2015 Hyundai Santa Fe

Driving on highway no warning lights appeared the car made a loud pop noise and heavy smoke appeared from under the hood. Immediately pulled over and noticed all of the oil poured out and was nasty looking. The car was up to date on oil change. My car was towed home and bone dry no oil and no coolant the engine now had loud knocking and needs to be replaced for failure. The car was looked at by independent mechanic. Miles on the car are 152010. I had no warnings and up until the issues the car was serviced and cared for.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jul 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While I was driving my Theta engine got seized and Hyundai denied extended warranty of power train.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Today while driving to church we started hearing a ping noise ever so often. This just started then . After leaving church to go home the pinging noise got louder than the engine stalled and wouldn't start again. I had to have my car towed to my house. That is where it is now. The tow truck driver said that it was a rod. He said that he was mostly sure that it was happened. He stated that he has towed similar ones like mine with the same problem.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jul 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

For a few months- the ABS light, Downhill assist light, and Slippery road light have all been on. Read it could be due to a bad sensor. Then on Saturday July 4th, I turned the car on and the Ebrake light was on but my ebrake was NOT initiated. Car was making a low humming noise on front passenger side of vehicle as well. I read the ebrake light could come on due to low brake fluid, so I wanted to drive it around the block to further try and diagnose the issue. My car then made a pop noise and started smoking from where the ABS pump is located and my tail lights all started flickering like Christmas lights. I instantly turned the car off and disconnected the battery to prevent an electrical fire. UPON researching- there is a recall for 2015 Santa Fe’s for this exact issue except mine isn’t on the list. I need to talk to someone who has seniority upon this situation because I have called Hyundai Customer service and my local dealership and nothing is being done or nobody cares to resolve this situation. My car is currently at a trusted local garage awaiting repair- I can not tow it back and forth between the garage and a dealership. I rely on my car for my children and work.. I can’t play around waiting for them to inspect it weeks from now. This is a serious issue as my children were also in the car. Everything is VERY similar to the recall on other 2015 Santa Fe’s..

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jul 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 4/25/2026 I lost power on business freeway an orange light flash on along with whining noise I had to steer to right side shoulder for safety. Had it towed to dealership on 4/27/2026 they informed me 3 days later on 4/30/2026 that my car overheated. My car never overheated no smell of coolant nor no steam from the car when I exit to shoulder and turn car off. Retrieved manual from glove compartment it stated it had went into limp model. This has been a constantly nightmare my family could have been planning a funeral. These car manufacturers needs to be held accountable for their vehicle.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

