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Model-year record

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Federal source records

Complaints filed

198

Reports to NHTSA, 2020

Safety recalls

2

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

23.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Engine issues lead owner complaints (24% of 198 reports), followed by unknown or other (14%).

Engine24% · 47 reports
Unknown Or Other14% · 27 reports
Electrical System11% · 21 reports
Power Train11% · 21 reports
Visibility6% · 12 reports
Structure4% · 8 reports
Air Bags4% · 7 reports
Forward Collision Avoidance4% · 7 reports

+ 16 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 198 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11553828, ODI 11318304, ODI 11745371, ODI 11743466, ODI 11735383.

Individual complaint reports(198)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Air BagsJul 2026 · ODI 11751706Details +

I was quoted $3,000 to replace defective mat sensor in seat so that the airbag light will go off and my vehicle can be inspected. My family can’t afford this fix and I’m stressed out and do not know what to do. My vehicle was not in an accident nor was anything done that would cause damage and result in this fault. I am aware that the 2019 Santa Fe has an extended warranty for this exact defective mat sensor. My 2020 has the identical setup and failed just past the standard mileage limit. Because this is a critical SRS safety system that prevents my airbags from working properly I request help form the NHTSA. I read online a lot of owners are in my same situation.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751706 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2026 · ODI 11751503Details +

I am currently burning through 2.5 quarts of oil approximately every 800 miles.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751503 at NHTSA →
VisibilityJul 2026 · ODI 11751040Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V00M000 (Visibility); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751040 at NHTSA →
WheelsJul 2026 · ODI 11749944Details +

I am reporting severe safety risks and inspection fraud on my AWD 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX]) caused by Universal Hyundai in Orlando. Inspection Fraud: The dealer falsified safety metrics, marking my brakes as a failing 4mm to push a $659.90 repair (RO# XXX), then passed those exact brakes at 5mm eleven days later (RO# XXX). Tire Malpractice: Mechanics over-inflated my tires to a dangerous 39 PSI and botched the alignment. This caused structural tire belt separation and severe sidewall bulges. The rear tire has suffered rapid, catastrophic deflation, dropping flat to 14.5 PSI and down to an empty 5.5 PSI. Crash & Drivetrain Risk: Operating an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle with a rapidly collapsing tire and asymmetric alignment forces the wheels to spin at mismatched speeds, creating severe friction that is destroying the internal powertrain transfer case and causing an immediate highway blowout crash risk. The service manager admitted "human error" and issued a full refund but banned my vehicle to avoid an audit. Hyundai Corporate has been notified under Case #XXX but has delayed resolution. Active consumer fraud file logged with the State of Florida under Case XXX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749944 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingJul 2026 · ODI 11749004Details +

The contact's daughter owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received a notification for an unknown emissions recall. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it remained for three weeks, and an ECU software update was completed. The vehicle was then driven to the contact's residence. Upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle jerked and chugged while driving. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749004 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11745371Details +

Unknown

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11745371 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11744729Details +

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited. The panoramic sunroof glass suddenly shattered/exploded without a collision and without any known impact. Glass shattered completely and created a safety hazard to occupants and traffic. Vehicle was purchased as Hyundai Certified Pre-Owned in 2021. Hyundai corporate case has been opened and advised dealer inspection. Dealer inspection is pending. Photos are available. Request that this be logged as a potential safety issue involving panoramic sunroof glass failure.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11744729 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2026 · ODI 11743968Details +

