NHTSA attached an advisory to a recall on this vehicle. Advisories apply to specific production runs — check your VIN with the manufacturer or at nhtsa.gov/recalls before driving it.
When it fails
05587055,870 milesMedian miles at failure
356 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.
Most common 2013 Hyundai Santa FE problems
236 of the 605 complaints (39%) are about the engine.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Engine
231
1
20
1
Steering
83
3
1
3
Unknown or Other
39
0
5
0
Service Brakes · brakes
38
2
1
1
Power Train · transmission
35
1
0
1
Electrical System
35
0
6
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
15
1
1
1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes
15
1
3
0
Suspension
13
1
0
0
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system
12
0
0
0
2013 Hyundai Santa FE engine problems
39% of all complaints
236 of the 605 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:
sets off warning lights on the dash25% · 60
stalls20% · 47
turns on the check engine light19% · 45
knocks, grinds or clunks17% · 40
smokes or smells of burning14% · 33
burns oil or loses oil pressure12% · 29
Share of the 236 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
“The engine component that failed was the connecting rod. The situation was that the engine seized randomly in the middle of an airport tunnel as I was attempting to pick up my parents and leave. There were no warning lights, no abnormal engine sounds, and no unusual activity beforehand.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 31, 2024
“The engine on our 2013 Santa Fe Limited has seized. We have maintained this vehicle with regular oil changes, breaks, tires, and anything else our trusted mechanic has recommended. While driving, the car slowed down considerably and was not accelerating. No dashboard lights appeared. This was during evening rush hour and became very dangerous. I pulled over to the shoulder and called for help.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 31, 2024
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2013 Santa FE peaked in 2013, with 72 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 39% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.
3 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module23V651000Park outside
Filed Sep 22, 20231,649,478 vehiclesHyundai Motor America
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.
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.
Filed Aug 12, 201320,300 vehiclesHyundai Motor Company
Defect. Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2013 front wheel drive Santa Fe Sport vehicles manufactured July 13, 2012, through March 12, 2013; and equipped with 2.4 liter engines. Due to a manufacturing issue, the right front axle shaft may fracture.
Risk. A fractured front axle may result in a loss of power to the wheels. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied, it may roll away. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle shaft assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 19, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai Custom Care Center at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall number is 112.
All 3 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. 8 name the 2013 Santa FE.
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module FiresAudit query AQ23002Open
Opened Nov 17, 2023brakes
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, …
Loss of Motive PowerDefect petition DP22003Closed
Opened Sep 12, 2022Closed Dec 12, 2023engine
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional …
Engine FiresEngineering analysis EA21003Closed
Opened Dec 22, 2021Closed Feb 5, 2024Led to recall 23V877engine
On March 29, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened two Preliminary Evaluations (PE19-003 on Hyundai and PE19-004 on Kia) to broadly investigate incidents of non-crash fires (regardless of origin or operational status of the vehicle) on various model year Hyundai and Kia vehicles. During the PE investigations, Hyundai and Kia issued several recalls to address vehicle fires, including those due to engine failures involving various engine types. The remedies for the engine failure recalls typically involve engine inspection (to detect existing damage), and if necessary, engine …
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 …
Opened Mar 29, 2019Closed Dec 22, 2021Led to recall 20V061000electrical system
During this Preliminary Evaluation (PE), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) assessed the scope, frequency and potential safety-related consequences of non-crash vehicle fires caused by both engine failures and failures of other vehicle systems/components in model year (MY) 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles equipped with Theta II and Lambda II engines (approximately 1.3 million vehicles). ODI also reviewed field data of other Hyundai vehicles equipped with Theta II, Gamma, Nu and Lambda engines (approximately 4.8 million). As a result of this PE, Hyundai has issued NHTSA …
Opened Aug 21, 2018Closed May 10, 2019Led to recall 18V907000electrical system
In a letter dated June 11, 2018, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into non-collision related fires on model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima and Sorento, and Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles. In a letter dated July 24, 2018, CAS requested that MY 2010-2015 Kia Soul vehicles be added to the petition. CAS stated that there is a higher number of complaints to NHTSA regarding non-crash fires on these vehicles compared to other similar vehicles. The Office of Defects Investigation …
