For nearly a quarter of a century, the Hyundai Santa Fe crossover has been the preferred daily driver by families worldwide due to its spacious interior, smooth handling, and utilitarian design. Despite the bold facelifts in recent years, it continues to be one of Hyundai’s top-selling models. But how does it fare in terms of reliability?
Are Hyundai Santa Fes Reliable?
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe a good vehicle? The auto community seems to generally agree. Auto review sites like JD Power and Consumer Reports have ranked the Santa Fe with average to above-average reliability compared to other midsize SUVs. AutoTrader’s What Car? Blog has also noted the Santa Fe’s relatively trouble-free operation of its electrical and mechanical components.
The Santa Fe also ranks well in terms of maintenance and repairs. According to RepairPal, the annual repair cost for the Santa Fe is $515, which is slightly cheaper than most midsize SUVs. Autotrader also noted that most issues were resolved under warranty, and Hyundai dealers described them as responsive and helpful.
What Are the Most Common Issues with the Hyundai Santa Fe?
While Hyundai Santa Fe reliability ratings are commendable, this model has had its own share of issues through the years. The following are some of the most common Hyundai Santa Fe problems, the latest recalls, and how to address them.
Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
The crankshaft position sensor in some models of the Santa Fe has been known to break prematurely, causing the engine to stall or fail to start. Replacing the sensor usually resolves this issue.
Affected Model Years:
- 2001-2017
Start-Stop System Concerns
Engine stalling, delayed restart, and warning lights. The engine may stall when it shouldn't, and the engine might not start right away when the brake pedal is released.
Affected Model Years:
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
- 2022
- 2023
Poor Shift Quality
Hyundai Santa Fe transmission problems are a prevalent issue, often resulting in a sharp decline in shift quality. In some cases, it has been reported that simply resetting the transmission adaptive learning tables with a scan tool would take care of shifting issues on these platforms.
In most cases, shifting problems can be traced to low or contaminated automatic transmission fluid, which must be replaced. When replacing the fluid, owners are advised to only use fluid approved by Hyundai and check if the transmission control module has updated drivers. However, if the problem persists, it is recommended that the SUV be diagnosed by a professional mechanic.
Affected Model Years:
- 2001-2016
Faulty Electric Power Steering
Some drivers have reported that the electric power steering requires constant correction at highway speeds, which can be fatiguing, and in some cases the steering column has had to be replaced. Some have reported that the forward collision assist system becomes disabled intermittently, causing issues while turning.
Affected Model Years:
- 2013
- 2019
Faulty EGR Switching Valve
Hyundai Santa Fes fitted with either a 2.7L V6 or 2.4L 4-cylinder engine have been known to experience rough or unstable idling over time. This is usually due to a malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) switching valve, which must be replaced.
Affected Model Years:
- 2001-2011
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
There have been reports of a clunking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps or turning, causing possible premature tire wear on the edges of the front tires. Drivers have also reported steering wander at highway speeds.
Affected Model Years:
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
Sunshade Closes On Its Own
Hyundai has issued a recall to over 30,000 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs due to the built-in rear sunshade closing unintentionally. This is reportedly due to the improper installation of the rear sunshade switch knob, which should be replaced at the dealership free of charge.
Affected Model Years:
- 2024
Defective Airbag Wiring Harness
Another recall was issued for the recent Santa Fe model year due to a defect in the second-row airbag assembly. According to the recall, the main floor wire harness can come into contact with the second-row folding seat hinge assembly, causing the airbag to deploy unintentionally or fail to deploy in the event of a crash. Dealers are instructed to inspect the wiring harness of affected vehicles and replace them as necessary.
Affected Model Years:
- 2024
Rearview Camera Display Issues
Hyundai has also recalled several Hyundai models, including the Santa Fe, due to a defect in the circuit board of the rearview camera. This might prevent the camera image from displaying properly, reducing the driver’s visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers are instructed to replace any defective cameras for free.
Affected Model Years:
- 2021
- 2022
What Are the Best Model Years for the Hyundai Santa Fe?
Much has been discussed about the best year for Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs, although the following are the best contenders for the title in terms of reliability. The following are considered by auto reviewers and car owners to be the Hyundai Santa Fe best years for reliable performance, the least number of customer complaints and recalls, and the best resale value.
- 2001
- 2007
- 2012
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
FAQ
How long does a Hyundai Santa Fe last?
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a typical lifespan of 200,000 to 250,000 miles with regular maintenance, although there have been owner testimonials of Santa Fes racking up 300,000 miles with no serious issues. In comparison, other competing SUV models last around 75,000 to 200,000 miles.
Where are Hyundai Santa Fe cars made?
Hyundai Santa Fe models are built in Hyundai’s manufacturing facilities across the world, including the US, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Earlier model years were also made in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan.