← New search
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
The verdict
2 things going for it, 4 to watch.
Cons
Official recall campaigns exist for this vehicle. See the Safety Recalls section for what failed and how it's fixed.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Safety Recalls
At least one recall is serious enough that owners are told to park away from buildings. Treat this as urgent.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Safety Recalls
66 of 192 owner complaints are about the engine. Tap it in the heatmap to read the real reports.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
16 complaint(s) involved a crash and 11 involved a fire.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
Pros
Earned a strong overall government crash-test rating.
Why we say this — NHTSA — 5-Star Safety Ratings
192 complaints ranks #3 of 24 popular 2019 models we track (fewest first, snapshot 2026-07-10). Raw counts partly reflect how many were sold — see "How it compares" below.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
Neutral
Official EPA fuel economy. We show this as a neutral fact — whether it's 'good' depends on the vehicle's class.
Why we say this — U.S. EPA / DOE — fueleconomy.gov
Take this with you:
★★★★★Crash-test safety
0Safety recalls
0Owner complaints
14% involved a crash or fire
21–25Combined MPG
ℹ️ Recalls & complaints are reported per model — the same across every trim & engine. Fuel economy (and crash ratings by body style) can vary — use the pickers in those sections.
Safety Recalls
Official recall campaigns. Tap one to see the danger and the fix.
What is a recall, really?
A recall means the government made the manufacturer admit a safety defect — and the fix is free at any dealer, forever, even for used cars. Recalls range from a software update to "the steering wheel can detach," so read the danger line on each one. Buying used? Ask the seller for proof each recall was completed, or have a dealer run the VIN. Recalls also have a quieter cousin worth reading: technical service bulletins.
NHTSA Campaign 18V715000
What's wrong: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles. The Side Curtain Air Bag (SCAB) mounting bolts may interfere with and damage the air bags during deployment.
The danger: In the event of a crash, if the air bags become damaged during deployment they may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover over the SCAB installation bolts, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 177.
NHTSA Campaign 23V181000
What's wrong: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
The danger: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
Source: NHTSA — Safety Recalls · re-checked about every 24 hours
Where Owners Report Problems
Where owners report the most trouble — based on 192 complaints (16 involved a crash, 11 a fire). Tap a part to read the real reports.
Raw count — best-sellers naturally log more complaints than rare cars, so judge it against the peer comparison below, not on its own.
Why don't we show complaints per vehicle sold?
Because no official source publishes sales counts per model — that data is sold by private firms, and the free numbers online are guesses. A rate built on a guessed denominator is a guess wearing a lab coat, so we refuse to show one. Instead we show comparisons where fleet size cancels out or is disclosed: the same model across its own years, the crash/fire severity mix, and the peer ranking below — each with its methodology attached.
Of 66 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 5 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 66):
Yesterday afternoon after running errands, my car was off and in my driveway. Within 15 minutes I noticed it was smoking. When I opened the hood. The engine was on fire. I attempted to put it out but was unsuccessful. 911 was called and responded to put the flame out. The car was destroyed. I recently had my engine resealed and turbo replaced at a Hyundai dealership. I picked up my car following repairs on April 18th.
Caught on fire while driving
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, A THICK, GRAYISH SMOKE ENTERED THE VEHICLE CABIN FROM THE REAR, PASSENGER SIDE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AND REQUESTED ALL OCCUPANTS TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. AS THE CONTACT BEGAN TO CALL 911, AN OFFICER NEARBY CAME OVER TO ASSIST THE CONTACT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EVENTUALLY ARRIVED AT THE SCENE AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED AND BOTH A FIRE AND POLICE REPORTS WERE FILED. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE INITIALLY TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND ONCE INSURANCE WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE, THEY DEEMED THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS. THE INSURANCE THEN HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT REMAINED IN THEIR POSSESSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INITIALLY OFFERED TO ASSIST THE CONTACT WITH THE PURCHASE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. HYUNDAI THEN SENT OUT AN INVESTIGATOR TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND THEIR ASSESSMENT DETERMINED THAT THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE WIRING HARNESS ATTACHED TO THE TRAILER HITCH. THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE AFTER THE CONCLUSION OF THE INVESTIGATION. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DESTROYED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 41,000. *BF CONSUMER FILED A CLAIMED WITH U-HAUL THEY SPOKE TO HYUNDAI AND HYUNDAI BLAMES ON WIRING HITCH BECAUSE IT WAS INSTALLED AFTER PURCHASED.*JB
PREVIOUS HYUNDAI VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. AT THE TIME THE CAUSE WAS UNKNOWN. WAS FORCED BY HYUNDAI TO BUY BACK VEHICLE AND PURCHASED A BRAND NEW HYUNDAI VEHICLE. I WAS NEVER TOLD THAT THIS WAS A BRAND WIDE ISSUE AND THAT THE NEW VEHICLE I PURCHASED WOULD END UP UNDER THE SAME RECALL THAT CAUSED PREVIOUS VEHICLE TO CATCH FIRE. I AM TERRIFIED TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE. I CONTACTED HYUNDAI TO EXPLAIN THE SITUATION AND HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH AN UNPROFESSIONAL CUSTOMER REPRESENTATIVE. I AM FEARFUL FOR MY LIFE IN THIS VEHICLE AND EXPLAINED WHEN I PURCHASED THE NEW ONE THAT I DID NOT WANT TO EVER GO THROUGH THIS SITUATION AGAIN.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ABNORMAL BURNING ODOR COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHEN DRIVING UP HILL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,700.