Vehicle experiences severe, intermittent, un-commanded steering inputs from the Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) system at highway speeds (55-70 MPH). The steering wheel violently jerks toward adjacent traffic lanes/shoulders without operator input, lane drift, or warning, requiring immediate high-force manual intervention to overpower mechanical torque and prevent a collision or roadway departure. Chronology of manufacturer notice: - Oct 2024: Initial consumer dispute logs flagged steering safety concerns and unresolved campaign items. - Dec 2024: Opened Corporate Case 24164934, formally alerting consumer affairs to dangerous steering wheel jerking. - Jan 2025: Presented to an authorized dealer; an OTA software update was deployed, but intermittent tracking failures persisted, including failure to recognize lanes at night. - June 2026: Under Case 42680760, the system failed acutely on the interstate, jerking the vehicle out of painted lanes. The malfunction originates in the LKA steering control module and camera hardware, which are intact and available for inspection. Dealerships have not replicated the defect during brief diagnostic windows due to its intermittent nature. The manufacturer has deflected these notifications and refused a forensic diagnostic sweep or mechanical remediation. Instead, case managers attempted to close the file by offering partial financial goodwill for an unrelated cosmetic paint delamination defect on the same vehicle. No warning lamps or error messages precede these events; the system executes aggressive mechanical intervention with zero notice. This system error bypasses driver override thresholds, conflicting with vehicle crash avoidance frameworks. Because the computer fails to log diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) during these steering drops, the manufacturer exploits this data vacuum to deny structural remediation, creating severe multi-vehicle side-impact and rollover risks.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743968 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11743466Details +

I took it to Hyundai Dealership in November 2025 and did the Service Campaign 9C2 and TSB 25-01-087H software update. Since that happened my engine is jumpy and I have taken it back to dealer and they can't find anything. Several people with this issue have been found since on several forums after having the update. One said the dealer knows about the issue and so does Hyundai, but when I ask they know nothing.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743466 at NHTSA →
Chest ClipJun 2026 · ODI 11741452Details +

The harness adjustment button on my Nuna RAVA car seat has failed, preventing the harness from being properly tightened. This makes it impossible to securely restrain my child. This issue involves the same harness adjustment mechanism that Nuna previously addressed in a voluntary recall, where debris could cause the adjuster to malfunction and result in a loose harness. The seat has not been misused and is within its expected usable lifespan. Despite this, Nuna has refused to repair or replace the seat, stating it is out of warranty. This is a safety-critical failure that directly impacts child passenger safety, as the harness cannot be properly secured in the event of a crash.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11741452 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2026 · ODI 11740682 · crash · 3 injuriesDetails +

We were driving on interstate 49 going south near Chester Arkansas when traffic came to a stop. I was rear ended by a vehicle driving 75 mph. My car hit the car in front of me where there was damage to both the passenger and driver side front area of the car. No airbags deployed in spite of the severity of the front and rear impact of the vehicle. I sustained three compression fractures to my back with several abrasions and bruises. Both my vehicle and the vehicle in front of me were declared total losses.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 3 injuries
Open ODI 11740682 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2026 · ODI 11740006Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, while parking and while idling on different occasions, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle hesitated to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11740006 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11740021Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that he received an unknown service campaign from the manufacturer indicating that a software update for emissions was needed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where an ECU update was completed and an NP001-SC9C2 was installed for the engine and transmission. The contact stated that when his wife drove the vehicle home from the dealer, she noticed that something was wrong with the vehicle but did not specify the failures. The contact stated that the next day, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated and shifted improperly, and while depressing the brake, the vehicle accelerated forward. The contact stated that the failure persisted and became more prevalent in the morning after sitting overnight. The vehicle was then taken to the same dealer where a shift engine value reset, transmission value reset, shift adaptations were made (Part number 95447-6G200). The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred the next morning and has persisted every morning thereafter. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 25,051.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11740021 at NHTSA →
Lane DepartureMay 2026 · ODI 11739954Details +

Just read possible recalls on Hyundai Santa Fe's 2025 and 2026's. Just spent $1727.68 at the Hyundai dealership in Gilbert, AZ to replace the front camera do to the faults showing up on the dash. By reading that article it made aware of what may have occurred had we not taken it in for service. This vehicle is a 2020 Sante Fe. You may want to check into it. Oh, I want a refund.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739954 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11739708Details +