FHW Garage used car dealer [XXX], sold this Hyundai Santa fe 2015 knowing the vehicle is defective. It Stalls and stops in the middle of the road in High Traffic. This Hyundai Santa Fe 2015 Lock up the Steering Wheel, Lock up the breaks, Lock up the gas. it Stalls and stops without Warning then after it freeze and stop it flashes all of the Warning Lights on the dash board. FHW Garage is Falsely Advertising this vehicle in Excellent Condition. Its Advertised on Craigs List, and [XXX]. I was almost in a Serious Accident. [XXX] keeps getting his people in the workshop to Machanically Rig the Vehicle to run and drive until someone gets killed when this vehicle is in a terrible Accident. The Gas Cap dont screw on properly. Fhw Garage [XXX] sold me this Vehicle with full knowlege of the Mechanical Defects, and refuses to give my money back. I paid $5,400 Cash plus traded my car. The Hyundai Santa fe was $6,900. Deceptive Practices Fraud, and Title Jumping. FHW still have the two cars after I purchased them. I would like to see FHW Dealer License Suspended or Revoked. Give my money back and return my car. I will be filing a complaint Affidavit with the FLHSMV. [XXX] lied on the Bill of Sales how much I paid and he put $900 in his pocket. I will also file a complaint to FHW [XXX]. For defrauding me, Misrepresentation saying the Vehicle is in Excellent Condition when its Mechanically Defective, and Dangerous should not be on the road to kill someone. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I was driving down the road ( a busy Farm to market road) and my car lost power and died. Luckily i got off of the road. I tried to start the car again, but it kept dying. I had my son in law come help me move the car to a friends house so that I could get it to the dealership. It was after hours. I regularly get my oil changed and when my SIL checked the oil there was none on the dipstick. My SIL put oil in the car. My car was coming up on being due for a oil change. I am a single woman close to 50 yrs old and take my car in for maintenance. I then had my car towed to the local dealership to have an assessment done to find out what the issues is. The dealership reported that the timing was off and that bank 1 and 2 of the camshaft needs replaced. There is a known issue with the engine of this car doing the exact same thing my car did. There were no warning lights on to indicate a problem with the car. I inherited the car for my Mother In Law that passed away. She bought the car brand new and had it serviced regularly.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The engine failed due to complete and sudden oil loss. The vehicle is currently at Fremont Hyundai and available for inspection. Safety risk: the engine failed while driving on the highway with children in the vehicle. A check engine light appeared with no prior warning, the vehicle immediately lost power and stalled, requiring an emergency exit and tow. This is a direct collision risk at highway speed. The failure was confirmed by an independent mechanic who found zero oil in the engine and identified it as a known Hyundai defect. The vehicle was then towed to Fremont Hyundai, which is currently conducting diagnostics. The vehicle has been inspected by an independent mechanic and by Fremont Hyundai [XXX] ). No police or insurance involvement. There were NO warning lights, oil pressure alerts, or symptoms of any kind prior to failure. I purchased the vehicle in 2024 and maintained regular oil changes and checkups with receipts. The last oil change was performed a few months before the failure. No mechanic ever flagged low oil. The only warning was a check engine light that appeared seconds before the engine stalled. I have incurred $900 in towing costs as a direct result of this failure. Fremont Hyundai is now requiring me to pay $280 for a diagnostic, followed by $890 for a two-week oil consumption test. They have also stated that if the engine does not pass the initial diagnostic, they cannot help me at all. Given that the engine ran completely dry of oil, it is highly unlikely to pass. This means I am being asked to pay fees for a process the dealership already expects to fail, leaving me with no path to resolution and a car I cannot drive. The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe is included in a class action lawsuit (Cho et al. v. Hyundai Motor Company) over this exact defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited, 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6, ~102,000 miles. In December 2022, an authorized Hyundai dealer replaced three specific parts under a Hyundai recall/campaign (records requested). On Sunday [DATE] at approximately [TIME] PM, I was driving on [FREEWAY], [STATE], at 55–70 mph at night. With NO prior warning — no warning lights, no chimes, no loss of power buildup, no knocking, no engine protection mode — the engine suddenly and completely died. The failure was instantaneous. There was no limp-home mode and no opportunity to reach the shoulder under engine power. The vehicle lost forward momentum and rolled backward in a live highway travel lane, where it remained stranded until a tow truck recovered it. No injuries. The 12V battery and electrical system remained fully active throughout. The instrument cluster was operational and capable of displaying warnings before the failure. None were displayed. Dashboard warning lights illuminated only seconds AFTER the engine had already died — a post-failure consequence of engine shutdown, not a pre-failure warning. An independent mechanic diagnosed a seized engine due to loss of oil flow. No oil pressure or low-oil light had ever illuminated. The vehicle was then transported to the Hyundai dealer that performed the 2022 service; they promised a diagnostic call and have not provided one or any written diagnostic. This failure mode matches Hyundai TSB 24-EM-003H (15yr/150k extended warranty for 3.3L Lambda II engines in 2013–2019 Santa Fe), NHTSA Recall 21V-727 (acknowledging stall risk at highway speed), and the active class action Burns v. Hyundai Motor Company (C.D. Cal. 2025). Hyundai's KSDS is documented to trigger a blinking MIL, audible chime, and reduced-power Engine Protection Mode upon bearing wear. None of these protective behaviors occurred.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle engine started knocking heavily while driving down the road. Had vehicle inspected for issue and was told vehicle had burned all the oil down to one quart and the engine was destroyed. Vehicle recently serviced with oil change within roughly 3,000 miles.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65-70 MPH, the check engine warning light started flashing, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road, where the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a parking lot, where a mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was towed to the residence and then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that the engine had failed, and there was sludge in the engine oil. The dealer informed the contact that the engine replacement could not be covered due to missing oil change documentation prior to the ownership of the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Engine failed while driving down the road, car was looked at by two mechanics with no known reason for engine failure so car was took to Hyundai of murfreesboro for diagnostic testing and was there for a total of 12 days for inspection, in which during that time i as asked to submit maintenance records for vehicle which i provided 18 pages of oil changes, other records. I was then told my claim was denied by Hyundai due to maintenance neglect as worded by the technician through a text message “is not proceeding with coverage on the engine due the cause of engine failure being maintenance neglect ” i received to other valid reason or cause, nor via email or in writing only a text message.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a blown engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the warranty service was declined because the oil maintenance records were not available. The failure mileage was approximately 114,080.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact’s daughter owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. While the owner was driving approximately 70 MPH, the engine started making a knocking sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The driver called the contact and was advised to pull over to the side of the road and turn off the vehicle. Once the vehicle was turned off, it was towed to a certified mechanic who was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to another mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer, who confirmed the failure and that the engine needed to be repaired. The dealer informed the contact of a Class Action Lawsuit for the engine failure and that the engine could be repaired; however, because the vehicle had not received the software update for Hyundai Campaign: (Hyundai TXXM Warranty Extension Number: 966/953/TXXM); the vehicle was no longer eligible to receive the engine replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer opened a case. The failure mileage was 86,204.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe with approximately 101,000 miles has experienced gradual deterioration of both low beam headlights. The light output is extremely dim and unsafe for night driving. Visibility is significantly reduced, making it difficult to see lane markings, pedestrians, and road hazards. The issue developed gradually over time and affects both headlights equally, suggesting an internal projector or reflector failure rather than a bulb issue. Bulbs have been checked/replaced, but brightness remains poor. This condition creates a serious safety hazard when driving at night. I am requesting investigation into potential headlight projector or reflector defects.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I purchased this vehicle one year ago from a used car dealership with 148,000 miles on it. Within a few months it was throwing crankshaft position, sensor codes, camshaft codes, and burning oil. I cannot bring my RPMs above two without my check engine light coming on and blinking. My car will go into limp mode. Hyundai does not have my car included in the engine recall they only have the sport Santa Fe included. They released an extended warranty for 150,000 miles but by the time that was put into place my car was at 151,000 miles so it was not eligible.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Passenger airbag dash is cracked risking unpredictable deployment of air bag

