2014 Hyundai Santa FE Sport

Routine

Owners filed 164 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Hyundai Santa FE Sport years to avoid. Which Hyundai Santa FE Sport years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
70,000 milesMedian miles at failure

100 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.

Most common 2014 Hyundai Santa FE Sport problems

93 of the 164 complaints (57%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine83
070
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes16
010
Unknown or Other11
010
Electrical System10
030
Service Brakes · brakes8
020
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine8
000
Structure › Body · body and frame6
010
Steering3
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control3
010
Service Brakes, Air › Antilock › Abs Warning Light · brakes2
000

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module21V303000Park outside
Filed Apr 28, 2021151,205 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

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.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module20V520000Park outside
Filed Aug 27, 2020151,205 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

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.

Engine18V934000
Filed Dec 28, 2018150,730 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch17V358000
Filed Jun 5, 2017437,400 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine17V226000
Filed Mar 31, 2017572,000 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

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.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Service BrakesFire
Filed Oct 13, 2026FL

There was a low noise when I got in the vehicle in the morning. I looked at the engine and it was coming from the abs system. I took it to the mechanic shop and the noise was even louder, the abs part on the passenger side of the firewall in the engine blew up and catch fire. Luckily they were able to put the fire down right away. I’m glad that didn’t happen while driving or while in the driveway of our house were there’s more vehicles parked. There was an Abs light on the dashboard due to an abs sensor for the rear right wheel.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 28, 2026IL

I am reporting what I believe may be a safety-related defect involving the driver's door latch/lock actuator assembly in my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, VIN [XXX]. The driver's door latch failed while the door was in the closed position. As a result of the failure, the driver's door could not be opened using either the interior door handle or the exterior door handle. The door remained mechanically stuck in the closed position. This was not simply a power door lock that failed to electronically lock or unlock. The failure prevented the driver's door itself from being opened from either side. Because the door was stuck closed, the inability to open the door normally substantially increased the difficulty and cost of the repair. SAFETY CONCERN My primary concern is occupant egress during an emergency. If this failure occurred during or immediately following a crash, vehicle fire, electrical failure, medical emergency, flooding event, or another situation requiring rapid evacuation, the driver or occupant could be unable to exit through the affected door. This presents an even greater concern for an elderly person, a person with a disability or limited mobility, or another occupant who may not be physically capable of climbing across the center console and exiting through another door. Depending upon the circumstances, an occupant could potentially remain trapped until another door could be accessed, a window could be broken, or emergency personnel could gain entry. The safety c

Engine
Filed Sep 28, 2026FL

1. 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Theta 2 Engine Failure It was available for inspection upon request at local dealer and service After engine failedXXX abruptly while driving, it was towed to the service for inspection. 2. The Theta 2 engine in countless 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe models has been a safety risk for all citizens on the roads. This has been an unannounced recall failure due to manufacture shards of metal found within the engine, causing vehicle damage and failure. My car stopped abruptly on the road. I have maintained it through due oil changes and service. 3. The independent dealership that serviced my vehicle has verbally recognized that Theta 2 engines are a safety risk, after my family and I did research to expose underlying cause of engine failure. 4. It has been inspected by Allen Turner Hyundai in [XXX]. No known national manufacturers have been present or documented in case. 5. No, abrupt stop while driving along with burning smells and smoke coming from hood of vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Sep 17, 2026157,596 milesFL

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment with an abnormal burning odor entering the vehicle through the A/C vents. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and turned off. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer and was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that her father performed most of the maintenance on the vehicle and became aware that the Theta 2 engine had several failures. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 157,596.

Engine
Filed Aug 14, 202689,687 milesCA

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa FE. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle at 60 mph the vehicle began to shake violently, and the engine experienced a complete loss of automotive power, the service vehicle soon, ABS and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact veered off an exit into the parking lot of an AutoZone where a diagnostic scanner displayed the code "P0302". The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the exhaust valve on cylinder two had dissolved and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was towed to a local Hyundai dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the exhaust valve in cylinder two was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,687.

Service BrakesFire
Filed Jul 28, 2026AK

On June 20, 2026, while the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport was being driven on Richardson Highway near Mile 155 in Alaska, smoke and flames developed from the engine compartment without any collision. The driver stopped and both occupants exited before the vehicle became fully engulfed. The fire created an immediate risk of serious injury or death and blocked the northbound lane. There were no known prior drivability problems, warning lamps, or other symptoms before the incident. The exact failed component is UNKNOWN. Potential areas requiring investigation include the engine, electrical system, ABS/HECU brake module, multi-fuse, fuel system, and other engine-compartment components. Alaska Department of Public Safety responded. Its report states that there was no obvious cause, but that the fire appeared to have originated in the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed and preserved for the manufacturer. Hyundai inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the inspection was completed on July 11, 2026. Hyundai later stated orally that it did not find an engine defect, but it has not provided the complete inspection report, testing methods, photographs, technical findings, or a written origin-and-cause determination. Hyundai has not explained whether the ABS/HECU, electrical system, multi-fuse, fuel system, or other potential fire sources were separately examined. The vehicle sustained catastrophic damage and was a total loss. Both occupants escaped, but experienced severe ongoing

Electrical System
Filed Jul 20, 2026AL

*"I am filing a complaint against Hallmark Hyundai in [XXX] regarding an active safety recall on my vehicle's ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module.My vehicle was brought to the dealership on XXX. As of today, XXX, the dealership has held my car for 27 days without completing the safety remedy. The dealership continues to give me conflicting stories, refuses to provide an expected repair date, and is denying me manufacturer-funded alternative transportation while my vehicle is grounded for this safety defect.I am reporting this because the dealership is failing to provide a timely remedy for a critical braking safety hazard, leaving me without a safe vehicle." The warning lights came on on XXX every light on my dash is flashing. Hallmark Hyundai inspected my vehicle and said it was the abs module I have been without transportation for a whole month with no answers on when my car will be ready for pick. The advisor Devita keep telling me lie after lie I need my car immediately no way it takes a whole month to fix a recall repair I need my car I have lost my job due to this I’ve missed important dr appointments do to my car being held for a month with no answers INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 18, 2026SC

Both front doors stopped opening cant get in the vehicle or out of the vehicle from the front doors. Both stopped working within two weeks. The locks unlock and lock but the doors will not open. Hyundai dealership wants 8,000 dollars to replace Both door panels. This is a safety issue. If I get stuck inside the car and cant get out

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 16, 2026120,577 milesMD

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle started to lose power while depressing the accelerator pedal, with black smoke coming from the engine compartment. The oil, check engine, and battery warning lights were displayed on the instrument panel. The contact pulled over and discovered black smoke coming from under the hood. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, and the engine was replaced. Two weeks after the replacement, the starter failed to operate as needed, and the vehicle was towed back to the independent mechanic, where the starter was replaced. Upon investigation, the mechanic discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); and associated the vehicle with the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,577.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 8, 2026OK

I am reporting a severe safety failure on my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport that perfectly matches the safety defect described in Recall 21V-303 / Campaign 205. This happened even though I had the dealer perform the official recall fuse fix back in 2024. The problem started after I left the car parked for about 3 to 4 hours. When I came back, I heard a motor (not the motor) loudly running under the hood even though the ignition was completely off. It stayed on even after starting and turning the car off. The battery in the vehicle had drained so bad it was deemed bad when hooked up to a tester at the auto parts store. After getting a new battery and trying to drive the car, the electrical system went haywire. The dashboard lit up with every brake warning light on, the speedometer stopped working, miles to empty being erratic, and the exterior rear brake lights kept flickering erratically after the car was turned off. The steering was acting abnormal and unnatural, not crisp and easy to turn as usual. There were absolutely no warning lights or symptoms before I parked the vehicle. I had it towed to my local Hyundai dealership, and their diagnostic scan confirmed major brake and chassis issues, specifically code C2402 for an ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction and codes C1200, C1203, and C1206 for a loss of wheel speed data. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives, but it is currently sitting at the dealership waiting for a resolution from a Hyunda

Engine
Filed Jul 3, 2026CO

On March 20, 2026, while driving, my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (VIN: [XXX]) equipped with a Theta II 2.4L GDI engine, the car experienced a catastrophic, sudden loss of motive power. The engine suffered a total mechanical failure/seizure, creating an immediate highway safety hazard. This vehicle is part of the "In re: Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation II" settlement population due to known factory manufacturing defects where residual metal debris blocks oil flow to the connecting rod bearings. Hyundai Corporate has issued a blanket refusal to honor the lifetime safety warranty extension, using an unverified allegation of "outside influence" to avoid executing the mandatory engine replacement protocols required under NHTSA Campaign T3G. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2026NY

ID # 11746004. I accidentally entered the wrong incident date on my original submission. The correct date of the incident is June 17, 2026. Please update my file to reflect this correct timeline.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 25, 2026ME

: "Vehicle is currently grounded at Rowe Hyundai Westbrook in Westbrook, Maine. Dealer confirms HECU has an active electrical short matching Recall 205 (Campaign 21V303000) but refuses to replace the safety defect because it lacks an external fluid leak. The vehicle is unsafe to drive due to fire risk and brake hazard, and the manufacturer's agent is refusing the federal remedy."

Engine
Filed Jun 23, 2026NY

The engine failed completely and is currently available for inspection at my residence. While traveling on a family vacation at highway speeds, the engine suffered a catastrophic connecting-rod bearing failure and seized. This caused an immediate loss of motive power, braking assistance, and steering control, nearly resulting in a fatal multi-car collision with my child in the vehicle. Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard during the failure as a sudden metallic knocking sound occurred and the engine died. The vehicle became completely disabled and had to be limped off the highway and towed. The VIN has a completed Campaign 953 from September 2019 qualifying it for the Lifetime Warranty Extension under the Theta II settlement.

Engine
Filed May 19, 2026FL

Engine code p1326. The engine went into limp mode it was only able to drive about 15 miles then check engine light came popped on and the vehicle stopped and I had the get the vehicle towed. Yes Route 60 of Hyundai in Vero Beach was aware of the issue and also I took the vehicle to Hyundai in Fort pierce where they also was well aware of the engine issue. When I received a recall letter in the mail and brought my vehicle into Route 60 Hyundai of Vero Beach. My vehicle was also apart of the Theta 2 issue class act litigation.

Electrical System
Filed May 17, 2026WI

As I would be driving down the road, most of the time when getting up to speeds of either 25-30mph or 55-60mph is when the dash board lights up check BSD detection system failure, then it will rev out rpm’s to 5,000-6,000 then lose power to accelerator. I also notice on the dash board where the panel for your selected gear displays is blank and doesn’t show whether you are in park,drive neutral, ECT. After this occurs I can not drive it any longer until I safely stop the car (most of the time on a busy highway or country road Highway where once this happens it becomes dangerous due to the power loss in the accelerator) and put it in park, I’ve tried to put the vehicle in park, once fully stopped, and try to put it back into drive but the shifter is locked into park and will not let me shift the vehicle, I then have to shut the vehicle completely off and open the driver door to get the backup power cut off as-well to have zero power to the vehicle. Once that is completed I then Re-Start the vehicle where it operates normally again, this situation happens at least twice a week if not 3-4. It sometimes has put my passengers and myself at risk of getting into accidents or struck by other vehicle on the road. my vehicle is still under a warranty through the dealership I purchased it from, but when I ask them about it they say that because there is no prompt on the dash once I get there that they cannot do anything about it, nor do they allegedly know why it’s happening, I’ve asked

Unknown or Other
Filed May 13, 2026MI

Car randomly dies. Constantly needing oil due to it leaking. Check engine light on

Engine
Filed Apr 13, 2026FL

Failure consistent with known recall defect (NHTSA Recall 17V226) involving premature bearing wear resulting in engine seizure and sudden loss of power while driving.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Apr 5, 2026CT

While driving west across [XXX] , towing a 5x8 enclosed trailer, there was a smell of burnt rubber and I pulled over to inspect for a busted tire. At no time were there indicator lights on the dash. Upon bringing the vehicle to a stop on the side of the road the cabin began to fill with smoke. I popped the hood of the car with the intention of looking to see what was occurring. Exiting the vehicle and coming around to the front there were already flames coming out from under the hood. Within 10 minutes the car and trailer were engulfed in flames and have been deemed total losses by insurance. I had the vehicle serviced two days prior in Columbus Ohio and was cleared for the 4 day journey. I had the brakes done in 4 months prior in [XXX] . Had no issues getting to Columbus, no problems driving to Kansas City. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 1, 2026TX

