2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
252
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
POWER TRAIN
94 complaints
Transmission will not shift out of 1st. Gear .50000 miles this is second time in less than 2 months. Dealer replaced cable in top of transmission worked for 600 miles.
Aug 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled and lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted and driven to the residence. The contact stated that the replacement of the knock sensor detection system (KSDS) was previously completed under an unknown recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Jul 07, 2023
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that there was a winding noise coming from the front end of the vehicle underneath the hood. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who diagnosed that the knock sensor needed to be replaced. The knock sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted and had gotten worse. The contact returned the vehicle to the dealer who determined that the failure had caused the transmission to fail, and the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact was unable to have the vehicle repaired free of charge due to the warranty mileage being exceeded. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case. The appropriate failure mileage was 11,000.
May 17, 2023
The contact's mother owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon a cold start, the vehicle would make an abnormal, clunking sounds while shifting gear. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the transmission was replaced. Recently, the contact stated that the failure had recurred, and the check engine warning light briefly appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle was diagnosed and showed low pressure in the transmission sensor. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, but the mechanic could not diagnose the failure. The dealer drained the transmission fluid and discovered metal shavings inside the transmission fluid. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The dealer also stated that the vehicle was no longer covered under warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Oct 24, 2022
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated to accelerate. There was no warning light illuminated. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact mentioned NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V261000 (Power Train) as a possible solution to the failure however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Jun 07, 2021
+ 89 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
22 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 183,000.
Jul 03, 2024
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle was initially taken to the dealer to have a manufacturer recall performed for P966. The contact then stated that on multiple occasions after the recall was performed while driving approximately 20-30 MPH, she heard a loud knocking noise at the hood of the vehicle before the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that she was able to restart the vehicle however, the failure recurred. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The manufacture was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained at the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 207,628
Sep 16, 2022
My engine blew. No warning lights were on. The acceleration started sounding weird and so I slowed it down. It started running at high rpms and then it started clanking and parts flew out from behind my car from then engine while in interstate and now my engine is blown. There wasn't much warning and no warning lights at all except my tire light which is always on even though tires are filled and don't lose air
Jul 24, 2022
On April 22,2021 I took my Hyundai Santa Fe to McGrath Hyundai Serv Ctr for routine oil change. I paid for this oil chge and was given a MultiPoint Inspection rpt detailing my car was in good condition needing only routine maintenance updates. Mileage was documented 46,008 mi. My car was in excellent condition, regularly maintained at Hyundai service centers. 9 days later my engine failed without any warning. I had only driven about 30 mi after service.This is a safety issue as the failure could've occurred while I was driving. I towed the car back to the serv ctr where I was told I would need a new engine. There was no reason ever given for the sudden failure other than that this was a bad engine. I called Hyundai Corp Care to ask for help. I was told my 100,000/10yr warranty had expired 6 mos. earlier and there was NO recall. I later found this not to be true as NHTSA had done an investigation earlier causing Hyundai to recall 1000's of Santa Fe's for the EXACT reason that my engine failed. My VIN is not included in this recall but the problem was exactly the same. I read in the NHTSA report this recall applied to engines manufactured before 2011. After many phone calls/emails, Hyundai Corp agreed to a "good will" offer to replace the engine for 80%. I was told they would remove the bad engine and drop in a new one. However, there was faulty communication between Hyundai Corp and Hyundai service center. My hands were tied. 175 days later I was returned my car with a remanufactured short block. Approximately 2 mos later my oil light began to flicker. I returned to serv ctr where I was told I now need to manually check my oil regularly. The service engine light no longer works as it should. The warning light no longer works for other safety issues also. Hyundai was not truthful in owning up to the existence of the engine safety issue. They should have owned my problem and repaired as part of the recall. I no longer feel safe driving my car.
Feb 28, 2022
The contact owned a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact was calling from an insurance company and stated that while the driver was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started to lose motive power and decelerated inadvertently. There was smoke coming from the air vents and flames were seen coming from the front wheel wells. After exiting the vehicle, flames engulfed the vehicle and the vehicle was destroyed. The fire department was called to the scene and a report was taken before the vehicle was towed away. No injuries were reported. The cause of the failure was not determined. Later the insurance company concluded that the fire was caused by a faulty engine. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Jul 27, 2021
+ 17 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
13 complaints
My paint is peeling on my SUV . The hood and side by my windshield along with the top by the sun roof
Jan 25, 2022
The problem is that the vehicle sometimes hesitates to move forward, and then suddenly accelerates quickly and roughly. It happens when the vehicle is stopped as in traffic. It sometimes makes a clunking noice, it feels like someone hit me from behind. I have taken it to the dealership before a couple years ago, when this happened and they re-programmed it. It was fine for awhile then it happened again, so I took it to the dealership again, they did an inspection….they are saying now it needs a $1300 part, it will cost over $1600.
Jun 14, 2021
THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT MEET WITH THE FOLLOWING US FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS (FMVSS) AND REGULATIONS [DOT] I NEED TO REGISTER AND TAG MY VEHICLE HERE IN ORLANDO FLORIDA I GOT HYUNDAI AUTO CANADA CERTIFIES THAT THE ABOVE NOTED VEHICLE, 2010 SANTA FE GT 2.4 LITRE DOHC, WAS MANUFACTURED FOR RETAIL SALE IN CANADA AND COMPLIED WITH ALL CANADIAN MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS (CMVSS) AND CANADIAN EMISSIONS STANDARDS APPLICABLE AS OF THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE. THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT MEET WITH THE FOLLOWING US FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS (FMVSS) AND REGULATIONS: I HOPE YOU CAN HELP ON THIS OR RECOMMEND ME TO SOMEONE WHO CAN PLEASE, THANK YOU [XXX] MY EMAIL IS [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Feb 03, 2021
WHENEVER I LOOK UP THE RECALLS MY ENGINE TYPE HAS RECALLS BUT EVERY SYSTEM SAYS NONE FOR MY VIN. I THINK IT'S BECAUSE I HAVE AWD/4WD. HOWEVER, EVERYTHING ELSE IS THE SAME. I HAD TO REPLACE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, THE DEALER SAID AT THE TIME THEY WERE REPLACING THEM FOR 2WD. NOT MINE $2000. NOW THERE ARE TRANSMISSION ISSUES THAT WILL BE COVERED FOR 2WD WITH THE SAME ENGINE TYPE I HAVE BUT NOT MINE. BECAUSE I HAVE 4WD THIS IS NOT RIGHT I'M HAVING ALL THE SAME ISSUES. CAN YOUR AGENCY GET THEN TO ADD MY VIN# OR 4WD TO THE LIST? WITH THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER MY CAR WOULD JERK WHEN I TRIED TO ACCELERATE. MOST OF THE TIME IT WOULDN'T SPEED UP IT WOULD JUST JERK. WITH THE TRANSMISSION I STOPPED GOING UP THE FREEWAY ENTRANCE RAMP ON I10 HEADED EAST. THE CAR WAS SLUGGISH BARELY MOVING. I WAS BARELY ABLE TO GET TO THE SIDE, HALF MY CAR OUT IN THE WAY. IT HAS NOT MOVED SINCE. IT WON'T DRIVE FORWARD OR BACKWARD. THE TOW MAN ONLY NEUTRAL WORKS. HE PUSHED IT INTO A PARKING SPOT AFTER IT WAS TOWED. I HAD A MECHANIC COME TO LOOK AT IT. HE SAID TRANSMISSION ISSUES. ALSO, THE ELECTRIC IS CRAZY THE KEY CLICKER AND THE DOOR LOCKS, WORK WHEN IT WANTS TO.
Nov 21, 2020
IN APRIL 2019 THE SUNROOF OF MY 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE FLEW OFF. REPLACED AFTER $500 INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE. ON FEBRUARY 21, 2020 WHILE TRAVELING AT AROUND 65 MILES AN HOUR ON I75 NORTH, THE SAME INCIDENT OCCURRED ON OUR 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA. TODAY I SUBMITTED A SEPARATE COMPLAINT FOR THE SONATA. COMPLAINT 11312271. I DECIDED TO FILE BOTH COMPLAINTS TODAY ON BOTH VEHICLES DUE TO THE FACT THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED SERIOUS ACCIDENTS ON THE HIGHWAY AND SOMEONE COULD GET SERIOUSLY HURT.
Feb 29, 2020
+ 8 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
10 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTE FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED. ADDITIONALLY, WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, WHO WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
Jun 06, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE FROM A COMPLETE STOP AND THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL 4 SECOND DELAY BEFORE THE VEHICLE RESPONDED. THE MALFUNCTION RECURRED SPORADICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS, WHO WAS UNABLE TO GENERATE A TROUBLE CODE. THE DEALER PERFORMED AN UNKNOWN REPAIR HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD RANDOMLY NOT RESPOND TO THROTTLE PRESSURE WHEN TURNING FROM A RESTING STOP. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO RETRIEVE A CODE DESCRIPTION FROM THE VEHICLES OBDII TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THEY DEALER REPLACED THE AWD MODULE AND PERFORMED AN UPDATE FOR THE VEHICLES ACCELERATIONS RESPONSE
Apr 30, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED, THE VEHICLE STALLED. ADDITIONALLY, WHILE AT A STOP AND ATTEMPTING THE ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
Feb 26, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE UPHILL, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, SHIFTED OUT OF DRIVE AND THEN BACK INTO DRIVE. AS THE CONTACT APPLIED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,000.
Dec 07, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING FROM THE COMPLETE STOP THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR AND THERE WAS NO RESPONSE. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORCEFULLY WITH THE SOUND OF SCREECHING TIRES. THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN. THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY MOMENTS LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOUR TIMES WHEN EACH FAILURE OCCURRED. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE VEHICLE FUNCTIONED NORMALLY AND THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH A SMART PEDAL SYSTEM WHICH WAS A SAFETY FEATURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000.
Nov 01, 2012
+ 5 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STARTER FAILED PERIODICALLY. THE STARTER WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE AND FOUND THAT THERE WAS TOO MUCH PAINT ON THE NEGATIVE CONNECTOR TO THE ENGINE FROM BOTH THE PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDES. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC RESOLVED THE FAILURE BY SANDING DOWN THE AREA BY THE CONNECTOR TO METAL ON METAL. THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Oct 24, 2018
SMOKE COMING FROM TURN SIGNAL SWITCH
Apr 23, 2018
THE TURN SIGNAL "CLICKING NOISE" STARTED WORKING CONTINUOUSLY AND INDEPENDENTLY FROM THE ACTUAL POSITION OF THE THE TURN SIGNAL LEVER AND THE ASSOCIATED LIGHTS ON THE PANEL. ELECTRICAL SMOKE CAME FROM THE STEERING COLUMN FROM THE AREA NEAR THE TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR HANDLE. I REMOVED THE 10 AMP FUSE TO INTERRUPT THE POWER TO THE TURN SIGNAL AND THE SMOKING STOPPED. THIS OCCURRED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND DID NOT CHANGE UNDER ANY DRIVING CONDITIONS.
