC WAY FOR MANUFACTURERS TO GIVE THESE WARRANTIES OUT WITHOUT HAVING TO COVER THE FULL TERM, AS MOST PEOPLE TRADE EVERY 50-60K MILES, OR LESS. THE 10/100K WARRANTY WAS SOLD ON THE CAR BUT ENDED WITH A NEW OWNER AT 32K ON THE ODOMETER, NOW AT JUST OVER 60K MAJOR FAILURE. THIS SEEMS A LITTLE UNJUST TO ME. NOW LUCKILY WE DID HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FROM DEALERSHIP WHERE WE PURCHASED THE CAR ( TOYOTA OF GREENVILLE, AWESOME PEOPLE) AND THEY UNLIKE HYUNDAI ARE DOING WHATEVER IT TAKES TO KEEP US HAPPY AND ENSURE OUR VEHICLE GETS FIXED IN A TIMELY MANNER. SO IN SHORT, I WILL NEVER BY ANOTHER HYUNDAI AGAIN AFTER THEIR UNWILLINGNESS TO TAKE THIS GROSS AND POTENTIALLY CATASTROPHIC FAILURE WITH ANY CONCERN OR SERIOUNESS AND HIDE BEHIND SOME CLAUS THAT BASICALLY SAYS THAT THEIR SPOKEN 10YR/100K WARRANTY IS WORTHLESS !!!!
Oct 03, 2018
REAR DIFFERENTIAL FAILED
Nov 13, 2017
ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER WHILE IN MOTION. IT HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING 55MPH, IT HAS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, AS WELL AS JUST SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT. EVERY OTHER TIME THE VEHICLE IS STARTED, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES THEN GOES OFF, ON/OFF, ON/OFF ETC... AND JUST AS OFTEN AS THE LIGHTS CHANGES THE SHIFTING IT'S EXTREMELY HARD WHEN SHIFTING GEARS. THEN THE VERY NEXT DAY, IT RUNS PERFECTLY FINE. HOWEVER, IT REACHES EXTREMELY HIGH RPM'S BEFORE SHIFTING. WHEN IT DOES THAT, IT LITERALLY FEELS LIKE THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR IS GOING TO FALL OUT FROM UNDERNEATH. MAYBE PURE COINCIDENCE BUT NONE OF THIS STARTED UNTIL I HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN FOR RECALL NOTIFICATIONS. I CONTACTED THE DEALER WHEN IT HAPPENED AND THEY SAID NOTHING THEY DID WOULD HAVE CAUSED ANY OF THIS TO HAPPEN. AND OF COURSE, WHEN YOU TAKE IT TO HAVE SOMEONE LOOK AT IT, IT NEVER RUNS "OTHER THAN NORMAL". THE VEHICLE IS ONLY GOING ON ALMOST 5 YRS OLD, AND HAS 68,530 MILES.
Oct 08, 2017
MADE A LEFT TURN WHILE DRIVING UNDER NORMAL CONDITION (ENTER THE TURN FROM A COMPLETE STOP AND ACCELERATING TO ABOUT 15 MPH). A LOUD BANG WAS HEARD IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, WHILE IN THE TURN, FOLLOWED BY A BRIEF VIBRATION. I MADE AN IMMEDIATE RIGHT TURN ON TO A NEARBY SIDE STREET AND FELT THE VIBRATION AGAIN, BUT NO NOISE WAS HEARD. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A SAFE LOCATION A FEW HUNDRED FEET FROM WHERE THE INITIAL NOISE WAS HEARD. UPON LOOKING AT AND THEN UNDER THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE A BLACKISH/GRAY FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE AREA OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE WAS CALLED AND A TOW TRUCK RESPONDED WITHIN AN HOUR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A NEAR BY HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION AND REPAIR. THE DAY AFTER THE INCIDENT A SERVICE MANAGER FROM THE DEALERSHIP CALLED ME AND REPORTED THAT THE HOUSING FOR THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL CRACKED. THE DIFFERENTIAL WILL BE REPLACED AND COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.
Oct 05, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
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.
