2013 Hyundai Santa FE Sport

Defect. 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.

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Remedy. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Risk. If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by NHTSA Recall 21V-303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V-303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, allowing fuel to leak from the pipe.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.

Defect. 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.

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Risk. Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 162.

Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Limited, VIN [XXX]. Registered and titled in Georgia, USA since July 2022. Built in the USA (VIN begins with 5); originally retailed in Canada. The vehicle has an unremedied ABS module defect that can cause an engine-compartment fire even when parked and turned off. Hyundai Canada lists it as open safety recall R0246-1 (41D013, Transport Canada 2024-080), remedy available since 2024-05-27. The same defect and the same remedy (ABS fuse replacement) are covered in the US by NHTSA recall 23V651 / Hyundai Recall 251, which includes 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles produced 7/12/2012 to 6/15/2013. A second Canadian fire-risk recall is also open: R0212 (21DG01, TC 2022-659, rear park-assist sensors). The NHTSA recall lookup for my VIN shows 0 open recalls (checked 10/26/2026), apparently because the vehicle was first sold in Canada. Georgia Hyundai dealers refuse to perform the recalls, telling me they do not do recalls on Canadian vehicles. As a result, a US-registered vehicle with a known fire defect that Hyundai Motor America has recalled in the US cannot get the remedy anywhere in the US. I have asked Hyundai Auto Canada (10/26/2026) to authorize a US dealer. I ask NHTSA to ask Hyundai Motor America (1) why US-registered vehicles that are the same as those in recall 23V651 are excluded from the remedy because of their original market, and (2) to authorize its dealers to perform the remedy on my vehicle. I am parking outdoors away from struc

FORMAL VEHICLE SAFETY AND WARRANTY COMPLAINT Date: [XXX] From: [XXX] Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, 2.4L Theta II engine Mileage: Approximately 150,000 miles (exact current reading to be confirmed) Subject: Recurrent Check-Engine Warning Following Repeated Repairs; Request for Theta II Engine Investigation I am submitting this complaint to formally document recurring engine-related symptoms affecting my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, and my repeated requests for investigation of a possible connection to the known Theta II engine defects and related warranty programs. On [XXX], the check-engine light illuminated again. Previously, on three separate occasions, the vehicle experienced a flashing check-engine light and a light ticking noise while idling. I was advised each time that the knock sensor was responsible, and the sensor was replaced. The vehicle returned to normal operation after those repairs, but similar symptoms subsequently recurred. While my vehicle was still below the 150,000-mile threshold, I repeatedly expressed concern that the symptoms could relate to the Theta II engine issue. During the most recent dealership visit, resulting in repairs on September 10, 2026, I emphasized that the recommended valve-cover gasket and spark-plug work might address a secondary issue without resolving the primary recurring problem. The check-engine light has now returned approximately five weeks after that repair. I am not claiming that a connecting-rod-bearing defect has b

The vehicle suddenly stopped and suddenly smoke appear in the front part of vehicle. Firemen appeared and when the front of the car was opened the flames of the fire were all over the engine of the car. The front glass broke and the hood has visible signs of the fire. Police were everywhere while firemen worked to stop the fire in the car. The car was towed to our home.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the front driver’s side door failed to unlatch as intended using either the interior or exterior door handles or the locking mechanism. In addition, the contact exited the vehicle using the front passenger’s side door to exit the vehicle. An appointment was scheduled with the local dealer. Upon further investigation, the contact associated the failure with TSB: 14-01-004-1. The contact stated that it might be a potential safety risk for passengers in an emergency. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by telephone. The failure mileage was approximately 142,622.

In October/November of 2023, while Hyundai was actively initiating Safety Recall 251 (NHTSA Campaign 23V-651), my vehicle's ABS Control Unit suffered an internal fluid leak that resulted in an electrical short-circuit. The failure caused major electronic communication errors, illuminated dashboard warning lights, and placed the vehicle into Limp Mode, rendering it unsafe to drive. Because the failure occurred prior to receiving a formal owner notification in the mail and the vehicle was un-drivable, I paid $1,300.54 out-of-pocket on November 17th 2023 to replace the failed ABS module. Hyundai Corporate has twice denied reimbursement, arguing that Recall 251 only covers a multi-fuse replacement and claiming internal fluid leaks are not covered. This contradicts NHTSA 23V-651 documentation, which explicitly identifies internal ABS module fluid leaks and electrical shorts as the core safety defect. Installing a fuse current-limiter cannot repair an already-ruined ABS circuit board or resolve a safety-mandated Limp Mode. I am reporting this to document on the official public record that Hyundai is actively denying reimbursement for the exact root-cause failure identified in NHTSA Campaign 23V-651. PLEASE NOTE: This report is submitted solely to document Hyundai Motor America's non-compliance and improper reimbursement denial for official record-keeping under Campaign 23V-651. I do not require follow-up contact from NHTSA regarding this submission.

