Most Common Hyundai Santa Fe Problems

As an affordable midsize SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe has grown in popularity in recent years. It is considered a great value as the cost is lower than competitor SUVs, but it still offers a wide array of features. The reliability has come into question for certain models, though, specifically the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe.

If you are in the market for an SUV and considering the Santa Fe, be sure to check out our list of most common Hyundai Santa Fe problems as reported by drivers. While these issues don’t apply to all models, it could be helpful to know what to expect if you do purchase a Santa Fe or what to look out for if you already own one.

Engine Issues

Of all the issues that could happen with your vehicle, it’s certainly important to take engine issues seriously and get your car checked out right away. Because of the dangerous nature of these types of issues, we wanted to first and foremost address commonly reported Hyundai Santa Fe engine problems.

In earlier models, the 2012 and 2013 Santa Fe to be exact, many drivers reported engine failure around 80,000 miles. This ultimately led to the full replacement of the engine, which can be very costly.

Drivers from other model years have reported that their engine stalls or comes to a complete stop without warning. This could lead to a very dangerous situation, depending on the road you’re on and how many other drivers are around you. Due to the severity of the situation, a class action lawsuit was filed against Hyundai. However, the carmaker claimed that the engine issue only happens in very rare circumstances.

Airbag Sensor Problems

Another issue that appears to be specific to early models only is related to the airbag sensor. Drivers reported that their airbag sensor would illuminate irregularly, which would then require the driver to take their car in to be serviced. Ultimately, a recall was issued to update this issue and ensure the correct deployment of airbags. For those who are looking to purchase a new or more recent model, you can take comfort in knowing that this doesn’t seem to be on the list of 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe problems, so there’s no need to be too concerned when it comes to newer models.

Faulty Speakers

One issue that has affected more recent models (as late as 2017) is related to the speaker system. While this isn’t a safety issue, it is important to note as you likely want all aspects of your car to function as expected. 

Drivers reported that around 50,000 miles, models equipped with navigation systems would stop playing sound (whether that was the navigation, music from the radio, phone calls, etc.). Luckily, this was often a quick fix and only required a quick reset of the system in order to get the sound system up and running again.

Fuel Gauge Failure

Another important item to note on the list of top Hyundai Santa Fe issues is a failed fuel gauge. Some drivers reported that their fuel gauge was not giving an accurate reading of the gas in their tank, which would sometimes result in the driver being stranded without any gas. This specific issue seemed to only affect the 2007 and 2008 models, and could be fixed by replacing the gauge entirely.

Paint Issues

Last on the list of Hyundai Santa Fe common faults is related to the exterior of the vehicle. While some drivers reported having issues with excessive paint peeling on their Santa Fe, other drivers only noticed minor chipping or flaking. While this, again, is not a safety issue, it certainly is a major inconvenience and a fairly expensive repair.

So while the most common Hyundai Santa Fe problems range in terms of their severity, it’s always good to know what to expect before making a vehicle purchase. That way you can weigh your options and make the best choice for you. If you do have a Santa Fe that needs to be serviced, or if you have questions about any other vehicle, please give GT Automotive a call at (801) 302-0912 and we would be happy to help!