How many problems does the 2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe have?

The 2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe currently has 103 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 2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe?

The most common problems reported for the 2018 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 2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Problems

ENGINE

33 complaints

Engine stopped abruptly without warning while driving vehicle.

Sep 03, 2025

Significant oil consumption and engine noise.

Apr 09, 2025

My engine failed on 11/21/24. I brought it to dealership to confirm the failure on 11/22/2024. I was driving on the highway when the car started to violently shake and then shut off. The dealership sent pictures of the engine and other components to Hyundai to confirm the engine failure. No lights came on prior to the failure.

Jan 14, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while her son was driving 60 MPH in the far-left lane with the contact seated in the front passenger's seat, the contact and the driver noticed a burning odor. The driver was able to pull into the median. The driver and the contact exited the vehicle. The Fire Department was contacted and arrived on the scene and confirmed that there was no fire. Additionally, the contact stated that there was no smoke. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being towed to the residence, she noticed that there was oil leaking onto the flatbed of the tow truck, and there were metal shavings in the oil. The contact stated that after the vehicle was towed to the residence, a mobile mechanic inspected underneath the vehicle and noticed that there was a hole in the engine. The contact took photos of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

Jan 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon checking the engine oil dipstick, the dipstick was abnormally dry. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who performed an oil consumption test over 1,000 miles, and found that the engine was consuming 2 quarts of oil. The contact was informed that the excessive oil consumption could cause damage to the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.

Nov 19, 2024

+ 28 more complaints for this component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

12 complaints

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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.

Oct 26, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not 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. Parts distribution disconnect.

Aug 19, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number 22v056000(SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. The VIN tool confirms parts distribution disconnect.

Aug 19, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received recall notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect

Aug 12, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V056000 (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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Aug 04, 2022

+ 7 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 complaints

I am the original owner almost at the end of my powertain warranty. At 93 - 94,000 I started to notice whe accelerating, like a distinct shift into different gears at anywhere between 5-7miles and in incrediments up to 40-45 mph. I have brought to the dealer and this week, will be the four time, which they keep telling me if they can not get a code or necessarily re enact there is nothing they can do. I currently have 97,000 and am bringing it back in this week. PLease help.

Aug 26, 2024

My driver side passenger door will not open from the inside or the outside. You can hear the locking mechanism lock and unlock, however the door is stuck shut. It locked my 2 year old in. Put her in, drove about 15 minutes down the road then was no longer able to open her door. This is obviously not safe for anyone of any age. There are multiple forums of multiple people with the same issue with a malfunction of Hyundais doors. Hyundai needs to make their vehicle safe.

Aug 06, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH, the vehicle independently came to an abrupt stop. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed with alternator, battery, and starter failures. The vehicle was repaired three times. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Apr 05, 2022

Vehicle lost complete control of steering, as it felt "loose" during a left turn at an intersection. Vehicle could not be controlled by steering wheel causing me to drive into oncoming traffic lanes until vehicle slowed to a stop.

Sep 27, 2021

My vehicle is available for inspection upon request. On multiple occasions the fluid in coolant reservoir has drained out. There is no visible signs of coolant on the under carriage nor is there a puddle on the floor of my garage and no warning lights have come on. In the span of approximately 2 weeks the fluid dropped 1/4 of an inch. Hyundia of Wesley Chapel (in Wesley Chapel, Fl) has had my vehicle on two occasions for this issue. They documented a lose of pressure in the coolant system of 10psi after an extended pressure test on a cold engine. Various other tests were performed but the source of the loss of coolant has not been found. The vehicle also intermittently experiences a loss of power when trying to accelerate from a full stop. The above mentioned dealership has not been able to replicate this issue either.

Sep 09, 2021

+ 2 more complaints for this component

STEERING

5 complaints

I have noticed for the past year that my steering column feels loose. It makes a popping noise and really makes noise on rough pavement. I feel like the steering wheel is just gonna come off into my hands. It's very loose to turn and you can feel the pops within the steering wheel. I took my car to local repair shop and they told me there was a recall and that I should take to dealer. I called dealer but my Vin # is not listed within the actual recall. However I read the recall itself and that is what is happening to my Hyundai. It makes no sense that my exact Vin # would not be included in recall since I am having that problem.