Of 46 reports about this part, 6 involved a crash and 4 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 46):
On June 28th at approximately 1130pm, my son was involved in a single vehicle accident. Upon impact with the tree the car immediately burst into flames
Caught on fire while driving
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, approximately 30 minutes later the neighbor informed that the vehicle was on fire. The contact rushed outside to discover flames and smoke were present coming from the rear driver's side of the vehicle. A fire extinguisher was used to extinguish the flames. The fire department was called to the scene. During the incident, the contact sustained a burned right hand which required medical treatment. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. A fire report was taken at the scene. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet notified of the incident. The failure mileage was 48,000.
MY WIFE WAS DROPPING OFF A FRIEND AT HIS HOUSE USING THE BRAKES TO COME TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO THE GARAGE DAMAGING THE RIGHT FRONT OF THE VEHICLE AND THE GARAGE. I CAN ONLY INCLUDE THE VEHICLE PHOTO DUE TO PHOTO SIZE LIMITATIONS. HER FRIEND WAS A WITNESS TO THE ACCIDENT I ESTIMATE TOTAL DAMAGE TO GARAGE AND VEHICLE TO BE $10000. HYUNDAI SAID TO CALL BACK TOMORROW.
MY 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE HAD SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHILE I WAS TRYING TO PARK THE CAR IN THE PARKING LOT. IT SUDDENLY CROSSED OVER THE PARKING CEMENT BLOCK AND JUMPED INTO THE SIDEWALK LANDSCAPE AND THEN STOPPED. THE AIRBAG ALSO DEPLOYED DUE TO THIS INCIDENT. I DID NOT STEP ON THE GAS PEDAL.
Of 31 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 31):
TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE, DRIVING INTO A PARKING LOT AT AN EXTREMELY SLOW SPEED, THE IDLE STOP &GO (ISG) ENGAGED. THE ENGINE STARTED TO REV AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT FAILED AS WELL AS THE HAND BRAKE WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE COLLIDED WITH AN A PARKED VEHICLE NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CENTENNIAL HYUNDAI (6200 CENTENNIAL CENTER BLVD, LAS VEGAS, NV 89149 (702) 483-2200) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF AN UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING BULLETIN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING BULLETIN WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE CONTINUED, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING SOFTWARE UPDATE WAS PERFORMED. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE HAS RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CASE WAS OPENED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE IDLE STOP & GO FEATURE HAS BEEN DISENGAGED ON THE VEHICLE BUT UPON RESTARTING THE VEHICLE THE FEATURE WAS REENGAGED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER CLOSED HER CASE SENDING PAPERWORK WITH INCORRECT VEHICLE INFORMATION. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 5,000.