Apr 04, 2017
PASSENGER REAR DOOR (RIGHT REAR) LOCK ACTUATOR MECHANISM FAILURE. DOOR IS LOCKED AND **CANNOT BE UNLOCKED OR OPENED FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE CAR**, WHETHER BY MANUAL OR KEY FOB METHOD. MANUAL DOOR LOCK BUTTON (ON RIGHT REAR DOOR) INSIDE CAR DIFFICULT TO ACTUATE, DOOR HANDLE ACTUATION (CABLE?) SEEMS LIKE IT MAY BE DETACHED (VERY EASY TO ACTUATE DOOR HANDLE, NO RESISTANCE). WORKED FINE, UNTIL IT FAILED WITH NO WARNING. TRIED TO OPEN RIGHT REAR DOOR AND WAS UNABLE TO. I RARELY USE THIS DOOR, SO IT MAY HAVE FAILED PRIOR TO WHEN I NOTICED IT. APPROX 59,000 MILES WHEN PROBLEM NOTICED. *SERIOUS* SAFETY ISSUE IF DOOR MALFUNCTIONS WITH PASSENGERS IN CAR--THE DOOR IS 100% USELESS--AND IT COULD HAPPEN TO ANY OF THE DOORS I ASSUME.
Aug 30, 2016
I WAS SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A LEFT HAND TURN, WHEN THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN. NO POWER STEERING, NO POWER BRAKES. WAS ABLE TO COMPLETE THE TURN AND PULL OVER. PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND WAS ABLE TO RESTART AND CONTINUE DRIVING WITH NO PROBLEMS. THIS IS THE 4TH TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED SINCE WE GOT THE CAR. SINCE IT IS SPORADIC, DEALER CANNOT FIND WHAT IS WRONG. WORRIED THAT INCIDENT MIGHT OCCUR WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AND GET REAR-ENDED. *TR
Aug 11, 2014
+ 4 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
8 complaints
At any speed period, if i hit a pothole or those little ripple things on side of the country county roads, any of them causes my vehicle to jerk and makes a a sound like the entire right front end is going to fall apart at any moment and it either jerks my vehicle off the road on the right side or it either jerks the vehicle into the opposite lane towards on coming traffic. My truck has caused me to go completely off of the highway into the grass to avoid a collision...and anytime I hit the most tiniest of bumps it sounds Like the entire right side suspension is going to fall completely off and at high speeds it shakes uncontrollably...
Jan 20, 2024
I WAS DRIVING OVER A SET OF WELL KEPT RAILROAD TRACKS AT A LOW SPEED WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BANG. I SUBSEQUENTLY DISCOVERED MY DRIVERS FRONT SPRING BROKE. THIS ALSO DESTROYED MY TIRE FROM THE CAR BASICALLY COLLAPSING ONTO IT WHILE I DROVE TO A PLACE I COULD SAFELY PARK. HYUNDAI REFUSED TO SEE MY CAR UNTIL THE NEXT WEEK SO I HAD MY LOCAL TIRE PLACE FIX THE BROKEN SPRING ALONG WITH REPLACING THE OTHER SIDE AS I WAS NOW TERRIFIED THAT THE SAME THING WOULD HAPPEN ON THE OTHER SIDE. HYUNDAI CORPORATE REFUSED TO COVER MY EXPENSES AS THE LOCAL DEALER DID NOT DO THE WORK. THE TIRE STORE SAID THEY SEE THIS ALL TIME FROM CHEAP CHINESE STEEL USED. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A CATASTROPHE HAD I BEEN IN HEAVY TRAFFIC OR DRIVING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND I BELIEVE THIS NEEDS TO BE EXAMINED AS HYUNDAI IN 2011 HAD PUT SOMETIME OF MEMBRANE ON MY SPRINGS TO PREVENT RUST PER A RECALL.
Mar 17, 2017
FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE COIL SPRING HAS BROKEN AT 60000 MILES. PRIOR SERVICE CAMPAIGN 926 - SPRING PROTECTOR INSTALLATION HAD BEEN PERFORMED AT 8600 MILES. THE BROKEN SPRING WAS FIRST NOTICED AFTER EXPERIENCING LOW FREQUENCY RATTLING NOISE WHILE GOING OVER BUMPS.
Jul 26, 2016
RIGHT FRONT AXLE. .TIRE ROD BROKE AND I CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. IT'S THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE THAT IS DEFECTIVE.
May 20, 2015
WHILE DRIVING HEARD A LOAD NOISE IN THE FRONT LEFT OF THE CAR, THEN A RUBBING NOISE. UPON INSPECTION IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE FRONT LEFT SPRING COIL HAD BROKEN. THE TIP OF THE BROKEN SPRING WAS RIGHT UP AGAINST MY TIRE. IF DRIVEN ANY FURTHER THE SPRING COULD HAVE SHREDDED THE TIRE AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Aug 22, 2014
+ 3 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
7 complaints
The back driver side child safety lock is stuck between on and off and the door will not open. I am an Uber driver. If there was an accident a passenger might get trapped inside.
May 10, 2022
THE PASSENGER REAR DOOR WORKS OFF AND ON. SOME DAYS IT OPENS AND SOME DAYS IT DOESN'T AND THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO THE DOOR HANDLE OR THE DOOR ITSELF. FOR THE PAST MONTH IS HAS TOTALLY GAVE UP ON OPENING AT ALL AND THERE IS STILL NO DAMAGE TO THE HANDLE OR THE DOOR.
Jun 12, 2019
IN 2013 THE DRIVERS SIDE REAR DOOR ACTUATOR MECHANISM WAS REPLACED (WARRANTY). IN OCTOBER 2018, THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE DOOR ACTUATOR MECHANISM WAS REPLACED, AND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR DOOR ACTUATOR MECHANISM WAS REPLACED. COULD NOT OPEN DOOR FROM THE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE.
Oct 16, 2018
THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT LOCK WHEN SHUTTING THE DOOR THERE FOR YOU CAN NOT OPEN THE DRIVERS DOOR WITH THE OUTSIDE HANDLE. YOU NEED TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE AND LOCK THE DOOR BEFORE YOU SHUT IT OR IT WILL NOT STAY SHUT.
Jun 23, 2018
WHILE DRIVING ONE MORNING, SUDDENLY THE PASSENGER DOOR JUST OPENED ON ITS OWN. WE COULD NOT GET IT TO LATCH AT ALL. I HAD TO RIDE HOLDING THE DOOR CLOSED UNTIL WE COULD GET HOME TO GET BUNGEE CORDS TO HOLD IT CLOSED. THIS HAPPENED ON A BUSY CITY STREET JUST GOING STRAIGHT. AND AGAIN WHEN WE TURNED, BUT WE ANTICIPATED IT AND HELD THE DOOR SHUT. SO L TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THE NEXT MORNING (MONDAY), AND THEY SAID IT WAS A DOOR ACTUATOR AND LATCH ASSEMBLY. NO VEHICLE SHOULD EVER HAVE A DOOR THAT CANNOT LATCH! THIS IS A TERRIFYING INCIDENT. WHEN THEY HAD TO ORDER THE PART, I TOLD THEM TO FIX THE DOOR WHERE IT WOULD NOT OPEN WHEN DRIVING TO AND FROM WORK THE NEXT DAY. DIDN'T WORK. GOING DOWN THE INTERSTATE WITH THE DOOR FLOPPING BACK AND FORTH--ENOUGH TO ALLOW FUMES INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND THE DOME LIGHT TO REMAIN ON IS NOT SAFE!!! AFTER EXITING THE INTERSTATE DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC, I GRABBED THE BUNGEE CORD THAT WAS INSIDE AND HELD THE DOOR CLOSED WHILE I DROVE THE REST OF THE WAY HOME ABOUT 35 MPH. I WILL HAVE THREE MORE TRIPS ON THIS INTERSTATE-HOME TONIGHT, TO AND FROM THE DEALER/WORK TOMORROW, AND HOPEFULLY IT WILL BE REPAIRED. THEY SAY TWO OTHER DOORS ALSO NEED ACTUATORS. (TO THE TUNE OF $400 EACH!) THIS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN ON A MODERN DAY CAR. *TR
Dec 13, 2016
+ 2 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
6 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jul 12, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER SON WAS DRIVING AT UNKNOWN SPEED, THE FRONT DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE SIDE-CURTAIN AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT AN IMPACT. THE PRESSURE FROM THE AIRBAG RIPPED THE SEAMS OF THE PASSENGER'S AND DRIVER'S SEATS. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED WINN HYUNDAI OF SANTA MARIA AT: (805)349-8500 AND WAS REFERRED TO THE CORPORATE CONSUMER AFFAIRS OFFICE. THE OFFICE SENT FORMS FOR THE CONTACT TO COMPLETE AND RETURN, ALONG WITH ANY PICTURES. THE DEALER ALSO REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN IN TO BE DIAGNOSED WHICH WAS STILL PENDING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
Jun 25, 2020
DASHBOARD SEAT BELT LIGHT DIDN'T GO OFF AFTER NORMAL START UP. DIAGNOSTIC COMPLETED AT LOCAL SERVICE CENTER. DETERMINED IT WAS A FAULTY AIR BAG MODULE. MECHANIC PURCHASED MODULE FROM LOCAL HYUNDAI DEALER. DEALER PARTS EMPLOYEE STATED THAT THIS WAS THE THIRD MODULE PURCHASED THAT WEEK.
Feb 13, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHTS REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN RESET THE AIR BAGS SENSOR. WITHIN TEN MINUTES OF RESETTING THE AIR BAG SENSOR, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED. A WEEK LATER, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAT SENSOR OR THE SEAT BELT LATCH MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 71,000.
Feb 10, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TELEPHONE POLE HEAD ON. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED FACE AND HEAD INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000. *TR
Apr 17, 2013
+ 1 more complaint for this component
VISIBILITY
5 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, A LOUD EXPLOSIVE SOUND WAS HEARD. THE CONTACT PULLED TO THE ROAD SIDE AND NOTICED THAT THE SUNROOF WAS COMPLETELY SHATTERED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
May 31, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SUN ROOF WAS SHATTERED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
Jul 14, 2015
THE FRONT WINDOWS FOGGED COMPLETELY DURING AN RAIN STORM OF HIGH INTENSITY, THE AIRCONDITIONING SYSTEM WAS ON AND WORKING UNTIL THE HIGH HUMIDITY AND RAIN OVERTOOK THE SYSTEM THIS SITUATION HAPPENED AT NIGHT ON BUSY FREEWAY MAKING THIS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS THE SIDE WINDOWS ALSO STARTED TO FOG ,THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES EACH TIME THE A/C COMPRESSOR SEEMS TO QUIT WORKING....ALSO PULLING THE VEHICLE OVER AND SHUTTING IT DOWN FOR 5 TO 10 MINUTES SEEMS TO CLEAR IT UP...THE COMMON FACTORS WERE HIGH HUMIDITY, TEMPERATURE DROP ,RAIN.....THE FIRST TIME TEMP WAS 65DEGF SECOND 55DEGF THIRD 64DEGF... *TR
Oct 13, 2011
2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, I REPORTED A PROBLEM YESTERDAY ABOUT A SHADOW ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD, UPON FURTHER LOOKING AT THE PROBLEM WE HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS IS CAUSING ALL THE PROBLEM, THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE, WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT ON DARK STREETS OR HIGHWAYS YOUR VISIBILITY IS CUT BY THREE QUARTERS, SOME ONE WOULD HAVE TOI TAKE THE CAR OUT TO SEE THIS PROBLEM. *LN
Feb 18, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD BECAME FOGGY TO THE POINT WHERE SHE COULD NOT SEE THE ROAD. THE DEFROST WOULD NOT CLEAR THE WINDSHIELD. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE DEFROST WAS WORKING AS DESIGNED. THE FAILURE WAS EXCESSIVE DURING RAINY WEATHER CONDITIONS. HYUNDAI STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 8600.