I took my vehicle in to the dealership on April 24, 2026 for a software update after receiving notice in the mail. The update changed my auto stop/start so that it is on whenever the vehicle is started. When removing my foot from the brake the car surges forward without me touching the gas peddle. I took my Hyandai back in to the dealership on May 4, 2026, and was told that the auto stop/start was supposed to now be staying on as that was in the software update. They said they could not duplicate the surging of the vehicle. It has surged strong enough to move forward, while stopped at an intersection, that it put me out two to three feet. I felt it necessary to put it in reverse and back up it was out so far. This will absolutely put others at risk as I drive and work in a downtown area with lots of crosswalks with lots of people crossing, and should vehicles be stopped in front of me, it could hit them. I can turn it off, but in the beginning it seemed to be turning itself back on. Additionally, I am not used to always turning it off because I never had to before and I don't always remember. This week, something new: When pulling off after starting the car, even if I remember to turn off the start/stop, the car is jerking forward when I depress the gas. It's like it is getting surges of gas, or like the peddle is being pushed to the floor, let off, pushed to the floor, let off, etc. I am so incredibly scared now to just drive the vehicle I've loved for over five years now. My vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance or any others. I did not know this was an option. I would love to get more information about how to go about this. There are no warnings of any kind when this occurs, which is every single time I get in it. Please, someone, tell me what I can do further. Continue taking it back to the dealership? Ride with them next time? I just am at a loss and incredibly scared. I am a woman in my 60s.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739708 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2026 · ODI 11739408 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +

Air bags didn’t deploy on a front crash. Safety of my entire family in car was put at risk without airbags deploying. The problem has not been confirmed. The vehicle has not been inspected, a first responder on scene of crash said we should check into why our air bags didn’t deploy. No warnings signs

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 2 injuries
Open ODI 11739408 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11736577Details +

OVER THE LAST 4 WEEKS (NOTICED APRIL 15 AROUND 6PM GOING TO CHURCH) THE PASSENGER FRONT DOOR OPENS AUTOMATIOCALLY WITHOUT ANYONE OPENING IT. THE DOOR IS LITTERALLY LOCKED AND SFERT DRIVEING THE DOOR JUST OPENS. FROM 4/15/26 UNITL 5/7/2026 THIS HAS HAPPENDED 5 TIMES.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736577 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2026 · ODI 11735383Details +

I took my car in for the EVM engine update. Since then whenever it starts it is jumpy. The rpm rev more than they should. It’s very concerning that it will rev and won’t stop and I could possibly hit someone. I took it back to the dealer and they called the timeline and they told them to do another update. They did and it is still like that. Was never like that before. I have connected with several people that have had the same thing happen. I will gave to take it in again and leave it which is a major inconvenience

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735383 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2026 · ODI 11734970Details +

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe quartz white pearl paint and the paint is blowing off as I drive in multiple places. I took it to the dealer because when I called they said there's a Z05 recall on white Hyundai paint and it would be covered. When I take it in, they say 2020's weren't covered because the paint issue was corrected in 2020, when clearly it wasn't. In any case Hyundai agreed to pay 65% of the cost, nothing more. THEY NEED to include all years that present this issue. Unfortunately I've now picked my car up and the paint in the areas that were painted are a different color white. I'm not happy with this remedy and I'm not happy that Hyundai refuses to take ownership with ALL vehicles painted in white. This recall should be revised to include all vehicles from 2016 forward instead of skipping one year which just happens to be 2020. Any help is greatly appreciated. The paint is already starting to show signs of coming off in other areas but those won't be considered until it's obvious paint peeling larger than a certain size.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11734970 at NHTSA →
VisibilityApr 2026 · ODI 11734584Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving 50-55 MPH, the sunroof made an abnormal, exploding sound and shattered. The shade cover was closed during the failure. There was no injury sustained. The vehicle was driven to the workplace of the contact's brother-in-law, and the sunroof was taped to prevent the shattered glass from flying off. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was inspected. The contact was informed that it was a common failure caused by the intermittent expansion of the body of the vehicle under certain temperatures. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11734584 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2026 · ODI 11733709Details +

I was driving out of the parking garage at work and happened to catch the oil light flicker on and then go off. I immediately drove it to an auto shop where I told them what happened. They looked at the dipstick and there was no oil showing on the dipstick. If I had just written the light off as an oddity I would have driven the car home from work (around 20 miles) and the engine could have stalled at 60mph creating a safety hazard. I have the oil changed regularly (about every 5,000 miles) and have my receipts. My car has around 80,000 miles in it and I’m the original owner. The auto shop said that I would need to take it to the dealership for an oil consumption test. I called and scheduled the appointment immediately and am in the process of having the test completed. The dealership noted a TSB for the issue on the write up and based on my research online this is not an unusual problem. Why have owners not been made aware of this issue? I don’t feel safe driving my car and am frustrated that this seems to be a known issue. There was no oil on the dipstick, no indicator that stayed on indicating an issue.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11733709 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2026 · ODI 11732776Details +

