Buying a used Hyundai Santa Fe can be tricky if you don’t know which years to avoid.
For example, the 2007 model is known for engine and transmission problems, and the 2012 version has electrical issues and expensive engine repairs. But these aren’t the only years to avoid. 
Want to know which other years to avoid and why? Let’s look at the critical years and the common issues they have.
Key Takeaways
- The 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe often has engine and transmission problems.
- The 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe has issues with its electrical system and expensive engine repairs.
- The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is known for costly engine repairs and electrical system failures.
- The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe deals with powertrain problems and several recalls.
- The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe has transmission and steering issues, resulting in high maintenance costs.
Common Problems and Issues
If you’re thinking about buying a Hyundai Santa Fe, it’s a good idea to know about some common problems that have affected certain years. The Theta II engines have had a lot of issues, like knocking, seizing, and sludge buildup, which can really hurt performance.
Some engines have even stalled without warning, which is a big safety concern.
Transmission problems are less common but can still happen, causing rough shifting and making the car harder to drive.
There have also been reports of the panoramic sunroof exploding, which is another serious safety issue.
Because of these problems, it’s really important to research specific model years before you buy one to avoid potential issues later on.
Owner Complaints and Legal Actions
Given the many problems with certain Hyundai Santa Fe model years, it’s no surprise that owners have complained and taken legal action. Owners have filed 988 complaints, mainly about engine failures and safety issues.
Hyundai has issued 433 service bulletins to address these problems, but the issues persist, leading to 29 recall campaigns across different model years.
Legal actions, including class-action lawsuits, have been filed against Hyundai, mostly due to engine failures and major safety concerns. State Attorneys are also investigating Hyundai and Kia vehicles, including the Santa Fe, for possible safety and reliability problems.
These complaints and legal actions show the urgent need to fix the ongoing issues with these vehicles.
Generations and Reliability Rankings
Over the years, the Hyundai Santa Fe has had four different versions, each with its own reliability ratings.
The 1st Generation (2001-2006) ranks 33rd, making it fairly reliable but still one to be cautious about.
The 2nd Generation (2007-2012) drops to 48th place, meaning it has more frequent problems.
The 3rd Generation (2013-2018) isn’t much better, sitting at 46th place, showing ongoing reliability issues.
However, the 4th Generation (2019-2020) improves significantly, ranking 18th, which means it performs better and has fewer problems.
Knowing these ratings can help you decide which Hyundai Santa Fe years to avoid.
Recent News and Investigations
Recently, there have been lawsuits against Hyundai because their Theta II engines are faulty, and people are worried about engine fires.
There are also legal cases about broken telematics systems in Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles, which are raising important legal concerns.
State Attorneys and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are looking closely into these safety issues.
Engine Fire Concerns
The rising number of engine fires in Hyundai and Kia vehicles has raised serious safety concerns and sparked investigations. State Attorneys and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have both looked into these issues. Even though steps were taken to fix non-collision fire risks, the problem still affects how much people trust these brands.
Here’s a simple rundown of the key points:
| Issue | Detail | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Fires | Reports of fires in Hyundai and Kia models | Investigations by NHTSA and Attorneys |
| Safety Measures | Address non-collision fire risks | Companies initiated recalls |
| Legal Actions | Investigations and settlements | Ongoing legal scrutiny |
Knowing these details is important when deciding which Hyundai Santa Fe years to avoid.
Disabled Telematics Lawsuits
Hyundai and Kia are being sued because they allegedly turned off telematics systems in their cars without telling customers. This has led to claims of breaking contracts and fraud. Millions of Hyundai and Kia vehicles have been affected, and this has caused a lot of legal trouble and upset customers.
The lawsuits claim that turning off these systems without asking customers first makes the cars less functional and breaks the trust of those who bought them.
Claims of fraud and broken contracts.
Legal issues impacting millions of Hyundai and Kia cars.
Loss of customer trust and reduced car functionality.
These lawsuits have caught the attention of regulators and have led to legal fights. This situation shows how important it’s for car companies to be transparent and respect consumer rights. If you own a Hyundai or Kia, it’s important to keep up with these developments.
State Attorney Investigations
With more and more worries about car safety and defects, State Attorneys are looking into possible problems with Hyundai and Kia cars. They’re especially concerned about engine fires and other safety risks.
The goal is to find out if Hyundai and Kia did anything wrong or were careless. State Attorneys are checking if these car companies broke any consumer protection laws, making sure they’re responsible for keeping their cars safe and up to standard. These investigations highlight the legal issues Hyundai and Kia are dealing with to keep their cars safe.
As a car owner, it’s important to stay updated on these investigations, as they could affect how safe and reliable your Hyundai or Kia car is. Keep an eye out for news from State Attorneys to make smart choices about your car.
Recalls and Safety Concerns
Given recent recalls and safety issues, it’s important for potential buyers to be aware of specific problems that have affected some Hyundai Santa Fe models.
For example, the 2018 Santa Fe Sport had a recall due to problems with the airbags, which could affect safety.
Additionally, the 2017 Santa Fe SUVs with 3.3-liter engines were recalled because of serious safety concerns.