Scope and TimelinessRecall query RQ17004Closed
Opened May 18, 2017Closed Dec 22, 2021Led to recall 17V226000engine
NHTSA opened Recall Query (RQ) 17-004 to investigate the timeliness and scope of Hyundai?s Theta II GDI engine recalls (Recall Nos. 15V-568 and 17V-226), and Hyundai?s compliance with reporting requirements. On November 23, 2020, the Agency entered into a Consent Order with Hyundai to administratively resolve NHTSA?s assertions of violations of law in connection with RQ17-004. NHTSA?s assertions included that Hyundai may be liable for civil penalties on multiple grounds, including the untimeliness of Recall Nos. 15V-568 and 17V-226, inaccuracies in Hyundai?s recall reports, and that a …
Front Axle Shaft FailurePreliminary evaluation PE13025Closed
Opened Jul 5, 2013Closed Sep 20, 2013Led to recall 13V355000transmission
In a letter dated August 9, 2013, Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc. (Hyundai-Kia) submitted two Defect Information Reports (DIR) to NHTSA identifying a safety defect related to fracture of the right front axle shaft in MY 2013 front wheel drive Hyundai Santa Fe Sport vehicles built from July 13, 2012 through March 12, 2013 and MY 2014 front wheel drive Kia Sorento vehicles built from January 7 through March 12, 2013 (Recall Nos. 13V-355 and 13V-356).According to Hyundai-Kia, the right front axle driveshaft may develop a crack in the area of the stub at the wheel end of the shaft due …
Technical service bulletins
161 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2013 Santa FE. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
electrical system 45equipment 25engine 24transmission 22brakes 8steering 6body and frame 5equipment adaptive/mobility 4
Z01 LetterWarranty extensionMay 23, 2026electrical system
Certain 2012 – 2017 model year Accent, 2012 – 2017 model year Azera, 2013 – 2018 model year Santa Fe Sport, 2013 – 2019 model year Santa Fe, and 2012 – 2017 model year Veloster vehicles may exhibit an intermittent airbag warning light and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may be set. At Hyundai, we are committed to providing vehicles of outstanding quality …
26-BE-011H TSBWarranty extensionApr 25, 2026electrical system
Some vehicles listed below may exhibit an intermittent airbag warning light and DTC(s) B1763 (OCS ECU Defect), and/or B1764 (OCS Mat Defect) may be stored. Hyundai is extending the warranty coverage of the sensor for the Occupant Classification System (OCS) / Occupant Detection System (ODS) to 18 years/unlimited mileage from the date of original retail …
26-BE-011H DNWarranty extensionApr 25, 2026electrical system
Some vehicles listed below may exhibit an intermittent airbag warning light and DTC(s) B1763 (OCS ECU Defect), and/or B1764 (OCS Mat Defect) may be stored. Hyundai is extending the warranty coverage of the sensor for the Occupant Classification System (OCS) / Occupant Detection System (ODS) to 18 years/unlimited mileage from the date of original retail …
26-EM-002H DNWarranty extensionFeb 11, 2026engine
Certain Santa Fe / Santa Fe XL (NC) vehicles equipped with 3.3L Lambda II GDI engines may exhibit abnormal engine noise or damage. This service procedure describes to inspect the engine and perform the proper repair based on the results of the inspection. Utilize the flowcharts as a guide to ensure the proper procedure and repair is performed. The warranty …
Certain Palisade (LX2) and Santa Fe (NC) vehicles equipped with Lambda II 6-cylinder engines may exhibit higher-than-expected engine oil consumption. This bulletin outlines the combustion chamber cleaning procedure for vehicles diagnosed with this condition. All internal combustion engines consume some engine oil during normal operation, depending on …
Certain vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines may exhibit higher-than-expected engine oil consumption. This bulletin provides the inspection and repair procedures for vehicles exhibiting this condition. All internal combustion engines consume engine oil as part of normal engine operation. Oil consumption rates may vary based on mileage, …
Certain Santa Fe / Santa Fe XL (NC) vehicles equipped with 3.3L Lambda II GDI engines may exhibit abnormal engine noise or damage. This bulletin describes the procedure to inspect the engine and perform the proper repair based on the results of the inspection. Utilize the flowcharts as a guide to ensure the proper procedure and repair is performed. The …
Certain Santa Fe / Santa Fe XL (NC) vehicles equipped with 3.3L Lambda II GDI engines may exhibit abnormal engine noise or damage. Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 26-EM-002H describes the procedure to inspect the engine and perform the proper repair based on the results of the inspection. Utilize the flowcharts as a guide to ensure the proper procedure and …
HSE25-12-P270Warranty extensionAug 15, 2025engine
The warranty coverage of certain engines for repairs and replacement has been extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles (15years or 240,000km) from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use, whichever occurs first, and is valid for original and subsequent owners in Puerto Rico.