Oct 30, 2023

STEERING EXHIBITS "STICTION" AFTER DRIVING FOR 20-30 MINUTES. THIS BECOMES WORSE AS SPEED IS INCREASED. SMALL MOVEMENTS OF THE WHEEL PRODUCE NO STEERING EFFECT BUT RESISTANCE IS FELT. WHEN THE RESISTANCE IS OVERCOME, THE RESULT IS SLIGHT OVER STEER. UNDER THESE CONDITIONS IT IS DIFFICULT TO DRIVE IN STRAIT LINE AS CONSTANT CORRECTIONS AND RE-CORRECTIONS ARE REQUIRED BACK AND FORTH. THE EFFECT IS THAT THE STEERING FEELS TO "FREEZE" UNTIL A MINIMUM BREAK OUT FORCE IS APPLIED, RESULTING IN AN OVERSHOOT PAST THE INTENDED POINT. IT IS SIMILARLY NECESSARY TO APPLY A POSITIVE RETURN TO CENTER FORCE TO RETURN TO STRAIT, AS THE NORMALLY PRESENT SELF CENTERING FEEL IS NOT PRESENT FOR SMALL STEERING ANGLES. THE PROBLEM CAN SOMETIMES BE DETECTED AFTER BEING AT REST FOR A FEW MOMENTS BUT IS NOT INTRUSIVE AT SLOW SPEED. HOWEVER, FROM ~40 UP IT IS VERY TIRING TO STAY IN LANE. HAVE WORKED WITH ONE DEALER WHO PERFORMED A SAS CALIBRATION WITH NO IMPROVEMENT. THEY CLAIM "CANNOT REPRODUCE" BUT SPEND MOST EFFORT TRYING TO PERSUADE ME THAT THE STEERING IS NORMAL. HOWEVER, THE ISSUE DID NOT SHOW UP UNTIL ~ 10,000 MILES WHICH INCLUDED LONG ROAD TRIPS ON THE INTERSTATE WITH NO ISSUES. HAVE REFERRED ISSUE TO HYUNDAI CONSUMER AFFAIRS WHO HAVE ASKED ME TO WORK WITH ANOTHER DEALER - CURRENTLY WAITING FOR A CALL BACK.

Dec 17, 2019

WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY AT SPEEDS HIGHER THAN 60MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEEMS TO STICK IN ONE POSITION AND JERK WHEN YOU TRY TO ADJUST THE STEERING IN THE SLIGHTEST.

Nov 07, 2018

WE LEASED THIS NEW VEHICLE ON APRIL 21ST 2018. AT THE TIME, WE DID NOT KNOW IT HAD AN OPEN RECALL FOR A FAULTY AND DANGEROUS STEERING WHEEL/COLUMN CONNECTION. WE WERE FINALLY NOTIFIED BY THE DEALERSHIP 2 DAYS AFTER THE SALE ON APRIL 23RD, 2018. ATLANTIC HYUNDAI OF ISLIP, NY TOLD US THAT THEY THEMSELVES WERE JUST NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL, BUT THROUGH A SEARCH I LOCATED ARTICLES SHOWING THAT HYUNDAI MOTORS BEGAN NOTIFYING CUSTOMERS ON MARCH 16TH, 2018, OVER A MONTH EARLIER. MY WIFE AND TWO CHILDREN WERE ALLOWED TO DRIVE OFF THE LOT IN THIS VEHICLE, WHICH COULD UNKNOWINGLY EXPERIENCE A SEPARATION OF THE STEERING WHEEL FROM THE STEERING COLUMN WHILE BEING DRIVEN. WE WOULD NOT HAVE LEASED THIS VEHICLE IF WE HAD KNOWN ABOUT THE RECALL AND BECAUSE THEY LIED, STATING THAT THEY HAD JUST GOTTEN NOTICE OF THE RECALL.

Apr 24, 2018

STEERING BECOMES UNSTABLE DURING DRIVING ON WINDY DAYS. STEERING TRAYS TO OVER COMPENSATE FOR WIND AND BECOMES SCARY TO DRIVE.

Mar 17, 2018

AIR BAGS

5 complaints

My airbag light came on 1000 miles over the warranty mileage while on vacation. Had the issue checked and it was a 'pre tensioner', driver side, that shorted out and in turn shorted out the airbag module. This is a huge safety problem and should not happen. It should also be covered, due to no fault of my own. I have tried to resolve the issue with Hyundai customer care, but no help from them. I had to, because I'm not driving unprotected, get the car fixed on my own. I'm retired, a veteran and on a fixed income. $2300.00 is a lot to absorb. I've asked Hyundai for help, but no response.

Sep 28, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at 30-35 MPH, the contact was rear-ended by another vehicle, hit on the driver's side by a truck, and rear-ended again; however, the air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injuries and received medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not deemed totaled. The vehicle was towed to the tow yard. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 42,000. The VIN was not available.