I was driving down a highway and was slowing down as motorcycle in front of me was turning. I than proceeded to drive, I heard a loud noise which everyone in the vehicle thought it was the motorcycle (it wasn't) we pulled over into the nearest gas station and saw that my oil light was barely blinking (it was barely noticeable) was fading in and out) we got out checked the dipstick and it was low. Was not due for an oil change for another 1500miles. We put oil in and waited checked the dip stick it was then reading between the two lines of L and F. We waited another 5-10 minutes before leaving. We pulled out and the vehicle acted as if it had no power. I pushed on the gas to get up to speed and the car died out; I got pulled over to the side of the road. The car gave me no indication of anything. No oil light. I drove the days before with no issues I was 38miles from home.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that after a routine oil change, while driving back to the residence, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there were metal shavings inside the engine. The vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the vehicle was not eligible for a recall repair because the engine software update was not performed. The failure mileage was approximately 136,434.

My 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is subject to Hyundai Recall 162 / NHTSA Recall 17V-226, concerning premature connecting-rod-bearing wear that can cause engine knocking, engine failure, and loss of motive power. My vehicle developed engine knocking and a flashing check-engine light while I was driving. The vehicle is now at an authorized Hyundai dealership. Hyundai initially denied an engine replacement based on mileage. I escalated the matter to Hyundai Motor America Corporate Consumer Affairs. Hyundai has now confirmed in writing that, because my vehicle is more than eight years old and has more than 150,000 miles, Hyundai is applying the high-mileage provision of the Theta II settlement and will not replace the engine. Instead, Hyundai is offering either a repurchase or $2,000 in lieu of engine replacement. I understand that Hyundai is relying on the court-approved settlement. My concern is specifically whether Hyundai’s application of that settlement to my vehicle is consistent with the administration of Recall 162 and the federal safety-recall remedy, given that my vehicle is experiencing the engine failure that Recall 162 was designed to address. I am requesting NHTSA’s review of Hyundai’s handling of this safety-related recall matter.

While driving a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport on a city street, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled and shut off while idling at a red light. The vehicle completely failed to restart. No dashboard warning lights, check engine lights, or fault messages illuminated prior to or during the stalling event. Immediately following the engine shutdown, a fire erupted under the engine hood. The fire rapidly escalated and completely engulfed the entire vehicle, resulting in a total loss. The local fire department responded to the scene to extinguish the blaze

Sunroof exploded while driving

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the subframe was rusted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the rear control arms and subframe were rusted and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the vehicle had previously been repaired under Service Campaign Number: 996 (Underbody Corrosion Preventive Service); however, the contact stated that the protective spray was only applied to the unibody and not the rear underbody. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,483.

Vehicle is a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport with the 2.4L Theta II GDI engine. A Hyundai dealer documented excessive oil consumption in December 2025 (3 quarts consumed over 1,703 miles during a dealer-administered oil consumption test; repair orders on file and available for inspection). On April 19, 2026, at 160,913 miles, following a highway drive, the engine developed a pronounced knock and vibration at low RPM and began stalling within seconds of idling in Park, with check engine and charging warning lamps illuminated. An engine that stalls at idle presents a safety hazard in traffic due to loss of power braking and steering assist. The vehicle was removed from service the same day, has not been driven since, and remains available for inspection. Knock Sensor Detection System software (Campaign 953) was installed and did not prevent the failure. Manufacturer has been notified in writing and consumer affairs cases are on file.

Issue was first identified in September 2024 when a rattling noise prompted inspection, and the engine was found to be significantly low on oil. Excessive engine oil consumption was confirmed with failure during manufacturer testing. Vehicle emits occasional burning oil smell when idling after 10 miles+ driving. Vehicle failed a 1,000-mile oil consumption test following a “Dynamic Engine Clean” performed by a certified independent mechanic, with documented oil loss of approximately 2 quarts. Vehicle subsequently failed a dealer-administered oil consumption test, with documented oil loss of approximately 2.3 quarts within 1,000 miles. Engine oil levels have dropped to critically low levels between checks despite active monitoring and maintenance. This condition presents a risk of engine seizure, sudden loss of power while driving, and potential engine compartment fire due to oil consumption or leakage. The issue has been reproduced and documented by both an independent mechanic and a Hyundai dealership. Despite confirmed excessive oil consumption, the manufacturer has delayed corrective action and has required repeated oil consumption testing and engine cleaning procedures rather than proceeding with repair. This condition appears consistent with known defects associated with Hyundai Theta II engines.

I have great concern that certain vehicles of Hyundai are getting a little bit of extended warranty occupant classification system forward slash occupant detection system known issues. OCS/ODS I will try to attach a picture of the letter. As a nurse manager I find this once again appalling on Hyundai behalf, after these years pass we won't know if our air big warning lights or trouble codes or even a a passenger is detected when driving. They offered to pay if you had issues with this problem or in my case in the next four and a half years they would cover it but after that do I feel that this is my problem because they're having defect sensors and warning lights or maybe lack thereof altogether after speaking to them when I called and made a case number XXX with Hyundai Motor America. I strongly believe this should be a recall. I would never trust anybody sitting in my passenger seat, and I don't think you would either. They always try and find some way to get around doing the right thing and obviously they have problems with intermittent airbags warning lights trouble codes and this needs to be looked into if there are any risk/issues detecting or possibly never detecting a grandchild sitting in that front seat! After 5 years I will worry if anybody sits in the front seat now. I have started the process and will wait for your reply, of communicating with [XXX] our Minnesota State Attorney General's office on this matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFOR

I noticed a Check Engine Light flashing on my dashboard while driving on May 27, 2026. The vehicle suddenly losing power is extremely unsafe for me and my family, and also others on the road. This is a repeated P1326 code which happened before in 2021 and 2024. Based on the receipts I have from the previous inspections from the dealer, the Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) was not done in 2024, but was performed in 2021. The knock sensor was replaced in 2024 and I was denied engine replacement. This is a repeat failure of the same condition under Hyundai Motors TSB T3G Theta II. Once again, my safety was at extreme risk as the engine lost its power suddenly. It could have easily lead to a crash. In 2024, Hyundai and the dealer declined an engine replacement despite me showing the safety concerns and my possible eligibility for an engine replacement for the underlying condition.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, an abnormal knocking sound was heard coming from under the hood while the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the steering wheel would shudder. The Check engine oil warning light illuminated. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHSTA Campaign: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it remains for further investigation; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to a lack of maintenance records, and the recall repairs were rejected. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the recall repairs were performed under previous ownership; however, the recall repairs were not completed. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

Passengers are stuck in vehicle due to failure of doors opening from either inside, outside or both.

I am reporting a serious safety defect involving my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport equipped with a Theta II engine While driving and exiting the freeway with my wife as a passenger, the engine suddenly failed after knocking symptoms and completely seized/locked while the vehicle was still in motion. The vehicle immediately lost motive power and came to a stop, creating an immediate and dangerous traffic safety hazard. Had this engine seizure occurred moments earlier while traveling at freeway speed, it could have caused a catastrophic accident involving serious injury or death. The Hyundai dealership diagnosed the vehicle with rod bearing failure, which is the known defect associated with Hyundai Theta II engine failures. My VIN falls under the Theta II extended engine warranty program, and the dealership confirmed eligibility and accepted the vehicle for inspection under that coverage. Despite this, Hyundai denied the repair claim, first alleging maintenance-related issues and later stating the vehicle was out of warranty. I maintain that the vehicle was properly maintained with oil changes performed approximately every 6,000/8,000 miles. Some calendar-time gaps occurred because the vehicle was stored and driven very little during my recovery from a personal injury surgery and recovery, but the vehicle was maintained on mileage intervals. This engine defect resulted in sudden engine seizure and total loss of motive power while driving, creating a serious safety risk to vehicle