Showing the newest 6 of 24 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 16, 2026TX
I was driving my car and my “open” door light came on out of nowhere. When I stopped I got out and closed my door the light turned off. When I was driving again the light came on and when I tried to open my door, it got stuck. I had someone try to open it from the outside and it sounded like it unlatched but wouldn’t open. Now I have to hold the door when I’m driving because it sounds like the door is not shut all way even though it won’t open at all.
Engine
Filed Jul 29, 2025TX
Burning oil fast has been confirmed. I always go get frequently oil changes and top off Because it burns a lot. I never get a warning lamp When I go toc get my oil service representative tells me my oil is completely gone.
Engine
Filed Jun 30, 2025MO
While I acknowledge that my vehicle is no longer under warranty, I remain extremely concerned about the excessive oil consumption issue. My vehicle is equipped with the Theta II engine, which has been the subject of multiple class action lawsuits and recalls due to serious engine defects, including excessive oil consumption and internal engine failure. To be clear, I have already had the vehicle inspected by a non-Hyundai dealership, which confirmed there are no external oil leaks. This indicates the issue is likely internal and consistent with the known defects associated with the Theta II engine. Given Hyundai’s awareness of these problems — as reflected in class action settlements and technical service bulletins — I believe it is reasonable to expect Hyundai to cover the cost of diagnostic inspection and consider goodwill assistance if a defect is confirmed. Hyundai got back to me but and said We have reviewed your vehicle information and have determined your vehicle is affected by Campaign TXX8. However it’s over the 150000 miles
Engine
Filed Jun 4, 2025OK
While driving to work the gas pedal suddenly would not make the vehicle Excellerate and i was barely able to get the car on the side of the road, when i stopped and turned it off it would not start again. I had it towed to the mechanic and they have let us know it was total engine failure, and they would be attempting to get ahold of the manufacture.
Engine
Filed May 30, 2025MO
2013 Santa Fe burning oil, current with regular maintenance and oil changes. At times will have to top off weekly. Between full oil changes. Doesn’t seem like I should have to do that. My engine could blow if I don’t keep oil in it. Cost me tons of money Have documented all of my oil changes, from a professional business Thank you.
Engine
Filed Mar 21, 2025NC
The engine completely failed while I was driving. This is the second engine failure I’ve experienced with this vehicle. My first engine blew at 100,000 miles, and despite having a warranty, Hyundai refused to cover it. In a panic, I had to deplete my savings to buy a replacement engine, which only lasted six months before failing again. Hyundai still refuses to cover the second failure. The failed engine may still be available for inspection if needed. I was driving on the highway with both of my children when the engine completely shut off in the middle of the road. This left us stranded in a dangerous situation with speeding cars all around us. A sudden engine failure at high speeds could have caused a major accident, risking my life, my children’s lives, and other drivers' safety. The failure was confirmed by a service center, but Hyundai refuses to take responsibility for the defect or provide coverage under my warranty. The vehicle has been inspected by a service center, but Hyundai has refused to inspect or assist in any way. There were no warning lamps or messages before the engine shut down. The failure was sudden and unexpected, leaving me in a life-threatening situation on the highway.
Engine
Filed Mar 8, 2025NE
O don’t appreciate someone activating my vin the same day the remedy comes out on compaign , this had been ongoing battle since 2018 when it states on the website they will replace the engine , when it had a theta engine settlement but thanks to the bearus exposures if info n loss of employee, employment data missing ti why I get denials the Chinese that infiltrated Equifax this vehicle was manufactured out of Georgia issues with dealer m notifying corporate when violation of the fair credit reporting act , off cc reports tampering with my insurance policy n these POs place there names in my policy in 2018 loss of years off n on of employment , medical n o gotta stew L pay to detain a pos car I absolutely love until they destroyed my life , nice to find a pos male in my medical records when it’s fraud , n I gotta fight every aspect of everything when I’ve been deprived hacked n comprised no data available on this vehicle hmmm , fishy to me , whew Did I spent most my time at work, home , or the dam Library this is a violation of the law privacy , national public data exposure of brokers my social , not only that my primary email was connected to blue link Hyundai n that email been hacked n comprised n I gave not been able to access shows it.connected To my old Facebook n my old cell phone orginal do not call.gov if your in violation of the Law , consumer im cheating and stealing I can’t get anywhere but why would they remove phone numbers n documents n numbers are there n etc
Suspension
Filed Mar 2, 2025MI
Rear subframe is rotted out prematurely, other vins had this issue recalled but my vin was not included in the recall even though I have all the same issues as the vehicles that were recalled
Engine
Filed Jan 29, 2025MI
Unknown car was purchased in september started having engine problem in december
Steering
Filed Jan 24, 2025NY
Car will drift under acceleration to the left really hard then go straight when let off the accelerator scary feeling and all suspension parts look ok no one can figure it out and is scary
Electrical System
Filed Jan 8, 2025MN
Engine has always burned oil and vehicle only has 72,000 miles on it.leaking black liquid/oil out exhaust pipe, blowing out Black clouds of smoke and have to keep adding oil. Whole rear end had to be replaced, timing chain and cover replaced, AC unit replaced, rear camera replaced, climate controls change settings by them selves, leaking gaskets, all this and more has been going on with this vehicle when it only had 35,000 Miles on it. Front suspension creaks for years. No way a vehicle should have all these issues with low mileage and has been very well cared for!