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

SUBJECT: Sabotage of Safety-Related Engine Test via Unauthorized Modification DESCRIPTION: While my vehicle was undergoing an official manufacturer oil consumption test for a potential engine replacement warranty claim, a dealership in Lincolnwood, IL damaged the oil pan threads. Instead of a proper OEM repair, they installed a non-standard, oversized self-tapping "KKB" bolt without my knowledge or consent to conceal the damage. SAFETY RISK: Two independent certified mechanics have verified this as a hazardous "quick-fix." This non-OEM bolt relies on compromised aluminum threads and poses a severe risk of sudden, catastrophic oil loss, which could lead to engine seizure and fire while driving. MANUFACTURER NEGLIGENCE: The manufacturer has been presented with photographic and independent expert evidence confirming this unauthorized modification. Despite the clear safety hazard, the manufacturer has repeatedly delayed resolution through multiple follow-up postponements. CONSEQUENCES: This unauthorized modification has halted the engine safety test, leaving the vehicle with both a failing engine and an unsafe oil pan. The manufacturer has refused to provide safe alternative transportation while the vehicle is in this hazardous state during extreme winter conditions. I am seeking immediate intervention to ensure the vehicle is restored to factory safety standards and the engine safety test is completed.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Dealer failure to to remedy engine replacement under settlement. I am entitled under the March 1, 2022, Settlement Agreement (the “E2 Settlement”) due to recurring Theta II engine failures caused by the oil-starvation/connecting-rod bearing defect. Vehicle stalling on highways and heavy traffic, Repeated codes and failures of MAP sensors, VVT solenoids, camshaft position sensors, starters (×3), batteries (×2), turbo wastegate, fuel pump, EVAP canister, thermostats/housings, etc. — all downstream symptoms of oil starvation and bearing failure Hyundai dealers (Hyundai of Palm Springs and others) have continued to misdiagnose and charge me for unrelated repairs while refusing to acknowledge the covered defect in the replacement engine. Relief Demanded Under the E2 Settlement Pursuant to Settlement ¶¶ 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, and 6, I demand the following within fourteen (14) days: Full replacement of the failed engine with a new or remanufactured long-block assembly at $0 out-of-pocket cost to me, including all related gaskets, hoses, sensors, turbocharger, and PCM reflash: Full reimbursement of all out-of-pocket repair expenses incurred since the 2022 replacement (approximately $8,178.50+ $150 for two maxed out Triple A cards, and a new rental car for this week at $1500.00 total to date $10,148.50— Reimbursement of all towing and rental-car expenses (receipts enclosed); Compensation for diminished value of the vehicle. Confirmation that the Lifetime Warranty remains in full force on any future engine. In the alternative, a cash buyback of $25,000 in full satisfaction of all claims. This vehicle has suffered two qualifying Theta II engine failures, the second occurring in a warranty replacement engine. Hyundai of Palm Springs continued refusal to properly honor the settlement has caused extreme hardship, safety risks (multiple freeway/intersection stalls), and thousands of dollars in unnecessary expense