Dec 11, 2025
WE TOOK OUR 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT VIN #[XXX] INTO SHAWNEE MISSION HYUNDAI ON APRIL 16TH, 2018, AS THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER WENT OUT ON THE VEHICLE WHILE WE WERE DRIVING IT, WE HAD PULLED OUT OF A PARK ON TO A STREET THAT IS HEAVILY TRAVELED AND IT MADE THE SHUT DOWN NOISE AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WENT BLACK. WE PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT, BECAUSE I WASN'T SURE IF THE CARE WAS STILL RUNNING OR NOT. I PUT IT IN PARK AND TURNED IT OFF AND ON AND IT WAS STILL BLACK. THE CAR WAS LOCKED INTO THE PARK POSITION AND WE COULDN'T GET IT OUT. WE CALLED AAA AND THEY SENT A TOW TRUCK DRIVER OUT. HE SHOWED ME HOW TO USE THE KEY INSIDE THE FOB TO GET IT OUT OF PARK AND SAID TO IMMEDIATELY TACK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO BE FIXED AS THIS WAS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD. WE HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH A SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE NAMED [XXX] FROM THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO MIKE, THEY ORDERED A REPLACEMENT PART THAT ARRIVED LAST WEDNESDAY AND IT HAD A BROKEN PIECE ON IT, SO THEY ORDERED ANOTHER ONE. IT ARRIVED ON FRIDAY AND AFTER INSTALLATION, ON SATURDAY OUR CAR STILL WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. WE FINALLY GOT OUR CAR BACK FROM THE DEALERSHIP ON APRIL 27TH AND THE PANEL WENT OUT AT 12:30 ON APRIL 29TH AFTER GOING THROUGH AN INTERSECTION AND STOP LIGHT. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON APRIL 30TH AND GOT IT BACK ON MAY 4TH AND THE PANEL WENT OUT ON MAY 5TH AT 11:00 AFTER PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP TODAY, MAY 7TH. THIS PARTICULAR CLUSTER GOING OUT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD AND WONDER IF YET ANOTHER RECALL NEEDS TO GO OUT? SO ON APRIL 26TH I OPENED A CASE FILE WITH HYUNDAI'S CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT, BUT HAVE YET TO TALK TO THE CASE WORKER. SHE CALLED AND LEFT A MESSAGE, I RETURNED HER CALL AND LEFT A MESSAGE AND EMAILED HER TO CALL ME TODAY AT 4:00 CST AND SHE DIDN'T CALL. THE CASE NUMBER IS [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
May 07, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT TURBO. PAST/PRESENT SAFETY-SENSITIVE DEFECTS, NOTED OVER THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS: 1. One Confirmed Open Recall [CAMPAIGN #/NHTSA RECALL #—Recall 251 / 23V651000] (To Be Scheduled ASAP). 2. RPM/Propulsion Limp-mode Conditions: Vehicle periodically loses RPM READINGS on Dash and goes into the Propulsion sputtering/restricted-speed limp-mode hesitation condition. This condition may occasionally normalize by stopping, turning off engine and restarting. This intermittent RPM/Propulsion condition sometimes occurs, signified by a temporary sputtering/bucking while driving vehicle. ️CHECK STORED CODES ASAP...To Do. 3. Several times the car failed to accelerate predictably. For example, as when trying to accelerate up to highway speed from the on-ramp, leading to a fear of a near-miss, stalling and getting rear-ended. On such occasions, since attention is directed outside of the vehicle for safety, the state of the RPM READING on the dash has not been noted. ️CHECK STORED CODES ASAP...To Do.