Engine
Filed Dec 10, 2024MS
All of a sudden, while driving the car it started to shake. When I slowed down to stop it was shaking more and idling so low I thought it was going to shut off. Went to the mechanic we use, mis firing on multiple cylinders. After replacing the plugs it was still doing the same thing. The oil was checked, only 2000 miles from my last oil change, I was nearly out of oil. I was told that these cars run a lot of oil, and run hot. Basically getting that low on oil the engine burned up. I never got a low oil light. Its only been 2000 miles into my recent oil change. The mechanic said this is a common problem with these cars, people shouldn't go more than 2000 without at least checking oil level and probably will need oil added. I was told not to drive it anymore, it could potentially over heat or stall out.
Service Brakes
Filed Dec 3, 2024FL
Abs module making noise abs light turn on, parking brake stay on, traction light stay on, odometer does not work, speedometer does not work, steering effort decrease, car also stop all of sudden. Car need it to be tow to my house. I took it to dealership they recommended to replace abs module because of a short. I found a recall for ABS MODULE INSPECTION AND MULTI-FUSE INSTALLATION for my santa fe sport 2013 (RECALL CAMPAIGN 205) but my vin #[XXX] does not appear when enter into system to look for recalls. JUNE, 2021 SANTA FE SPORT (AN). The part number in my car is the same as the one in the recall. Module Part #58920-4Z000QQH. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine
Filed Nov 26, 2024TX
My 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is consuming a quart of oil and more within a 7-10 day time period. I took it to my local Hyundai dealership but it's not covered by a recall for this and there are No open recalls.
FirerelatedFire
Filed Nov 4, 2024FL
The contact's mother owned a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact's mother received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). An unknown dealer was made aware of the issue but informed the contact's mother that the recall was not urgent and there was no fire risk. The unknown dealer-scheduled an upcoming appointment for the recall repair. The contact stated that the failure later occurred while her mother was inside the store. The vehicle caught fire while parked in the parking lot. The flames spread to a nearby pillar. The fire department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. There were no injuries sustained. A fire department report was filed; however, the contact didn't have any additional information. The vehicle was towed to the tow yard, where it was deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
EngineFire
Filed Oct 28, 2024SC
The engine went on fire and smoke’s up. I had to remove the battery and get out of the car before it burn. Luckily I am okay but the engine seized
Engine
Filed Oct 24, 2024SC
The car has class action repair due to faulty engine crank shaft. The oil passages in the crankshaft causing rapid wear to the connecting rod bearings. The car stopped and broke down in the middle of the highway and engine broke down. The engine completely seized. I contacted Hyundai but they don’t wanna replace the engine. The class action lawsuit agreed to replace the engine but they don’t wanna help with my case
Engine
Filed Aug 16, 2024FL
I purchased a used 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe from a Dealership in January and the engine locked up in July. I originally had the vehicle towed to my ASE Certified Mechanic and they advised me the engine was locked up and also that there was a RECALL on this model year's engine. I then had my Santa Fe towed to the local Hyundai dealership, King Hyundai. There is a Recall on the engine and I entered my VIN# on Hyundai's website and it said my vehicle was AFFECTED under the "Sonata and Santa Fe Sport Engine Recall". I had it towed to King Hyundai in Deerfield Beach, FL. They initially denied my claim and requested prior Maintenance Records which I did not have because I recently purchased the vehicle. They said they needed prior records, so I was able to obtain the records from CarFax and it showed my vehicle was also maintained at the same King Hyundai dealership on a regular basis. I filed a claim with Hyundai Corporate and they are giving me the run-around and denying my claim. I did not drive the car excessively as it only has a 4 cylinder motor and it was not neglected. There was a $210 Million dollar fine against Hyundai by the NHTSA in 2020 for their handling of this EXACT SAME issue: the handling of the engine recalls on this same Model year Hyundai Santa Fe and they are still doing what they were fined a $210M Civil Penalty for doing a few years ago, so obviously they did not learn their lesson. The Hyundai consent order is for three years, with an option for NHTSA to exten