Furthermore, there have been cases of panoramic sunroofs exploding, leading to a settlement proposal from Hyundai.
Key points to consider:
- Airbag recall for 2018 Santa Fe Sport
- Safety recall for 2017 Santa Fe with 3.3-liter engine
- Panoramic sunroof explosion settlement
These issues highlight the need for thorough research before buying a Hyundai Santa Fe.
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
If you’re looking at the Hyundai Santa Fe, it’s important to know that certain years, like 2012, 2014, and 2017, have had a lot of problems.
The 2012 model is known for costly engine repairs and electrical issues.
The 2014 Santa Fe has had issues with the powertrain, steering, and several recalls, making it a year to avoid.
The 2017 model also has its share of troubles, including transmission and steering failures and many complaints from owners.
Maintenance for these years can cost between $504 and $573 a year.
2014 Hyundai Santa Fe
The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe has some noticeable issues with its engine and steering, which can affect how it drives.
There have also been several recalls for this model, showing that Hyundai had to fix some ongoing problems.
If you own this model, you might end up spending more money and dealing with some hassles because of these issues.
Powertrain and Steering Problems
If you’re thinking about getting a Hyundai Santa Fe, you should know that the 2012, 2014, and 2017 models have had some serious problems with their powertrain and steering systems. These issues have made these particular years less reliable and more expensive to fix.
- 2012 Model: This year is known for big problems with the engine, often needing costly repairs.
- 2014 Model: People have reported issues with both the engine and the steering, which can be a real headache for buyers.
- 2017 Model: This model has had trouble with the transmission and steering, with many complaints about the automatic transmission.
Multiple Recalls Reported
Dealing with powertrain and steering problems is already tough, but the Hyundai Santa Fe has had several recalls that could worry potential buyers even more. These recalls involve issues with airbags, engines, and safety systems, raising big safety concerns and pointing to reliability issues. Specifically, the 2017 Santa Fe SUVs with 3.3-liter engines and the 2018 Santa Fe Sport models have been affected. It’s important for owners to stay informed about these recalls to fix any potential safety hazards quickly.
| Model Year | Affected Component |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 3.3-liter engines |
| 2018 | Safety systems (Sport) |
| Various | Airbags and engines |
Owners should keep up with recall information to make sure their vehicle stays safe and performs well.
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
Some Hyundai Santa Fe models, especially from the years 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013, and 2014, have a reputation for reliability issues, so you might want to avoid them.
If you’re thinking about getting a Hyundai Santa Fe, be aware that these specific years have had major engine and transmission problems. For example, the 2007 model has reported engine and transmission issues, while the 2014 model has powertrain problems and several recalls.
Additionally, the 2012 and 2013 models are known for costly engine repairs and electrical system failures.
- 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe: Problems with the engine and transmission
- 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe: Electrical system problems and expensive engine repairs
- 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe: Powertrain issues and several recalls
Maintenance Costs
When thinking about the maintenance costs for Hyundai Santa Fe model years that have issues, it’s important to know that these expenses can range from $504 to $573 each year, depending on the specific problems.
For the 2012 model, costly engine repairs and electrical system issues make maintenance expensive.
The 2014 Santa Fe has powertrain issues, steering problems, and multiple recalls, which increase maintenance costs.
The 2017 model is known for transmission and steering failures, which also lead to high maintenance expenses. These problems require frequent servicing to keep the vehicle running.
Knowing about these potential costs helps you make better decisions and avoid unexpected expenses with these particular Santa Fe model years.
Longevity and Maintenance
To make sure your Hyundai Santa Fe lasts between 150,000 to 200,000 miles, regular upkeep is crucial. You’ll need to take care of common problems like issues with the powertrain and budget around $504 to $573 each year for maintenance, especially for the years that are known to have more issues.
Regular Maintenance Importance
Taking care of your Hyundai Santa Fe regularly is key to making sure it lasts between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Regular maintenance helps you avoid expensive repairs and keeps your car’s value high. It’s important to have a trusted mechanic check the engine and other important parts often.
Routine maintenance includes:
- Oil changes and fluid checks: These easy tasks can stop major engine problems.
- Brake inspections: Making sure your brakes are in good shape keeps you safe and saves you money on big repairs.
- Tire rotations and alignments: Keeping your tires in good condition helps with gas mileage and makes them last longer.
If you skip regular maintenance, you might face expensive repairs and a less enjoyable car ownership experience.
Common Maintenance Issues
Taking care of common maintenance problems quickly is key to making sure your Hyundai Santa Fe stays reliable and lasts as long as possible. Two big issues you might face are engine failure and transmission failure. Regular maintenance, like timely oil changes and checking the transmission fluid, can help stop these expensive problems.
| Common Issue | Preventative Action |
|---|---|
| Engine Failure | Regular oil changes |
| Transmission Failure | Check and replace fluid |
| Brake Wear | Inspect and replace pads |
| Electrical Issues | Routine diagnostics |
Extending Vehicle Lifespan
To make your Hyundai Santa Fe last longer, you need to keep up with regular maintenance. This helps your car run well and can keep it going for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, which could be almost 15 years. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding big, expensive problems down the road. It also keeps your car’s value high and ensures it stays reliable.
