458 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.
Most common 2008 Hyundai Santa FE problems
191 of the 541 complaints (35%) are about the fuel and propulsion system.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system
191
0
0
0
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system
50
1
0
0
Electrical System
45
0
3
1
Air Bags · airbags
44
3
0
3
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
38
4
0
3
Engine
36
2
0
0
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags
19
1
0
2
Service Brakes · brakes
14
2
1
1
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control
13
0
0
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
12
1
0
1
2008 Hyundai Santa FE fuel and propulsion system problems
35% of all complaints
191 of the 541 complaints are about the fuel and propulsion system. This is what owners describe:
turns on the check engine light55% · 105
sets off warning lights on the dash26% · 50
stalls5% · 9
Share of the 191 fuel and propulsion system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
Typical mileage
80,000 mi
median of 166 reports
Peak year of filing
2014
46 fuel and propulsion system complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the fuel and propulsion system
None
“The fuel tank level sensor failed and yes can be inspected. Check engine light goes on and fuel says empty with little yellow light .My mechanic checked my car and told me it was the fuel tank level sensor. Check engine light goes on and the fuel needle goes up and down to empty. When I fill the tank, the check engine light goes off and the needle rises to full.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 7, 2022
“The fuel gage keeps marking the wrong level of gas. First it went crazy going up and down. After sensors were changed, it stayed at half of tank even when full. Now the fuel system will need to be replaced again because when it reaches a certain gas level, the check engine shows up. Its random issues and all have to do with the pump, and sensors.”
Owner complaint, filed May 14, 2021 at 110,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the fuel and propulsion systemRecall (red: the fuel and propulsion system)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2008 Santa FE peaked in 2014, with 100 filed that year. No recall on file covers the fuel and propulsion system, the subject of 35% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.
Filed Apr 1, 20131,712,336 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Risk. Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-inactive12V354000
Filed Jul 25, 2012199,118 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2009 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured from April 19, 2006, through July 7, 2008. The occupant classification system (OCS) may need recalibration to accurately detect small statured adults.
Risk. Improper classification or detection may cause the front passenger airbag not to deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger.
Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the classification software free of charge. The safety recall began on September 7, 2012. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Filed Sep 9, 2011205,233 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. HYUNDAI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 HYUNDAI VERACRUZ VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 26, 2006, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2008, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 19, 2006 THROUGH MARCH 20, 2008. THE CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY FOR THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) MAY BECOME DAMAGED THROUGH USAGE OVER TIME. THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT WILL EXPERIENCE A HIGH RESISTANCE CONDITION, POTENTIALLY CAUSING THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG TO NOT DEPLOY.
Risk. IF THE CLOCK SPRING DEVELOPS HIGH RESISTANCE, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVERS AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY AND WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT THE DRIVER, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
Remedy. HYUNDAI DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VEHICLE'S DRIVER'S AIR BAG CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN IN NOVEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER CONNECT CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.
Filed Sep 3, 20083,387 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 3,387 TRAILER HITCH WIRING HARNESSES EITHER INCLUDED WITH A TRAILER HITCH OR SOLD AS A SERVICE PART MANUFACTURED BY THULE TOWING SYSTEMS AND DISTRIBUTED BY HYUNDAI FOR INSTALLATION ON MY 2007-2008 SANTA FE AND VERACRUZ VEHICLES. THE ACCESSORY TRAILER HITCH WIRING HARNESS CONVERTER MODULE IS MOUNTED TO THE TOP SURFACE OF THE REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT. SOME CIRCUIT BOARD COMPONENTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN THOROUGHLY SEALED TO PREVENT MOISTURE CONTACT. THE MOISTURE MAY RESULT IN CIRCUIT BOARD CORROSION POSSIBLY CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT.