On [XXX] while entering the parking lot of my office, I noticed a blinking check engine light on the car's dashboard. I've never experienced this before so I called my husband. He asked me to use a diagnositic tool he kept in the car. I did and there was a code "P1326" when I pressed the key for more information it said something about the manufacturer. My husband told me to call the nearest dealer. I called Castle Hyundai in Downers Grove. I was instructed not to drive the care and have it towed to the dealership as soon as possible which I did. Castle Hyundai verified the P1326 code and fixed the knock sensor, changed the oil. I picked the car up on March 13. On [XXX], the flashing check engine light returned while driving home from work. Again, we used the diagnostic tool and again the code P1326 appeared. The car was towed back to Castle Hyundai. On Monday, I spoke with Christain Jones the service director because I hadn't heard anything about the car. He called later in the day and said that the car needed a new engine. He asked for records of my oil changes since purchasing the car in 2021. I emailed him three from 2022, 2023 and 2024, the four change was done by Castle on March 12 2026. I was told that he would send the the information to Hyundai regarding a new engine. However, he stated that he was not confident the company would approve the claim. This after, I received an email from Eric Marcum with Castle. The email stated that Hyundai denied the engine replacemen

While my vehicle was at an authorized Hyundai dealership for engine warranty repair, I reported a suspension grinding noise and requested that it be inspected. This concern was raised while the vehicle was in the dealership’s possession and was communicated as a safety concern. The engine repair was completed and the vehicle was returned to me. No inspection findings, documentation, or technician notes were provided addressing the suspension concern. The repair documentation I later received does not include any reference to the suspension issue or any inspection findings related to that concern. The dealership has also confirmed that no additional documentation exists beyond the repair order. After the vehicle was returned, warning lights appeared that were not present prior to the repair. A suspension grinding noise may indicate issues affecting steering, suspension, or vehicle stability. I am concerned that the vehicle was released without inspection or documentation of a reported safety related condition.

After having the ABS recall fixed a while back all of the lights came back on about a week ago. There has been a loss of oil meaning i have been adding oil in between oil changes at least once a week, there has been smoke coming from under the hood and if you run the heat or air you have to have circulate cabin air button pushed or it pulls the smell inside the car and it is overwhelming. The smoking has been going on for about at least a month now.

I was driving on March 20, 2026 at about 12:00 PM when I suddenly noticed smoke, a strong gasoline smell, an oil smell, and a burning odor coming from the vehicle. I pulled over immediately because I believed the vehicle was unsafe and at risk of fire. The vehicle had to be towed. An independent repair shop later found a fuel leak at the high-pressure fuel line / fuel pump area, a loose ground wire on the right-hand side of the engine, a valve cover gasket leak, and engine timing chain noise. I was informed that gasoline had sprayed throughout the engine bay. This created an immediate fire hazard even though no actual fire occurred. This problem was especially concerning because the vehicle had been inspected and serviced by an authorized Hyundai dealer in December 2025, less than about 3,000 miles earlier. The loose engine ground wire and fuel leak raise serious concerns about vehicle safety and the adequacy of the prior inspection. I contacted Hyundai the same day and reported this as a fire-risk safety issue, but I did not receive timely assistance. Because immediate dealer service was not available, I had to authorize emergency repairs at a local shop for safety reasons. No warning lights were noted before the incident. The failure was confirmed by the repair shop.

Circuit board inside the fuse box stopped working and there was no speed indicator, no cruise control, no odometer registering while driving. Also the mechanical fuel pump started leaking fuel at 148,000 miles and now at 156,000 miles it is burning through oil and no oil light came on and the engine went into limp mode and is also now going through coolant too.

While traveling at approximately 80 mph on the highway, my vehicle suddenly lost all response to the accelerator pedal. Despite continued pressure on the gas, the vehicle rapidly decelerated to approximately 40 mph on its own. There were no warning lights, unusual noises, or physical indicators of a problem before, during, or after the event. I was able to safely navigate the vehicle off the highway. The vehicle appeared to operate normally afterward. The following day, I brought the vehicle to a mechanic who was unable to replicate the issue and found no stored fault codes. No repairs were made. Given the known concerns surrounding the Theta II engine in this model year, I am submitting this incident for documentation purposes and to contribute to any ongoing or future investigation into sudden acceleration loss in 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles.