Jun 29, 2023

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

I was T boned on the driver then hit a pole. NO AIRBAGS deployed. I was traveling around 45 mph. Other vehicle speed unknown

May 20, 2023

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while his fiancee was driving at 45 mph, a deer impacted the driver's side of the vehicle. No air bags deployed. The contact stated the air bag warning light was illuminated after the impact. The contact stated no one was injured nor sought medication attention. No police report was filed. The driver continued driving to their residence. The contact took the vehicle to the repair facility, where it was being serviced at the moment. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Aug 09, 2022

Crash: 1

2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. CONSUMER WRITES REQUESTING THAT AIRBAG SENSOR IN VEHICLE BE DEACTIVATED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIRBAG WOULD NOT ACTIVATE DUE TO BEING PETITE. THE CONSUMER QUESTIONED IF THERE WAS A FIX.

Aug 30, 2021

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

4 complaints

•Year/Make/Model: 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe •Mileage: ~91,502 •Date Purchased: April 2023 Description of Problem / Safety Concern: I am reporting a safety-related engine defect in my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The vehicle has developed engine knocking, metal shavings in the oil, and potential timing chain/bearing failure, all of which create a serious risk of engine failure while driving. The vehicle was purchased at 50,855 miles and currently has 91,502 miles, demonstrating that these serious engine defects developed at relatively low mileage. I have attempted to have the issue addressed under Hyundai’s extended warranty, referencing the TXX8 Service Bulletin which provides specific instructions for inspecting, diagnosing, and submitting claims for this type of engine defect. Despite this, two Hyundai dealers have refused to inspect the vehicle or submit a warranty claim: •Hyundai of Trenton refused to inspect or submit any claim. •A second Hyundai dealer demanded nearly $2,000 in fees ($195 diagnostic, $550 additional, $1,200 bearing test) and then denied coverage citing “no codes,” even after acknowledging metal flakes in the oil filter and noisy valve train. I have also contacted Hyundai Corporate three times (two online complaints, one phone call), but the company continues to direct me back to the dealers without resolving the issue. Safety Risk: The ongoing engine defects jeopardize vehicle safety and could result in catastrophic engine failure while driving. Based on research and reports from other owners, these issues may affect other 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles with similar Theta II engines

Nov 06, 2025

I am writing to formally request your review and potential intervention regarding a serious and potentially widespread mechanical issue involving Hyundai vehicles, along with the manufacturer’s refusal to honor their well-advertised 100,000-mile powertrain warranty for subsequent (non-original) owners. I am the current owner of a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX] ) that is experiencing a Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) system failure, which has led to a critical engine malfunction. The estimated cost of repairs exceeds $7,000, an unexpected and significant financial burden. Despite the vehicle being well within the 100,000-mile threshold, Hyundai has denied warranty coverage solely on the grounds that I am not the original owner. This policy effectively strips coverage from second-hand buyers and, in my view, is misleading given Hyundai’s extensive advertising of the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It creates a false sense of long-term reliability and warranty protection. This is not an isolated case. Numerous complaints have surfaced from Hyundai owners experiencing similar catastrophic engine and powertrain failures—including CVVT malfunctions, rod bearing issues, and engine seizure—raising serious questions about: The safety and reliability of Hyundai's engine systems; The fairness and transparency of Hyundai’s warranty terms and advertising; Potentially systemic manufacturing or design flaws impacting thousands of vehicles on U.S. roads. I respectfully urge the NTSB to review whether such defects present broader safety implications and to assess whether Hyundai’s current warranty practices reflect responsible corporate and consumer protection standards. Please let me know if additional information is required, including repair estimates, maintenance records, or correspondence with Hyundai representatives. I appreciate your time and attention to this matter that is affecting many vehicle owners beyond my individual case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Aug 01, 2025

Engine burned 3-4quarts of oil within 3,000 miles. Can result in vehicle failure while driving in city or highway. Vehicle has had all manufacture recommended service and issue started under warranty, but manufacturer has declined to repair issue.

Apr 23, 2025

We took our 2018 Santa Fe in for service because the check engine light came on and we lost power when accelerating. We were told that it has "catastrophic engine failure" and that we need a full engine replacement. On a less than 5 year old car. We are being blamed for this although we have kept up with regular oil changes and service. We were told that we could not get any warranty on the engine. We have been quoted $7,500 for an engine "replacement" and a 1 year warranty. They do not make the engine any longer so it is not even a true replacement. We brought it in to Hyundai of Metairie. They will not answer or return our calls. Do not buy a hyundai.