Risk. A SHORT CIRCUIT CAN CAUSE OVERHEATING AND DAMAGE TO THE CONVERTER MODULE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Remedy. THIS RECALL SUPERSEDES A PREVIOUS RECALL CONDUCTED BY HYUNDAI AFFECTING THE SAME TRAILER HITCH WIRING COMPONENTS CONCERNING HIGH CURRENT LEAKAGE OR A SHORT CIRCUIT OF CAPACITOR C1. (PLEASE SEE 08E016). OWNERS WHO HAVE ALREADY HAD THEIR TRAILER HITCH REPAIRED UNDER THE INITIAL CAMPAIGN WILL RECEIVE A SECOND NOTICE FROM HYUNDAI TO HAVE THE NEWLY DESIGNED HARNESS INSTALLED. HYUNDAI WILL NOTIFY ALL OWNERS AND WILL REPAIR THE AFFECTED HARNESSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 13, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANT CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.
Filed Jun 19, 200888,943 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 88,943 MY 2007-2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH P235/60R18 TIRES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE LABELING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110 "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES." THE BLACK CERTIFICATION LABEL AFFIXED TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE CENTER PILLAR, INCORRECTLY LISTS THE GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATINGS (GAWR).
Risk. OVERLOADING YOUR VEHICLE MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT HANDLING AND BRAKING AND MAY CAUSE TIRE DAMAGE, RESULTING IN TIRE FAILURE AND A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. HYUNDAI WILL MAIL CORRECTED CERTIFICATION LABELS ALONG WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE AFFECTED OWNERS. THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 5, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.
Filed Feb 7, 20083,387 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. THIS RECALL HAS BEEN SUPERCEDED BY RECALL 08E-055. HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 3,387 TRAILER HITCH WIRING HARNESSES EITHER INCLUDED WITH A TRAILER HITCH OR SOLD AS A SERVICE PART MANUFACTURED BY THULE TOWING SYSTEMS AND DISTRIBUTED BY HYUNDAI FOR INSTALLATION ON MY 2007-2008 SANTA FE AND VERACRUZ VEHICLES. THE ACCESSORY TRAILER HITCH WIRING HARNESS CONVERTER MODULE IS MOUNTED TO THE TOP SURFACE OF THE REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT. HIGH CURRENT LEAKAGE OR A SHORT CIRCUIT OF CAPACITOR C1 COULD CAUSE HEAT RELATED DAMAGE TO THE WIRING HARNESS CONVERTER MODULE.
Risk. EXCESSIVE HEAT MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE REAR BUMPER AREA AND MAY POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy. HYUNDAI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL REPLACE THE TRAILER HITCH WIRING HARNESS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.
All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2008 Santa FE.
Throttle control system vulnerabilitiesDefect petition DP21003Closed
Opened Nov 12, 2021Closed Jun 20, 2023throttle and acceleration
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a petition letter dated October 10, 2021, requesting an investigation of possible defects in the electronic throttle control (ETC) system on certain Kia vehicles resulting in the opening of DP21-003. Accordingly, Model Year (MY) 2005-2016 Kia Optima/K5, MY 2006-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, MY 2006-2015 Hyundai Sonatas are all part of the subject population. The petition was originally filed as a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire that can …
Technical service bulletins
67 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2008 Santa FE. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Mar 20, 2026MA
Engine rattles noise when starting the car after sitting for more than an hour it makes that sound another issue is that when i turn the headlights on all interior lights shuts off including the instrument cluster radio and ac climate control buttons
Engine
Filed Feb 27, 2026NY
I have taken my car to my local dealership for the Service Campaign 976 (Oil Gasket leak) back in Nov 2023. Ever since then my car has had starting issues until one day it needed a jump start in 2024 during the summer. Didn't think anything of it at the time, until the beginning of 2025. Car needed a jump start in the winter before leaving for work in the morning and before going back home from work. My brother who is a auto mechanic suggested I needed a new battery by now so I did that. Once I replaced the battery on my car I noticed that I didn't have headlights, power steering or heat working in my car. He came to my home and checked my engine and noticed that my alternator was covered in oil. I remembered that I took my car to the dealership for this issue with the Service campaign. I've been back and forth with this issue between the dealership and corporate to look at this issue. The dealership can't provide any photo proof or documentation stating what work was done. The dealership claimed that Hyundai doesn't need photo proof as of 2023 and started needing it in 2024, they simple state that the work was done and sign the car off on the recall. I don't see how this isn't a safety issue when the description of the campaign says that my vehicle can shut off while driving causing a crash. I have a family that I drive in this vehicle and our safety isn't being a concerning issue with this matter because "It's outside of the warranty" that shouldn't matter if the dealership
Engine
Filed Oct 22, 2025MI