Engine
Filed Aug 11, 2024MO
My wife was driving the vehicle and it was operating perfectly fine. As she was making a turn and accelerating the check engine light and other lights turned on. She started to experience loss of acceleration and was fortunate to get out of traffic where she turned off the vehicle. She let it sit for a little bit and then attempted to start it. It would not start so I came to try to help and when I attempted to start it, the engine would not turn over. We had it towed to our mechanic and he indicated that the engine was seized up. This vehicle is always serviced and babied by my wife. As I mentioned there was no warning, I.e. no rough idle, no loud noises, no leaking fluids,etc.. Prior to the catastrophic failure it was a very smooth and great driving vehicle. After searching this issue it appears that the 3.3 liter V6 that was in our vehicle has several recalls and accounts of similar failures. Had this happened on the highway it could have caused a serious accident. Given the number of complaints online and allegations, it is reasonable to assume that Hyundai was aware of an issue and they either failed to investigate it, or failed to communicate it. Had there been some sort of recall to address this issue we would’ve had it resolved, but there wasn’t anything tied to our VIN despite us having one of the plagued engines. Please help ensure that they are held responsible for this known liability so that the consumers aren’t. It is not only a financial matter, it is causing r
Engine
Filed Aug 5, 2024MO
I was stopped at a red light and proceeded to turn right when my car shut down. I was able to pull over and turned my car off. It wouldn’t turn back on. I had it towed and they found the engine is locked up.
Engine
Filed Jul 31, 2024AL
The engine component that failed was the connecting rod. The situation was that the engine seized randomly in the middle of an airport tunnel as I was attempting to pick up my parents and leave. There were no warning lights, no abnormal engine sounds, and no unusual activity beforehand. I have heard from a certified Hyundai dealer that this problem is becoming common on my vehicle and that they have, in fact seen several cases where the engine randomly seized. I do not have access to the engine that seized anymore as I have replaced it with a used one so I would not be able to provide it for investigation. I am not sure if a Hyundai manufacturer has checked the problem out.
Engine
Filed Jul 31, 2024NJ
The engine on our 2013 Santa Fe Limited has seized. We have maintained this vehicle with regular oil changes, breaks, tires, and anything else our trusted mechanic has recommended. While driving, the car slowed down considerably and was not accelerating. No dashboard lights appeared. This was during evening rush hour and became very dangerous. I pulled over to the shoulder and called for help. Once the tow arrived, we started the car and the check engine light came on. I checked the oil, it looked good. Tow truck driver took it to the dealership. Dealership said the car had no oil and that the engine has seized. I saw that there was oil before the driver took the car. So, that's not possible. The dealership said they added oil and that we would need a new engine. After discussing with the dealership my very expensive option, I have been researching the recalls and problems others have been having with the exact same thing happening. If there was no oil, why wasn't the oil light coming on? Why am I not due for an oil change for 1000+ mile? Putting my family at risk in a well maintained car that should last 75k-100k more miles is a huge problem. I will continue to fight this until myself and others receive the proper care from Hyundai.