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 08/15/2025 I started the vehicle and heard a ticking noise that lasted for 3 seconds and stopped. The same noise happened when I would start the car in the mornings. It never lasted more than 3 seconds and I wasn't too sure what the noise was. There was no engine lights that came on so I wasnt too worried about it. On 8/21/2025 my husband went to the store and when he came back the car shut off while backing into the driveway. He said it made a weird noise and just shut off. We tested the battery but it was still charged. We brought it to our mechanic and he called us 15 mins later saying he found metal shavings on the oil filter and the engine had seized. He recommended going to the dealer, which is 90 miles away. Around the 15th we had received the warranty extension for 15 years/150,000 miles from Hyundai talking about a knocking sound that can lead to engine seizure. So I called the dealer and they said to bring it in. We got the car towed to the dealer on 8/26/2025. On 09/04/2025 they called to let us know that they ran the test on the engine but Hyundai was not going to help due to the car having 176,000 miles. They agreed the engine seized due to rod failure but wasn't going to offer Goodwill assistance, even with the service history we submitted from our carfax that showed regular scheduled maintenance recorda. We bought the car on 03/08/2025 when it was at 170,000 miles. I knew about the other open recalls and had them fixed on 06/12/2025 ( after being delayed from the dealer for 2 months because they couldn't get the parts for the auxiliary canister). Luckily the car died in the driveway and not in the middle of traffic. Hyundai has known about their Lambda engines having this issue and the KDSS recall was not available for this car which could have triggered a lifetime warranty on the engine. I barely had the car for 5 months.

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

GDFI MODOR IS BURNING GAS AND OIL TOO QUICKLY Randomly shutting off Burning too much oil

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Put in reverse to move backwards 5 feet or so the vehicle kept going and moving faster I applied the brake and hitting the brakes as well I didn't wonna hit the parked cars behind me so I put in park thinking that will also help stop the vehicle nothing worked it only stopped after hitting my other car that was parked on the street I tried everything to stop it it just took off I came out a beautiful morning to change the radiator it was dripping from the bottom I purchased a new one I put the car front wheels on ramps to look underneath to see what sockets I needed I got in vehicle just to lower off ramps backing down slow foot covering brake once the car touch ground it accelerated not fast but wouldn't stop it happened so fast but I applied the emergency brake its moving faster applying the brake as well im looking in the mirror at wants behind me as well I put in park thinking that would stop the vehicle but it was accelerating didnt stop until it hit the car parked on the street that's also mine it was dangerous and scary and im thankful it wasnt a tragedy normally my grandkids would be playing out there i could killed them I cant stop thinking about the what could been driving 42 years I consider myself a good driver defensive driving course never had a chargeable accident drove professional also for 32 years I did all I could think of in that little bit of time it just accelerated again backing tapping brakes 2 or 3 times coming down off ramps front maybe 4 or 5 inches off ground lowering to ground it take off something worth looking into thank you last thing my wife was coming to bring me a flashlight the fence hit her 30 more seconds she probably would been hit or killed so this is really affecting me