Day 1 – Feb 11 at 4pm incident occurred my daughter was driving the vehicle on [XXX] , she was in the far right hand lane preparing to take an upcoming exit. Suddenly and unexpectedly the hood opened obstructing her view of the roadway and smashed the front windshield. Because she was in the right hand lane she was able to pull the vehicle to to the shoulder of the road immediately. No other vehicles were involved because of both her location (right hand lane) and ability to access the shoulder immediately. She could have been killed! The problem has not been confirmed Hyundai has informed me it will take 5/6 weeks to determine if an inspection is warranted. -Thursday February 19 We got the vehicle to the closest Hyundai dealer Metro West in Framingham Massachusetts on Thursday February 19 - I explained to the service representative the history (recall and repair in 2017) and a request to investigate recurrence of the recall defect as well as to prepare an estimate for repair. I never received a phone back so I called them on Wednesday February 27 and was informed that the vehicle estimate and inspection was in progress. At that point I contacted Hyundai corporate offices and was given a case number. On March 3, I called again and completed the preliminary investigation report - i was informed they would get back to me in approximately 48 hours. - On 3/9/26 after a phone conversation I was emailed a request to inspect my vehicle authorization form and another form (11 questio

Engine seizure. Driving 80mph on i90, pop sound from under the hood happens & check engine light came on; immediately pulled over & the oil and battery light came on; turned car off & it would not start again. Smoke then came from engine while trying to restart. Code 1326

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact stated that the repair coverage was denied because of the maintenance record of the previous owner of the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Official Dealer Refusal to Perform Critical Safety Recall (VIN: [XXX] ) Description: I am reporting a formal refusal by the official Hyundai distributor in the Dominican Republic (Magna Motors) to perform critical safety recalls on my US-spec vehicle. Pending Recalls: Recall #251 (NHTSA 23V651000): ABS module fire risk. Campaign #953: KSDS software update. The dealer (Magna Motors) refuses to perform the service, claiming a "lack of tools," and has declined to provide a written explanation for this denial. This is a severe violation of safety regulations regarding life-threatening defects (Fire Risk). As the vehicle is a US-spec unit, I request NHTSA’s intervention to ensure the manufacturer (Hyundai) compels its local representative to complete these repairs immediately at no cost. PLEASE NOTE: I am using a US mailing address only to complete this form. The vehicle and I are physically located in the Dominican Republic. The local official distributor, Magna Motors, is failing to honor these NHTSA safety recalls." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The knock sensor recall was done. Currently engine started knocking and became undrivable. This vehicle qualifies for the Hyundai engine replacement recall, but they denied my claim

I requested Engine oil consumption tests on November 12, 2020 and March 27,2021 at Vandergriff Huyndai, Arlington, Tx. Nothing was resolved,. I have been adding oil myself and getting oil changes regularly since. At 146,000 miles it's been worse. After just 2,000 miles after an oil change it was below low, my mechanic topped it off 3 weeks ago and I've had to add oil since. Took my car to Jerry's Huyndai, Weatherford, Texas on December 29,2025. Due to oil consumption, smoke, smell, and I'm wondering if the vibrating is from the engine or if I need new spark plugs. I was told that my valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. I feel like I'm still getting the run around and the car can't keep oil above low level. I've never seen oil under the car and when i took the car to Vandergriff in 2020 and 2021 they didn't see a leak they said. I also took my car in 8/21 and had the ABS repaired and as of recent its out again. I took my car into an independent mechanic shop today 1/2/2026 and he said he felt that the valve cover gasket is not the main problem he feels it would be a waste of money until the engine is replaced. I also heard a new noise today not knocking but tapping noise while driving. My car has hesitated recently, but Jerrys huyndai didnt have that happen while driving it. My car would be available for inspection any time requested. I am just concerned about the smoking if it will get worse, is there a risk of fire and I'm disabled, so I'm concerned if I will have a prob

As driving, the passenger side rear wheel disconnected from the subframe. A lot of suspension parts (e.g. rear suspension mounting bolt is absent from the subframe; rear control arm toe link detached from its mounting point; severe corrosion present on subframe control arm And bushing sleeve; rusted and degraded mounting hole) were subsequently affected which significantly impacts driver and passenger safety as well as other surrounding vehicles. The mechanic indicated that if we were on the highway at a higher speed this would of caused a major accident with potential several deaths.