We purchased a used 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe with approximately 105,000 miles. The vehicle has had regular routine maintenance and oil changes. Around 107,000 miles, the check engine light came on and the vehicle simultaneously started running rough. It was diagnosed with a failed valve on the #3 cylinder and now needs a total engine replacement. This issue also coincided with excess oil consumption. Despite having an oil change fewer than 2000 miles earlier, the oil was almost completely gone from the engine despite not having any leaks present. This goes well beyond normal wear and tear and is indicative of a defect/design flaw.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11732776 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2026 · ODI 11732577Details +

The vehicle (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2.0T, ~88,500 miles) experienced a sudden engine failure with no warning signs—no oil light, knocking, or overheating. After sitting overnight, the vehicle would not start and was later diagnosed by an independent repair facility as having a seized engine requiring replacement. The failure was unexpected and creates a potential safety risk, as it could have resulted in a loss of power while driving. The manufacturer has been notified but denied warranty assistance due to lack of maintenance documentation. The vehicle is currently available for inspection.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11732577 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2026 · ODI 11731527Details +

Around Feb 15, 2026, at ~85,000 miles, the oil pressure warning light began illuminating at idle and extinguishing above idle speed. The vehicle had also been experiencing intermittent hard starts and occasional shuddering at idle — symptoms too subtle for a typical owner to connect to imminent engine failure. An independent mechanic performed a manual oil pressure test: 4 PSI (Hyundai minimum spec is 13 PSI). The authorized dealer confirmed 6 PSI and found metal shavings in the oil pan — the signature of connecting rod bearing wear documented in Theta II GDI engine failures. Dealer recommended full engine replacement ($8,500). Vehicle has been inoperable at the dealer since Feb 19, 2026. SAFETY CONCERN: At 4 PSI with metal debris in the oil system, this engine was at imminent risk of catastrophic seizure. I avoided highway driving after the warning appeared (max 50 mph, city streets only). Had the engine seized at highway speed, loss of power steering and brake vacuum assist would have created serious crash risk. The symptom profile — warning only at idle, clearing at speed, no knocking, no check engine light — is the pattern that puts less-vigilant drivers at risk of seizure at highway speed with no warning. KNOWN DEFECT: The 2.4L G4KJ Theta II GDI is identical to the engine subject to a $210M NHTSA civil penalty (2020), multiple recalls, and a ~$1.3B class action settlement extending lifetime warranties through MY 2019. The 2020 uses the same engine but was excluded. My failure mode is textbook Theta II. Hyundai Service Campaign 9C2 (ECU update for 2019-2020 Theta II, issued Nov 2025) was incomplete on this vehicle — I was never notified. Completed after the engine had already failed. Manufacturer denied coverage (Case #XXX). BBB AUTO LINE claim #XXX filed Apr 16, 2026. No crash. No injuries. No fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11731527 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesApr 2026 · ODI 11731625 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

I was at a standstill waiting for oncoming traffic to pass with my foot on the brake and all of a sudden the car accelerated and the forward collision warning fail to come on and I hit a trailer because of it

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11731625 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceApr 2026 · ODI 11728981Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60-75 MPH, the Automatic Emergency Braking system engaged erroneously, almost causing a crash. The contacted stated that the failure mostly occurred while driving at highway speeds with no other vehicle nearby. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11728981 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11726750Details +

I'm reporting a rearview camera issue in my Hyundai Santa Fe 2020. The camera image was previously static/distorted and has now completely stopped working. When the vehicle is placed in reverse, no image is displayed. This creates a safety risk, as the rearview camera is essential for visibility and preventing accidents while backing up. I am aware there has been a recall for similar rearview camera issues; however, my vehicle is not included because the recall is VIN-specific, despite experiencing the same problem.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11726750 at NHTSA →
VisibilityMar 2026 · ODI 11725909Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 60 MPH, the sunroof shattered outward. The contact stated that his wife was able to drive the vehicle safely back to the residence. The vehicle had not been taken to a dealer nor an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11725909 at NHTSA →
Power TrainFeb 2026 · ODI 11720704Details +