The passenger-side doors do not latch properly and may open after closing. This creates a safety risk while driving. The issue occurs continually and has worsened over time. Vehicle has approximately 106,265 miles. this causes the auto door locks no to work.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 1, 2026OK

Knock sensor p1326 service code engine light on

Engine
Filed Dec 23, 2025167,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and blinked intermittently. The contact stopped at a gas station. The contact filled up the fuel tank and checked the coolant reservoir. When the contact restarted the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH without shaking or vibrating. The check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The engine coils or the starter sensor and the O2 sensors were replaced before the independent mechanic informed the contact that the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the engine had failed. The contact was informed that the vehicle was under a service warranty and the vehicle would be repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. However, the manufacturer refused to replace the engine and offered the contact monetary compensation. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 167,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 19, 2025CA

Engine seized while driving. Recall-covered failure mode. Hyundai denial despite recall. Screenshots showed recall with VIN for engine recall and suddenly removed by Hyundai next day.

Engine
Filed Nov 13, 2025KY

I dont know the exact component that's failed, but it is consuming way too much oil, i have to put a quart in just about everytime i drive it. When i took it the dealership to find out if it was leaking, or burning oil, they literally charged me 200 to tell me it was either leaking oil or burning it. I personally think it is burning vs leaking, because there isnt oil in my drive way. I then spoke to some one on their YouTube channel that told me to call and tell them my story and they should help me out. I did that but no one ever contacted me about the complaint. It's smokes from the engine and i feel like its just a matter of time before it blows up or catches fire. Even though I can hear the engine ticking and struggle the check engine light is not on. From what I've seen this is a known issue that they are ignoring, even though MANY people have complained. This engine has already been replaced in 2018, and the new one is going bad prematurely as well.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 11, 2025WA

Gas is purging from the top of the fuel pump

Engine
Filed Nov 4, 2025KY

I purchased this vehicle in November 2022. Hyundai and all affiliates were well aware of the engine recall. I was NEVER informed of the recall, if I was, logically I never would have purchased it. This is fraud by Toyota South in Richmond Kentucky. 6 months or so after purchasing, I began noticing the oil loss, without any oil on the ground where I park the vehicle. I researched and found the recall. I fought with the dealership and Hyundai corporate for 4 months before they said they would replace the engine with a new engine, I was told this early November 2023. I received my car back on 11/24/23. I was told the new engine came with a 12,000(?) mile warranty. I am still looking for this paperwork and will have it available soon. Fast forward to September 2025, as I am driving on I75N to Lexington from Berea, my car shudders and a smoke cloud larger than my vehicle appears behind my car. I check my oil and I am down 2 quarts, which I thought was odd considering I had checked it 2-3 weeks prior to this. I checked it in another week, and it is down 2 quarts again!! There is still no leakage, no oil on the ground, immediately I knew it was another recalled engine. Which is beyond comprehension, why would Hyundai replace a recalled engine, with a recalled engine?? So I go to the dealership and am told I have to do the 3 stage consumption test, drive 1000 miles or be down 1.5 quarts and come back. I was back within 2 days, I drove 150(?) miles and was down 1.5 quarts. The dealers

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 5, 2025IL

The stationary glass that is in front of the panoramic sunroof shattered for no reason. I found that this has happened to many other people's vehicle like mine. In several incidents, the glass chips fell on passengers in the car when they opened the sunroof. I had a glass repair shop look at it. It will cost $400.00 out of pocket and I don't really want to file a claim to insurance. Can you offer any help?