Sep 02, 2010
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaints
CAR RANDOMLY STALLS AND SLOWS DOWN TO A CRAWL UNDER ACCELERATION. SOMETIMES IT HAPPENS WHEN GOING UPHILL, MERGING INTO TRAFFIC. SOMETIMES IT'S JUST NORMAL DRIVING. IT IS VERY UNPREDICTABLE AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. IT HAS HAPPENED OFF AND ON FOR THE LAST 2-3 YEARS. DEALER IS CLUELESS.
May 28, 2018
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND TOOK TO DEALER, THEY CHECK CODES AND SAID THAT VCM UNIT IS GOING BAD. CAR HAS 54,000 MILES WE ARE ORIGINAL OWNERS. TECH SAID THAT CODE LIGHT COULD BE RESET BUT IF UNIT FAILS CAR WOULD AUTOMATICALLY SLOW FROM WHAT EVER SPEED YOU WERE DOING RIGHT DOWN TO ABOUT 5-10 MPH
Oct 26, 2016
FUEL SENSOR / GAUGE NOT WORKING I HAVE TAKEN THIS TO OUR HYUNDAI , THEY ARE AWARE OF THESE ISSUES AND STATED NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. THE FUEL USUALLY SHOWS EMPTY OR 1/2 TANK. ALSO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, MASKS ANY OTHER ISSUES WE MAY HAVE. I HAVE ALSO TAKE THIS TO OTHER MECHANICS WHO KNOW OF THIS ISSUE ALSO. DEALER SAID THIS WILL COST OVER $500
Feb 20, 2016
THIS IS A 4 CYLINDER GAS ENGINE. WHEN IN TRAFFIC STOP AND GO, THERE IS A HESITATION WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE. SOMETIMES THIS HAPPENS AT A STOP SIGN OR AT ANY TIME THERE IS A LOW SPEED STOP AND GO. IT HESITATES AND THEN TAKES OFF BECAUSE YOU NATURALLY GIVE IT MORE GAS BECAUSE IT ISN'T RESPONDING TO THE ACCELERATOR. THIS IS DANGEROUS, AS IT ALSO HAPPENS WHEN YOU PULL OUT INTO TRAFFIC. *TR
Apr 29, 2013
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD SPORADICALLY STALL WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS IN THE PROCESS OF ASSISTING THE CONTACT WITH THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 7,650.
Dec 22, 2011
THE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM IN MY 2010 SANTA FE LIMITED WOULD OCCASIONALLY STOP RUNNING THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR, USUALLY DURING HEAVY RAIN OR HUMID CONDITIONS. EVEN WITH THE A/C SWITCH AND INDICATOR LIGHT ON, THE COMPRESSOR WOULD STILL NOT ACTIVATE UNTIL THE IGNITION WAS CYCLED. THIS CAUSED THE INTERIOR WINDOWS TO FOG UP HEAVILY AND NOT CLEAR, LEADING TO A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH ONE INSTANCE MY OUTWARD VISIBILITY BEING REDUCED TO ALMOST ZERO AND COULD HAVE CAUSED A CRASH AS I HAD NOWHERE TO PULL OVER. EVENTUALLY I WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE THE CONDITION TO THE DEALER WHO REPLACED THE CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE IN THE DASH. THE PROBLEM HAS NOT RESURFACED SINCE. *KB
Oct 12, 2011
2010 SANTA FE GL - ABOUT 60% OF STARTING HAS A JERK/KICK. IT'S LIKE SOMETHING ENGAGED SUDDENLY. TAKEN TO THE DEALER TWICE AND SHOWED NO ABNORMAL READINGS. ON AUG. 19/2010, WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 110 KM/HR THERE WAS A LOUD BANG AS IF SOMETHING HIT THE CAR FROM BEHIND. I THOUGHT THE TRUCK BESIDE ME LOST A WHEEL AND STRUCK MY CAR. HAD TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY AND DO A VISUAL INSPECTION WHICH REVEALED NOTHING. MY CAR HAD 7,000 KM AT THAT TIME. *TR
Sep 14, 2010
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
2 complaints
Driving approximately 70-75mph on highway with cruise control set. Car starts to make rattling sound & engine warning light goes on, car struggles to accelerate and hovers around 60mph. Upon inspection of engine oil in car, fresh oil has been burned up quickly! Added 1 quart. Drove 45mins at 70-75mph. Notice Engine light on again. Check engine oil. Had quickly burned through 1qt! Add new quart of oil. Let car rest overnight. Driving 70mph without use of cruise control. Then use cruise control. After a bit car engine sounds of rattling & struggling to accelerate. RPM gauge seen going up & down. Through rear view mirror I see lots of bluish smoke. Pull over to let engine rest. Check oil = still 3/4. Use engine dectection device. Indicates that cylinders 3 &4 misfiring. Reset car warning indicator with my detection device. Finish drive going 60mph to arrive at destination without car engine warning going back on.
May 23, 2025
ON MONDAY, JULY 14, 2014, MY WIFE RODE HER SANTA FE ON A STRAIGHT ROAD ACCELERATING SLIGHTLY UPHILL WHEN THE ENGINE STALLED. ON THURS. DEC. 5, 2013, I HAD A SIMILAR EXPERIENCE, WHICH I REPORTED TO YOU AT THE TIME. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED WITH THIS CAR. AGAIN NOBODY TOUCHED THE IGNITION KEY WHICH HAS NOTHING HANGING ON IT EXCEPT THE ALARM AND DOOR LOCK DONGLE. MY WIFE ALSO SUDDENLY LOST POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES, AND LUCKILY THERE WAS NO OTHER TRAFFIC, WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. SHE WAS ABLE TO BRING THE CAR TO A SAFE STOP AND THEN WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE ENGINE AND CONTINUE HER TRIP. THE 2010 CAR HAD A FULL TANK OF GAS AND HAS ABOUT 50000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. IT'S AWD AND HAS A 6 CYL. ENGINE. COULD THIS BE RELATED TO THE IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM THAT HAS PLAGUED SO MANY GM CARS? NEEDLESS TO SAY WE ARE WORRIED DRIVING THE CAR BECAUSE IF THIS INCIDENT OCCURS AT HIGH SPEED, A SERIOUS ACCIDENT COULD BE THE RESULT. DO YOU KNOW OF ANY SIMILAR EXPERIENCE? WHAT DO YOU ADVISE? [XXX] PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jul 17, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the traction control and ABS warning lights illuminated. The vehicle later lost motive power after pulling into the driveway. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and transferred the contact to the dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 113,196.
Nov 28, 2023
BRAKE PEDAL CANNOT HOLD PRESSURE, CREATING DANGEROUS SITUATION IN EMERGENCY BRAKING. BROUGHT CAR TO DEALER ON NOVEMBER 29 FOR WARRANTY REPAIR. DEALER FOUND MASTER CYLINDER HAS INTERNAL LEAK. REPLACED MASTER CYLINDER AND RE-BLED THE SYSTEM. *TR
Dec 02, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
My 2010 Hyundai Sante Fe caught fire on 9/27/23 while I was operating the vehicle and this fire ultimately caused my electrical systems to overheat and the wiring to melt. There was no indication that my alternator was about to fail (no battery light on my dash, no issues with starting my car) and I regularly maintenance my car with oil changes, tire rotations, and I redid my whole brake system in August 2023. My safety, the safety of my passenger, as well as the safety of ALL the patrons in the building that sat above the parking garage I was located in when the fire was burning were put at risk by this incident. My passenger acted quickly enough to put out the fire before anything more serious occurred, however according to my insurance we didn't let the fire burn long enough for there to be damage... even though my electrical harness is melted from it overheating due to the fire... The dealership/insurance have inspected my vehicle and say that the fire occurred because the alternator shorted out/failed however I believe this is false and Hyundai is covering their butts. When alternators fail the car doesn't just burst into flames, typically the car just fails to turn on since the alternator is no longer charging the battery... at least that's what I've read and heard from friends that are mechanics. Hyundai and Kia have been plagued by fire problems since 2015. The Center for Auto Safety successfully petitioned U.S. regulators to seek recalls in 2018 and says that the automakers have recalled more than 9.2 million vehicles for fires and engine problems. More than two dozen of the recalls involved over 20 models from the 2006 through 2021 model years and ALL are for fire risk. This is a KNOWN issue with Hyundai cars in general. My thought is that the same issues that are listed in the most recent Hyundai recall for the Sante Fe's from 2011-2015 is what occurred in my vehicle but Hyundai is refusing to take ownership of the issue.
Oct 26, 2023
THIS CAR HAS STALLED AT LEAST SIX TIMES IN THE PAST SIX MONTHS, USUALLY AS WE ARE DEACCELERATING AND IN A DOWNHILL POSITION (IE: DRIVING SLOWLY DOWN A MOUNTAIN, COMING TO A STOPLIGHT GOING DOWN A HILL, ETC.). IT HAS A NEW ENGINE AS OF SUMMER 2020. WE TOOK IT TO A LOCAL HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP AND THEY RAN A GENERAL DIAGNOSTICS CHECK-UP WITH NO RESULTS. WE HAVE SEARCHED THIS PROBLEM ONLINE FOR A SOLUTION AND SEE MANY OTHERS REPORTING SIMILAR STALLING CONCERNS, BUT WHEN WE PUT OUR VIN INTO THE RECALL SYSTEM, THERE ARE NO RECALLS AFFILIATED WITH THIS CAR. THE CAR DRIVES GREAT OTHERWISE, BUT THE STALLING IS VERY CONCERNING.
May 09, 2021
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the driver’s side front wheel felt wobbling. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light was illuminated. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V113000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 185,000.
Aug 18, 2021
THIS IS AN ADDENDUM TO COMPLAINT # 10938417 NOW, THE DRL WILL NOT TURN ON AS STATED IN THE PRII0OR COMPLAINT, HYUNDAI SAYS THERE IS A SENSOR IJ THE REAR VIEW MIRROR BUT BOTH THE SENSOR OR REAR VIEW MIRROR ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE RENDERING THE DRL'S AS USELESS AND COULD SUBJECT ME TO A TICKET
Jan 03, 2017
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
WAS JUST WASHING THE CAR IN MY DRIVEWAY AND AS I SPRAYED THE WINDSHIELD TO FIRST RINSE THE POLLEN OFF, THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED FROM BOTTOM TO TOP. NO EVIDENCE OF ANY CHIPS OR CRACKS PRIOR TO THAT.
May 03, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEFROST SYSTEM WOULD ONLY DEFOG THE REAR WINDOW. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.