I took the car to get this recall done: Hyundai has decided to conduct a service campaign to inspect (and if necessary replace) the alternator and replace the front valve cover gasket on certain 2007-2009 model year Santa Fe vehicles. The recall was done, replacing the gasket and alternator. 2 years later the car started to stall in the middle of traffic. I returned to the dealer, dealer inspected and reported "oil found on the new alternator and oil leak found on the real valve cover gasket". I have been going back and forth on the phone with Hyundai costumer care. They said they will not redo the recall. It was not done correctly and slowly leak again. the vehicle now cut off everyday specially when i stop and go at short drives. It has also cut off in traffic. making it very dangerous. But Hyundai is telling me nothing for them to do.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 7, 2025NY
My speedometer has stopped working, I had the sensor replaced and fuses checked but it is still not working
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 28, 2025MO
Seem like it burns oil quick
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator
Filed Jul 24, 202588,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer for an undisclosed recall repair, and the contact was informed that the valve cover gasket, and the alternator were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 14, 2025OH
My suv was involved in a Roll Over accident. The front driver tire blew out causing the driver to hit the curb which caused the SUV to roll 4 times. The driver was ejected from the vehicle while wearing a seat belt and not one air bag deployed. Major safety issues
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Apr 18, 202587,000 milesKS
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing difficulty charging. The contact stated that while driving 50-60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times while driving on the highway. The vehicle was able to be jump-started. The contact stated that a mobile mechanic had inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that there was oil leaking onto the spark plugs. The contact stated that the vehicle was chugging while driving. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in Hyundai Campaign Number: 976. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for repair. The dealer diagnosed that the valve cover gasket was leaking onto the alternator and onto other unknown parts. The dealer replaced the valve cover gasket and the alternator under Hyundai Campaign Number: 976. The contact stated after driving 7-8 minutes after picking up the vehicle from the dealer, the contact noticed an abnormal odor and smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact pulled into a gas station and parked the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to take the vehicle back to the dealer. The contact stated she drove to the nearby residence of a friend instead because she needed to report to work. The contact stated upon opening the hood and starting the vehicle the following day, the contact noticed flames in the engine
Engine
Filed Mar 22, 2025FL
I had a recall on the oil leak and took care of it to dealership in Weston Fl they had car for 2 days pick car up. I replaced to alternator because it was full oil prior to me taking it to the dealership. Now a few months later there is still a leak and it’s leaking on my alternator, again same place they said they fix. I have the paperwork. I am having smoking issues that they said was fixed it, but looks like the put glue on it.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 24, 2025195,000 milesNM
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed with the cruise control activated, the contact stated that after depressing the brake pedal the cruise control briefly failed to disengage. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The Electronic Power Control (EPC) and power train warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the stop lamp switch. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V113000 (Exterior Lighting); the VIN was included, but the vehicle had already been repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 195,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 3, 2024CA
Brought 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe to Carlsbad Hyundai dealership on 12/22/23 for Service Campaign 976, due to oil leaking from the front cylinder bank’s valve cover onto the alternator. Oil could damage the alternator resulting in illumination of the charging system warning lamp and disablement of the charging system. If the vehicle is continually driven without recharging the battery, the engine will eventually shut off, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealership said the vehicle needed to be fixed but they needed to order parts and that it would take 2-3 wks. It has now been over 6 months. I have called the dealership and Hyundai America multiple times all to no avail.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 1, 2024GA
In October 2021 the alternator failed due to an oil leak from the valve cover gasket. I paid the local Hyundai dealer to replace the alternator and they also said the battery was damaged because of the failed alternator so I paid for a new battery as well. The dealer never mentioned the recall on this vehicle for the leaking valve cover and did not disclose that the leak was known to cause alternator failure. I later learned of the recall and had the valve cover repair performed under the recall. However, Hyundai has refused to reimburse me for the alternator repair that I had already previously paid for, and likewise have refused to reimburse me for the battery. Clearly the problem was due to the known defect that resulted in the recall, so I am obviously entitled to compensation for the out if pocket repair expenses. Please advise me how to proceed.