I was driving on the road and all of the sudden my car went limp and would only move 45 miles per hour. I took it to the dealer which I have lifetime powertran on my car. It has been there for over a month at the dealer. They asked me to provide all oil changes,services, and registrations. I did that and then fidelity asked them to tear down the engine again to see if I had carbon build up. Then after the dealer did that they ask the dealer to tear the motor down even further to see if the exhaust valve was bad and if it was bad they would not replace my motor. My car consumed so much oil that I was changing my oil so often. I have been renting a car just to get back and forth to work. In my contract it says that the exhaust valve is covered under my lifetime powertran. I feel like hyundai and fidelity are giving me the run around. I took very good care of my car and I have shown that. Hyundai has had alot of problem with there motors with the oil consumption and motors just going limp. I feel I will never buy a hyundai again. I am losing money everyday because of the dealer and fidelity. I need the motor replaced and it was no abuse on my part I took care of my car. I want fidelity to tell me how I abuse the exhaust valve. I did my oil changes and took care of my car. I am still paying on my Hyundai and can't afford another car. I have alot of medical bills that I pay. Any help would be great. Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11720704 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperFeb 2026 · ODI 11720545Details +

The front piece of the panoramic sunroof spontaneously shattered while sitting in my parked vehicle. I heard a loud pop and saw that the entire piece of glass was totally shattered. I took it to the dealership and they told me it is a known problem with this type of sunroof on their vehicles, they said it is not covered by warranty. The estimated repair cost was over $800. Had I been driving down the road with the sunroof open, it could have presented serious safety risks.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11720545 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11719921Details +

On the morning of February 20 2026 at around 6:35am. I was on my way to work when the engine light started flashing and the speed started to decrease. I was traveling on a major highway in heavy rain with a lot of traffic. I had to put on my hazard lights and quickly pull off the road. The code given is P1326 which has to do with the engine and wiring harness. I just purchased the vehicle on Jan. 17 2026. The Carfax stated no open recalls.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11719921 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11720024Details +

Our vehicle has encountered a catastrophic engine failure (burnt valves) due to a known and ongoing issue with the piston rings install in this engine.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11720024 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11719636Details +

HI! Leaking valve cover gasket which damages spark plugs, ignition coils and fuel injector. Defective High Pressure Fuel Pump and fuel injector causing fuel to spray into engine and into engine oil. Large amount of fuel found in oil pan when oil changed. Complaint filed with Hyuandia, no response at this time. Thank you, [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11719636 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2026 · ODI 11718307Details +

The roof of my car between the sunroof and the windshield (called panoramic sunroof) shattered as I was driving down the highway. It was about 10:00 pm on a weeknight and there were no cars within sight distance in front of me. When it happened it sounded like a gun shot going off at point blank range and I immediately pulled over and checked for bullet holes. Since it was dark I could not see any damage. Today I took the car and had a small chip fixed in my windshield down by the windshield wipers and the service tech pointed out to me that the roof was shattered. He told me that this happens a lot with this vehicle. So I got online and searched and found a lot of vehicles have reported the exact problem. Down to the sounds of gunshots. So I stopped at my local Hyundai dealership and recorded the conversation. He told me that theres no recalls on this car and It probably shattered by a rock or debris. I told him that when this happened it was late night and no cars within sight in front of me. He didn’t even come out and look at the damage. He said to call my insurance company and I said that is a manufacturer defect and I shouldn’t have to pay for their mistake. When I searched for this on the internet people stated that the dealerships will deny this manufacturer defect and that’s exactly what they said to me. My main concern is that this defect is documented by many vehicle owners from their 2020 vehicles and their Is a recall out for this problem but it stops at 2016 models. In this recall the shattered piece is replaced and there is actually compensation given for people getting scared or dealing with stress dealing with thinking they are getting shot at. I don’t care about any of that. I just want the issue fixed because I did not cause the issue, the manufacturer did. Reason being is that the exact thing is happening to numerous people across the Country. Thank you for your time.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11718307 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2026 · ODI 11717373Details +