Nov 07, 2012
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
102,734 MILES AND THE CAR STARTED TO JUMP WHILE DRIVING. FELT LIKE RPM WOULD NOT SHIFT. AFTER MULTIPLE MECHANICS LOOKED AT IT, CONFIRMED THE TRANSMISSION WAS GONE. DUE TO BEING A SECOND OWNER, ONLY BY 1500 MILES HYUNDAI WOULD NOT COVER. THE 2WD WERE RECALLED, BUT NOT THE AWD. CLEARLY THERE ARE ISSUES WITH ALL MAKES. THEN AFTER FIXING THAT THE PURGE VALVE SOLENOID NEEDED REPLACED AND THEN THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING. WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT THESE RECALLS WERE NOT ACTIVE FOR THE AWD. THIS WAS A SAFETY ISSUE DRIVING ON ANY ROAD AND WE ARE LUCKY THE CAR DID NOT GET INTO AN ACCIDENT. THIS STARTED 9/18/2020 AND WORK COMPLETE 01/05/2021
Jan 05, 2021
1. STARTER GEAR HAD TO BE REPLACED AND THE DEALER SHIP AND WAS TOLD MANY OF THESE CARS ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. 2. WHEN RAINING AND DRIVING DOWN CITY STREETS, OR HIGHWAY MY CAR WILL TRY TO STALL OUT AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON THEN IT WILL LOSE STEERING, RPMS WILL FLUCTUATE. WHEN CHECKED IT SAID IT WAS THE ABSOLUTE PRESSURE SENSOR.
May 04, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
REAR TAIL LIGHTS RETAIN MOISTURE AND WATER, CAUSING THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO MALFUNCTION AND SHORT OUT WHEN BULBS ARE REPLACED. THIS ISSUE IS VISIBLE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND IN MOTION. THIS ISSUE HAS CAUSED ME TO BE PULLED OVER BY POLICE OFFICERS AS WELL AS IT CAN CAUSE UNSAFE BRAKING CONDITIONS DUE TO NO BRAKE LIGHT BEING ILLUMINATED ON THE VEHICLE. THIS IS THE 3RD TIME THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED WITH THIS VEHICLE. BRAKE LIGHT BULB WILL BE REPLACED BUT AS SOON AS IT RAINS OR ANY CONDENSATION COLLECTS IN THE HOUSING, IT CAUSED THE BRAKE LIGHT TO NOT ILLUMINATE UPON PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL.
Oct 31, 2019
PURCHASED VEHICLE BRAND NEW, THE REAR BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED AND I WAS REAR ENDED @ 65 MPH. VEHICLE SUFFERED $14,000 IN DAMAGE WITH A BENT FRAME. THE VALUE OF MY VEHICLE IS NOW DIMINISHED DRASTICALLY AND IT IS REPORTED IN CAR FAX REPORT. APPROXIMATELY 2 YEARS LATER VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR FAULTY BRAKE LIGHTS AND THE BRAKE SWITCH WAS REPLACED AT THE DEALERSHIP. I SHOULD NOT SUFFER FINANCIAL LOSS DUE TO NEGLIGENT PARTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED AND INSTALLED ON THIS VEHICLE.
Feb 17, 2016
STEERING
2 complaints
WARNING: WHILE TURNING LEFT INTO MY DRIVEWAY (IN MOTION), MY 2010 SANTA FE STEERING SUDDENLY LOCKED UP AND I DROVE ONTO MY LAWN. VERY SCARY AND THIS WAS WITHOUT WARNING! SIMPLY MEANING, IF THE POWER STEERING PUMP WAS THE ISSUE, THERE WOULD BE NOISE AND A GRADUAL FAILURE; HOWEVER, THIS WAS VERY SUDDEN. AS OF THIS WRITING, THE STEERING IS VERY DIFFICULT AND THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THANK GOD I HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AND NOW IT IS IN THE SHOP FOR DIAGNOSES. THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED!!!
Sep 19, 2019
WHILE DRIVING NEAR 40 MPH, STEERING PULLS TO THE LEFT DURING ACCELERATION.
May 20, 2019
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
MY 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE LIMITED AWD 3.5L, WITH APPROX. 60,000 MILES, WAS MAKING NOISE IN THE FRONT END WHEN I WENT OVER BUMPS OR ROUGH TERRAIN. A LOCAL DEALER TOLD ME IT WAS MOST LIKELY THE END LINKS GOING FROM THE STRUTS TO THE STABILIZING BAR. TWO SHOCKS WERE LEAKING SO I HAD THE STRUTS (FRONT) AND SHOCKS (REAR) REPLACED ALONG WITH THE END LINKS. ON A TEST DRIVE IT WAS STILL MAKING A CLUNKING NOISE SO I RESEARCH THE HYUNDAI FORUMS FOR POSSIBLE CAUSES. THERE WERE FOUR POSSIBLE CAUSES, ONE WHICH HAD BEEN CORRECTED, THE END LINKS, THE LOWER CONTROL ROD, THE CONNECTION MOUNTS BETWEEN THE FRAME AND THE BODY, AND THE FRONT AND REAR ENGINE MOUNTS. UPON INSPECTING THE ENGINE MOUNTS I FOUND THE FRONT ENGINE MOUNTS BOLT, A 12MM X 5 INCH BOLT, MISSING. APPARENTLY WHEN THE CAR WAS ENGINEERED THE BOLT WASN'T SECURED WITH A LOCKING NUT OR COTTER PIN SO WHEN THE NUT LOOSENED AND VIBRATED OFF THE BOLT, THE BOLT ALSO VIBRATED OUT OF THE MOUNT. I ACTUALLY REMEMBER WHEN THIS OCCURRED, AT AROUND 50,000 MILES. I REMEMBER A LOUD BANG UNDER THE CAR AND IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR I SAW A BOLT TUMBLING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. I THOUGHT I HAD RUN OVER IT WITH A WHEEL. I TOOK THE CAR INTO THE HYUNDAI DEALER AT 56,652 MILES FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND "12-POINT INSPECTION" AND "MULTI-POINT INSPECTION" AND THE MECHANIC DIDN'T DISCOVER THE MISSING FRONT ENGINE MOUNT BOLT. (I FOUND IT MYSELF WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO A LOCAL CAR SHOP FOR THE STRUT AND SHOCK REPLACEMENT.) I THEN WENT TO THE HYUNDAI DEALER AND TOLD THEM WHAT I DISCOVERED. THE PART NUMBER FOR THE BOLT IS 21920-2B000, AND THE PART NUMBER FOR THE NUT IS 13396-12007K. THERE WAS NO DESCRIPTION AS TO THE SIZE OF THE BOLT, THE THREAD OF THE BOLT AND NUT, NOR WHETHER THE NUT WAS A LOCKING NUT. I HAD THE LOCAL MECHANIC MAKE THE REPAIR WITH A 12MM X 5" GALVANIZED BOLT WITH WASHERS, LOCK WASHER AND A 12MM NYLON LOCKING NUT. I CONSIDER THIS A SAFETY ISSUE.
Apr 06, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE SLOWING DOWN TO A STOP FROM 25 MPH, A KNOCKING SOUND EMITTED FROM THE ENGINE. IN ADDITION, THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED TO GO INTO THE DRIVE AND REVERSE POSITION AND THE ENGINE FELT AS IF IT HAD DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AXLE, TRANSMISSION STRIP, POWER TRAIN, AND DRIVE SHAFT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V261000 (POWER TRAIN). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
Aug 11, 2016
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaints
MY CAR HAD A RECALL CAMPAIGN 110 TO REPLACE A STOP LAMP SWITCH IN JUNE 2013. I HAVE ALREADY HAD TO REPLACE THE SWITCH AGAIN BECAUSE MY CAR WAS NOT SHIFTING INTO REVERSE AND PARK SOMETIMES. THE CAR WAS STOPPED IN A PARKING AREA AND HAD TO BE BROUGHT TO THE DEALER TO GET A NEW SWITCH. I WANT HYUNDAI TO KNOW THEY NEED TO GET BETTER SWITCHES BECAUSE 3 YEARS SEEMS TO SOON TO REPLACE A SWITCH.
Sep 16, 2016
CONSTANT, UNSAFE, AND UNCOMFORTABLE STEERING TO THE RIGHT, ENOUGH TO CHANGE LANES ON ITS OWN.
Mar 14, 2011
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
SINCE PURCHASED NEW IN 2011, VEHICLE HAS STALLED, LOSING POWER WITHOUT WARNING IN 6 SEPARATE INCIDENTS. ROAD SURFACES WERE LEVEL AND SPEEDS RANGED FROM 0-50 MPH. DURING EACH MALFUNCTION, SPEED DECREASED TO 0 MPH OR DID NOT ACCELERATE IF ALREADY AT 0 MPH. LOSS OF SPEED IS ACCOMPANIED BY PRESENCE OF ENGINE, BATTERY, AND OIL INDICATOR LIGHTS. I AM ABLE TO SHIFT FROM DRIVE TO PARK MODE, COMPLETELY TURN OFF ENGINE, AND RESTART IGNITION. VEHICLE APPEARS TO OPERATE NORMALLY AFTER EACH INCIDENT UNTIL NEXT ONE OCCURS. ALL BUT TWO INCIDENTS OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY MONTHS APART ON METROPOLITAN INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS WITH HEAVY TRAFFIC CONDITIONS. TWO MOST RECENT INCIDENTS OCCURRED ON SAME DAY WITHIN MINUTES OF EACH OTHER. EVERY TIME VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR EVALUATION, TYPICALLY WITHIN HOUR OF INCIDENT, TECHNICIANS HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO DUPLICATE PROBLEM OR DIAGNOSE MALFUNCTION. CONSEQUENTLY, VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. ACCORDING TO 4 AUTHORIZED DEALERS AND HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS, TROUBLE CODE IS NECESSARY TO REPAIR MALFUNCTION. TWO AUTHORIZED DEALERS HAVE EVALUATED VEHICLE WITHOUT DIAGNOSING MALFUNCTION. NEITHER HAS BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE PROBLEM OR FIND TROUBLE CODE, DESPITE MAINTAINING POSSESSION OF VEHICLE FOR DAYS. BASED ON MY HISTORY OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT SAME SAFETY CONCERN, HOWEVER, TECHLINE ADVISED AUTHORIZED DEALER TO REPLACE ELECTRIC THROTTLE CONTROL MOTOR: PROCEDURE DONE IN OCTOBER 2013, YET STALLING/LOSS OF POWER OCCURRED AGAIN--TWICE--IN APRIL 2014. SPORADICALLY RECURRING MALFUNCTION REMAINS UNRESOLVED. I HAVE TWO SEPARATE CASES FILED WITH HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS. VEHICLE IS UNDER WARRANTY, UP-TO-DATE ON MAINTENANCE, AND HAS ACCUMULATED RELATIVELY LOW MILEAGE TO DATE AT APPROXIMATELY 37,000 MILES.**4/16/2014**STALLED/LOST POWER TWICE, 2-3 MINUTES BETWEEN INCIDENTS. TOWED TO AUTHORIZED DEALER; CURRENTLY AWAITING INSTRUCTIONS FROM TECHLINE. *JS
Apr 28, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON A SLIGHT INCLINE WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING WHEN IT BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARD. THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WAS OPEN WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE CONTACT RAN TO CATCH THE VEHICLE AS IT INDEPENDENTLY REACHED A STOP. THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOOR STRUCK THE CONTACT RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURIES. SHE WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM FOR TREATMENT TREATED. A POLICE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. A THIRD PARTY INVESTIGATOR WAS SENT BY THE MANUFACTURER TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE INVESTIGATOR FOUND NO FAILURE WITHIN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 TO 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY SURGE FORWARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NEVER TAKEN TO BE EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 3,200.