Air Bags
Filed Mar 25, 2024PA
My car has a recall, and the dealership is unable to fix it. There is also an issue with the oem control module that they are unable to get the part and unable to fix this because they do not have the correct software.
Engine
Filed Mar 14, 2024OH
Reference Number: 11520065 This is a follow up to a previously submitted incident involving this same vehicle. My first submission was May, 2023, This vehicle experienced the exact same hazardous condition on February 26, 2024. on I-75 south. After driving on an interstate highway for about 1 hour, I noticed a traffic backup and proceeded to slow down as the traffic was nearly stopped. As I slowed my car down to nearly a complete stop, the engine suddenly surged forward with high rpm's as though the accelerator was pushed to the floor. I immediately pressed on the brake pedal as hard as I could to stop the car from surging forward and then quickly decided to put the transmission into neutral so I would not hit the car in front of me. The car eventually stopped surging and may have stalled. I finally got the car to move again by turning off the ignition and restarting it. I continued on my way and did not have a similar situation for the rest of my 30 minute highway trip. Like all the times before, the floor mat was NOT involved in this sudden acceleration. Last year when I took this car to a Hyundai dealer for inspection, they could not replicate this condition. They said that I needed a new fuel level sensor in my gas tank and a new fuel pump--neither of which I agreed to because first, the gas gauge has no relation to my surging and second, the fuel pump must be working or else I could not drive the car. This surging has occurred perhaps 7 times since I have owned this car
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Feb 28, 2024205,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that after a visual inspection of underneath the vehicle, he observed excessive corrosion on the subframe. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who confirmed the excessive corrosion of the subframe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was 205,000.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 22, 2024IN
Large leak detected P0455
Engine
Filed Jan 18, 2024TX
Valve cover leak or head gasket leak
Engine
Filed Jan 4, 2024TX
Vehicle has stalled couple of times while driving. One on the service road just about to merge on the highway 1604 North after taking left turn from the Potranco road about a year ago. Steering got locked and engine died, I managed to pull over to the right shoulder into the parking lot of Med Clinic. After couple tries, I was able to get it going. There is occasional check engine light on that goes off after some time of driving and not sure if this is related to stalling of engine. There is a history of oil leak under the hood. I received recall service notice for leaking cylinder head gasket which outlined same issues that I encountered before and took vehicle to the dealership. It was kept for 2 days for service and was returned to me. There is still sign of wetted oil on the parts. There is no sign that I could see of opening and taking parts apart for the so-called completed service, dust and debris seem to be untouched. I have a doubt that service evert took place. I filed a complaint with the Hyundai Motors requesting independent assessment if gasket was actually changed. They sent an acknowledgement of receiving the complaint, but no one has contacted me.
Suspension
Filed Dec 4, 2023OH
Rusted out subframe, less than 95k miles. No “salt belt” treatment offered to this vehicle. Vehicle in Ohio since bought. Took to dealer for engine recall, found $1200 subframe replacement bill. Car was garage stored all of the time.
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 28, 2023IL
Car is unsafe to drive due to rusted out frame. The car has less than 100,000 miles on it.
Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields
Filed Jun 20, 2023NY
2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE- The car goes to the dealer every 6 months for the grease and oil and then the New York State Inspection every November. That car has been up on the lifts numerous times since 2008 and I am now just being informed the undercarriage - driver side frame was rotted. I don't think the frame could have rotted out since my last inspection in November of 2022. I found the recall was from 2017 campaign #947.I was never notified of this recall, I feel Hyundai has put me as risk to be involved in an accident if the undercarriage falls out. If it was a warranty job back in 2017 I would have been covered as I had a 10 year warranty which would have expired November 2018. Hyundai should repair the vehicle at no cost to me as I was never notified of of the recall for service campaign 947 and I would have been covered under the 1O year warranty . This was negligence on Hyundai's behalf I might not have this problem if the service campaign #947 was performed in 2017 / 2018. If they knew the campaign was out there it should have been completed with one my New York State Inspections in November of of 2017 or 2018. This question goes to Hyundai- on the invoice it states LIFETIME OIL CHANGES - why was I charged $19.98? I asked the service advisor and his was reply was we got bought out and no more free oil changes. Not a good answer - I should be grandfathered in and refunded the $21.55.
Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Jun 10, 2023FL
I change the oil on 4/18/2023 in walmart i park the car in my house i used on 04/23/2023 on i-75 southbound the oil light came out and them smoke star on the car fallow by fire me and daugther an husband where on the suv was tereffied
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 2, 202373,000 milesOH
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration. The contact stated that he shifted into neutral(N) to stop the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that two unknown sensors and the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.
Suspension
Filed Mar 29, 2023KS
The rear and drive unit is having issues loud popping sound when driving this is a major safety concern, and seems to be a huge problem across the board as I’ve been reading about on Hyundai forums
Service BrakesCrash
Filed Feb 14, 2023MD
Be guessed ABS malfunction, on 11/03/2022 on highway in bumper-to-bumper situation.speed around 40 Mph. the car front Suddenly hit braking hard, I had followed immediately hitting the braking hard but at some point became lost brake and collied at the car front, this a second time, I had another very similar situation years ago but avoided collision
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 11, 2022TX
The sunvisors for passenger and driver are defective. I have had the car since 2013 and have had to replace both visors at LEAST once a year, if not more frequently. The visor will suddenly break, swing down, impairing vision of the driver while the car is in motion, including highway speeds. I have been hit in the head several times when it breaks & swings while driving -- I am going to have a wreck eventually if Huydai does not address this defect in their visors & it is clearly a defect (check YouTube for all the hacks in how to attempt to fix it).
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 7, 2022NY
The fuel tank level sensor failed and yes can be inspected. Check engine light goes on and fuel says empty with little yellow light .My mechanic checked my car and told me it was the fuel tank level sensor. Check engine light goes on and the fuel needle goes up and down to empty. When I fill the tank, the check engine light goes off and the needle rises to full. When the gas reaches a certain level the check engine light goes on and fuel needle drops to empty . It will go up and down. This first occurred October 2022.
EngineCrash
Filed Nov 7, 2022136,397 milesTX
Head on impact rear ending a truck. Engine locked melted head gaskets and destroyed radiator
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Sep 13, 2022140,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer after receiving notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V936000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and 12V354000 (Air Bags). The dealer diagnosed the vehicle that the brake lamp switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated that while driving, the TPMS, passenger seat belt, and the ESC warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the valve cover gasket and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Structure › Body
Filed May 25, 2022FL
I noticed a Crack in the lower part of the windshield on the driver's side. I was told by Safelite there was rust around the windshield and they would not replace the windshield unless the rust was repaired.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 6, 2022NJ
Vehicle had a recall in 2017 recall#947 to perform underbody corrision prevent service. in April of 2022 vehicle was taken to a service shop for a oil change at that point the tech sent pictures of the frame that was rotted and suggested bringing the vehicle to the dealer for them to inspect. Vehicle was taken to Sansone Auto Mall in Avenel N.J. on April 22,2022 at such time pictures of rotted frame was sent to Hyundai and dealer infomed me that vehicle was unsafe to drive.Two weeks have gone by with no response from Hyundai or dealer after numerous calls. What can I do?
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Jan 24, 2022NJ
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to display an accurate current fuel level. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the fuel lines replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that they were unable to assist. The failure mileage was unavailable.