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 27, 2024CA
The left back door of the vehicle is not operational. This issue is causing significant concern, especially in potential emergency situations where access through this door may be crucial. It is imperative that this problem is addressed promptly to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 19, 2024115,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while depressing the brake pedal, the pedal extended to the floorboard and the stopping distance was extended. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who flushed the brake lines and replaced the brake master cylinder, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer, but no further information was available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact stated that the vehicle was also experiencing excess oil consumption. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The failure mileage was 115,000. The VIN was not available.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 13, 2024GA
Hyundai Recall HY251, NHTSA 23V651000. The ABS Module is failing. This issue may cause the car to catch fire while driving or parked. I've taken the car to multiple dealers. The ABS light is on, the Traction Assist light is on, the Down Hill Assist light is on, and the Parking Brake light is on. The dealers are more than happy to provide standard maintenance services, but are evidently unable to get the part to fix this issue. One dealer told me they could replace the entire ABS Module, but the manufacture would not approve it. This car is my main form of transportation and is causing me enormous stress not knowing when or where my car is going to catch on fire, and if it'll end up causing damage to other people's property. Hyundai has had more than sufficient time to address this issue and to make the corrective parts available to dealers.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 11, 2024NJ
Ani-Lock Brake System Unable to get an appointment to get the part repaired Have been trying for over a month to bring the car in & was told that there was a worldwide glitch & the dealership was unable to get the parts to fix the problem
Engine
Filed Jul 11, 2024MI
Hyundai sent a notification a few years ago about a known manufacturing defect in the engine of the 2013 Santa Fe Sport. Stated that due to the manufacturing process of the engine, burs could be left inside that could disrupt oil flow causing it to stall. Stated a software patch would prevent this. The patch was completed. It didn't prevent this. While getting on the highway, during afternoon noon rush hour traffic, experienced total engine failure as soon as it reached highway speed. Got off the ramp onto the highway and immediately next ramp rolled to a stop at the bottom. Safety was put at risk because the vehicle lost it's engine getting on a freeway in heavy traffic. Hyundai dealers couldn't see the car for 2 to 3 months so had it towed to a non-dealership mechanic who stated the engine was a total loss with metal shavings in the oil drained from the pan. Pulled the head and found the oil at the top of the block to be in good maintenance shape but engine totally failed. No lights or warnings prior to the failure. As soon as the engine stopped there was alternator, oil pressure, and check engine light. Those came on after loss of engine Hyundai states they extended the warranty to cover this because it's a known issue but local dealerships state they have so many engine failures they won't be able to look at it until the end of September (we are at the beginning of July) and when they do get a chance to look at it there is a chance they could refuse to cover it. Contacted
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Jun 28, 2024141,884 milesCA
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered with an abnormal burning odor coming from the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that several days later the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed with a blown engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the contact had not yet received the recall notification. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was not related to the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 141,884.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 5, 2024NM
When we received the notification about the Anti-Lock Brake System fuse recall, we called our nearest dealer (Larry H. Miller Hyundai) to make an appointment and found out we had to wait almost four weeks to be seen. When it finally was our appointment day, we brought the car in and we found out that they could only test to see if we needed the Anti-Lock Brake System fuse. We of course failed and were told that they ordered the part and would call when it was available within 2-3 days. Five days went by and we never heard back so we called them to find out what was happening with the part. The service agent let us know that since Hyundai only allocates five of these parts to them per day, they have to inform customers as they were seen by the dealership. Which was different from what we were told initially. We then asked, how long would we have to wait and they said at least three to four weeks before we were called that the part was available to us. We waited a month just for the appointment, now we have to wait another month just for the part and possibly another month for another appointment just to have the part put on our car. We always assumed when there is a recall, your car would be fixed right away. Never have we had to wait for a part especially when its for a recall. Its ridiculous that Hyundai only gives five parts for this recall, when it affects so many cars to each dealer.
Service Brakes
Filed Jun 3, 2024AL
This complaint relates to Recall Campaign 251 from Hyundai, specifically the ABS Control Module. I own an affected 2013 Hyundai Sante Fe Sport. I bought it used in October 2023, and it driven by my minor child. While the affected components have yet to cause a problem, the mere fact that this vehicle could start on fire concerns me. Moreover, Hyundai has the wherewithal to fix the problem, rather than simply replacing a fuse and hoping for the best. As a father, it is my privilege and responsibility to protect and provide for my family. In order for me to do this, I would like NHTSA to throw the full weight of their influence on Hyundai and insist that they fix this problem. The very least they could do is provide a suitable vehicle as a loaner until my vehicle is fixed. Better yet, they can buy this vehicle and I will use that money to buy the same, or nearly same, type of vehicle from them. That is a win-win situation in my opinion. I am a retired State Trooper and for over half of my career I conducted numerous Traffic Homicide Investigations and Accident Reconstructions. I lost count of how many civil trials I testified in. I was considered a subject matter expert in several areas, including vehicle equipment failure. This is a lawsuit waiting to happen. More importantly, if this issue is not fixed, people are going to die because of Hyundai's malfeasance. Thank you for your time. I am committed to following through on this and will be watching very closely how both Hyund
Engine
Filed May 24, 2024SC
While driving at highway speed (70 mph) on 4/2/2024, the engine without any warning suffered an internal detonation caused by a crank shaft main bearing failure. This caused a vaporization of all the engine oil which was ejected through the vehicle exhaust system in a massive cloud of smoke which blinded the 18 wheeler tractor trailer traveling behind our vehicle. But for the fast response of this truck driver our vehicle would have been rear ended at high speed. Note that Hyundai USA had issued a recall a few years back regarding this Theta 2 engine failure condition that DID NOT include our vehicle. Nor did Hyundai USA inform us at anytime prior to this incident that our vehicle was in need of remediation. Hyundai USA did replace the engine under an extenuating circumstance but has declined to repair our exhaust system components that were destroyed along with the engine at the time of this incident. They have also declined towing expense / dealership diagnostic expense on the exhaust system / replacement of vehicle splash guard damaged in this incident / loss of use / transportation reimbursement. Any and all costs to us associated with this incident.