Sep 13, 2010
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT UNLOCK AND COULD NOT BE OPENED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,176.
Apr 18, 2014
ALL DOORS AUTOMATICALLY UNLOCK UPON PLACING SHIFT CONTROL IN THE PARK POSITION OR THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. ENTRY MAY BE GAINED BY ANYONE IN THE VICINITY OF THE VEHICLE CAUSING A DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR DRIVER AND/OR PASSENGERS. THIS FEATURE CAN NOT BE ALTERED OR DEFEATED TO ALLOW THE DOORS TO REMAIN LOCKED WHEN THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. *TR
Aug 23, 2010
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
2 complaints
VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN IN THE RAIN FROM SAVANNAH GA TO JACKSONVILLE FL, OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE APX 80 DEGREES, WITH AIR CONDITIONING ON. AIR CONDITIONING ABRUPTLY CEASED BLOWING COLD AIR AND STARTED BLOWING HOT, HUMID AIR, WHICH FOGGED ALL WINDOWS FROM THE INSIDE. SUDDENLY LOWERED VISIBILITY CAUSES DRIVING HAZARD. THIS HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE WITH THIS VEHICLE WHEN (1) IT IS HOT OUTSIDE, (2) THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON, (3) IT IS RAINING, (4) THE CAR HAS BEEN DRIVING FOR APX 30 TO 45 MINUTES. REMEDY IS TO PULL OFF THE ROAD, TURN OFF THE ENGINE, WAIT 5-10 MINUTES, THEN RESTART CAR. AIR WORKS NORMALLY FOR ANOTHER 30-45 MINUTES THEN SAME PROBLEM RE-OCCURS, BUT PULLING TO THE SIDE OF AN INTERSTATE ALSO CAUSES A SAFETY PROBLEM. THERE IS AN ONLINE LITANY OF SIMILAR PROBLEMS FROM OTHER OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE AT HTTP://ANSWERS.EDMUNDS.COM/QUESTION-2010-SANTA-FE-WITH-AIR-CONDITIONER-PROBLEM-104733.ASPX. HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SERVICE REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM EXISTS, TOLD ME THIS MORNING THEY HAD NEVER RECEIVED A COMPLAINT ON IT BEFORE, AND LOCAL DEALER REFUSES TO REPAIR IT. *TR
Apr 03, 2012
IN RAINY HUMID CONDITIONS, THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR WILL SHUT DOWN CAUSING WARM AIR TO BLOW INSIDE THE CAR CABIN. THIS IMMEDIATELY CAUSES THE WINDOWS TO FOG UP CAUSING A VERY DANGEROUS DRIVING CONDITION. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED 5 TIMES SINCE OWNING THE CAR. IF YOU TURN THE CAR OFF, LET IT REST FOR A FEW MINUTES, THEN TURN BACK ON THE AIR COMPRESSOR WILL WORK AGAIN BUT ONLY FOR THE SHORT TIME. WE HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. AGAIN IT ONLY HAPPENS WHEN IT'S HUMID AND RAINING OUTSIDE. AFTER NUMEROUS SEARCHES ON THE INTERNET, IT SEEMS THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON THIS IS HAPPENING TO. HYUNDAI HAS A SERIOUS PROBLEM AND THEY SHOULD DO A RECALL TO FIX THIS! *TR
Oct 19, 2011
TIRES
2 complaints
TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT COMES ON AND OFF. WENT TO DEALER FOUR TIMES ON THIS ISSUE AND WAS ADVISED THAT THIS IS NORMAL AS THE TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR CAN BE AFFECTED BY HIGH VOLTAGE POWER LINES, RADIO FREQUENCY FROM AN AIRPORT, A POLICY STATION, AN INTERNAL ELECTRONIC DEVICE ATTACHED, ETC. ETC. HOWEVER, UNDERSTAND FROM MY FRIENDS WHO DRIVE TOYOTA AND HONDA THAT THIS ISSUE DOES NOT EXIST. *KB
Nov 28, 2011
SINCE PURCHASING A NEW 2010 HYUNDAI SANTE FE AWD IN MAY 2010, THERE HAS BEEN A PROBLEM WITH IT'S TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) IN NOVEMBER 2010 AND A REOCCURRENCE NOW IN FEBRUARY 2011. I WAS SO UPSET THAT I WROTE THE MANUFACTURER DIRECTLY AND ITS NOW BEING OVERSEEN BY THE HYUNDAI EAST COAST REGIONAL OFFICE--BUT STILL NO RESOLUTION. *TR
Mar 10, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
I PURCHASED THE 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE NEW WITH ONLY 60 MILES ON IT IN JUNE 2010. IN JANUARY 2011 WE BEGAN SMELLING A FUEL SMELL. THIS OCCURRED ONLY AFTER THE CAR WAS RUNNING AND SHUT OFF THEN SUBSEQUENTLY TURNED BACK ON LESS THAN AN HOUR LATER LIKE WHEN RUNNING ERRANDS. I NEVER SMELLED GAS IF THE CAR SAT OVERNIGHT. WE ALSO WOULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERMITTENT LONG CRANK. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE DEALER IN JANUARY 2011 AND THEY REPLACED 2 O-RINGS THAT THEY STATED WERE LEAKING AND FOUND FUEL AROUND. AFTER THESE WERE REPLACED, I STILL HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS. I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK IN FEBRUARY 2011 AND NO KNOWN PROBLEMS WERE FOUND BY THE DEALER. AGAIN, I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK IN MARCH. THIS TIME THEY FOUND FUEL IN THE CHARCOAL CANISTER. THEY STATED I WAS OVERFILLING THE TANK WHICH WAS WHY THERE WAS FUEL IN THE CHARCOAL CANISTER. AFTER SPEAKING WITH THE MANAGER, THEY AGREED TO COVER THE PART AND LABOR AT NO CHARGE AND REPLACED THE CHARCOAL CANISTER. AFTER THIS WAS REPLACED, I NO LONGER EXPERIENCED THE LONG CRANK BUT I STILL SMELL GAS AFTER RUNNING ERRANDS. HYUNDAI WILL AGAIN BE LOOKING AT THE CAR FOR ANY OTHER PROBLEMS, BUT THE DEALER IS REALLY STUMPED SO FAR ON THIS. *TR
May 10, 2011
GAS/FUEL SMELL COMING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT INTO CABIN OF 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE GLS (2.4 L AUTOMATIC). SMELL IS NOT NOTICEABLE AT COLD START OVERNIGHT, OR AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS OF SITTING. SMELL IS VERY NOTICEABLE AFTER THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN TO OPERATING TEMPERATURE AND THEN SHUT OFF FOR ANYWHERE FROM 10 MINUTES TO AN HOUR. THE FUEL SMELL COMES DIRECTLY INTO THE CABIN WHEN THE HVAC SYSTEM IS SET TO VENT, BUT NOT ON RECIRCULATE. DEALER HAS REMOVED AND REPLACED FUEL INJECTORS AND FUEL RAIL. SMELL STILL PERSISTS. THIS IS A DAILY OCCURRENCE. THE SMELL ALSO OCCURS WHEN STOPPED FOR ANY AMOUNT OF TIME WHILE DRIVING/IDLING. THE SMELL OCCURS WHEN THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE IS OFF, BUT THE KEY IS TURNED TO THE POINT THE HVAC WILL TURN ON. THIS MEANS THE SMELL OCCURS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THE ENGINE IS RUNNING OR NOT. THE SMELL ACCUMULATES UNDER THE HOOD AND IS STRONGEST NEAR THE PASSENGER SIDE MIDDLE. THE SMELL IS BAD ENOUGH TO PERMEATE CLOTHES WHILE DRIVING AND TO BE SMELLED INSIDE THE HOUSE WHEN THE DOOR TO THE GARAGE IS OPENED. IT'S BAD ENOUGH TO FORCE PARKING THE VEHICLE OUTDOORS. IT APPEARS THIS ISSUE IS BEING DISCUSSED ON THE HYUNDAI FORUMS WEBSITE AND MOST COMPLAINTS ARE FOR THE HYUNDAI SONATA AND SONATA TURBO, BUT THE DESCRIPTION OF THE ISSUE AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS POINT TO THE SAME CAUSE FOR MY SANTA FE. THE DEALER HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THE SMELL, BUT NOT IN WRITING. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN FIVE TIMES FOR THIS COMPLAINT - TWICE WITH WORK DONE, TWICE WITH NO WORK DONE (CLAIM WAS COULD NOT REPLICATE), AND ONCE I WAS SENT HOME BEFORE ANY WORK WAS DONE AS THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE DETERMINED THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO AT THAT TIME. THERE APPEARS TO BE NO KNOWN SOLUTION TO THIS ISSUE COMING FORTH FROM HYUNDAI AT THIS TIME. *TR
Apr 14, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
The engine locked down due to the improper power train, driveline, driveshaft. Oil leaking and malfunction of power train, driveline, driveshaft caused motor to knock and lock down
Feb 16, 2025
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Brakes locked
Feb 16, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
The battery warning light illuminated. The alternator was not holding power. I was on the freeway and the vehicle lost total power. After seeing a certified mechanic I was made aware of a oil leak from the valve gasket that was leaking on to the alternator wires and caused it to loose power. There is a recall for the same vehicle with the exact same issues, however my vehicle is not on the list of vehicles affected by this recall.
Feb 13, 2025
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
Whenever i hit a bump on the side of the road, the truck jerks really badly and if im not grasping the steering wheel with all my strength, it will jerk me off the highway from the bump making the entire car go off the road. Also, each bump i hit, i hear a very very loud metal on metal knocking sound from the right passenger side of the tire area. Not sure if it is a strut assembly or engine mount that wasn't correctly bolted down during manufacturing. Also, when i press the gas pedal, it sounds as if theres some type of cable thats being stripped or something. And whenever i am holding the steering wheel straight and firmly, the truck automatically has a mind of its on at times and will jerk the car to the right or to the left while im holding the wheel still. All mechanics have said that they don't see anything wrong with it but there's obviously something wrong with it and I am scared to drive it. It has got to be a manufacturers defect on those components of the vehicle. Please remedy this or replace my vehicle with one of the same or lesser valued cars . This truck is going to end up killing me or someone else or both ... Thanks
Nov 15, 2023
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I am the original owner of a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. It currently has less than 100,000 miles on it as I drive it infrequently. On June 12, 2023, my airbag light lit on the display and has since remained. I immediately contacted the local Hyundai dealership and made the next available appointment. I was concerned because I had recently completed the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) service campaign on 4/3/2023. Initially, I took my vehicle to an auto repair facility where a diagnostic test determined my SUV had a B1620 error code and was advised to take it to a Hyundai dealership. My Hyundai appointment was on 6/23/2023. I shared the information about the error code with the technicians. The dealership confirmed I had a B1620 error code where the Supplemental Restraint System Control Module (SRSCM) shorted out. I also showed the dealership employees an Extended Warranty Notification letter I received from Hyundai about faulty clock springs, but the dealer stated the module was completely separate and not part of the recall. The repair estimate was quite costly at around $2,600. From my understanding, the SRSCM controls all safety features. The dealership informed me the air bag light/error code means my entire safety system is completely disabled. This is not a mechanical issue but rather a safety red flag.