Suspension
Filed Nov 29, 202172,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while reversing out of his driveway at 1 MPH, the front end on the passenger’s side of the vehicle collapsed almost causing the wheel to detach. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. There was no injury sustained. The contact had the vehicle towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the control arm and ball joint had shattered. The contact stated that the vehicle remained at the dealer awaiting the arrival of the replacement part. The manufacturer was contacted and provided the contact a case number. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000. Repaired at cost of $1666.67 at Napelton Hyundai 3703 Northlake BLVD Lake Park Florida 33403. The car had a faulty fuel gauge which could NOT be repaired after 3 attempts. Car also experienced loss of power brakes and power steering while driving on the highway.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 14, 2021110,000 milesTX
THE FUEL GAGE KEEPS MARKING THE WRONG LEVEL OF GAS. FIRST IT WENT CRAZY GOING UP AND DOWN. AFTER SENSORS WERE CHANGED, IT STAYED AT HALF OF TANK EVEN WHEN FULL. NOW THE FUEL SYSTEM WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN BECAUSE WHEN IT REACHES A CERTAIN GAS LEVEL, THE CHECK ENGINE SHOWS UP. ITS RANDOM ISSUES AND ALL HAVE TO DO WITH THE PUMP, AND SENSORS. BEEN TRYING TO FIX THIS FOR 2 YEARS AND REPLACING THE SYSTEM SEEMS TO WORK FOR A FEW MONTHS AND THEN THE ISSUES SHOW UP AGAIN.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 9, 2021150,000 milesTN
I WAS DRIVING ON THE EXPRESSWAY WHEN MY VEHICLE PICKED UP 65 MPH. I WAS PUSHING ON MY BRAKES WHICH DIDN'T DO ANYTHING, AS I WAS APPROACHING MY EXIT I HAD MY FOOT HOLDING THE BRAKES ALL THE WAY WHICH THEN SLOWED THE CAR DOWN ENOUGH. I GOT OFF THE EXIT AND WAS MET WITH A RED LIGHT AND MY CAR ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING ALMOST CAUSING ME TO SLAM INTO THE BACK OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. I THREW MY CAR IN PARK AND IT STARTED SMOKING SO I TURNED THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY OFF. FRIGHTENING SITUATION AS I HAD MY INFANT TWINS. MAY 7 2021
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 16, 2021120,000 milesKS
FUEL GAGE DOES NOT WORK. FILL UP CAR WITH GAS AND THE TANK SHOWS EMPTY FOR DAYS AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. GETTING NEW SYSTEM DOES NOT FIX THIS ISSUE. EACH DAY YOU GET IN THE CAR IT WILL SHOW A DIFFERENT AND INACCURATE READYING. I HAVE SEEN MANY OTHER ONLINE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 9, 2021PA
I HAVE BEEN HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE BREAKING SYSTEM SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR! I HAVE CHANGED THE REAR BREAKS ROATORS AND CALIPTERS AT LEAST 3 TIMES IN THE 5 YEARS I HAVE HAD THIS CAR!! NOW MY REAR WHEELS ARE STARTING TO LOCK UP! VERY UNSAFE! I LOVE THIS CAR BUT ITS GETTING VERY COSTLY I WAS DRIVING WHEN THIS HAPPENED AND I WAS ON A STATE HWY
Electrical System
Filed Mar 4, 2021115,000 milesCA
ON HIGHWAY, CAR WOULD NO LONGER ACCELERATE AND WENT INTO LIMP MODE CAUSING ME TO SLOW TO 50 MPH AND NOT BE ABLE TO KEEP UP WITH SPEED IF TRAFFIC. PULLED OVER, DASH LIGHTS FLASHED AND CAR WOULD NOT RESTART. OIL HAD LEAKED OUT OF VALVE COVER GASKET ALL OVER THE ALTERNATOR CAUSING THE CAR TO MALFUNCTION AND BECOME INOPERABLE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 2, 202189,230 milesNY