Unknown or OtherFire
Filed May 22, 2024WY
I was driving when it stalled out while driving and people helped me push my car out of turning lane to safety. The hood engulfed in flames. It was out the blue I had just bought the car a few months earlier. I was notified later that there was a recall on the car that caused fires but was unaware at the time
Engine
Filed May 20, 2024WA
I was driving on the backroads on my way into town. I passed a vehicle and then slowed down to regular speed, when I tried to accelerate again my car would not accelerate. It began making like a clanking noise before it completely slowed down and I pulled over. I turned it off right away and had a friend come give us charge thinking it was the battery. It turned on but when I tried accelerating it would not and began making a weird noise and white smoke came out of the engine somewhere. I had to get it towed back to my house. No check engine lights turned on or any warning lights. My car has not been drivable for a month.
Engine
Filed May 15, 2024PA
I was driving along and without any notification the engine stopped running causing me to have to try to get the car off of the road. It would not start back up and I had to have it towed to my house.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Apr 30, 2024MI
See attached document for complaint
Service Brakes, HydraulicFire
Filed Apr 24, 2024190,000 milesTX
The contact owns a.2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that while parked, he observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment. The contact opened the hood and observed flames coming from the center of the motor and extinguished the fire. The fire department was made. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the fire started due to fuel rail malfunctioned and melting the hard plastic manifold causing the fire, and the fuel rail and intake manifold needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.
Engine
Filed Apr 24, 2024CT
Engine failed in the middle of a 2 lane highway. There were no warning lights on at the time of failure. Vehicle needed to be towed to owners home and engine is “ blown “ and vehicle has been rendered no longer drivable. Vehicle only had 128,322 miles at time of engine failure. Police needed to be contacted to assist with getting car out of lane.
Service BrakesFire
Filed Apr 17, 2024NY
I have a Hyundai 2013 Santa Fe Sport 2.0T. I parked the car in the middle of my cement driveway. I went into my home for a moment to get my Stanley water bottle. When I walked back to the car, the engine compartment was on fire. I had 2 fire extinguishers and attempted to put out the fire by to no avail. My daughter immediately called 911 to report the fire. The fire department came and it took about 8-10 fireman to put the fire under control. I have owned all types of cars for the past 40-years. I have never seen a car go up in flames and burn to the ground in about one minute. Had I parked my car in the garage my entire house would have burn down while potentially killing my entire family. I called my insurance company (Geico) to advise them of the fire and asked them to contact Hyundai about the matter. Geico said its not their responsibility. I'm having difficulty contacting Hyundai to report this serious fire before some other family gets killed. I never was notified about any type of dangerous recall with the entire car burning down. I will try to contact Hyundai again tomorrow morning (XXX). Please help me with this matter as Hyundai must be held accountable for this fire almost killing my entire family. More importantly I wish to help prevent a similar situation for another family in the future. Thank You, [XXX] [XXX] or [XXX] ) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Structure › Body
Filed Apr 16, 2024FL
My door lock actuator has gone out once again and it seems to be a common issue i believe it could potentially be a safety hazard if the actuator goes out and driver is unaware could potentially get drivers or other passengers stuck in vehicle.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 11, 2024MD
Doors unlock without warning while driving.