Jul 13, 2023
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was jerking. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the timing chain, the gaskets, and spark plugs were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was taken to a different independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the timing chain and the bearings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 108,550.
Jun 12, 2023
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
When im driving down the road and the slightest bump is on yhe side of the road, the truck feels like its not connected to the framing or the wheels or something because when i hit the bump it jerks the wheels to the right and that's the only side it does it on and it does it so abruptly at times it almost pushes me into another car or it jerks the steering wheel out of my hands. Im not sure if theres a recall thats causing this or not but my mom has a vehicle like mine but a 2011 model and hers does the same thing on the right side.
May 14, 2023
STRUCTURE,TIRES
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. Additionally, the contact self-inspected the vehicle and noticed and excessive amount of corrosion on the subframe. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
May 01, 2023
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
WHEN TRAVELING AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AND UPON ACCELERATION THERE'S LOSS OF POWER FOR A SPLIT SECOND, AND THEN IT'S BUMPING REAL HARD. IT CAN BE DESCRIBED AS A BUMPING NOISE, CLUNKING NOISE OR THUMPING NOISE. MORE LIKELY TO HAPPEN BETWEEN 50-70 MPH. ALSO, THE PASSENGER BACK DOOR LOCK HAS BEEN WORKING OFF AND ON. IT FINALLY HAS STOPPED OPENING THE DOOR ENTIRELY. I'VE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY HAVE YET TO DIAGNOSE AN ISSUE AFTER TWO INSPECTIONS. AS OF 7/21/20 THE VEHICLE IS STILL HAVING THESE ISSUES.
Jul 21, 2020
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
FOR NO REASON THE CAR WILL STALL AND ALL STEERING AND BRAKE FUNCTIONS ARE DISABLED. HAPPENS WHEN STOPPED OR WHILE DRIVING. CAR HAS TO BE PUT IN PARK AND RESTARTED. VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR MY 17 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER
Jan 30, 2020
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I'VE HAD THE BRAKES REPLACED, ALIGNMENT DONE, ROTORS CHECKED, AND IT STILL SHAKES LIKE SOMETHING ISN'T RIGHT, AND IT'S SCARING ME, I'M HANDICAP, AND I FEEL LIKE MY FRONT END IS GONNA COME APART OR MY CAR IS GONNA FLIP, WHEN I'M DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD IT'S DOING JUST FINE BUT WHEN I GO TO PRESS ON MY BRAKES TO SLOW DOWN MY CAR IS SHAKING LIKE I'M GOING THROUGH AN EARTHQUAKE OR TORNADO, AND IT ALSO SEEMS TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM LIKE WHEN YOU PUSH PUSH THE GAS TO GET SPEED SO YOU COULD JUMP ON THE HIGHWAY IT LIKE JERKS A LITTLE BETTER SHE IS A LITTLE HARD TO BE ABLE TO CATCH UP AND IT'S NEVER DONE THAT BEFORE
Mar 27, 2019
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
TIE ROD AND FRONT SUSPENSION. WHEN TURNING IT MAKES A CLUNKING SOUND . I'VE HAD TO GET SUSPENSION AND TOE ROAD CHANGED 3 TIMES WITHIN 6 MONTHS
Dec 29, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON 6/17/2018 @ APPROXIMATELY 5:00PM WHILE DRIVING MY SANTA FE, I BEGAN TO HAVE SURGING POWER. I ATTEMPTED TO DISENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL BUT COULD NOT. I WOULD SLOW DOWN ONLY TO SPEED RIGHT BACK UP AS IF I HAD PUSHED THE RESUME BUTTON, I HAD NOT. I ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL HOWEVER MY GEER SHIFTER WAS LOCKED INTO DRIVE & I COULDN'T GET THE SHIFTER OUT OF DRIVE. AT TIMES THE CAR WOULD START TO SLOW DOWN AFTER PU MPING THE BREAKS ONLY TO HAVE A SURGE OF POWER AGAIN. AS I WAS DRIVING, I CAME UP TO A SHARP CURVE & WASN'T ABLE TO SLOW DOWN THEREFORE I ENDED UP ROLLING THE SUV & FURTHER SLAMMING TO A LARGE HILL. I WAS INJURED IN THIS ACCIDENT DUE TO ROLLING MY CAR! THIS HAPPENED BC I BELIEVE THE CRUISE CONTROL GOT STUCK & LOCKED UP MY TRANSMISSION!!! I ALSO COULDN'T TURN THE KEY OFF SINCE THE CAR WAS IN DRIVE.
Jun 21, 2018
PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND THE KEY WAS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION WITH THE EMERGENCY BRAKE ENGAGED. THE CONTACT WAS STANDING WITH THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR OPEN AND HEARD A THUMP SOUND. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS OUT OF A PARKING SPACE. THE CONTACT WAS STRUCK BY THE DOOR WHILE ATTEMPTING TO RE-ENTER THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS UNABLE TO AS SHE WAS DRAGGED BY THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO STOP ONCE IT CROSSED A MAIN ROAD AND COLLIDED WITH A CURB. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER ENTIRE BODY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN BACK TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Mar 22, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING LAST WEEK, THE ENGINE CUT OFF. I WAS ABLE TO SLOW DOWN AND STOP AS I WAS APPROACHING A RED LIGHT, BUT IT TOOK 3 STARTS TO GET THE ENGINE TO TURN OVER AGAIN. THE VEHICLE DRIVES LIKE IT IS HESITATING. I'VE HAD ALL FACTORY MAINTENANCE DONE AND DEALER CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. JUST HIT 90K MILES. ADDITIONALLY, THE A/C TURNS ITSELF ON RANDOMLY. THIS HAPPENED BEFORE AND THE TECHNICIAN REPAIRED IT WHILE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY. IT IS DOING IT AGAIN, AND IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY FOR REPAIR. I'LL BE DRIVING ALONG AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE A/C UNIT COMES ON. ALSO, MY DOORS WON'T LOCK WITH THE AUTO LOCK ON THE KEY FOB NOR WITH THE DOOR LOCK BUTTON ON THE DOOR PANEL. IT AFFECTS ONE DOOR AT A TIME. I HAVE HAD TO PAY FOR THE LOCK ATTENUATOR TO BE REPAIRED ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR TWICE, REAR PASSENGER DOOR AND NOW THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR.
May 12, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
ENGINE STALL DURING STATIONARY CRANKING AND DRIVING ON CITY STREETS AFTER SHAKING NOISE HEARD. RELATED TO RECALL 49.
Apr 15, 2017
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE HEADLIGHT LENS HOUSINGS (2) HAVE DETERIORATED TO THE POINT THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAIL TO PROPERLY LIGHT THE ROAD. THIS NOT A CASE OF THE HOUSINGS YELLOWING BUT RATHER THE HOUSING MATERIAL HAS DEVELOPED FRACTURES AND IS CRUMBLING ON THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. THERE IS NO METHOD TO CORRECT THIS FRACTURING. THIS MANUFACTURING DEFECT HAS BEEN REPORTED TO THE HYUNDAI DEALER REPEATEDLY OVER THE LAST FOUR YEARS.
Dec 30, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I BOUGHT THIS CAR WITH 40K MILES ON IT AND IT NOW HAS 63K MILES. SINCE I HAVE HAD IT, I HAVE REPLACED THE RADIO DISPLAY, SPEAKER, DRIVER SIDE WINDOW CONTROLS, STARTER AND A RECALL ON THE AIRBAGS. THE CLEAR COAT IS ALSO COMING OFF ALL THE DOOR HANDLES AND IT IS FADING THE PAINT. I NOTIFIED HYUNDAI AND THEY DID NOT ADDRESS ANY ISSUE.
May 10, 2016
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING MY 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, THE BLINKER SWITCH STARTED FRANTICALLY CLICKING, I THAN HEARD ELECTRICAL SPARKS FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND THAN SMOKE STARTING COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN WHERE THE BLINKER SHAFT WAS LOCATED. HYUNDAI HAS HAD MY VEHICLE FOR 2 WEEKS, LEAVING ME AND MY 8 MONTH OLD CARLESS. THE DEALERSHIP AND COOPERATE HAS SAID THAT THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING BEFORE, AND HAS NOT GIVEN ME A COURTESY CALL OR VEHICLE UPDATES. I LOOKED ON THIS WEBSITE, SAFECAR.ORG AND INDEED, I FOUND SOMEONE WHO HAS ENCOUNTERED THE SAME ISSUE (PLEASE SEE NHTSA ID NUMBER 10629458). I FEEL THAT THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN AND NEEDS TO BE RECALLED IMMEDIATELY WITH THE OTHER RECALLS IN PLACE.