FUEL GAUGE FAILED. THE FUEL TANK WOULD BE FULL BUT THE GAUGE READ 1/4 TANK, (RAN OUT OF GAS IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE) CONTACTED HYUNDAI, THEY WERE AWARE OF THIS ISSUE BUT OFFERED NO SOLUTION AS FAR AS RECALL, THEY STATED THE FIX WOULD COST APPROX. $600.00 WITH PARTS AND LABOR. I CHECKED THIS ISSUE ON LINE AND THIS DEFECT IN THE "FUEL SENSORS" HAS BEEN GOING ON FROM APPROX. 2007 TO 2015 EFFECTING THOUSANDS OF HYUNDAI SANTA FE'S. MY QUESTION IS, WHY HASN'T "THE HYUNDAI MOTOR CO." CORRECTED THIS SAFETY PROBLEM OR ISSUED A RECALL? THEY EXPECT CUSTOMER LOYALTY BUT IT APPEARS THE LOYALTY GOES ONLY ONE WAY. I WAS VERY HAPPY WITH MY 2008 SANTA FE BUT NOW I'M WONDERING HOW MANY OTHER SAFETY ISSUES ARE BEING COVERED UP. I WAS AT MY HYUNDAI DEALER JUST PRIOR TO THE FUEL SENSOR ISSUE LOOKING AT THE NEW PALISADE LIMITED" BUT NOW I'LL LOOK ELSEWHERE [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 12, 2020IL
PRIOR TO CONTACTING NHTSA WE CONTACTED HYUNDAI AND INFORMED THEM THAT THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE HAS RUSTED THROUGH AND WE CAN SEE THE BOTTOM OF THE INTERIOR IN THIS VEHICLE WHEN THE CAR IS ON A LIFT (THIS WAS POINTED OUT TO US BY A THIRD PARTY REPAIR SHOP AND NOT THE DEALER). IT APPEARS THAT HYUNDAI MAY BE CONCEALING DATA FROM NHTSA REGARDING CORROSION PROBLEMS ON ITS VEHICLES. WHAT IS CLEAR IS THAT HYUNDAI IS SHIRKING ITS SAFETY OBLIGATIONS AND WILL NOT COVER CORROSION, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS FUNCTIONAL OR SAFETY, IF THE WARRANTY HAS EXPIRED. BASED ON PRIOR DEALINGS WITH NHTSA I KNOW THAT RECALLS ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD IF VEHICLE SAFETY IS IN QUESTION. WHEN WE CONTACTED HYUNDAI, THEIR EXCUSE FOR WHY THE VEHICLE HAD A MASSIVE HOLE IN THE UNDERCARRIAGE WAS THAT THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN PRIMARILY IN ILLINOIS AND ILLINOIS USES SALT ON THE ROADS IN WINTER. IF I'M NOT MISTAKEN, MORE THAN HALF OF THE VEHICLES IN THE US ARE DRIVEN ON ROADS THAT ARE SALTED IN THE WINTER. THIS EXCUSE IS SIMPLY NOT ACCEPTABLE AND PERHAPS NHTSA NEEDS TO PROHIBIT HYUNDAI FROM SELLING VEHICLES IN THE NORTHERN HALF OF THE US IF THIS IS GOING TO BE HYUNDAI'S ATTITUDE. I'VE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH ANY OTHER MANUFACTURER.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 20, 2020110,000 milesCA
TAKE TO MUCH FUEL
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 16, 202080,000 milesPA
I WAS BACKING UP TO TURN AROUND AND AS I WAS TURNING MY STEERING WHEEL I HEARD AND FELT VERY LOUD PULSING THUMPS COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. I GOT OUT AND SAW MY DRIVERS SIDE FRONT WHEEL WAS LEANING OUT FROM THE VEHICLE. THE ARM BROKE OF FROM MY WHEEL ALSO I FOUND OUT WHEN I HAD IT REPAIRED THE AXEL ALSO BROKE!! GOOD THING I WASN'T ON A HIGHWAY OR DRIVING I OR OTHERS MIGHT HAVE BEEN HURT OR WORSE!!!
Suspension
Filed Nov 3, 202080,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE FRONT AXLE AND FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM AND THE FRONT AXLE FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 80,000.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 9, 2020131,009 milesFL
THE FUEL SENSOR STOPPED WORKING. PAY TO FIX IT BUT ONLY LASTED 1 MONTH AND THAN STOP WORKING AGAIN. ELECTRICAL. WAS DRIVING ON HIGHWAY HEARD A WHINING NOISE AND THEN THE CAR STARTING STALLING. WON'T TURN ON
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Sep 11, 2020142,302 milesIL
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK AND MY ESC OFF LIGHT CAME ON. AS SOON AS IT CAME ON MY BRAKES GOT TOUCHY, MY ENTIRE CAR STARTED SHAKING LIKE CRAZY, & MY CAR WOULD NOT GO OVER 20-25 MILES. I HAD TO PRESS THE BRAKES REALLY HARD BC I WAS AFRAID THAT I WAS GOING TO HIT ANOTHER CAR.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 5, 202064,900 milesIL
CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY FOR DRIVERS AIRBAG. EXPERIENCING HIGH RESISTANCE CODE. RECALL 11V472000 COVERED SOME 2008 MODELS BUT NOT MINE. AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AFTER STARTING VEHICLE ON 08/03/2020
Air Bags
Filed Aug 3, 2020100,580 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V472000 (AIR BAGS) AS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO THE FAILURE HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,580.