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

I am writing to express my concern regarding an ongoing and persistent issue with excessive engine oil consumption in my 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, Subject: Severe Oil Consumption Issue - 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe - VIN: [XXX] The vehicle consumes an alarming amount of oil, approximately 1 quart every 300 miles. This rate of consumption is far beyond what is considered normal and strongly suggests a serious mechanical or manufacturing defect. I have already taken the vehicle to a mechanic to diagnose and attempt to resolve this problem. Based on their professional advice, the following parts were recently replaced: 1.Engine Valve Cover Gasket 2.Turbo Charger Oil Line 3.Spark Plugs Unfortunately, despite these repairs, the issue of excessive oil consumption remains unresolved. The rate of oil loss remains consistent and dangerously high. This was first informed by a service center when I took the car for a random check. Then, after traveling 1,000 miles, the engine oil level dropped again. After that, I am keeping an eye on that. This level of oil consumption poses a significant risk to the engine's long-term health and reliability, and it is a major inconvenience and expense for me as the owner. I am deeply concerned that a major engine component may be failing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Driving on freeway and noticed smoke. Realized I needed to pull over and brakes weren’t working. Off ramp was at an incline so car came to a stop just in time to get toddler and myself out of vehicle. Car was on fire.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

I bought the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe yesterday evening. Upon leaving the dealership I promptly broke for a car in front of me. Immediately the vehicle turned off completely. I put the vehicle in the park and attempted to start the vehicle back up. The vehicle would not start up and begin leaking a prominent scent. Following this, white smoke with the same pungent smell was coming from the engine. I propped the hood and saw the smoke continue to release. I then motioned away from the vehicle and called for a tow truck. The car is now being inspected by the dealership I purchased it from the same day. I believe this is related to the NHTSA recall on 2010-2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, recall date 09/22/2023, recall number 21V303000, and Hyundai Safety Recall 251s Anti-Lock Braking System Fuse Replace. This issue is not listed under my vehicle VIN number but it’s apparent to be the case and issue and is being inspected further by the dealership.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

015 Santa Fe Ultimate. 134,000 miles. Original owner. All maintenance done per manual. Wife on hwy 2 hrs. Started loud engine knocking noise. No warning whatsiever.Pulled off closet exit. Stalled.Restarted.Pulled into gas station. Trusted mechanic inspected. Stated not to drive. He had identical vehicle at shop,identical problem.110,000 miles. Needs new engine.Noticed on fbook Forum,"Hyundai Engine Problems". Alot of similar complaints posted. Hyundai not warranting over 100,000 miles. This could have been much worse if it had been at night,in a rural area. Shocked has not been a recall!

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While PARKED IN FRONT OF 7-11 WITH ENGINE NOT RUNNING, THE POWER STEERING ATTACHMENT IN THE WHEEL WELL BROKE AND RELEASED FLUID ON THE HOT ENGINE. PATRONS IN SORE ALERTED ME THAT THE CAR WAS SMOKING OUT THE HOOD. I RACED BACK TO MY SANTA FE AND NOTICED FIRE. THE FRONT LEFT WHEEL HAD TURNED RADICALLY AFTER I PARKED IT. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WERE BROUGHT FROM THE STORE. I RETRIEVED AS MUCH AS I COULD. MY SANTA FE BURST INTO FLAMES AND WAS TOTALLY CONSUMED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. OBVIOUSLY, MY VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. 7-11 HAS THE EVENT ON TAPE. I RECEIVED NO COMPENSATION FROM ANYONE. I HAD TO CLEAN UP THE CHARRED REMAINS. WHY WAS THIS VIN NOT RECALLED/

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

Despite regular oil changes and maintenance. Engine failed due to lack of oil at 122,000 miles. Complete oil change was done at 120,000 miles. Tune up completed at 118,000 miles

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Per Franklin County Fire Department report, they determined a malfunction in the canister vent valve associated with the gas tank initiated a fire. According to the department findings, the canister vent valve detached from the vehicle and was discovered approximately 200 yards behind the final position of the vehicle, still burning. This malfunction is believed to have compromised the fuel system, leading to an ignition and subsequent vehicle fire. The vehicle sustained extensive damage and was deemed a total loss.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