COMPLAINT SUMMARY: [XXX] / ENGINE THERMAL FIRE RISK / WARRANTY DECEPTION My 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe (2.4L GDI Engine) is experiencing severe powertrain degradation under the known Theta II engine defect class-action framework. On November 7, 2025, the vehicle logged a Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 via an independent scan, indicating catastrophic internal rod bearing wear. On XXX, the vehicle was brought to Hyundai of Milledgeville for safety recall verification. Instead of executing the mandatory corporate-directed Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) to replace the failing engine block, the service department committed technical campaign malpractice. The technician forced the 9C2 ECU Software Update directly over the locked mechanical fault to suppress the dashboard warning lights and alter the vehicle's ROM ID parameter limits. When caught via a photograph of their active GDS diagnostic tablet showing 7 historical system faults, the service manager provided a truncated printed report hiding Page 1 and omitting the critical P1326 powertrain code count to evade a warranty engine replacement. Due to these unmitigated delays, the vehicle has suffered severe consequential safety damage. The advanced engine degradation and oil consumption have flooded the exhaust system, melting the catalytic converter substrate and triggering a new DTC P042000 (Catalyst Efficiency) fault immediately after the dealer visit. The extreme engine vibrations have also damaged the transmission's torque converter clutch (DTC P074100). The dealership refused a service loaner and knowingly sent a disabled consumer and an elderly passenger away in an active, failing vehicle that presents a sudden stall-on-highway hazard and a severe thermal exhaust fire risk under extreme summer heat conditions. Hyundai Motor America Corporate has failed to provide emergency towing or alternative mobility accommodations despite a registered corporate case file. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4L (VIN: [XXX]) is experiencing a severe safety defect involving rapid engine oil starvation. The vehicle recently failed an official oil consumption test conducted by Fred Beans Hyundai of Abington, where it was documented that the engine consumed 1 quart of oil in just 881 miles (PA Request #XXX). This vehicle is equipped with the Theta II engine, which currently has active warranty extensions (TXXC and TXXI) specifically covering connecting rod bearing failure. Despite the documented severe oil loss—which is the primary known cause of connecting rod bearing wear and sudden engine seizure—Hyundai Corporate (Case #XXX) is refusing to evaluate the vehicle under these warranties. They have improperly classified my claim as a denied "goodwill" request and are refusing to perform a connecting rod bearing clearance test to determine if the bearings have been damaged by this starvation. Because Hyundai refuses to perform the required diagnostic safety protocols, the vehicle must be driven in an oil-starved condition. This poses an imminent and severe safety risk of sudden engine seizure, stalling, and complete loss of motive power at highway speeds without warning, which could result in a catastrophic crash. The manufacturer is ignoring their own failure thresholds and putting driver safety at risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
On March 04, 2026, I took my 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe to the local dealer for oil change service. As part of that service visit, they performed Hyundai recall 9C1 which was supposed to lower tailpipe emissions. The next morning, and ever since, my vehicle ran differently. The engine had several 1000rpm surges and was sluggish at other times. This behavior has continued. Particularly when I first start out in the morning and the engine is cold. Never after the engine is warmed up. A visit to the Hyundai forum shows a growing list of other Hyundai owners who are experiencing the same issues. This recall is defective and should be corrected.
In December 2025, a Hyundai dealer performed Service Campaign 9C2 (TSB 25-01-087H), an ECU software update for the 2.4L GDI Theta II engine, during a routine annual NY state emissions inspection. Immediately following this update, the vehicle began exhibiting an RPM flare of approximately 1,200-1,500 RPM during upshifting under light acceleration. This behavior did not exist prior to the update. The condition occurs when ambient temperature is above 50°F and the vehicle has been parked 2+ hours after a prior drive. No warning lamps or fault codes have been present at any point. The issue has been confirmed across four dealer visits at two Hyundai dealerships over five months. Attempted remedies included transmission ECU updates and adaptive resets — none resolved the condition. On the fourth visit, the technician personally experienced the issue and identified reinstalling the pre-update ECU calibration as the likely fix, but stated the prior software version was unavailable. The repair order was nonetheless closed as "vehicle operating as designed." The case has been escalated to Hyundai Motor America National Consumer Affairs and forwarded to Hyundai engineering with no resolution to date. Multiple other 2019-2020 Santa Fe owners report identical post-9C2 symptoms on public forums, indicating a pattern associated with this campaign's ECU calibration. The unexpected RPM surge and erratic shifting during acceleration creates an unpredictable driving experience that could cause hesitation in traffic situations requiring smooth acceleration.
Of 26 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 26):
Fire while driving - Electrical - No Warnings Reference NHTSA Recall 23V181000 Fire Extinguished once by fire extinguisher (civilian) then again by Union, MO fire department. Hyundai had the vehicle towed to their inspection facility. Inspection report being withheld. Claim has been denied. Hyundai now refusing to return vehicle.
TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE, DRIVING INTO A PARKING LOT AT AN EXTREMELY SLOW SPEED, THE IDLE STOP &GO (ISG) ENGAGED. THE ENGINE STARTED TO REV AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT FAILED AS WELL AS THE HAND BRAKE WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE COLLIDED WITH AN A PARKED VEHICLE NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CENTENNIAL HYUNDAI (6200 CENTENNIAL CENTER BLVD, LAS VEGAS, NV 89149 (702) 483-2200) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF AN UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING BULLETIN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING BULLETIN WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE CONTINUED, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE UNKNOWN SAFETY WARNING SOFTWARE UPDATE WAS PERFORMED. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE HAS RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CASE WAS OPENED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE IDLE STOP & GO FEATURE HAS BEEN DISENGAGED ON THE VEHICLE BUT UPON RESTARTING THE VEHICLE THE FEATURE WAS REENGAGED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER CLOSED HER CASE SENDING PAPERWORK WITH INCORRECT VEHICLE INFORMATION. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 5,000.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stoplight, the vehicle failed to respond. The Auto START/STOP feature failed to restart the engine as designed. The contact stated that the Turbo light was illuminated as if the turbo was activated, even though the contact had not activated the feature. The vehicle was taken to a Certified mechanic who determined that the turbo had failed. The turbocharger was replaced. After the vehicle was repaired, the failure reoccurred while the vehicle was idling or parked. There were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer was informed of the failure however, the vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was 90,000.
Continuous issue of front driver passenger power seat front level button failure. Continuous Headlights, fog lights getting fused every 4 months. Indoor back roof light works and sometime just does not work for months.
For the past month my car has been stalling in traffic. The car stalls and then turns back on a few seconds later. It also stalls when I am accelerating after stopping for a red light. This situation is very dangerous and it means that I cannot drive my car expecting to be safe at all. It seems like the motor and the transmission are involved which makes the stalling very dangerous as those are major systems.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 14):
The door was completely shut - I was driving on the highway - no alarm on the instrument panel, fully stage 2 latched ( even if it is just stage 1 latched - the instrument panel gives an alarm - there was no alarms about door not fully closed) everything was normal. 15 minutes into the drive - I was exiting the highway, making a right hand turn - the door suddenly popped open, alarm went off on the instrument panel - thankfully did not swing open, I was able to hold onto the door. I shut the door again - drove for 200 Miles - no issue again. This was the first ever time I saw this issue at 90K miles
The trunk hatch is no longer functioning. The car beeps, but does not unlatch. Once the gate is manually open from a latch inside the trunk, it will not close by pushing the gate close button. It just stopped working. I went into the grocery store, and when I returned with groceries, it stopped working. Hyundai says it's out of warranty and will cost $1800 to repair.
Paint is significantly peeling on the hood of my car.
Paint peeling and chipping will cause rust.
Paint coming off of hood, no contact of any kind. Took to dealer and was told past its warranty sorry. Cost me over $1K to fix the problem.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 13):
Overly excessive oil consumption 2 Quarts every 3 or 4 days.no leaks. Engine gets so hot I don't have to turn on heater In winter. On going issue since 100,000 miles. EBS light stays on electronic parking brake switch does not work. Parking brake will randomly engage after vehicle is turned off. Dealership cannot duplicate issue. If cruse control is turned on the vehicles warning lights all of them will suddenly illuminate and the vehicle shuts off. alternator and battery replaced. Have not used cruse control since. Airbags never inflated in a front end crash at 45mph Most recently I started experiencing I intermittent trouble staring the car. Then one day it didn't start at all and smoke was coming from under the hood. Towed to mechanic , starter burnt up 155,000. $ 900 to replace then a couple days later I lost power on the freeway and the car started jerking and vibrating. Stopped Vehicle cut off and would not start. After 1hr I started and limped home. Vibration under 2000 RPMs and when stopped. Knocking noise under hood. Brand new spark plugs. Mechanic stated Cylinder 3;missfire was identified as a hole in a valve due to weak material now I have to replace engine. Oil consumption and excessive friction and heat is to blame. My car has been cared for like a baby it's all I have. I should not have to be responsible for this very cheaply made engine that was doomed to fail.
Was at a complete stop at a light with a car in front me, I had plenty of space when I started accelerating and then suddenly the automatic system braked hard. Like there was literally NO REASON for what the car did. It took a few seconds to get out of that issue but then was able to proceed as normal. There have been at least 2 other times where a side sensor was triggered while on the freeway violently jerking me to the left, nearly putting into another lane.
Car turns off at lights /stop signs. Automatic break system activates. Have to wait at least five minutes to be able to restart car z same happens after driving and parking. Turbo and battery were replaced. I make sure not to use the automatic on/off feature which make issue worse. This is my fourth attempt to contact you. I cannot trade car in bc of mileage and still owing $. I love me vehicle and just want issue recognized and taken care off.