Aug 20, 2025
THERE ARE TWO SEPARATE INCIDENTS WHERE I EXPERIENCED COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE IN MY SANTE FE SPORT 2.0T. INVOICE NUMBER ' 359131 FIRST OCCURRED AT 47,031 MILES. ON FEBRUARY 16, 2017 I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE WITH MY SON ON THE FREEWAY WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED AND MY VEHICLE BEGAN JERKING AND MAKING A LOUD CLICKING TAPPING SOUND SLOWING ME DOWN ALMOST IMMEDIATELY. I LOST POWER IN MY STEERING, VEHICLE WAS HARD TO MANEUVER. HYUNDAI ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM RETURNED MY VEHICLE AND CHARGED ME PARTIALLY FOR REPAIR. MADE CONTACT WITH THEM ABOUT REPAIR BEING A MISDIAGNOSIS AS THEY FIRST BLAMED THE INCIDENT ON AIR FILTER, SERPENTINE BELT, SPARK PLUGS, FUEL INJECTOR CLEANING, THEY REPLACED MY FUEL PUMP AND ENGINE BLOCK AT NO COST BUT CHARGED ME THE OTHER ITEMS. WORK ORDER NUMBER 201868 THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED AT 50,897 MILES ON JULY 14, 2017 I WAS TRAVELING ACROSS STATES FROM EL PASO, TEXAS TO COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO WITH MY 5 YR OLD SON AND MY HUSBAND. WE WERE TRAVELING NORTH ON HIGHWAY I-25 WHEN OUR VEHICLE BEGAN TO LOSE POWER AND STARTING MAKING THE LOUD VIBRATIONS AND TAPPING SOUNDS LIKE IT HAD DONE THE FIRST TIME ABOUT 3,000 MILES AGO WHEN I HAD THE ENGINE REPLACED. WE WERE OVER TAKING A SEMI TRUCK ON THE ROAD WHEN THIS HAPPENED WE WERE BARELY ABLE TO RECOVER OUR LANE AND PULL OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AS WE SLOWED DOWN ALMOST IMMEDIATELY THE SEMI WAS ABLE TO BRAKE AND AVOID REAR ENDING US. WE WERE STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE ABOUT AN HOUR AWAY FROM ALBURQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. THIS WAS TERRIFYING FOR MY FAMILY AND I. WE HAD VERY LITTLE TIME TO REACT AND FIND A SAFE PLACE TO PULL OVER. I BELIEVE MY VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED PROPERLY THROUGH THEIR QUALITY CONTROL PERSONNEL. IF THERE IS DEBRIS INSIDE MY ENGINE AND IT HAS CONTINUOUSLY PRESENTED ITSELF IT WILL EVENTUALLY TRAVEL THROUGH THE REST OF MY ENGINE EX. TURBO SEALS BEARINGS.
Jul 20, 2017
STRUCTURE
2 complaints
Panoramic sunroof suddenly exploded while driving with passengers in the front in back seat.
Mar 31, 2025
THE PAINT IS FLAKING/PEELING ON HOOD, ROOF AND BACK BUMPER. RANGING FROM TINY SPOTS AL THE WAY TO LARGE AREAS (APPROX. 6 INCHES X 3 INCHES) IAS WELL AS THE TRIM DOWN THE SIDES ON THE PAINT IN PEELING OFF AS WELL. I HAVE CHECKED AND SEEN THAT THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY SEVERAL OWNERS OF THIS SAME MAKE AND MODEL APPEARING TO BE THE SAME IN COLOR ALSO) PLEASE CONSIDER RECALLING AND CORRECTING THIS PROBLEM, GIVING PEOPLE CONFIDENCE IN YOUR COMPANY AGAIN. THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS RECALLS ON THIS MODEL ALREADY SO IT WOULD BE APPRECIATED IF THIS WOULD BE RECOGNIZED AS A PROBLEM WITH EITHER THIS MODEL OR SPECIFIC COLOR BEING A DEFECT IN THE WHITE PAINT. I DON'T THINK WITH THIS PROBLEM I CAN SPECIFY IF VEHICLE WAS MOVING OR STAIONARY AS INFORMATION ASKED TO INCLUDE IN ALL COMPLAINTS. I HAVE ABOUT 3 MORE PICTURES OF DAMAGE THAT WOULDN'T FIT IN PHOTO SECTION
Mar 05, 2018
SEATS
2 complaints
TAMARA RECALL. - THE FRAME ON THE DRIVERS SEAT HAS CRACKED AND IS COMING APART, MAKING ALL EQUIPMENT ON THE SEAT TO COME APART. UNKNOWN WHEN IT ACTUALLY HAPPENED NOTICED ONE DAY WHEN I GOT OUT OF THE CAR
May 21, 2019
THE DRIVERS SEAT IS LOOSE AND WILL ROCK BACK AND FORTH. IT OCCURS IN MOTION AND WHEN STATIONARY. IT FEELS LIKE IN AN ACCIDENT IT MAY BECOME DISLODGED. IT HAS BEEN RECOMMENDED TO REPLACE THE SEAT TRACKS.
Mar 26, 2018
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
OBD FUEL SYSTEM SENSOR HAS FAILED NJ INSPECTION 4 TIMES SINCE MARCH 2019.
May 06, 2019
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, OBD-II TROUBLE CODE P0087: FUEL RAIL/SYSTEM PRESSURE - TOO LOW. HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL PUMP FAILURE AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I EXPERIENCED THE SYMPTOMS OF P0087: ROUGH RUNNING, POOR ACCELERATION ON THE HIGH WAY, AND HARD STARTING.
Dec 26, 2017
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
MY 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT HAS A PANORAMIC SUNROOF THAT EXPLODED ON OCTOBER 9TH 2018 WHILE I WAS DRIVING (PICTURES ATTACHED). I HAD JUST LEFT WORK LESS THAN ONE MINUTE DOWN THE ROAD WHEN I HEARD CRACKLING NOISE FOLLOWED BY A LOUD EXPLOSION AND THEN SOUNDS OF A LOT OF CHATTERING HITTING THE SHADE, FOLLOWED BY WIND AND OUTSIDE NOISE (LIKE I OPENED A WINDOW). WHEN IT WAS SAFE TO PULL OVER TO CHECK WHAT HAD HAPPENED. I FOUND THE FRONT GLASS OF THE SUNROOF EXPLODED UP AND OUT! I HAD THE SHADE CLOSED SO THE GLASS DIDN'T GET IN THE VEHICLE. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK PICTURES AND CALLED THE DEALERSHIP I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE THAT WAS ABLE TO TAKE THE VEHICLE IN LATER THAT SAME DAY AND WOULD HAVE TO LEAVE IT OVERNIGHT. I RECEIVED A CALL FROM THEIR SERVICE DEPT. THE NEXT DAY TELLING ME THAT HYUNDAI WOULD NOT COVER THE SUNROOF! I HAD NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING TO A PANORAMIC ROOF BEFORE. SO, I DID SOME RESEARCH ONLINE TO FIND THIS HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES AND HYUNDAI KNOWS OF THE ISSUE. IF THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE, I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY HYUNDAI WOULD NOT COVER THE REPAIR? WHY THERE IS NOT A RECALL OR WARNING THAT THIS CAN HAPPEN?
Feb 06, 2019
SUNROOF EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING......WE WERE DRIVING ON A FOUR LANE HIGHWAY ON A CLOUDY AFTERNOON. TEMP WAS 47 DEGREES AND TRAVELING AT 65 MPH ON A STRAIGHT STRETCH. THE CLOSEST CAR IN FRONT OF US WAS 1/2 MILE. ALL OF A SUDDEN A LOUD SHOTGUN LIKE SOUND AND GLASS EVERYWHERE. THE FRONT SECTION OF OUR PANORAMIC SUNROOF EXPLODED. MY WIFE WAS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AND MY 19 MONTH OLD WAS IN THE BACK SEAT. GLASS WAS ON ALL OF US.
Jan 23, 2018
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer on several occasions for abnormal oil consumption and a burning odor on the exterior of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where the PCV valve, valve cover gasket, sealant, drive belts, ribbed-V belt, RTV silicone gasket maker, turbo, and gasket engine oil plug were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
Mar 11, 2025
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with engine failure and waste gauge. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the original engine was previously replaced under an unknown recall repair in 2021, however the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the mileage of the new engine was approximately 20,000. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the doors were independently unlatched. The contact stated that the driver's side rear door independently unlatched and independently opened. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
Feb 24, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side door failed to register as closed when locked. The back over prevention camera failed to display the rear-view image while in the vehicle was in reverse. The contact stated that during the failure with the back over prevention camera the radio also became inoperable. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light erroneously illuminated with the tires properly inflated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and repaired under the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed for the other failures. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 108,000.