Structure › Body
Filed May 9, 202080,000 milesNY
FRONT SUB FRAME IS RUSTING SEVERELY. LAST INSPECTION WAS MARGINAL. INSPECTOR SAID IT PROBABLY WON'T PASS INSPECTION AT THE NEXT INTERVAL TIME. *TR
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 27, 2020GA
I HAVE A 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE THAT HAS A FAULTY FUEL LEVEL SENSOR. THE GAS GAUGE DOES NOT SHOW THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF GAS IN THE TANK AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ALWAYS ON. ABOUT 95 PERCENT OF THE TIME IT SHOWS EMPTY, EVEN AFTER FILLING UP THE TANK. SOMETIMES THE GAUGE WILL MOVE JUST OVER HALF WAY, THEN IT GOES BACK TO EMPTY. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THREE DIFFERENT SHOPS TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT AND THEY ALL SAY THAT FUEL LEVEL SENSOR NOT WORKING PROPERLY. TO FIX THIS ISSUE WILL BE BETWEEN $700 - $1000. AFTER LOOKING UP THIS ISSUE ON THE INTERNET, THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SAME ISSUE FOR THE EXACT MY MAKE, MODEL, AND YEAR VEHICLE THAT I AM MAKING THE COMPLAINT ABOUT. THIS ISSUE IS CONSENT IF I AM MOVING OR STATIONARY. THE ONLY WAY TO ENSURE I DO NOT RUN OUT OF GAS IS TO FILL UP ABOUT THE 250 MILE MARK TO MAKE SURE I DO NOT GET STRANDED. I HAVE ATTACHED A PICTURE OF THE INDICATOR AFTER FILLING UP THE TANK COMPLETELY. IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT [XXX]. THANKS IN ADVANCE ANY HELP IN THIS MATTER. REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) *CC
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 1, 202049,377 milesAZ
WITH 49,377 MILES, I ADDED PARTIAL FUEL (6.9 GALLONS) AND THE FUEL GAUGE SHOWED ZERO WITH THE FUEL LIGHT ON. AFTER A FEW DAYS THE FUEL GAUGE READ NORMALLY. SINCE THEN I'VE ADDED FUEL FIVE MORE TIMES. EACH TIME THE GAUGE WENT TO ZERO AND THEN RAMPED UP GRADUALLY. YESTERDAY, FEBRUARY 29, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON STEADY. TODAY I HAD THE ERROR CODE READ: P0463 FUEL LEVEL SENSOR A CIRCUIT HIGH INPUT. ALTHOUGH THE PART REQUIRED LISTS FOR $79.99, IT IS APPARENTLY CHANGED IN THE FUEL TANK AND VERY EXPENSIVE TO ACCESS.
Complaints 1-50 of 541, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Santa FE years to avoid: owners filed 541 complaints, 2.4 times as many as a typical Santa FE year. The most common complaint is about the fuel and propulsion system (35%).
What is the most common problem with the 2008 Hyundai Santa FE?
The fuel and propulsion system: 191 of the 541 complaints (35%) are about it. Owners most often say it turns on the check engine light (55%), sets off warning lights on the dash (26%) and stalls (5%). The typical report comes at 80,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2008 Hyundai Santa FE have?
6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 1, 2013. The largest, 13V113000, covered 1,712,336 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2008 Hyundai Santa FE problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 74,000 miles. For the fuel and propulsion system the midpoint is 80,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2008 Hyundai Santa FE?
Yes, once. DP21003 ("Throttle control system vulnerabilities") was opened Nov 12, 2021 and closed Jun 20, 2023.
Are there service bulletins for the 2008 Hyundai Santa FE?
The manufacturer filed 67 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (19), the transmission (9) and the electrical system (5). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
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 1, 2013. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.