Oct 17, 2023

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

3 complaints

Q: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A: Two fuel injectors on bank 2 are failing intermittently causing the engine light to flash and stay on (P0300 errors) and the car loses power. Q: How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A: Driving to Newark airport on [XXX] the car suddenly lost power and was quickly coming to a halt. LUCKILY I was was in the middle lane and was able to get to the shoulder without incident. This also happened to my daughter when she was in WA state, driving to work on the highway (the car was serviced but the fuel injectors were not replaced - see attached receipt). Q: Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? A: Yes. An independent service center performed a injector value load test which determines the amount of blocked pressure the injector is performing under load. The values and the math show that more than 1 injector on bank 2 are failing. Q: Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? A: I had the vehicle in the Hyundai dealer but they did not do the injector load test and only wanted to replace all the coil packs and plugs. I had two other independent service facilities confirm the issue is with fault fuel injectors. Hyundai has the parts on hold and is not releasing any due to this issue. I do NOT understand how this is not a recall circumstance. I am fortunate that in both instances an accident did not occur. Q: Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? A: Yes, the engine light comes on - at first blinking, then steady. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jun 26, 2025

THE CAR BEGAN SHUTTERING WHILE DRIVING DOWN A MAIN STREET (45-50MPH). WHEN WE PULLED OVER WE SMELLED GASOLINE AND BURNING. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO HYUNDAI SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT INFORMED MY THE FUEL INJECTORS WERE LEAKING CAUSING A FIRE. THE ARE REPLYING THE FUEL INJECTORS AND TOLD ME IT WOULD BE WISE TO HAVE THEM REPLACE ALL SPARKS PLUGS ($190) WHILE THEY HAD THE ENGINE OPENED UP.

Dec 29, 2020

Fire: 1

ABOUT A MONTH AGO I WAS DRIVING HOME TO SANTA FE NEW MEXICO WITH MY WIFE AND DOG. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SPUTTER AND DIED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I CALLED BLUE LINK WHICH IS THE HYUNDAI ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE CLUB AND THEY TOWED MY VEHICLE INTO FIESTA HYUNDAI IN SANTA FE. AT FIRST THEY SAID MY OIL WAS OVER FILLED. I CALLED JIFFY LUBE WHERE I HAD IT SERVICE 5 DAYS PRIOR AND THEY SENT THEIR MANAGER TO HYUNDAI. UPON HIS ARRIVAL THE SERVICE MANAGER AT HYUNDAI SAID THEY MADE A MISTAKE AND IT WAS A FUEL INJECTOR THAT WAS STUCK ON AND FILED THE CYLINDER WITH FUEL CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN. THEY REPLACE THE FUEL NOZZLE AFTER 3 DAYS I GOT THE VEHICLE BACK AND HEADED TO MCKINNEY TEXAS, I MADE IT TO WICHITA FALLS TEXAS AND THE CAR SPUTTERED AND DIED AGAIN THIS TIME NOT EVEN TURNING OVER WHEN YOU PUSHED THE BUTTON. ONCE AGAIN I CALLED BLUE LINK AND THEY TOWED THE VEHICLE INTO HYUNDAI TO BE SERVICED. THEY CALLED ME THE NEXT DAY SAID THEY WOULD LOOK AT IT AND ADVISE ME. THEY NEVER CALLED ME BACK SO I HAD TO CALL THEM. THEY SAID THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER BLEW OFF. THEY SAID THEY WOULD HAVE IT IN THE MORNING. THAT NERVE HAPPENED AND THEY HAVE NOT CALLED ME BACK SINCE AND THAT WAS 6 DAYS AGO. THIS VEHICLE POURING FUEL INTO A CYLINDER IS A FIRE HAZARD. THIS TIME IT BUILT UP ENOUGH COMBUSTION TO BLOW THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER COMPLETELY OFF. I DO NOT KNOW THE REASON FOR THIS AS OF YET AS THEY ARE NON RESPONSIVE BUT I HAVE FILED A LEMON LAW CASE AGAINST HYUNDAI AND AM AWAITING THEIR DECISION. THIS CAR IS NOT SAFE AND I REFUSE TO GET BACK ONTO IT AGAIN. IT HAS STRANDING MYSELF AND MY FAMILY DOG INCLUDED TWICE NOW ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION WHEN THE ENGINE DIED BOTH TIMES. *TR

Apr 06, 2019

SEATS

3 complaints

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that there were holes underneath the front driver’s and passenger’s side seats. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the seats were removed; however, the seats were not replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