Jul 10, 2024
AIR BAGS
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair 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.
Jan 30, 2024
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the contact observed a gasoline odor. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence and inspected. The contact's husband observed gas around the fuel pump and condensation underneath the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel pressure pump line needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 161,000.
Nov 20, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that fuel was leaking from the fuel line. The contact also stated that the vehicle hesitated at start-up due to the failure. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V934000 (Engine, Fuel System, Gasoline) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that his vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 114,964.
Aug 19, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the ABS, emergency brake, and other brake warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. Despite the illumination of the warning lights, the vehicle resumed normal operation. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that he had to pay out of pocket for the replacement of an unknown vehicle sensor, which the dealer related to the illumination of the warning lights. Recently, the contact stated that an abnormal, high pitched, motor sound would emit from the vehicle upon both turning the vehicle on and off. The contact then stated that upon turning off the vehicle, he heard an explosion as a white colored smoke began to emit from the engine. Upon opening the hood, the contact discovered the ABS pump had exploded. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle remained in the contact's possession and had yet to be serviced or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Mar 28, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V303000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. OURISMAN HYUNDAI OF BOWIE (2404 CRAIN HWY SUITE A, BOWIE, MD 20716, (301)390-0880) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
May 14, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
2013 HYUNDAI SONATA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BRAKE FLUID LEAK SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME COMPLETING THE RECALL REPAIR. *JS
Jan 11, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO LOOSE POWER, STARTED HAVING A VIBRATION AND COULD SEE SMOKE IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. I PULLED OVER AND THE ENGINE HAD CAUGHT FIRE. WITHIN MINUTES, THE WHOLE VEHICLE BURST INTO FLAMES.
May 09, 2019
Fire: 1
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
HUSBAND WAS DRIVING MY SANTA FE SPORT 2013 ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE CAR JUST DIED, 97,000 MILES ON THE CAR, NO WARNING AT ALL. NO ENGINE LIGHTS OR ANYTHING. TOOK TO A MECHANIC, SAID THE ENGINE SEIZED AND WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED. ALSO SAID THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE VEHICLE, EVEN THOUGH IT WAS NOT DUE FOR AN OIL CHANGE YET. HE SAID THEY COULDN'T FIND A REASON FOR THERE TO BE NO OIL, PROPER MAINTENANCE HAS BEEN COMPLETED ON THIS VEHICLE. HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP, WAITING TO SEE IF IT IS UNDER WARRANTY, BUT I AM SURE THEY WILL TRY TO FIND A REASON NOT TO PAY TO HAVE IT FIXED. SECOND PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR IN THE LAST 3 MONTHS. THE FUEL PUMP WENT OUT LESS THAN THREE MONTHS AGO AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. WILL NOT BUY HYUNDAI AGAIN.
Mar 21, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
RESET BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY SHORTS OUT EVERY YEAR. THIS HAS BEEN AN ON GOING ISSUE SINCE I HAVE OWNED THE CAR AND THE DEALER ALWAYS SEEMS TO BE RELUCTANT TO REPAIR IT. THIS NEEDS A RECALL URGENTLET!
Feb 15, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
NOTHING HAS HAPPENED YET BUT ABS,ESC,DBC AND PARKING BRAKE LIGHT ALL ON. I HAVE LOOKED THIS UP AND IT SEEMS THIS IS HAPPENING TO MANY OF THESE VEHICLES. I'M JUST WONDERING WHY A RECALL HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED, FOR ALL THESE SYSTEMS ARE SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUES. I'M BRINGING MINE TO THE DEALERSHIP MONDAY BUT WAS TOLD I WOULD MORE THAN LIKELY BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT OF THIS PROBLEM.
Dec 12, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
ABS SENSORS GOING BAD ON THESE MODELS. HAPPEND TODAY WHEN I WAS JUST SITTING WITH SUV RUNNING. GOT A C1209 BAD RIGHT REAR SENSOR, READ UP ON IT AND MORE PEOPLE HAVE HAD MULTIPLE FAILURES WITH THIS. SOME STATED THEY GOT RECALLS DEPENDING ON WHERE THEY LIVE AND OTHERS DIDN'T.