Jul 07, 2015
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE HAS A HUMMING SOUND COMING FROM RIGHT SIDE PASSENGER SIDE WHEN DRIVEN 10 MPH IN COLD WEATHER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HYUNDAI AND BECAUSE IT COULD NOT BE REPRODUCED THERE WAS NO FURTHER INVESTIGATION. I WAS TOLD IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN, TO BRING THE VEHICLE IN. I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT ON 3/21/15. *TR
Mar 21, 2015
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
1 complaint
VEHICLE STALLED AT LOW SPEED OR TURNING ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS .STALLS AND THEN WILL START BACK UP. MOST RECENT INCIDENT, 12-13-2014, IT STALLED 3 TIMES WITHIN 25 MINUTES WHEN SLOWING TO A STOP. I'VE TAKEN TO HYUNDAI IN THE PAST, THEY COULD NOT IDENTIFY AND ISSUE, CHARGED ME $50.00 TO ADJUST BREAK LIGHT SWITCH, WHICH THEY STATED SHOULD FIX IT. I CHECKED ON-LINE & LOCATED THE 3.5 SANTE FE LOW SPEED ENGINE RPM LOGIC REVISION SERVICE CAMPAIGN WHICH THEY WILL REPROGRAM THE VEHICLES ECM IN CERTAIN VEHICLES WITH 3.5 ENGINES. I TRIED TO USE THE ON-LINE VIN VERIFICATION & GUESS WHAT ,IT STATES MINE WAS NOT ONE OF THE ONE WITH ISSUES, IT WAS MADE IN ALABAMA, 2010 & 3.5, SAME STALLING ISSUES AS EVERYONE ELSE. I WANT MY VEHICLE COVERED BY THIS SERVICE CAMPAIGN. *TR
Dec 14, 2014
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
YESTERDAY WHILE DECELERATING AT ABOUT 30 MPH AND COMING TO A STOP SIGN, THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CAR WAS RESTARTED AND CONTINUED TO OPERATE NORMALLY. THE CAR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DID NOT ILLUMINATE AGAIN. I TOOK TO MY DEALER TODAY (NEXT AM) DUE TO MY CONCERN. I CONTACTED HYUNDAI AND ASKED TO EXTEND MY WARRANTY AND MENTIONED MY CAR HAD SIMILAR PROBLEM DESCRIPTION MENTIONED IN THE ONLINE 929 HYUNDAI CAMPAIGN. THE DEALER SAID NO CODE HISTORY OR CODE IS SHOWING AND NOTHING CAN BE DONE BUT TO WAIT AND SEE IF PROBLEM REAPPEARS. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS CAR IF AGAIN COMPLETELY SHUTS OFF WHILE IN OPERATION COULD BECOME MORE OF A FATAL RESULT. WOULD LIKE HYUNDAI TO EXTEND THE ONLINE 929 CAMPAIGN TO MY VEHICLE WHICH IS SAME YEAR AND MODEL OR SOME OTHER WAY TO CHECK THIS PROBLEM THANKS
Dec 02, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
SANTA FE BLINKER SWITCH ON STEERING COLUMN STARTED SMOKING. I HAVE A VIDEO AS EVIDENCE OF THE SMOKE AND MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE. HYUNDAI REFUSED TO FIX THE PROBLEM AT NO COST EVEN THOUGH IT WAS A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER TO ME AND MY FAMILY. BLINKERS STARTED STAYING ON AT ALL TIMES WHEN IGNITION WAS ON. BLINKERS WOULD GO LEFT AND GO RIGHT, BUT WHEN IN THE CENTER POSITION THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL STAYED ON OR THE AUDIBLE PART OF THE BLINKERS COULD BE HEARD WITH NO SIGNAL LIGHT. SMOKE CAME FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND THE VEHICLE SMELLED AND STILL SMELLS OF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. I TOOK A VIDEO THAT CLEARLY SHOWS SMOKE COMING FROM THE BLINKER SWITCH IN THE STEERING COLUMN. PLEASE ASK IF YOU WOULD LIKE A COPY OF THE VIDEO. I CALLED HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SERVICE AND TOLD THEM AND I ALSO ASKED TO THE DEALERSHIP TO TAKE CARE OF IT. BOTH REFUSED AND SAID THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY BY 4,755 MILES AND THEY WOULD DO NOTHING EVEN THOUGH MY FAMILY WAS IN CLEAR DANGER. THEY CHARGED ME $179 TO FIX A PROBLEM THAT WAS OBVIOUSLY A DEFECT IN THEIR PARTS AND IS A DANGER IN BOTH BEING ENGULFED IN FLAMES AND GETTING INTO AN ACCIDENT FROM FAULTY SIGNALS AND INTENTIONS BEING SENT TO OTHER DRIVERS ON THE HIGHWAY. *TR
Aug 29, 2014
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
EVENT HAS OCCURRED ON 2 OCCASIONS. FIRST EVENT: WHILE BACKING UP IN A PARKING LOT, WITH NO FOOT ON THE BRAKE, AND VERY SLIGHT FORCE ON GAS PEDAL, THE CAR SURGED MUCH MORE THAN TYPICAL WITH SUCH A LIGHT CONTACT WITH THE GAS PEDAL. THE CAR ACCELERATED BACKWARD SUDDENLY, UNTIL THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED SHORTLY THEREAFTER. SECOND EVENT: WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AT VERY LOW SPEED. THE SAME EVENT OCCURRED, BUT THIS TIME WHILE IN FORWARD DRIVE. WITH NO FOOT ON THE BRAKE, AND VERY SLIGHT FORCE ON GAS PEDAL, THE CAR SURGED MUCH MORE THAN TYPICAL WITH SUCH A LIGHT CONTACT WITH THE GAS PEDAL. THE CAR ACCELERATED FORWARD SUDDENLY, UNTIL THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED SHORTLY THEREAFTER. *JS
May 18, 2014
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
AFTER COMING TO A FULL STOP AT AN INTERSECTION, I ACCELERATED TO ENTER THE INTERSECTION AND TURN RIGHT. ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AS I PULLED INTO THE INTERSECTION, THE CAR STALLED AS THOUGH IT HAD DIED. I CONTINUED TO PRESS ON THE ACCELERATOR AND AFTER 3 TO 4 SECONDS, THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD, WITH FUEL FEED WORKING NORMALLY. I TOOK THE CAR TO MY LOCAL DEALER WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR FOR INSPECTION. THEY TOOK THE CAR IN FOR TESTING AND SAID THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. THIS PROBLEM PERSISTED, WITH THE INCIDENTS BEING INFREQUENT. I REPORTED THIS PROBLEM EACH OF THE NEXT FEW TIMES THE PROBLEM RECURRED. EACH TIME I ASKED IF OTHERS HAD REPORTED THE SAME PROBLEM. EACH TIME I WAS TOLD THERE WERE NO SUCH COMPLAINTS, AND THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND A REASON FOR MY PROBLEM. FINALLY, I LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE DEALER FOR SEVERAL DAYS WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THEY WOULD DRIVE THE CAR FREQUENTLY, TRYING TO DUPLICATE MY PROBLEM. AFTER SEVERAL DAYS, THEY CALLED TO SAY THEY HAD EXPERIENCED THE PROBLEM AS I HAD REPORTED IT, AND THEY HAD FIXED IT. I ASKED WHAT WAS DONE, AND THE AGENT COULD/WOULD NOT SPECIFY WHAT THE CAUSE WAS, BUT THEY WROTE ON THE INVOICE THAT THEY HAD REPROGRAMMED TCM WITH TSB#11-AT-011-1. I THEN AGAIN QUERIED ABOUT OTHER COMPLAINTS, AND HE SAID THAT THERE HAD BEEN OTHER COMPLAINTS AFTER ALL, AND THIS SHOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, I HAVE SINCE EXPERIENCED THE PROBLEM AGAIN AND FEAR THAT AN ACCIDENT IS POSSIBLE. THE LATEST: THEY ARE TAKING MY VEHICLE IN THIS THURSDAY FOR A MAJOR DIAGNOSIS "TO TRY TO FIND THE PROBLEM"., AGAIN. *TR
Mar 25, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
VEHICLE WHEN STARTING FROM STOP, HESITATES THEN ACCLERATES FAST. SOMETIMES MORE SO LEFT TURN BUT ALSO STRAIGHT AHEAD. ALMOST RAN THROUGH GARAGE DOOR BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. ALSO LAST NIGHT I TRIED TO ACCLERARATE TURNING LEFT FROM STOP SIGN. VEHICLE SCARES ME, THE WAY IT IS WORKING. APPEARS TO BE GETTING WORSE. THANK YOU. I THINK THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN.
Sep 22, 2013
STEERING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
MY SANTA FE STALLED WHILE MAKING A LOW SPEED RIGHT TURN. NO WARNING THE STEERING BECAME HARD AND INSTRUMENT LIGHTS WENT ON AND ENGINE OFF. STARTED RIGHT UP AFTERWARDS. IMMEDIATELY TOOK IT TO THE DEALER WHO REPLACE THE THROTTLE BODY AND UPDATED COMPUTER. NO ERROR CODES. *TR
Jun 12, 2013
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I HAD JUST PULLED INTO THE DRIVEWAY OF A HOUSE I OWN THAT I RENT; I WAS THERE TO MEET MY TENANTS TO DISCUSS A COUPLE OF REPAIRS THAT NEEDED TO BE DONE IN THE HOUSE. I WAS SLOWING THE CAR WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AS I APPROACHED THE END OF THE DRIVEWAY BY THE SIDE DOOR OF THE HOUSE. THEN I HEARD A SUDDEN, EXTREMELY LOUD ENGINE NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE THE ENGINE REVVING VERY FAST AND THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. I WAS PROPELLED FORWARD ABOUT 50 FEET INTO THE BACK YARD AND CRASHED INTO SOME LILAC BUSHES DIRECTLY AHEAD OF ME AND INTO THE STEEP DIRT BANK BEHIND THE BUSHES, WHICH STOPPED THE CAR. THERE IS NO GARAGE AND THE DRIVEWAY ENDS WHERE THE LAWN BEGINS. THE FRONT END OF THE CAR IS QUITE DAMAGED AND THE VEHICLE IS PRESENTLY IN THE DEALER'S REPAIR GARAGE. ON THE INTERNET, MY SON FOUND MANY REPORTS OF INCIDENTS OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION FOR THE HYUNDAI SANTA FE FOR MY MODEL YEAR AND FOR OTHER RECENT YEARS AND HE SUGGESTED I FILE THIS REPORT WITH THE NHTSA. *TR
May 19, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTE FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTS FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT COULD NOT BE ADJUSTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIRS. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN, BUT THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 41,000. *TR
May 09, 2013
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
FROM STOP,MAKING LEFT TURN, LOST ALL POWER MOMENTARILY, RPM DROPPED TO IDLE. PRESSING ACCELERATOR DID NOTHING, FINALLY ENGINE CAME BACK AND ACCELERATED WILDLY. VERY DANGEROUS. *TR
Feb 26, 2013
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
2010 HYUNDAI SANTE FE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO INCOMPATIBILITY OF BLUETOOTH WITH VEHICLE *TGW THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THERE WAS A GLITCH WITH THE PHONE IN RESPECT TO THE BLUETOOTH COMPATIBILITY. THE CONSUMER STATED THE BLUETOOTH WOULD BECOME DISABLED, NOT ACCEPT VOICE COMMANDS OR MAKE CONNECTIONS WITH ANY NUMBER DIALED, IF HE DID NOT TAKE THE TIME TO ANSWER THE CONTACTS DATA QUESTION. *JB