Service Brakes
Filed Apr 9, 2024KY
See attached document for complaint
EngineFire
Filed Apr 9, 2024CA
I was driving the vehicle on the left lane of the freeway and the acceleration suddenly gave out. The car began to slow even when I pushed on the gas. Heat gage was fine and no lights went on. I quickly got over 4 lanes of traffic to the next exit and was able to pull over to the side of the road. White smoke began to billow out of the hood on the offramp and all the emergency light indicators came on at once. I turned the car off and the smoke turned black. I popped the hood and flames leapt out from under the hood. I jump out of the car and ran, leaving everything behind. I got safety away from the car and called 911. All of this happened within 2 minutes of losing acceleration. I typically have my two children in car seats in the car for school drop off and, [XXX] , they weren't with me. The fire overtook the front quickly and spread to the main cabin. By the time the fire department arrived (appx. 5-7 min) the car was completely engulfed. Nothing was salvaged. There is a fire report with the fire department. The police were not called. The car had gone through a full inspection and oil change one month prior and had no warning signs or issues. I lost a number of things in the car, including my purse, work items, kid's items, car seats, etc. Just after the incident, I developed a cough and severe headache that lasted two days. I also twisted my knee while running away, exacerbating an old injury. I am also dealing with acute mental health symptoms and am seeing a psycholog
Engine
Filed Apr 7, 2024MO
My engine failed at an intersection exiting highway. Found out this is a recalled engine. Vehicle stalled, without any warning. Lights came on after the stall. Vehicle would not restart. Had to wait at intersection for tow truck. Vehicle currently at reed hyundai Missouri, under going a 6 month wait to be told crankshaft part of engine failed. Hyundai not wanting to cover their recalled engine.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 1, 2024WA
Hyundai is taking an extensive period of time to repair a current recall. Owners were notified to park vehicles away from other structures and other vehicles. Since I've had to park my vehicle outside of my garage, my vehicle has been broken into. I installed remote start because I physically was unable to scrape the ice off my windshield. The delays in this "fix' have cost me frustration and money. I've called Hyundai each month to check in and nobody has an answer. As of this moment, we have no notification of how soon a repair can be made. I'd like to sell or trade my vehicle in, but with an open recall without a current repair, the value is not the same.
Engine and Engine CoolingFire2 injured
Filed Mar 29, 2024138,000 milesHI
The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, a gasoline and smoke odor was ventilating into the interior of the vehicle through the vents, after which the driver observed flames emanating from the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle, prompting him to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. Upon exiting the vehicle, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. Local emergency services arrived and were able to extinguish the fire. The ABS warning light was illuminated. A fire report was filed. A police report was reported, and injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. The contact stated that though medical treatment was not sought, the driver sustained minor injuries to his right arm, and a passenger sustained a quarter-sized burn to his right leg. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 138,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 25, 2024CO
Hyundai announced recall over 6 months ago and there is still no remedy. Manufacturer Recall Number 251 NHTSA Recall Number 23V651000 They advise to park outside. I've been parking outside for these 6 months, while I have a perfectly good garage available. Since I've been parking outside, I've been concerned over a number of issues: safety walking outside at night, possible theft, slipping on ice/snow (which I've done a couple of times). My windshield also got cracked. While I can't prove that happened while parked outside, I think that it was. This vehicle has had many recalls before, but nothing that ever took this long. Is there any way to push this along?
Suspension
Filed Mar 21, 2024CT
We brought our vehicle into the dealer for a recall for undercoating on [XXX]. The work was completed by Tarbox Hyundai in north kingstown ri. We noticed our car started drifting to the right and our tire was out of align. We brought the car to our local mechanic and were told that the entire under carriage is rotting away and needs to be replaced. I feel Hyundai should be responsible for this because they knew about it and didn't tell us. Instead they just did the undercoating trying to hide the fact that is was completely rotted. thank you INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 21, 2024GA
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 20, 2024PA
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 20, 2024TX
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sante Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 ( Service Brakes, Hydraulic), however, the part to repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable time to remedy the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Complaints 1-50 of 605, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Santa FE years to avoid: owners filed 605 complaints, 2.7 times as many as a typical Santa FE year. The most common complaint is about the engine (39%).
What is the most common problem with the 2013 Hyundai Santa FE?
The engine: 236 of the 605 complaints (39%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (25%), stalls (20%) and turns on the check engine light (19%). The typical report comes at 92,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2013 Hyundai Santa FE have?
3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 22, 2023. 1 of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. The largest, 23V651000, covered 1,649,478 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2013 Hyundai Santa FE problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 55,870 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 92,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2013 Hyundai Santa FE?
Yes, 8 times. The latest, AQ23002 ("Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires"), was opened Nov 17, 2023 and is still open.
Are there service bulletins for the 2013 Hyundai Santa FE?
The manufacturer filed 161 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (45), the engine (24) and the transmission (22). They include a warranty extension, Z01 Letter, filed May 23, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.
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: Sep 22, 2023. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.