During acceleration to pass car sputters and has no power. Merging into traffic is dangerous. The best shift is faulty as well . Mine is in park but it is showing it in drive and won't crank

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

Jan 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

Time Belt problem. Check engine, yellow.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

Oct 2018

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

Oil consumption issues, can cause engine failure while driving. Car burns 2-3 quarts every 1,000 miles car takes just over 5qt to fill. Issues stated at around 70,000 now at 82,000. This is a long standing issue that needs to be addressed on hundreds of thousands of vehicles with the GDI engines

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while at a stop light, the air bag warning light illuminated the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with a defective clock spring. The contact was informed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no recalls or warranty coverage on the vehicle. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The driver's door is stuck, it cannot be opened.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH IS MALFUNCTIONING AND CAUSING THE BRAKE LIGHT TO STAY ON CONTINIOUSLY. THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHT STAYS ON SO THERES NO INDICATION THAT I'M GETTING READY TO STOP BECAUSE THE LIGHT IS ALREADY ON, INCREASEING THE RISK OF A CRASH. THE CRUISE CONTROL IS ALSO AFECTECED WITH THIS ISSUE BECAUSE IT STOP WORKING AT THE SAME TIME. I LOOKED UP THE RECALL AND IT SAID THAT 2013 -2015 HYDUNDIA SANTA FEE SPORT VIHECLES WERE AFFECTED, BUT WHEN I CALL THE DEARLERSHIP THEY SAID MY VIN# WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL!

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Dec 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I was driving on the highway when, out of nowhere, my car started shaking whenever I went over 40 miles per hour. It was quite alarming and honestly a bit scary. So, I would like to request a recall on it. A week after I took it to Hyundai, they informed me that they sent it to you to see if it would be approved to cover the motor. I’ve had this car for just 2 years, and it's frustrating to deal with issues like this. I truly appreciate your attention to this matter, as I hope we can resolve it soon. Thank you for your understanding!

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Nov 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving home at approximately 25 MPH, the engine seized with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to park the vehicle on the side of the road safely. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The contact was informed that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was next towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer confirmed that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 128,000.

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

At 110K miles my Sante Fe Sport began burning increasing amounts of oil. My mechanic says he does not know why it is burning oil. Today it has 134171K miles on it. It has been burning a quart or more of oil weekly. I drive about 200 miles per week.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The engine has basically come apart. There is a timing chain issue, the engine is not recalled and it is getting where the car cannot drive. There is a constant smell of burning electrical wires. There’s also issues with the heating and air that is related to electrical.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My car burns a lot of oil. The Hyundai dealership service center ran a controlled test and validated that my car burned a quart of oil in 1000 miles. This is not normal. It turns out that there are a lot of Hyundai owners with the exact same problem. It seems there are bad piston rings.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am filing this complaint regarding my 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, which recently suffered engine failure due to an unresolved issue related to error code P1326. The check engine light began flashing, and despite multiple visits to my local Hyundai service center (Gateway Hyundai Nissan in Fargo, ND), the problem was not properly diagnosed or repaired, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. The vehicle has a branded title, but I have confirmed that, according to Hyundai's warranty policies, recalls and campaigns are still applicable to branded vehicles. Hyundai has issued a recall for engine defects associated with error code P1326, yet the service center has refused to replace the engine under this recall. Instead, they are insisting on an out-of-pocket repair cost of $9,300.56, even though the engine failure is a result of the defect addressed in the recall. This failure occurred while I'm driving with my wife and 9-month-old infant, which posed a significant safety risk. Had the service center properly addressed the issue during my earlier visits, this situation could have been prevented. I am filing this complaint to request that Hyundai be held accountable for the engine replacement as part of the recall and to prevent further safety risks for other drivers experiencing this defect. I respectfully ask the NHTSA to investigate Hyundai’s handling of this recall and ensure that customers with branded vehicles are not unfairly denied critical safety repairs. The manufacturer must ensure that engine replacements under the recall are carried out for all affected vehicles, regardless of their title status, to prevent dangerous road situations. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Reported