Here are some simple steps to help extend the life of your Santa Fe:
- Regular oil changes: This keeps the engine running smoothly.
- Timely tire rotations: This makes sure the tires wear evenly and handle better.
- Routine brake checks: This helps avoid expensive brake issues.
Best Models to Buy Used
If you’re looking for the best used Hyundai Santa Fe models, the 2018 and 2023 editions are great choices because they’re reliable, have lots of features, and don’t have many reported problems.
The 2018 model is especially recommended because it has very few complaints and recalls. It offers a good mix of features, reliability, and value, with prices ranging from $18,000 to $26,000.
The 2023 model is also a strong option, showing reliability and fewer reported issues.
No matter which used model you choose, always have a trusted mechanic check the powertrain to make sure you’re making a good investment.
Market Comparison
When you compare the Hyundai Santa Fe to other similar cars, you’ll see that its price and resale value make it a great choice for budget-minded buyers.
The 2018 model is especially attractive because it offers a good mix of features and affordability, unlike many newer models and other SUVs that are more expensive.
Let’s also take a look at how the Santa Fe measures up in terms of features and overall value compared to other cars in the market.
Pricing and Resale Value
When looking at the pricing and resale value of the Hyundai Santa Fe, especially the 2018 model, you’ll see it offers a lot for your money. It usually costs around $20,000 and comes packed with features, making it a great deal in the SUV market.
Used Hyundai Santa Fe models typically sell for between $18,000 and $26,000, showing that it holds its value well over time.
- Affordable: 2018 models are a good deal at around $20,000.
- Lots of Features: You get a lot for what you pay.
- Good Resale Value: Keeps its worth well over the years.
Make sure to have the engine and other key parts checked by a trusted mechanic to ensure you’re making a smart purchase.
Competing Models Analysis
There are several similar SUVs on the market, so it’s important to compare the Hyundai Santa Fe with other popular models.
You can find pre-owned Hyundai Santa Fe cars priced between $18,000 and $26,000, making them affordable. For example, a 2018 Santa Fe is a good balance of features and price at around $20,000. On the other hand, the top-of-the-line 2023 Santa Fe costs more than double that amount, showing the wide range of prices within the Santa Fe lineup.
Compared to other SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers competitive pricing, making it attractive to many buyers. If you’re looking at used cars, different years of the Hyundai Santa Fe offer various options to fit different needs and budgets effectively.
Feature Comparisons
To really see how the Hyundai Santa Fe compares to other cars, let’s look at its features and market position. The Santa Fe costs less than average in its class, with used 2018 models usually selling for about $20,000. This makes it a good choice if you’re thinking about buying a used car. The 2018 model is especially recommended because it’s reliable and has fewer complaints.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Competitive Pricing: Used Santa Fe models cost between $18,000 and $26,000.
- Top-Spec Options: 2023 models are priced well compared to other SUVs and pickups.
- Reliability: The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is a great year to consider to avoid problems.
First Generation Issues
If you’re looking at a first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, especially the 2001 model, you’ll run into several issues like engine stalling, electrical problems, and transmission troubles.
Engine stalling can be very dangerous since it happens without warning and puts your safety at risk.
Electrical issues, such as bad wiring and malfunctioning sensors, can cause all sorts of headaches and potential dangers.
Transmission troubles, like hard shifting or complete failure, are also worrisome and expensive to fix.
On top of that, paint chipping and peeling are common, which makes the car look bad.
To avoid these problems, it’s best to stay away from the 2001 and earlier first-generation models for a more reliable and satisfying experience.
Second Generation Issues
Second Generation Issues
Let’s talk about the second generation Hyundai Santa Fe, which was made from 2007 to 2012. This model has some major problems, especially with the engine and transmission. Engine troubles can lead to very costly repairs, and transmission issues often result in jerky shifting and poor driving performance. There are also frequent reports of steering failures, which can be a serious safety risk.
If you’re thinking about buying one, you might want to avoid the 2007, 2008, and 2009 models. These years have a lot of powertrain issues and multiple recalls. The 2012 model is also known for its engine problems and electrical system issues, making it a risky choice.
- Engine problems: These can be persistent and expensive to fix.
- Transmission issues: Expect jerky shifting and bad performance.
- Steering failures: These defects can make driving dangerous.
Third Generation Issues
The third generation Hyundai Santa Fe, made between 2013 and 2018, has serious engine problems that hurt its reliability.
Engine failures are especially common in the 2013, 2014, and 2015 models, making them less reliable.
The 2013 model also has issues with the ABS system and steering, which adds to its bad reputation.
If you’re thinking about buying a third generation Santa Fe, make sure to look into these problems to avoid expensive repairs.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Veloster and Hyundai Santa. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
Navigating the used Hyundai Santa Fe market can be tricky, like steering a ship through dangerous waters.
Certain model years are best avoided due to significant engine, transmission, and electrical problems. These problematic years include 2007, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2017.
By avoiding these years, you’re more likely to have a smoother ride and fewer expensive repairs with your used Hyundai Santa Fe.