EngineFire
Filed Sep 26, 2025WI

What happened: While driving in Montana on September 21, 2025, the cabin suddenly filled with gasoline fumes and the accelerator pedal stopped responding. After pulling over, flames erupted from under the hood and the vehicle was completely destroyed within minutes. The passenger-side door could not be opened from the inside at first, delaying escape and creating a serious safety risk. No warning lights or messages appeared before or during the fire. (1) While driving, gasoline suddenly filled the cabin and the accelerator pedal stopped responding. Within seconds, the vehicle caught fire. The cause appears related to the fuel system, and possibly the ABS module. The vehicle was completely destroyed but remains available for inspection in a private tow lot. (2) The fire spread extremely quickly. Both occupants were nearly trapped inside when the passenger-side door would not open from the inside, delaying escape. The vehicle burned on the shoulder of a busy highway in Montana, posing danger to us and to surrounding motorists. (3) Not after this fire, but a similar problem occurred in 2023 when gasoline filled the cabin and caused the engine to stall. At that time, Hyundai replaced the engine under warranty. (4) No. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance. It is secured in a private tow lot and is available for inspection. (5) No. There were no warnings at all before or during the failure. Even as gasoline filled the cabin and the vehicl

Engine
Filed Sep 10, 2025OH

Owner: [XXX] VIN: [XXX] Vehicle: 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport My daughter purchased this vehicle in April 2025 from a licensed Chrysler dealership. On [XXX], the engine suddenly seized while driving, without warning, and would not restart. This VIN was part of Recall 17V-226 (Hyundai Campaign 162). Dealer records show the recall was closed with inspection only (“engine inspection, oil, dipstick”), not an engine replacement. The failure matches the defect description of the recall (bearing wear from restricted oil flow). Hyundai is refusing to repair it, claiming sludge and “maintenance neglect,” despite my daughter only owning it for 5 months and having an oil change at Hyundai in May 2025. This engine failure proves the prior “inspection” remedy was ineffective. Hyundai is also denying coverage under the lifetime warranty extension (TXXI), which explicitly applies to subsequent owners for bearing failures. This is a serious safety issue. My daughter lost power in traffic, and the vehicle is still unrepaired. This complaint is being submitted on behalf of the registered owner, [XXX] , by her mother [XXX] , who is the primary contact. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 5, 2025TX

My drivers side door opened while driving. The latch wouldn’t allow me to close my door.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 5, 2025CA

While driving on a steep, narrow grade with no safe shoulder, my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport suddenly lost all forward power. The engine would rev but the vehicle would not accelerate. I was left stranded in traffic, with cars behind me and nowhere safe to pull off, creating an immediate risk of being rear-ended or rolling back into other vehicles. I had to call for a tow to avoid a serious crash. The vehicle was marked as having all recall campaigns completed, including the rod bearing inspection and knock sensor update, which were supposed to protect against catastrophic engine failure. Clearly, those campaigns were not sufficient to prevent the failure I experienced. At the time of failure, the vehicle displayed the check engine light and drivability symptoms consistent with abnormal combustion and potential bearing damage. Hyundai denied lifetime warranty coverage under the Theta II engine settlement without performing the required inspection. Instead, I was left with an estimate for engine-related repairs that exceeded the value of the vehicle, effectively rendering it a total loss. This failure is exactly what Hyundai’s recall notices describe as a risk: sudden engine failure, loss of motive power, and increased risk of crash. The fact that this happened to my vehicle despite “completed” recall campaigns raises serious concerns about whether the defect remains unresolved and whether Hyundai is adequately honoring its recall and settlement obligations. I am requesting th

Engine
Filed Aug 19, 2025TX

Loud knocking sound. Vehicle in Limp Mode. Blinking CEL - Error code P1326 VIN - [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Aug 12, 2025AL

My 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport suffered a blown head gasket that required me to pay $9,000 for a full engine replacement. Hyundai is aware of ongoing problems with their 2.0 turbo motors, but the recall only covers the rod bearing failure/knock sensor issue. Many owners, including myself, are experiencing blown head gaskets, and several believe this failure is directly related to the same underlying engine defect. This is not an isolated case—numerous complaints online and in owner forums describe the same problem. Despite the high repair cost and known engine vulnerabilities, Hyundai refuses assistance because my vehicle is outside the mileage limit, even though the defect is widely reported and appears to be a design/manufacturing issue, not normal wear and tear. I believe NHTSA should investigate whether the head gasket failures in these 2.0 turbo engines are linked to the same defect that prompted Hyundai’s engine recalls, as it presents significant safety risks (engine overheating, sudden power loss, potential for fire). In 2018, the Center for Auto Safety formally petitioned the NHTSA to investigate 2011–2014 Hyundai Santa Fe models (among others) due to a high number of non-collision fire complaints, including reports of melted wires, smoke, and burning odors in the engine bay . While this isn’t directly about head gasket failures, it underscores a pattern of serious safety-related issues affecting that generation of Santa Fe vehicles.