On the morning of December 10, 2025, I left my home for an appointment. I traveled for about 15 minutes before entering onto the highway. As I entered the highway, I traveled about half a mile and was scared by a very loud explosion! I pulled over to assess my vehicle and the surrounding area. The sunroof had SHATTERED to pieces, fortunately I didn’t have it open at the time. It was just a miracle I didn’t have an accident from being startled, or receive any cuts or injuries due to this unforeseen event. As I was driving, there was very little to no traffic and I never heard anything like hit the car or window or anything. I called my insurance company and filed a claim. They eventually had me to take it to a Collision Center 12/22/2025. They removed all glass from sunroof, and determined that there was an issue with the glass rack, and it would end up being very costly. My Insurance Provider contacted me to say they would not be able to provide coverage due to the cost and findings of the Collision Center. So they backed out and informed me that I needed to file a claim with Hyundai. So I picked the vehicle up 1/19/2026 from the Collision Center. Then I filed a claim with Hyundai, and was told to schedule an appointment for inspection. I took the vehicle for inspection 1/22/2026, after about a week I was told that the vehicle had been inspected there was nothing they could do. I’m confused as to how the inspection went since there was no glass present in order to check the opening and closing of the car rack. Plus the plastic that the Collision Center placed on it was barely removed. So I picked the vehicle up 1/30/2026. and it’s been sitting in my driveway covered every since. The vehicle has been inspected by a Collision Center, and the Dealership without any success. There were no warning lights of any indication of trouble on the dashboard at any given time, not even when the explosion occurred. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Thank you

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11717373 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2026 · ODI 11716098Details +

While driving, the engine catastrophically failed without warning, causing an immediate loss of power-assisted braking and steering. The failure occurred while traveling downhill. I was unable to slow or control the vehicle properly and was forced to proceed through a school bus’s flashing lights to avoid a potentially catastrophic collision, resulting in a traffic citation. My son was in the vehicle at the time. A sudden loss of engine power, braking assist, and steering assist while driving presents a serious safety defect. Vehicle was towed to Fred Beans Hyundai in Doylestown where it has been confirmed engine failure. This failure happened immediately and without warning.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11716098 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2026 · ODI 11711761Details +

Excessive oil burn off. Oil is getting into the cylinder, causing scorching. This causing engine failure.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11711761 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2026 · ODI 11708520Details +

Oil drain plug seal leaking, can’t tighten the bolt with the required torque setting to keep it from leaking.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708520 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11707497Details +

After 110,000, the engine started using oil and it began to knock. According to the history of these engines, it will lead to engine failure. They have a record of being a lemon engine and there is not a engine of this type that this does not happen. The engine needs to recalled and replaced, They are the Theda II GDI series of 2.0L and 2.4L four-cylinder engines from Hyundai/Kia.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11707497 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11707127Details +

I have a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2.0T. I recently experienced the following issues; gasoline fumes coming into the car at low speeds, difficulty starting the car when it is cold and hesitation when trying to accelerate quickly. The check engine light came on and the dealer diagnosed a faulty fuel pump and high pressure hoses......on a car with only 49100 miles! The repair cars are estimated at over $1800. This is totally unacceptable and there should be a manufacturer issued recall on the car where Hyundai covers the cost of the repairs.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11707127 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2025 · ODI 11706996Details +

Transmission issues with DTC light coming on, dealership did software update which did not resolve the problem. Transmission has rough shift and shuddering. Dealership is recommending complete transmission replacement.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706996 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2025 · ODI 11706847Details +

2020 SantaFe Limited AWD with ~81200 miles. This is the 3rd or 4th time the P07410 code pops up with the Engine Check light. Hyundai said they found no issues and cleared the code, again. There was once when the code came up and it cleared itself after 50 miles. Not sure exactly what the cause is and Hyundai is saying "there is nothing wrong". Most recent occurrence Sept.4.2025.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706847 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11706851Details +

2020 Hyundai SantaFe Limited AWD ... burning excessive oil. This only was noticed because the low oil light intermittently started coming on, and has only started happening in the last few months. low oil indicator flashing - 4QT low, went for an immediate oil change 78788 miles - oil changed 80252 miles - low oil - added 1QT 80628 miles - low oil - added 1QT 81376 miles - oil changed 81999 miles - low oil - added 1QT 82755 miles - low oil - added 2QT These are the most recent events since we started logging it.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706851 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11706311Details +