Sep 16, 2024

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE THE CONTACT'S FATHER WAS DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, HE NOTICED AN ABNORMAL ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS HOME, THE CONTACT OPENED THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR AND NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT HAD BURNED WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WAS NO INDICATION OF ANY FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREEN HYUNDAI (1200 S DIRKSEN PKWY, SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703, (217) 525-1370) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE SEAT COVER WAS CUT BY AN OBJECT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED THE SEAT AND CONFIRMED THAT IT WAS BURNED BY A FAULTY SEAT WARMER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 23,845. *LN*JB *TP

Oct 18, 2019

THE DRIVER'S SEAT APPEARS TO BE SET TOO LOW AT THE BACK OF THE SEAT. THE SIDES OF WINGS OF THE BUCKET SEAT ARE TOO HIGH NEAR THE REAR OF THE SEAT. DUE TO THE POOR DESIGN IT CAUSES THE DRIVER TO POSITION THEMSELVES AWAY FROM THE LEFT SIDE WING EITHER FORWARD OR FORWARD AND TOWARDS THE CENTER CONSOLE. I WORRY THAT DUE TO THE POOR SEAT DESIGN SITTING PROPERLY POSITIONED WITHIN THE SEAT IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE YOU CAN NOT SIT COMFORTABLY. IT APPEARS ONLINE THAT MANY COMPLAIN ABOUT THE DRIVER'S SEAT. DURING AN ACCIDENT I BELIEVE GREATER PERSONAL BODILY INJURY COULD OCCUR TO A DRIVER BECAUSE OF THE POOR SEAT DESIGN AND NOT BEING PROPERLY SEATED IN THE SEAT. I HAVE RIDDEN IN THE PASSENGER'S SEAT AND IT DOES NOT APPEAR TO HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. IT MIGHT BE THE OUTER PLASTIC SHROUD ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT THAT CAUSES THE IMPROPER SEATING WITHIN THE VEHICLE. I WORRY FOR MY SAFETY, MY FAMILY'S SAFETY AND OTHER DRIVER'S SAFETY BECAUSE OF THE POOR SEAT DESIGN.

Mar 22, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. In addition, when the vehicle was restarted, the taillights were inoperable. The contact stated that only the front lights were operable. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, it was nighttime and on a busy dark road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with failed rear toe hitch harness and that the vehicle needed to be re-wired and the toe hitch needed to be removed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 57,720.

Mar 11, 2024

Reverse Camera malfunctioning most days. A few days a year it works, but usually it's just a blue screen. Other 3 cameras work fine all the time.

Sep 25, 2023

I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO REPORT A HOT SMELL IN MY CAR ON TUESDAY. THEY TOLD ME TO BRING IT IN FOR SERVICE INSPECTION. THURSDAY MORNING THE CAR WAS DRIVEN FOR A SHORT TIME AND PARKED IN THE DRIVE WAY AFTER. APPROXIMATELY TWO HOURS TO TWO AND A HALF HOURS LATER THE CAR CAB WAS FULL OF SMOKE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT BOTH ARRIVED ON SCENE.

Jul 19, 2019

Fire: 1

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

All of the bolts that hold the CVVT assembly backed out and one came completely out. It punctured a hole in my valve cover. Oil sprayed all underneath my hood and leaked out on the road. The car went into limp mode while I was driving, and had I not already pulled off the street, this would have caused a multiple vehicle accident. I had the vehicle towed to the manufacturer dealer and they confirmed the issue. The only warning lamp that came on was the check engine, and that didn't happen until i had already pulled over. Thus all happened within a matter of 10 minutes of driving.

Jun 03, 2025

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 6,000.

Sep 04, 2018

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

2 complaints

Seems to be having ignition switch problems. Bought a new battery a couple times now thinking that was the problem but car won’t start at times. It won’t turn and won’t click and all the electrical (radio lights…) just seems to turn off as I turn the key with no sound following. I have to attempt 3 or 4 times with 3 minute breaks in between and then it will eventually turn and start. This has been happening about 2-3 times a week for about a year.

May 23, 2025

Failed oil pressure sensor which was leaking oil through the wiring harness; could have caused a fire from oil dripping on exhaust system. Oil pressure sensors should only fail electrically, not from allowing high pressure oil to leak out. Dealer states there have been some cases where the oil flowed through the wiring harness to the vehicle ECU, rendering a severe problem in controlling the vehicle. Dealer repair invoice attached. Besides the oil pressure sensor the wiring assembly had to be replaced from the oil contamination.