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 2025SD

Vehicle is only 10 years old and barely has 120k miles on it. Consistent maintenance and oil changes are done. My son was driving on the highway and the vehicle died suddenly and coasted to the side of the road. We had it towed to a repair shop and after some testing they said the engine has seized up. Most likely related to the common rod bearing issue with these motors, but this is not on the recall for some reason. This should not happen on a car with so low miles and use! Luckily my son was safe and not in an accident when this happened.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 24, 2025OH

Hello, To whom this may concern, The ABS light turned on the dashboard on a Tuesday evening. My wife kept driving. In the next couple of days, it would feel like the car was all over the road, under braking. It seemed very hard to take off. On Friday, I was outside and heard the car was making a noise. As an automotive technician, I knew the ABS module was cycling nonstop. I pulled the fuse out of the fuse panel to make sure it wouldn't catch fire. We took the car back to the dealer when the bulletin came out for these cars catching fire due to an ABS issue years ago. I went to the dealer on that Saturday and informed them of the ABS module cycling nonstop. They told me that the bulletin had been done already and there was nothing they could do for me. I called Hyundai customer support, and they forced me to pay a diagnostic charge of $220 to tell me it was a failure internally in the ABS module and that they wouldn't cover the repairs. I found it very surprising that Hyundai only had to change a fuse to prevent cars from catching fire. It doesn't make sense to me how the NHTSA allowed them to only change a fuse and not the module that Hyundai said was faulty. This puts every car that I drive next to in danger, with the module going off nonstop while I drive down the road. This has all happened in the last month. Please hold Hyundai truly accountable for this nonsense. It is unacceptable that they can get away with just changing a fuse to prevent a fire, and not fix the actua

Engine
Filed Jul 22, 2025GA

January 2024, my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe entered limp mode and displayed code P1326—known to indicate engine bearing failure under Hyundai Recall 162. I took it to Terry Reid Hyundai (Cartersville, GA), paid $175 for diagnostics, and was told the vehicle “passed.” However, I was never given a bearing clearance test (BCT) result, and no VIN-tied data was submitted to Hyundai’s internal WebDCS system, as required by TSB 23-EM-001H. Later communication with Hyundai confirmed that all BCT results—pass or fail—must be submitted and tied to the VIN in WebDCS, yet Terry Reid produced no record. Instead, they provided a blank Multi-Point Inspection (MPI) sheet and handwritten notes—none of which constitute a BCT or fulfill Hyundai protocol. In April 2025, the engine failed catastrophically. Shottenkirk Hyundai performed a proper BCT, revealing cylinder #2 at 1.13mm (well beyond failure limit), and submitted both the test and an oil sample to the lab. The oil analysis showed no sludge, fuel, or coolant contamination, contradicting Veritas Global Protection’s and Hyundai’s claim of owner neglect. Despite clear lab evidence, Veritas denied my claim, falsely asserting: The sludge existed before contract purchase (no proof), No rod bearing clearance documentation was submitted (Shottenkirk did), A prior P0420 code related to the catalytic converter caused sludge (mechanically inaccurate). Hyundai’s consumer affairs rep later claimed internal records can’t be shared, that even more evidence

Engine
Filed Jul 16, 2025AZ

On June 22 2025 while driving on Interstate 17, the vehicle engine started to lose power and the engine light started to flash on and off. Pulled over and the vehicle stalled and was not able to turn on again. The vehicle is available for inspection. Safety was a concern as we had to change over 3 lanes as we were losing power. The problem has been confirm that the engine has failed and they are numerous TSBs out for engine failure on the Theta II engines, vehicle also qualifies for 15yr/150K engine warranty. The vehicle engine is branded which is a manufacturer defect and never was replaced. The vehicle was towed by AAA to a AAA repair shop and said diagnosis was given thereafter vehicle was towed to dealership which it currently sit at. However Hyundai denied claim because service record was not provided (I was not the owner of vehicle on the years they are requesting) I do have my records from when I owned the vehicle however service advisor stated I did not need to provide my records since they dated back to where I didn't owned vehicle. I purchase vehicle from a dealership. If any more information is needed please advis. I would just like my engine replaced.

