What are the most common Hyundai Santa Fe problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 4,710+ owner reports, the 2018-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Theta II Engine Failure / Connecting Rod Bearing Seizure, Excessive Oil Consumption - 2.4L GDI Engine, Premature Alternator Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?
The 2018-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe has 8 known issues documented across 4,710+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Theta II Engine Failure / Connecting Rod Bearing Seizure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Hyundai Santa Fe problems?
Repair costs for known Hyundai Santa Fe issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Theta II Engine Failure / Connecting Rod Bearing Seizure, typically costs $0-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2010-2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Theta II Engine Seizure / Recall?
The 2.0T and 2.4L Theta II engines in the Santa Fe are subject to a massive recall for connecting rod bearing failure and engine seizure. Manufacturing debris left in the engine during production restricts oil flow to the bearings, causing them to wear and fail. This can result i… Repairs typically run $0-$6,000. Severity: critical.
What is the 2013-2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Theta II Engine Failure / Connecting Rod Bearing Seizure?
Santa Fe models with Theta II engines share the same connecting rod bearing defect as other Hyundai/Kia vehicles. Metal shavings from manufacturing can restrict oil passages, causing bearing failure and engine seizure. Multiple class-action settlements and NHTSA recalls address t… Repairs typically run $0-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Excessive Oil Consumption - 2.4L GDI Engine?
The 2.4L GDI engine in Santa Fe models can consume excessive oil, sometimes 1 quart every 1,000-1,500 miles. This is related to carbon buildup on piston rings and intake valves inherent to GDI engines. Low oil can lead to engine damage if not monitored. Hyundai has an oil consump… Repairs typically run $200-$4,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Premature Alternator Failure?
Alternators in Santa Fe models fail prematurely, often between 60,000-100,000 miles. The voltage regulator or rectifier diodes fail, causing undercharging, battery drain, and eventually no-start conditions. Some owners report multiple alternator replacements within the vehicle's… Repairs typically run $300-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Transfer Case / PTU Fluid Leak and Whine?
The power transfer unit (PTU) on AWD Santa Fe models develops seal leaks, leading to fluid loss and eventual bearing damage. A whining noise from the front of the drivetrain is the first sign. If fluid runs low, the PTU gears can be damaged, requiring expensive replacement. The o… Repairs typically run $300-$2,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2019 Hyundai Santa Fe CVVT Actuator / Oil Control Valve Failure?
The Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) actuator and its associated oil control valve (OCV) on the Santa Fe's Theta II engine can fail, causing rough idle, poor fuel economy, and check engine lights. The OCV gets clogged with sludge from extended oil change intervals, and the… Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Panoramic Sunroof Drain Clog?
The panoramic sunroof drain tubes on the Santa Fe clog with leaves, pollen, and debris, causing water to overflow the sunroof tray and leak into the cabin. Water typically enters through the headliner area and drips onto the front seats or pools in the rear footwells. Extended wa… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Alternator Premature Failure?
The alternator on the Santa Fe has a higher-than-average failure rate, often failing between 60,000-100,000 miles. The internal voltage regulator and rectifier are the typical failure points. A failing alternator causes dimming lights, battery drain, and eventually a no-start con… Repairs typically run $400-$800. Severity: medium.