The door latch assembly. It continues to show warning lights that my doors are still open when they are not. As well as my key fob when pressed twice, my car will not make any audible sounds. It continues to drain my power and kill my batteries. Have had my engine replaced due to engine recall. I have also had my hood latch replaced from a recall. My car sound be eligible for the door lock assembly recall. I have two children under 6 years old and safety of the door being shut properly is of the utmost importance to me. I have already taken the vehicle to the dealership and they have quoted me the problem as stated above. I can provide the quote! There is also a TSB 14-01-004-1. Which my car should be able to qualify for. Thank you.

The engine in my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0T shut off suddenly while driving and would not restart. The dealership confirmed the engine is seized, has bottom-end knocking, and FAILED the BCT (bearing clearance test). Hyundai denied assistance claiming ‘maintenance neglect,’ but the mechanical failure is consistent with known Hyundai GDI engine defects. This presents a serious safety hazard because the vehicle lost power unexpectedly while in motion and could have caused a crash.

Number 4 piston developed a hole in it. Also the engine has been going through a lot of oil

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle intermittently lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, and the starter was replaced. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign. The local dealer was contacted; however, it was unclear if the vehicle had been diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the same local independent mechanic, where the alternator was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 192,000

The engine shut down into Limp mode. I was on the interstate and this caused me to slow down and cause traffic problems. Yes, I have taken my car to McCarthy Olathe Hyundai and was told there was a recall for Knocking and would not be fixed because I needed a new engine. My engine light came on and the car slowed down. As soon as this happened I took the car to the dealership to be fixed. I did not drive the car anymore.

While driving the car, started to smell gas and saw smoke. Tried to pull over and ABS lights came on and lost brakes. Was able to stop using emergency break. Car was completely engulfed in seconds.

Check engine light came on at 100,400 mile while on the freeway and car went into limp mode. Mechanic found P1326 code and the engine knocking. Tried to drive it to the dealership and the engine seized up. Towed it to the dealership and waiting to hear if Hyundai will pay for a new engine under their extended warranty campaign.

2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE SPORT TURBO. PAST/PRESENT SAFETY-SENSITIVE DEFECTS, NOTED OVER THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS: 1. One Confirmed Open Recall [CAMPAIGN #/NHTSA RECALL #—Recall 251 / 23V651000] (To Be Scheduled ASAP). 2. RPM/Propulsion Limp-mode Conditions: Vehicle periodically loses RPM READINGS on Dash and goes into the Propulsion sputtering/restricted-speed limp-mode hesitation condition. This condition may occasionally normalize by stopping, turning off engine and restarting. This intermittent RPM/Propulsion condition sometimes occurs, signified by a temporary sputtering/bucking while driving vehicle. ❓️CHECK STORED CODES ASAP...To Do. 3. Several times the car failed to accelerate predictably. For example, as when trying to accelerate up to highway speed from the on-ramp, leading to a fear of a near-miss, stalling and getting rear-ended. On such occasions, since attention is directed outside of the vehicle for safety, the state of the RPM READING on the dash has not been noted. ❓️CHECK STORED CODES ASAP...To Do.

On June 6,2025 my car caught fire under the hood on the way home from work. I was then told my car has an ABS module recall and thats whats caused the fire, as well as, electrical shortage. Hyundai finally came to get car on June 27. They refuse to fix or communicate with me on my car that I am still having to pay car note on. They refuse to give me an estimate of damages that results in total loss for insurance purposes

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.4L GDI engine failure due to known Theta II defect. Engine developed severe knocking and is unsafe to operate. The vehicle has experienced engine failure consistent with Hyundai’s recalled Theta II GDI defect (metal debris and bearing wear). Hyundai has refused to replace the engine, citing incomplete oil change records from a prior owner. This denial is unreasonable, as the defect is a manufacturer issue, not ordinary wear or maintenance neglect. The vehicle is unsafe to drive and at risk of stalling/fire. I request NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s refusal to honor its recall and extended warranty obligations.