Aug 10, 2023

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while conducting a routine inspection on the vehicle, the contact noticed that the coolant was low in the coolant reservoir. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer where the vehicle was inspected. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer suggested that the vehicle remain at the dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 58,000.

Oct 22, 2024

See attached document for complaint.

Sep 05, 2024

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

2 complaints

June 21, 2024. During travel at high speed (70mph) on NYS Thruway, engine began making loud noise. sounded like something was loose and flapping. WITHOUT WARNING- no instrument warning lights came on, engine seized and power stopped. At no time during my drive did I observe any instrument warning lights. I was able to get over to the side of the road. The temperature gauge remained unchanged. I was concerned about fire in the engine and got as far away from the car as possible. I was 200 miles into my 300 mile journey. After waiting over an hour to have my car towed to the dealer, I was told that there were 3 Hyundai's with similar issues the week before and that the car would likely need an engine replacement due to "excessive oil consumption". This issue is a safety risk as it could have resulted in catastrophic engine fire, as well as safety issues on the Thruway with other cars and lots of traffic. Engines are backordered. Dealer did a full inspection and submitted paperwork on June 28, 2024 to Hyundai for a decision on whether this is covered under warranty. I was told we would have an answer within a few hours. Have been assigned a "liason" with Hyundai and have been in regular contact. However, Hyundai has asked for an additonal time in order to make a decision. No word as of July 11, 2024.

Jul 11, 2024

I was driving about 60-65 mph on the interstate, and with no dashboard lights illuminated, the car started making a loud clanking noise. Without warning, there was 1 additional loud noise and the engine froze, excessive smoke came from the front of the car and underneath the car. I pulled over to the side of the road. There was an oil trail behind the car and under the car. The car is now being inspected by our local Hyundai dealership and awaiting warranty approval.

May 12, 2023

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

2 complaints

WHEN DRIVING ON A BACK ROAD GOING ABOUT 35-40 MPH, ALL OF A SUDDEN THE RPMS SPIKED WAY UP AND THE CAR STARTED SHAKING. AS I PRESSED THE GAS PEDAL THE CAR WOULD BARELY MOVE BUT THE RPMS WOULD GO EXTREMELY HIGH. EVERY TIME I HAD A STOP LIGHT AND TRIED ACCELERATING ONCE THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN THE CAR WOULD BARELY MOVE AND RPMS WOULD JUST KEEP REVING UP REAL HIGH. I WAS AFRAID I WAS GOING TO GET HIT OR REAR ENDED. HUGE SAFETY CONCERNS.

Oct 16, 2018

DRIVING @60 W/CRUSE ON GOING DOWN A HILL ENGINE RPM'S SUDDENLY JUMP FROM 2000 TO ANYWHERE FROM 3000 TO 5000 RPM'S AND THE ONLY WAY TO STOP ENGINE RACING IS TO TAP THE BRAKES TO DISENGAGE CRUSE. ALSO VEHICLE WILL NOT SPEED UP WHEN TURNING A CORNER,LIKE THE TRANSMISSION DOESN'T DOWN SHIFT.THESE BOTH HAPPEN ALL THE TIME.VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 800 MILES.

May 30, 2018

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

Was driving and car turn off on me and wouldn't start I got it towed to Hyundai and they said my engine went out it had oil and everything we don't know why can stopped working has been sitting in my drive way for 3 years because we don't have 13000 that Hyundai told us

Nov 27, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

1 complaint

In September 2024, my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe experienced an unexpected engine lock-up while driving, creating an immediate safety hazard. Vehicle lost power, began smoking, and posed a potential fire risk. Fire department responded to prevent the engine from catching fire and had to spray the engine compartment with high-pressure water. Following this incident, vehicle remained in Hyundai’s possession for ~9 months for engine-related repairs. When we picked up the vehicle after the prolonged repair period, front-facing camera had completely stopped functioning. This camera has always worked prior to the engine lock-up and was functioning the day of the incident. This was reported to the dealership, Hyundai Motor America. A case manager (Nemesh) took the case. Very supportive, helpful and provided a thorough process for investigating the situation. However, all the sudden case was assigned a new case manager (Bryan) and the process immediately changed and the claim was denied. Given the timing and circumstances, the camera failure appears to be the result of electrical or component damage caused during the engine failure/fire-prevention event. The dealership also confirmed that no independent inspector ever assessed the vehicle for secondary damage despite my repeated requests. Hyundai later denied responsibility without conducting any physical inspection of the damage. This sequence of events — sudden engine failure, required fire-response intervention, prolonged repair, and subsequent electrical component failure — raises significant concerns about safety and the potential for related electrical or wiring issues caused by the engine incident. I am reporting this because the underlying engine failure and fire-risk conditions represent a serious safety defect, and related component failures may indicate broader issues with damage resulting from these events. Also Hyundai not letting the independent inspector assess gives me great concern something was missed.

