Avoid: 2017, 2014, 2013, 2007 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2006 · Best recent: 2016
23 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 26 model years, the Hyundai Santa Fe has 9,261 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 115 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and power train. 2017 drew the most complaints (1,316), 2006 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (106).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $18,687–$28,522.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 49 |
| 2025 | 223 |
| 2024 | 184 |
| 2023 | 287 |
| 2022 | 263 |
| 2021 | 186 |
| 2020 | 213 |
| 2019 | 225 |
| 2018 | 525 |
| 2017 | 1,316 |
| 2016 | 305 |
| 2015 | 336 |
| 2014 | 656 |
| 2013 | 803 |
| 2012 | 353 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2010 | 258 |
| 2009 | 358 |
| 2008 | 541 |
| 2007 | 683 |
| 2006 | 106 |
| 2005 | 216 |
| 2004 | 303 |
| 2003 | 308 |
| 2002 | 171 |
| 2001 | 212 |
Highest: 2017 (1,316 complaints). Lowest: 2006 (106).
Sentiment is sharply divided by model year and engine type, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile.
Sudden engine seizure, knocking, bearing failure, leading to complete replacement. Often preceded by excessive oil consumption. Warranty coverage is a frequent point of conflict.
Burning 1 quart or more of oil every 1,000-1,500 miles. Leads to engine damage if not constantly monitored and topped up.
Long wait times for appointments (weeks to months), failure to diagnose or replicate problems, disrespectful treatment, and adversarial stance on warranty claims for known engine issues.
Unspecified problems prompting concerns; a "bad batch" of transmissions noted for 2024 models. Includes sudden loss of power and inability to accelerate past low speeds (e.g., 45 mph / 72 km/h).
Severe, unexpected jerking or lurching forward while stopped or driving, including incidents mistaken for being rear-ended. Perceived as a major safety concern.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Santa Fe. Individual model years are broken down above.
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