Driving at about 80 mph the engine stalled. Check engine and oil light turned on Dealer said there were no lights and no codes present and simply changed oil. 18 miles later engine light was flashing and engine started making horrible noise. Towed back to dealer and vehicle failed bearing test

On Aug 2, 2025, while traveling back from vacation with our family of 4, our engine failed and completely seized up on a very busy highway. The vehicle completely shut off in a lane of travel near an exit ramp, and we were unable to even pull off on a shoulder for safety. We were unable to restart the vehicle or reproduce the issue because the vehicle will not turn on. There were no warning lamps or other messages. However, the car has historically consumed an extraordinary amount of oil, even with routine oil changes and service. Two quarts of oil were added to the vehicle the day before this happened. The vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealership and the incident was reported to Hyundai USA. We've been told the dealership can not run tests or inspect the vehicle until Aug. 21, nearly three weeks after it happened. We were told this is because they have numerous other vehicles with similar problems. This was an incredibly terrifying experience that put the safety of our family of 4, including two young children, at risk. A bystander called 911 and a state trooper arrived to set up flares and expedite a tow truck. We were told the spot we broke down is an incredibly busy part of an interstate where fatal accidents happen every other day.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the odor of gasoline was present inside the cabin of the vehicle. While driving approximately 25 MPH, flames were present coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was parked and quickly became engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the fire. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed along was personal items inside. A fire report was taken at the scene that indicated the fire had originated in the engine compartment of the vehicle. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the fire. The contact indicated that the vehicle was recently serviced at the local dealer for a manufacture's campaign P-1326. The failure mileage was 159,000.

While driving, my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe suddenly began losing acceleration without warning. No check engine lights were on at the time. The RPMs surged to 5,000–6,000, but the vehicle failed to gain speed. Moments later, the car lost all power completely. The red engine warning light and battery light illuminated on the dashboard, and the vehicle became unresponsive and would not restart. I had the vehicle towed to a certified Hyundai dealership, where a diagnostic inspection confirmed a rod bearing failure — a well-documented issue associated with the Theta II engine. The dealership initially stated this type of failure should fall under Hyundai’s extended warranty related to the class action lawsuit regarding defective Theta II engines. I purchased the vehicle used in 2020 and have kept detailed maintenance records for every year of ownership, all of which I submitted to Hyundai in support of my engine replacement claim. Despite this, Hyundai denied coverage and declined to replace the engine. This type of sudden engine failure, without any prior warning indicators, is extremely dangerous and appears consistent with the known defects in Theta II engines previously investigated by NHTSA. I’m filing this complaint in the interest of safety, transparency, and accountability, especially as other drivers may be exposed to similar risks. I respectfully urge NHTSA to review this incident as part of its ongoing oversight of Hyundai’s Theta II engine defects and consider re-opening

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The engine warning light, battery, and ABS warning lights illuminated, with another unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle returned to function as intended; however, the failure recurred a short distance afterwards. The contact was able to pull over to a rest area and the engine seized. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed that the engine had seized, and metal shavings were found in the oil. The dealer declined to perform the repair. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact advised that the vehicle never passed inspection. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the vehicle with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the failure was not determined. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or special program. The contact stated that the dealer declined to diagnose the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact referenced an unstated recall with a similar failure; however, the contact was informed that the recall was closed. The contact stated that the vehicle was purchased used, and had not receive a recall notification. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

Engine burning oil quickly

While driving at highway speeds (approximately 70 mph), my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport suddenly lost power and began shaking violently. I was forced to quickly maneuver across multiple lanes of traffic to exit the freeway and avoid a potential collision. The vehicle became barely drivable and extremely unsafe, especially at high speed. Hyundai later diagnosed the issue as a complete engine failure due to zero compression in cylinder 2. This catastrophic failure happened without warning lights, abnormal noises, or prior symptoms, making it a severe and unexpected safety hazard. Had this occurred while merging, on a curve, or in heavy traffic, it could have easily led to an accident, injuries, or worse. This type of failure — sudden loss of propulsion at freeway speed — puts both the driver and others on the road at serious risk. I am submitting this report because I believe this engine failure reflects a critical mechanical defect that warrants investigation.

Car has 88,000 miles on the odometer and is burning oil, resulting in the need for oil replenishment of 1 to 2 quarts every 1000 miles.