Nov 14, 2025

Fire: 1

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

At 118,000 miles Downhill brake, transmission and 4 wheel drive were damaged from the hyundai dealership not fullfilling warranty. They disconnected my tow hitch and my transmission was burning .. smelled like a bon fire. Took me 1 year to repair and have transmission changed through warranty but they didnt change the other components that were damaged due to negligence from the hyundai dealership. The dealership was very rude and didnt dedication their attention or care to truly finding what was wrong with my vehicle.

Jul 28, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

The oil pressure switch has a faulty seal causing oil to leak out onto the engine block. This causes oil on the underbody and ground, smoke amd smell from oil on got surfaces, knocking noises from the engine, reduced power or hesitation, illumination or the check engine light and oil pressure light, high speed stall, and will also cause fire in the engine compartment resulting in death or sever injury. I have taken my car to the Red McCombs Hyundai dealership in San Antonio TX for repair and they have confirmed that it is the oil pressure switch seal that failed. The oil leak has also damaged electrical components causing a malfunction in the dash cluster and steering wheel control.

Jul 21, 2025

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

Rear reverse camera stopped working. Image became grainy, then flickered, then went to a blue screen. Can't see anything behind the vehicle when backing up is a big safety hazard.

Apr 10, 2025

SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

I was driving going around 50 and put on my brakes after that the abs light Epb light and cruise control lights all came on and my car wouldnt stop unless I preessed very hard on brakes. and other lights on my dashboard came on then the next day I was driving to work and almost wrecked and my car wouldn't stop I had it towed in to cooks automotive and the seals had exploded on the master and cylinder and the booster.also the abs motor would not turn off and my cruise control went out I paid over 1300.00 to get my car fixed but the mechanic informed me that it should have not happened and there was a recall on my year hyundai. Now after almost paying and loosing a weeks worth of work because of malfunction in the vehicle.

Jul 06, 2024

SERVICE BRAKES,BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

I stepped on the brakes and all the aeb warning collision warning went on and I turn my car off and it still sounds like something is running

May 24, 2024

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

Hyundai initiated a recall campaign 218 on 02/02/2022 for: VEHICLES THAT ARE EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM ("ABS") MODULES THAT COULD MALFUNCTION INTERNALLY AND CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT OVER TIME. URGENT: FIRE RISK WHEN PARKED The manufacturer has FAILED to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner. I am unable to park my vehicle in garage and have not heard any response when this will be remedied.

Jun 01, 2022

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

I was at the Tim Hortons drive-thru stopped behind a car in front of me the car in front of me started to go to the order window , as I let off the brake to start to go my suv took off full speed! I hit the brakes as hard as I could and the car kept moving forward like the throttle was stuck at full acceleration. I wasn't even hitting the gas pedal, after my vehicle struck the car and continued to smash into the car while I was holding a brake I put it in neutral and then the car finally came to a stop. I had 5 children in the car. And I am seeing this being an issue in alot of hyandai vehicles. And alot of complaint with this same issue. If this would have happened on the hiway it could have possibly killed or Injured someone. I am scared to death to drive the vehicle again.

Feb 03, 2022

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

This will be the fourth time our vehicle has to go to the dealer. We purchased this car in April of this year and the car has lived more at the dealer service department than with us. The first time, the car started smoking and left us stranded. The dealer changed out the fuel injectors. When it randomly started smoking it smelled strongly of gas and we were scared that the car would catch fire. The other times were due to the car not accelerating as it should on the highway making it quite difficult to merge and speed up as needed on the highway. This time, it's the same thing. The car does not want to shift gears and it's very dangerous when you are trying to accelerate to get to the right speed and you have cars coming in close from behind and there is no way to signal to them that the car is having trouble shifting. This problem started again yesterday. The check engine light turned on yesterday as well and we took the car to Autozone to scan it. the only code that came up was abs. The car just got towed to the dealer yet again but I have lost hope that they will be able to fix the issue as they have failed 3 times already. (one of these times the dealer failed to refill my radiator coolant after the flushed it causing the car to overheat as well and the car ac malfunctioned as well as a result.

Aug 23, 2021

TIRES

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE EQUIPPED WITH KUMHO TIRES, TIRE LINE: CRUGEN PREMIUM KL33 N/A, TIRE SIZE: 235/55/R19 N/A, THE DOT NUMBER: 000JTYANH4419. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE WAS SHAKING ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT DROVE TO A TIRE SHOP AND NOTICE THAT THE TREAD BELT WAS SEPARATING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, IN APRIL THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRES EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 23,758.

Sep 09, 2020

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

DRIVING A RENTAL CAR AT 4:30 A.M. ON COUNTRY ROAD ATTEMPTING TO CATCH OUR FLIGHT BACK HOME. AFTER DRIVING APPROX. 20 MINUTES, HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT AND DASHBOARD LIGHTS. WE HAD NO VISIBILITY, ATTEMPTED TO STOP VEHICLE, LEFT PAVEMENT AND STRUCK A TREE. DURING OUR WEEK RENTAL OF THIS VEHICLE WE DID HAVE ISSUES WITH SUV LOSING POWER WHEN CLIMBING A HILL, BUT NOT A STEEP ONE AT ALL. SUV WOULD DROP AT LEAST 10 MPH WHEN DOING SO. NOT SURE IF THESE TWO ISSUES ARE RELATED AT ALL.

Apr 02, 2020

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

6 MONTHS AFTER I PURCHASE A BRAND NEW 2018 SANTA FE GRANDE MY VEHICLE START CUTTING OFF WHEN I TURN THE WHEEL A CERTAIN WAY I REPORTED IT TO THE COMPANY IT WILL NOT DETECT ON THE MACHINES SO THEY CANNOT FIX IT SO I'M STUCK WITH A CAR THAT CONTINUE TO CUT OFF AND NOBODY KNOWS WHY

Feb 08, 2020

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

SLOW TO ACCELERATED I HAVE TO RE PRESS THE PEDAL JUST TO TRY AN SPEED UP ON THE HIGHWAY IM GETTING HONKED AT TRYING TO GO UP HILLS I HAVE TO PRESS IT TO THE FLOOR TO GO UP HILLS AN IT IDLES OUT AN ITS VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE ON THE FREEWAY I CANT GO PAST 50MPH AN I USE SPORT MODE ITS DOSNT HELP IT THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL IN ALL THE HYUNDAI CARS .

Dec 08, 2019

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

OCCASIONALLY STALLS WHEN STOPPED & TAKE OFF & TURN RIGHT OR LEFT AT A SLOW SPEED..ONE T IME DIED COMPLETELY ABLE TO PULL OVER & RESTART ENGINE. HAPPENS ON CITY STREETS. THE DATES IT STALLED ARE 9-14-18 10-5-18 10-18-18 11-16-18 11-28-18 12-04-18

Dec 26, 2018

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT FAILED TO MAKE AN AUDIBLE SOUND WHEN IT WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SPOKANE HYUNDAI (8801 E SPRAGUE AVE, SPOKANE VALLEY, WA 99212, (509) 922-1450) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAILURE COULD NOT BE FOUND. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V145000 (SEAT BELTS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,500.

Nov 07, 2018

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

YESTERDAY WHEN I WAS TEACHING MY VEHICLE I SUDDENLY MARKED STEERING WHEEL ON THE BOARD. AND ON THE BRAKES EVERY TIME I PUT THE EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE IT MAKES A LOUD SOUND ON THE LEFT REAR SIDE.

Sep 26, 2018

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

LED HEADLIGHTS PARTICULARLY ON UNLIGHTED ROADS PRESENT A DARKEN SHADOW ON THE TOP HALF OF THE WINDSHIELD WHILE CAR IS IN MOTION. NARROWING VIEW IS A SAFETY HAZARD AS ONE IS UNABLE TO SEE APPROACHING TRAFFIC OR PEDESTRIANS. DEALERSHIP AND HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SUPPORT STATED THAT HEADLIGHTS MEET SPECS. SERVICE MANAGER DROVE CAR AT NIGHT AND TOLD ME THAT HE SEES THE ISSUE BUT HAS NO FIX. HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SUPPORT SAID IT WAS NOT A WARRANTY ISSUE, BUT A DESIGN ISSUE AND I COULD MODIFY THE HEADLIGHTS AT MY EXPENSE AND BREAK THE WARRANTY. I WILL ATTACH A PICTURE AND CAN BRING THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT AGENT TO VALIDATE.

Aug 17, 2018

2018 HYUNDAI Santa Fe Problems & Complaints

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