Engine
Filed Jul 16, 2025MD

Engine failure and metal debris and timing belt slipped time. Loss of power and we parked it flashing engine light. Massey Hyundai said it’s not a recall but when I research there’s a lot of engine failure recalls so I’m not quite understanding what the situation is and we still owe money on the vehicle. They basically told us to junk it. This has been the worst situation I have ever went through with a vehicle. I’ve never owned a Hyundai and I probably never will ever buy another Hyundai. I just wanna know why my engine failed and nobody can tell me why Massey hundai cannot tell me why. they just want me to remove it from their service center or they’re gonna charge me $500 to dispose of it. I’ve never heard of such stuff in my life. This is too overwhelming, especially when it happened. My daughter just had reconstructive foot ankle surgery and has pins in her foot. We were stranded an hour and a half away from home at a doctors appointment for a check up for her foot. Our Insurance towed it, but left us standing and hundred degree weather which was a complete nightmare, especially when you have someone that can’t walk and just had surgery not that that’s any of your fault. I just want to know why my engine failed why there was metal debris why can’t no one tell me. $10,000 for a new motor or charge you $500 to remove it from our lot. I can’t even lie about this stuff. It’s insane. I still owe money on the vehicle. I had to refinance it during Covid. If you could just like,

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 16, 2025OH

I closed my door and the driver door latch became stuck and will no longer open from the inside or outside. I have tried to open it myself, ask a mechanic and a locksmith and no one can open the door without damaging the door.

Seat Belts
Filed Jul 9, 2025IL

Seat belt has been fraying for years and has not return to original position on the I-beam when not being used. Repair shops say it’s normal for vehicle.

Engine
Filed Jul 6, 2025AL

My 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0 Turbo suffered a complete engine seizure while driving due to a blown head gasket, which caused all coolant to leak out. The engine locked up suddenly while my daughter was operating the vehicle, creating a serious safety hazard. She was fortunate to pull over safely, but this type of failure could have resulted in a crash. I was forced to pay over $9,000 for a full engine replacement. This engine is the Theta II 2.0L Turbo GDI, which is part of multiple class action lawsuits and safety recalls due to engine seizure, bearing failure, and fire risk. Hyundai Customer Care has refused to assist or reimburse me. This failure involved no prior warning signs, and the gasket failure appears to be consistent with design flaws already documented in these engines. I am submitting this complaint as I believe this is a defect that poses a safety risk, especially given how suddenly the engine failed during normal driving.

Engine
Filed Jun 20, 2025GA

I was on an expressway with 70 mph speeds and could only drive at 55 mph. A flashing motor light came on and then a thunking/clicking sound. It would not accelerate and also lunging. Towed to an independent mechanic close to where I was who confirmed blown engine. Having towed to Hyundai dealership.

Engine
Filed Jun 15, 2025MI

Engine seized

Engine
Filed May 27, 2025KY

Engine is burning oil at a rapid rate. Completed oil change on 12/6/2024 at 94380 miles. On [XXX] check engine light came on at 96684 miles. Dipstix Oil Change checked oil level and level was at least 2 quarts low. Dipstix Oil Change filled oil reservoir. On [XXX], check engine light came back on. SUV was taken to AutoZone and computer said light was due to bad oxygen sensor. Deal's Auto changed oxygen sensor for $557 on 2/24/2025 at 96708 miles. On [XXX], check engine light came back on and engine had a knocking noise. Vehicle was towed to Hyundai in Batesville, MS on 4/17/2025 for $498. Engine was checked by Hyundai on 5/23/2025. Oil level was at least 2 quarts low and dealership recommended an oil change (paid by me) to see if there is oil consumption. I live 8 hours from dealership and already know there is oil consumption. Dealership wants to simply get the vehicle off their hands and is placing consumer at risk with lazy diagnosis. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed May 7, 2025GA