Feb 21, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WHEN SLOWING DOWN FOR TRAFFIC LIGHTS, TURNS OR MERGING INTO TRAFFIC LANES, WHEN THE BRAKE IS RELEASED AND THE ACCELERATOR IS PUSHED, AT RANDOM TIMES THE CAR HESITATES AND ALL POWER IS LOST MOMENTARILY. THE VEHICLE SEEMS AS IF IT HAS OR IS IN THE PROCESS OF STALLING OUT. AT FIRST, IT FEELS AS IF ALL POWER HAS BEEN LOST AND THAT THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE STEERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. HOWEVER, THEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY RE-ENGAGES AND THE VEHICLE LUNGES FORWARD. THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT DOES NOT COME ON, AND THE ENGINE APPARENTLY DOES NOT "DIE," SINCE THERE IS NO REQUIREMENT FOR AN IGNITION RE-START. THE PROBLEM HAPPENS SPORADICALLY (ABOUT ONCE OR TWICE A WEEK--BUT SOMETIMES ONCE OR MORE IN THE SAME DAY). THE VEHICLE STARTS WELL, IDLES WELL AND OTHERWISE PERFORMS IN AN OKAY FASHION. THE DEALER CANNOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. THE CAR DID NOT DO THIS FOR THE FIRST 20,000 OR SO MILES. ON AT LEAST TWO OCCASIONS, THIS "STALLING OUT" HAS ALMOST CREATED AN ACCIDENT SITUATION. *KB
Sep 19, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
PURCHASED 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE IN FEB 2010. DROVE TO DALLAS, TX IN MAY 2010 THE CAR STARTED STALLING AFTER BEING IDLE AT TRAFFIC LIGHT, ON TURNS AND FROM PULLING OUT AFTER BEING STOPPED. YOU WOULD THE THINK IT WAS GOING DEAD BUT WOULD CATCH UP. THIS OCCURED NUMEROUS TIMES DURING THE TRIP TO & FROM. IMMEDIATELY TOOK TO DEALERSHIP ON RETURN BUT THEY FOUND NO PROBLEMS. HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES SINCE THEN, ONCE AT 20 MPH MERGEING IN TRAFFIC AND TWICE TODAY. HAVE TAKEN IT IN 3 TIMES BUT THEY NEVER FIND ANYTHING AND COULD NOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. I DON'T KNOW WHEN THIS WILL HAPPEN AND DON'T DARE PULL OUT IN TRAFFIC UNLESS I HAVE PLENTY OF CLEARANCE FROM OTHER CARS! I FEEL AT RISK EVERYTIME THE CAR IN DRIVEN AND FEEL IT IS A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY PROBLEM AND NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED. *TT
Aug 28, 2011
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
MY 2010 AT SANTA FE STARTED WITH OCCASIONAL LURCHING FORWARD WHEN STARTED, THEN PROGRESSED TO HARSH SHIFTING, BUMPING AND BANGING NOISES FROM THE AT. THIS WAS EPISODIC, WHEN THE CAR WAS COLD. (SEE MY INITIAL COMPLAINT #10379504) SINCE MY ORIGINAL COMPLAINT, THE DEALER PUT IN A "DATA RECORDER" TO TRY TO CAPTURE WHAT WAS HAPPENING. DESPITE 2-3 EPISODES OF THIS HAPPENING WHILE THE RECORDER WAS ON, THEY WERE NOT CAPTURED ON THE UNIT. THEY TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR, YET IT CONTINUED TO GET PROGRESSIVELY WORSE. AT ABOUT 9000 MILES, IT HAPPENED AGAIN- THE WORST EPISODE YET. AT THAT POINT I WAS AFRAID FOR MY SAFETY. I DROVE THE CAR HOME AND THEN TO THE DEALER. AFTER THE DEALER DID FURTHER TESTING ON THE AT, THEY TOLD ME THERE WAS IN FACT SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE AT, AND THEY PUT IN A NEW TRANSMISSION. WITHIN 1000- 2000 MILES ON THE NEW TRANSMISSION, IN STARTED BUMPING AGAIN WHEN COLD, SHIFTING FROM 1ST TO 2ND. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER, BUT OF COURSE THEY CAN NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THEY SAID IT HAD A FAST IDLE AND ADJUSTED IT. THEY ALSO SAID I SHOULD WARM THE CAR UP 5-7 MINUTES PRIOR TO DRIVING IT EACH TIME, SINCE I REPORT THIS ONLY OCCURS WHILE IT IS COLD. THEY SAY THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY CAR, JUST AS THEY TOLD ME EARLIER, PRIOR TO FINDING OUT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE AT. WHEN I LEFT THE DEALER AFTER TELLING ME THIS, IT BUMPED TWICE BEFORE I GOT OUT OF THEIR PARKING LOT, AND CONTINUES TO DO SO, ONCE EVEN WHILE IT WAS WARM. I CALLED HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS, THEY PARROT BACK TO ME EVERYTHING THE DEALER TELLS ME, AND OFFER NO NEW SUGGESTIONS OTHER THAN TO CONSULT MY OWNERS MANUAL ON CONFLICT RESOLUTION. *TR
Aug 22, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN PUSHING THE GAS PEDAL TO ACCELERATE FROM STOPPED POSITION THERE IS A NOTABLE PAUSE. (1-3 SECONDS??)THIS THEN CAUSES YOU TO PUSH ACCELERATOR FURTHER ,THEREBY CAUSING A MUCH MORE SUDDEN ACCELERATION. I AM USED TO IT BECAUSE IT HAS HAPPENED INTERMITTENTLY SINCE CAR WAS NEW, BUT SOMEONE COULD GET IN TROUBLE. HYUNDAI SERVICE SAYS ITS BECAUSE THE PEDAL IS SENDING A POSITION OF PEDAL THROUGH AN ELECTRONIC SIGNAL TO FUEL METERING SYSTEM.
Jul 17, 2011
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, AT NIGHT USING LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS THERE IS A SHADOW ABOUT THREE QUARTERS DOWN THE WINDSHIELD THIS ONLY HAPPENS AT NIGHT ON A DARK ROADS, ON LIGHTED ROADS IT IS NOT AS BAD, WE TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ABOUT THREE WEEKS AGO AND STILL WAITING FOR AN ANSWER. *TR
Feb 17, 2011
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
VEHICLE STOPPED ON INCLINE OF A HILL, THEN REVERSED (GEAR SHIFT IN DRIVE) BACK DOWN 600 FEET THE HILL AND CRASHED AGAINST A CONCRETE WALL CORNER. HAVE 2 WITNESSES THAT SWITCHED OFF THE ENGINE, INSPECTED WRECK, FOUND NO FAULT CODES WITH A LAUNCH 431-READER BUT FIGURED THAT BATTERY WAS DRAINED AFTER 2 MONTHS. SURVIVING DAUGHTER SUFFERS FROM MEMORY LOSS BUT AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT CLAIMS THE BRAKES FAILED.
Jan 07, 2011
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
BRAKE HARD TO STOP EVEN AFTER PRESSING REALLY HARD DOWN ON THEM. VEHICLE ONLY SLOWS DOWN TO 20MPH WHEN INITIALLY SLAM ON THE BRAKE. I ALMOST REAR ENDED SOMEONE. I WAS ONLY DRIVING NO MORE THAN 40 MPH ON A 50 MPH ZONE. BRAKE FEELS REALLY HARD AND DOES NOT WORK WHEN SLAM ON. *TR
Dec 12, 2010
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
A 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END IMPACT . THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL BODY SHOP FOR REPAIRS. IN THE NORMAL COURSE OF REPAIRS, THE SHOP REPLACED THE COMPONENTS OF THE SUPPLEMENTARY RESTRAINT SYSTEM AND SENT THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO CHECK FOR ERROR CODES AND TO RESET THE SYSTEM. ONE OF THE ERROR CODES WOULD NOT CLEAR. THE DEALER, IN WASHINGTON STATE ADVISED THE REPAIR SHOP AND US THAT PURSUANT TO A TSB,01-90-013, HYUNDAI RECOMMENDS THAT THE WIRING HARNESS ALSO MUST BE REPLACED IN ADDITION TO THE STANDARD PARTS OF THE AIRBAG SYSTEM, WHEN THE AIR BAGS ARE DEPLOYED. THERE WAS NO DIRECT DAMAGE TO THE WIRING HARNESS AND THIS APPEARS TO BE SOME UNIQUE REQUIREMENT DESIGNED INTO THE HARNESS BY HYUNDAI. IT IS UNCLEAR WHY THIS IS REQUIRED OR WHAT UNIQUE FEATURE WAS BUILT INTO THE HARNESS THAT DEMANDS THE REPLACEMENT OF THE ENTIRE HARNESS. THIS ADDED REQUIREMENT ADDS AN ADDITIONAL $6,767.75 TO THE REPAIR COST OVER AND ABOVE THE REGULAR COLLISION RELATED COST. WHEREAS THIS REQUIREMENT IS UNIQUE TO THE NEW 2010 SANTA FE MODEL AND IS NOT FUNCTION REQUIRED DURING THE STANDARD REPLACEMENT OF AIR BAGS IN ANY OTHER VEHICLE THAT WE ARE AWARE OF, WE MUST ASK IS THIS A DEFECT, IS THIS SIMPLY A DESIGN FEATURE TO ENHANCE PROFIT FROM REPAIRS OR IS THERE SOME UNIQUE FEATURE TO THE WIRE HARNESS DESIGN THAT SERVES SOME OTHER PURPOSE OR FUNCTION? ANY INFORMATION WOULD BE APPRECIATED. *TR
Dec 02, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
REPORT DATE: 08/26/2010. PURCHASED HYUNDAI SANTA FE 08/14/2010. VEHICLE HAS 1190 MILES TO DATE. VEHICLE HAS MOMENTARILY STALLED 5 TIMES - 2 IN TRAFFIC SITUATION WHICH COULD HAVE RESULTED IN CRASH. ALL STALLS HAVE OCCURRED AFTER SITTING AND IDLING AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS OR TURNS ON BOTH LEVEL SURFACE AND INCLINES. WHEN BRAKE IS RELEASED AND ACCELERATOR PUSHED VEHICLE STARTS MOVING SLUGGISHLY AND THEN STALLS FLAT FOR SEVERAL SECONDS AND THEN ENGINE RE-ENGAGES. NO WARNING LIGHTS ACTIVATED. ENGINE DOES NOT DIE REQUIRING AN IGNITION RESTART. IMMEDIATELY TOOK TO DEALER AFTER STALLING ON INCLINE 3 TIMES AT 677 MILES ON 08/18/2010. SERVICE TECH RAN COMPLETE COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC IN IDLE MODE IN SHOP AND FOUND ALL SYSTEMS WITHIN TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS. SUSPECT DRIVE-BY-WIRE / COMPUTER LINKAGE. VEHICLE RUNS SMOOTHLY, DOWNSHIFTS AND ACCELERATES ON DEMAND NORMALLY AT ALL OTHER SPEEDS LESS THAN 10 MPH. THIS CONDITION OCCURS AFTER A STOP AND AFTER BRAKE IS RELEASED AND ACCELERATOR ENGAGED (2 TIMES); WHEN MOVING SLOWLY AND HARD ACCELERATION DEMANDED (2 TIMES); OR WHEN TRANSMISSION INITIALLY ENGAGED IN DRIVE FROM PARK MODE (2 OCCASIONS). *TR
Aug 26, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 2010 I WAS ON A BUSY INTERSTATE HIGHWAY WITH FAST MOVING TRAFFIC AND MY CAR LOST ALL POWER WHILE TRAVELING AT 70 MPH. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO BARELY GLIDE THE SANTE FE TO THE SHOULDER AND STOP WITHOUT INCIDENT. FOLLOW UP: 3 PM VISITED HYUNDAI SERVICE CENTER AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS NOT A THROTTLE PROBLEM. THEY ARE IN CONTACT WITH CA SERVICE TO DETERMINE CAUSE OF PROBLEM. FRIDAY, 6-11-10 AFTER COMPLETE TESTING OF ALL CIRCUITS, HYUNDAI DECLARES NO SOURCE OF PROBLEM. AUTO WAS PICKED UP AT 4:30 PM HYUNDAI ASSISTANT SERVICE MANAGER: BOB WOOD HYUNDAI CASE # 3982284 THE SPECIFICS ARE: ?SUV WAS PURCHASED 8/09 AND CURRENTLY HAS 5200 MILES. ?CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON BUT NOT ENGAGED. ?GAS TANK INDICATOR ON ONE-HALF. ?WITH MY FOOT ON GAS PEDAL THE INITIAL INSTINCT WAS THAT THE ENGINE HAD LOST ALL POWER. OPRESSING HARDER ON GAS PEDAL HAD NO REACTION. OTHERE WAS AN OPENING IN TRAFFIC AND WITH THE SUV FORWARD INERTIA I WAS ABLE TO JUST REACH THE ROAD SHOULDER. OOBSERVED THAT RED INDICATORS WERE ON (BATTERY, OIL) ?RESET TRANSMISSION SELECTOR TO PARK, TURNED OFF KEY. OFIRST RESTART-NOTHING HAPPENED OSECOND RESTART SUV STARTED AND I DID NOT TURN OFF UNTIL REACHING HOME. OBVIOUSLY, THIS IS A SERIOUS LIFE THREATENING SITUATION THAT NEEDS TO BE RESEARCHED THOROUGHLY AND CORRECTED. *TR
Jul 25, 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe have?
The 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe currently has 252 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 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe?
The most common problems reported for the 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe 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 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2010 HYUNDAI Santa Fe comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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