Sep 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Car was burning lots of engine oil and lost power, dealer said nothing was wrong with it. months later when to limp mode, lacks of power in the highway, dealer said it lost compression on 2 cylinders and that I need a new engine. I ask them if the vehicle has a recall and they said no, all my research said that this type of engine has a recall for me they are looking for any loophole in order not to replace the engine

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Sudden loss of engine power in traffic on highway in funeral procession. My safety was put at risk on the highway. The check engine light came on intermittently the previous week. I made six trips to the Hyundai dealer in Plymouth, MA. First told the oil was low when the dipstick was normal. Oil was changed. Check engine light came on as I left the lot. Two more trips computer reset two different ways. Engine does not have normal power going up hill. Another trip to dealer EVAP hose collapsed. Light back on and off. I paid for diagnostic fee $175, oil change then told it was CVV and timing issue with $2817.89 in parts because the tech "saw" the problem. >$3000 estimate for labor. Repair started now told CVV is not the problem metal shavings in oil OCV intake and exhaust valves and needs new engine. The car had $60,000 miles on it and was extremely well maintained. It does not have a warrantee. This is same issue as the Hyundai recall for metal debris left in oil passages of engine crankshaft during manufacture though my model is not covered by the recall. Hyundai declines to help. There is a huge personal safety and fire risk from this defective manufacturing process.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Jun 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Misfire code P0302 Injector failed open, flooded cylinder with fuel. Gas in the oil Possible cylinder failure Lack of compression

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The 3.3 liter V6 GDI engine failed while driving at approximately 136000 miles. Heard a ticking noise start shortly after leaving home, and had hesitation and shaking upon acceleration from a stop sign, but saw no warning lamps. Went around the block back home to find out the ticking noise was under the hood. Motor oil was almost 3 quarts low, but only 2/3's of the way through the service interval. Checked for leaking, saw none dripping, but did see oil on the under of the rear differential. I then let the car run for minute or so in the garage and looked for leaks. I saw no active leaking and ticking was quieter, so I drove to a close gas station to get a little gas and test drive, still no warning lights. On the way back, about a mile from home, the engine light came on, despite the ticking sound being gone. Within a quarter mile, at the next stop sign, I let off the brake to accelerate and the car started rolling backwards, causing the vehicle approaching from behind to swerve into the turn lane. The vehicle was no longer running, and wouldn't restart. Towed to local mechanic and was told 2 days ago the engine was seized, and replacement was needed. I have not contacted any dealership or the manufacturer, as I the second owner and do not have a warranty. However I have spent the last 2 days reading seemingly 1000s of articles and forum posts related to this engine, whether it be in a Hyundai or a Kia. Several of the articles I have read about this 3.3 liter GDI Lambda -II engine and it's horror stories, referenced this nhtsa site as a place where complaints can be made, so here I am. Many articles describe the same problem.. hesitation... ticking.. sudden mysterious oil loss... little, if any warning... complete failure while driving, putting safety at risk. With the problem with engine so blatantly rampant, it is my fear that after I scrap this vehicle, there will be a recall. Over the phone quotes, and online pricing have ranged from $7500-20000 for repair.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle lost motive power and was unable to exceed 15 MPH. The contact was able to arrive to the intended destination, where the failure persisted. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the knock sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS 3.3L engine started ticking sound while driving in residential are with the speed below 25miles. Within seconds, Engine started screaming and dropped power in the middle of the road. It is a huge security and life threatening risk. I was lucky that I was driving in residential area with very slow speed, and just imagine if it happens in the middle of the freeway cruising at 65MPH. It is at 107k miles and not sure what to do at this time. Hyundai better recall there 3.3L V6 engines and help us our here. My vehicle is now dead and I have nowhere to go to get help because it a huge cost to get it fixed.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Engine has goes on out at 99000 miles has seized up .

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

Jun 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The engine is continually knocking. It has caused the powertrain system to start to fail. The interior portion of the car with electrical is malfunctioning and causing the car to lag. Many attempts have been taken to get the vehicle fixed to no avail. $1,000 just to take out the engine to diagnose the problem.

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

Jun 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk: If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.