I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious engine defect in my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, which suffered rod bearing failure and now requires a full engine replacement at a cost of approximately $8,600. This failure occurred on April 13, 2025, despite regular oil changes and proper maintenance throughout my 1 year and 7 months of ownership. According to my certified mechanic, the vehicle was evaluated using Hyundai’s own rod bearing clearance test protocol, which it failed. The results were submitted to Hyundai by the repair shop, but the manufacturer denied the claim—despite their own diagnostic test confirming the issue. I later discovered that my vehicle may fall under NHTSA Campaign Number 17V226000 (Recall 162), which addresses machining errors in the Theta II GDI engine that can cause premature bearing wear. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether my vehicle should be formally included in this recall or covered under Hyundai’s extended warranty program for rod bearing failures. This issue represents a serious safety risk. The engine began knocking suddenly, without any warning lights or codes, and still had another month or 1,419 miles left till next service and oil level was normal. Vehicle had to be towed to a service facility. A failure while driving could have resulted in a complete engine seizure, placing my family and others at risk. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this issue and investigate Hyundai’s handling of such claims, especially where t

Electrical System
Filed Apr 28, 2025IL

I own a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T which has had door latch issues. Recently, the front passenger side door latch needed to be fully replaced due to a failure which caused the door to be loose latching and the latch sensor always showing open. I paid out-out-pocked for this repair as the Hyundai dealership said there are models which this exact issue was identified, but they said the parts extension had not been placed for my exact vehicle. They were also confused as to why this was not being covered as they see so many of these same repairs. Now, less than one month later, the front driver's side door is now experiencing lock issues in which a loud grinding noise is occurring when the vehicle attempts to lock or unlock the door. Additionally, the door does not unlock some of the time from the external and the manual door handle on the interior is getting harder and harder to open. Both of these issues are consistent with other recalls for other Hyundai models and consistent with the door latch module and actuator failure. I would like to file a complaint regarding this issue as it seems to be a common issue with Hyundai models using this door latch module. I believe the parts extension and repairs for these door latches should be covered by Hyundai especially as this becomes a large safety issue with driving the vehicle with concerns of door latch stability and security.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Apr 23, 2025PR

Parts of the ABS system under the hood burned, while the vehicle was parked in my garage, affecting electrical and other parts. I found information online about a recall for this same problem. I have never received a notification of this recall before. I went that same day [XXX] to my local dealer. They gave me an appointment for service for the next day and left the vehicle with them on 04/03/2025. I called the dealer after one week and they told me they already verified the vehicle and notified Hyundai company and are waiting for them to approve the repair. I called the dealer again today 04/23/2025, after 3 weeks and the they told me they are “still waiting for Hyundai Company to approve the repair. That they don’t know how much time this may take and that it may take a lot more time”. In the meantime, and after the bad and risky experience, I have one car less in my house. I understand this is a process but also, considering that this was caused by a factory defect I understand they should be responsible and solve the problem in a timely manner. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

EngineFire
Filed Apr 4, 2025WV

The engine was replaced under a recall related to an engine knock code. About two weeks later, the vehicle lost all power while driving. The dealership confirmed a failure in the high-pressure fuel line and that the turbo had failed at the same time. The same visit revealed oil leaks, and shortly after, the vehicle began emitting white and black smoke. Their technician stated the failures were due to “consequential damage from engine failure.” The problems have continued to return, and I’ve been told the vehicle is unsafe to drive. Hyundai is now refusing to fully cover the cost of repair, offering only 15% off, despite all of the damage being directly linked to the replacement engine. I transport children in this vehicle. My safety and theirs have been at risk multiple times because of these unresolved and ongoing failures.

Engine
Filed Mar 30, 2025NC

Car hesitates, lagging at stop lights/slow traffic has completely shutdown while moving in traffic. Several episodes include complete shut down unable to crank following a stop multiple times in last 7 months. 2 Hyundai Dealerships have not been able to duplicate or repair specific issues or stop from occurring. Other repairs were attempted by Dealerships in efforts to correct problems. Car has been towed 5 times under extended warranty.75K- 83K miles. Battery discharge warning still appears even after new battery, plus other engine parts were replaced. Anxiety PTSD is my status.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 30, 2025120,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the engine seized. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over to the side of the roadway. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the ring around the engine needed to be replaced. There was an excessive amount of oil leaking. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted by mail and phone, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 164, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2017
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2018324480Above average
2017356370Above average
2016701110Routine
201584360Routine
2014 — this page1645160Routine
20132016150Above average

Compare every Santa FE Sport year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 28, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.