Nov 10, 2018
STEERING
1 complaint
WHEN DRIVING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 45 MPH THE CAR IS UNSTABLE. IT CONSISTENTLY SWERVES TO THE LEFT AND TO THE RIGHT FORCING THE DRIVER TO CONSTANTLY ADJUST THE STEERING. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHAT MODE THE STEERING IS IN. IT DOES IT IN ALL THREE MODES. IT FEELS UNSAFE AND UNSETTLING.
Nov 08, 2018
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
ON JULY 26, 2018 VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER AND ENGINE BEGAN SMOKING AND EMITTING FLAMES. CAR WAS IN MOTION AT APPROXIMATELY 70 MPS IN THE MIDDLE OF A TUNNEL ON COLORADO INTERSTATE 70 WITH NO PULL OFF SPACE. CARS BEHIND REPORTED FLAMES FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE. WE WERE ABLE TO EXIT WITHOUT BEING HARMED BUT INHALED HORRIBLE SMELLING FUMES. FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL DISCONNECT THE BATTERY TO KEEP THE ENGINE FROM CONTINUING TO FLAME AND SMOKE. TOWED OFF INTERSTATE TO SAFE AREA WHERE THEY CONTINUED TO MONITOR VEHICLE FOR CONTINUING SMOKING AND FLAMING.
Oct 02, 2018
Fire: 1
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
SUV STALLED OUT ON EXPRESSWAY AT 50MPH. THE ENGINE MADE A LOUD TAPPING NOISE THEN ENGLINE AND OIL LIGHT APPEARED ON DASHBOARD. I COASTED DOWN THE EXIT RAMP NEARLY BEING HIT BY MERGING TRAFFIC. THE BRAKES BECAME HARD AND COSTED TO STOP SIGN. I WAS ABLE TO GET TO NEXT BLOCK TO MY HOME BY PLACING CAR IN PARK AND RESTARTING . THE ENGINE AT THIS POINT SOUNDS LIKE A WOODPECKER TAPPING ON WOOD. MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN TOWED TO DEALERSHIP AND AWAITING WARRANTY REPAIR.AUTHORIZATION. THIS EVENT MIRROR THE RECALL ISSUED BY HYUNDAI AND NHTSA#17V-226. I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR THIS RECALL AND WAS TOLD 30MIN LATER THAT MY ENGINE WAS AFFECTED. I FOUND OUT THAT THEY SHOULD HAVE TAKEN MY CRANKCASE OFF NOT JUST DO AN OIL CHANGE. I AM STILL WAITING ON WORLD HYUNDAI TO INSPECT MY VEHICLE.
Jun 12, 2018
SUSPENSION
1 complaint
THE REAR AND FRONT SUSPENSION MAKE A NOISE EVEN WHEN THE CAR WAS STATIONARY. EVEN WHEN THE DOORS ARE CLOSING, THE NOISE CAME OUT FROM THE SUSPENSION. IT'S BEEN THIS WAY FROM THE BEGINNING OF DRIVING MY CAR.
Jun 04, 2018
WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL KNOCKING NOISE. THE DEALER (JOE MACHENS HYUNDAI, 1300 VANDUVER DR, COLUMBIA, MO 65202) STATED THAT THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE TIRES, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED LESS THAN A YEAR LATER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
May 14, 2018
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THERE IS A RUMBLING NOISE AFTER COMPLETING A TURN, GENERALLY LEFT HAND TURNS. ALSO, DURING THE TURN, THE ENGINE OIL LIGHT COMES ON AND GOES OFF
Apr 03, 2018
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
WHILE IN REVERSE BACKING CAMERA SCREEN BLACKS OUT FOR SEVERAL SECONDS WHILE CAR IS BACKINGA. (EVERYTIME)
Mar 29, 2018
4.4/5.0
31 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport have?

The 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport currently has 170 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport?

The most common problems reported for the 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2013 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

Other Years - HYUNDAI Santa Fe Sport

Other HYUNDAI Models

Similar Brands

← Back