Excessive oil consumption under warranty, . Hyundai says its normal consumption within 1,000 miles. engine its doing stalls now.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706311 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11705956Details +

My engine has been sucking up oil since the day I bought it. Once I hit 100k miles it started sucking up oil faster than the recommended oil changes. I was driving home two weeks ago. I went to get in a major highway and she would not go past 35 mph. I went to trade it in and was told it needs a new engine and a new turbo. This is a known problem and Hyundai will not fix it. This car is not even 4 years old. I got it in April 2021

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11705956 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2025 · ODI 11703389Details +

I had been driving about 1.5 hours when I exited the Interstate and the car engine shut off at a traffic light. When I shifted the car into park and tried to restart the car, smoke filled the cabin. Unbeknownst to me, an oil leak occurred while driving. No warning lights or other indicators that anything was awry. I had the vehicle towed to the nearest Hyundai dealer. Though the suv is under warranty, they say the oil leak was caused by improper oil plug installation at the last oil change. The oil leak caused the motor to seize and the resulting damage is in excess of $10,000. Hyundai says the warranty won't cover this as it is a service issue. Jiffy Lube says their technician did nothing incorrect and they won't take responsibility for the repairs.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11703389 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11703237Details +

Excessive oil consumption. Mechanic who changed oil said oil level was too low and he could find no leaks. He said this is a known Hyundai problem. The dealer acknowledged this. There was no warning light saying the oil was low. It was discovered during a routine oil change.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11703237 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2025 · ODI 11702997Details +

I had my oil changed at a reputable service center November 19, 2025 and the mechanic said my oil drip pan and plug needed to be replaced in the next few months because they were showing wear and could fail. He asked if I knew about a pending lawsuit against Hyundai concerning these items causing major issues. I said I was unaware, so I researched it. It seems to be legit. During my research there were multiple reports that many had oil leaking problems and some owners reported that the vehicle completely stopped running. That is especially dangerous driving on an Interstate. I was quoted about $350.00 to replace the pan and plug but I was told to contact the local dealership to see if they would replace it. They wanted $215.00 for a diagnostic plus parts and labor. That is quite a chunk of money for a drip pan and plug.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11702997 at NHTSA →
Trailer HitchesNov 2025 · ODI 11701574 · fire · 1 injuriesDetails +

The contact owned a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH onto the ramp, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle stalled and shut off, and the contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact was calling for Roadside Assistance and noticed white smoke coming from under the hood. The stated that the smoke then turned dark brown and then black, and then flames appeared under the hood. The contact grabbed several things of value and exited the vehicle and started running. The vehicle was engulfed in flames, and the EDR was destroyed. The contact sustained minor scratches after falling while running away from the vehicle. No medical attention was sought. The Police and Fire Department were called to the scene. The contact stated that a Police report was not filed due to the incident not being related to a crash. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The local dealer where the vehicle was purchased was contacted; however, no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle had been purchased two months prior to catching on fire. The vehicle was inspected by the Insurance provider and declared a total loss. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V181000 (TRAILER HITCHES); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 94,400.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire 1 injuries
Open ODI 11701574 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11701030Details +

Unknown Sometimes when i stop the vehicle the engine shuts off and wont come back on until i put the car in park and turn the ignition off. Not safe at all when your in heavy traffic

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11701030 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(2)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Visibility · 21V00M000Details +

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.

Risk: A windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will remove and reinstall the front windshield panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 216.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Trailer Hitches · 23V181000Details +

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.

Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Loss of Motive Power

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Crash-test ratings

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Santa Fe FWD2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive222925
Santa Fe AWD2.4L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive212724
Santa Fe FWD2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive202723
Santa Fe AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive202622

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Owners filed 198 NHTSA complaints about the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The most-reported problem areas are Engine (24% of complaints) and unknown or other (14%).

How many recalls does the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe have?

2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, covering components such as visibility. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe get?

The EPA rates the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe between 22 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.