Issue with idle on-off. After idling at light etc. car will stall. First time would not re-start , I was towed. Mechanic replaced turbo feature but problem persists and I am not using the on -off feature in an attempt to not have this happen, yet it does.
The Forward Collision Assist would intermittently disable during driving. The Lane Keeping Assist light illuminated and would not allow me to disable it causing the vehicle to drive straight only and to make left or right turns extremely hard to turn the vehicle. This incident occurred on [XXX] and was dropped off at Johnson Hyundai in Wake Forest on that date. After a week of no contact of a diagnosis, I had to visit the dealer and was told the steering column was the issue and needed to be replaced. I contacted Hyundai America to report this issue and currently waiting on a response from their warranty to see if they will cover all or a percentage of the replacement of the steering column since my mileage is over their 100k (113k to be exact) coverage. While I appreciate their efforts, I also feel this could have resulted in a very serious incident had my daughter been driving on the highway when this occurred. Thankfully, she was picking me from home and it happened as we drove off from our house in our neighborhood. A steering column should outlast any other part(s) of a vehicle. If not, this is a huge safety concern. My [XXX] was also in the car at the time and I cannot even imagine how I would recover if something worse were to happen while he's on board. Hopefully this reporting will keep something bad from happening to others who own this type of vehicle but failed to report it. Thank you for your time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 12):
internal mechanical failure of the piston rings and cylinder walls. Misfire on Cylinder #2. Further testing revealed that Cylinder #2 is at 80 PSI, which is significantly below the manufacturer's specification. A subsequent leak-down test showed a 90% loss of pressure with air escaping through the oil filler hole. The issue stated above can cause severe mechanical failure of piston rings and cylinder walls can absolutely lead to connecting rod bearing problems by creating excessive debris, poor lubrication, abnormal piston motion, and increased stress, causing premature wear, overheating, and eventual bearing failure, often resulting in catastrophic engine knocking and damage. Diagnostics completed by Hyundai dealer and stated an engine replacement. Vehicle became difficult to steer and then warning lamp came on. Vehicle was difficult to turn left and right and almost caused a collision.
I purchased my 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe on October 29, 2021. Since then, I’ve experienced a series of mechanical and electrical failures that I believe are far beyond normal for a vehicle of this age. - The remote start has never worked. - On October 20, 2023, the hatch latch failed. The only way to open it now is by climbing into the back and manually pulling the latch. - On October 27, 2023, the electric power steering failed. I had to replace the entire steering column at a cost of $4,000. - The paint began deteriorating prematurely and required a full repair. Hyundai covered this under warranty, but the cost was $8,000. - In early spring 2025, all coil packs had to be replaced due to misfires, costing approximately $500. - September 4, 2025, The car stalled while I was driving on a main road and I had to pull over. There were no warning lights and I started home. About a mile from home check engine light came on so contact mechanic. Ended up towing to a dealership and was told the engine must be replaced because the oil had burned off without any warning from the oil light indicator. The turbo also needs replacement. - The combined cost is $14,000. These failures have caused significant financial hardship and stress. I am currently $17,000 underwater on the loan, and the repair costs are overwhelming. The lack of warning before catastrophic engine damage is especially concerning. I believe these issues reflect systemic defects in the vehicle’s design and manufacturing. The repeated failure of critical components—especially the steering system and oil monitoring—make this the worst automotive experience I’ve ever had. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate these failures and determine whether Hyundai should be held accountable. Consumers deserve protection from vehicles with such extensive and costly problems.
The Forward Collision Assist would intermittently disable during driving. The Lane Keeping Assist light illuminated and would not allow me to disable it causing the vehicle to drive straight only and to make left or right turns extremely hard to turn the vehicle. This incident occurred on [XXX] and was dropped off at Johnson Hyundai in Wake Forest on that date. After a week of no contact of a diagnosis, I had to visit the dealer and was told the steering column was the issue and needed to be replaced. I contacted Hyundai America to report this issue and currently waiting on a response from their warranty to see if they will cover all or a percentage of the replacement of the steering column since my mileage is over their 100k (113k to be exact) coverage. While I appreciate their efforts, I also feel this could have resulted in a very serious incident had my daughter been driving on the highway when this occurred. Thankfully, she was picking me from home and it happened as we drove off from our house in our neighborhood. A steering column should outlast any other part(s) of a vehicle. If not, this is a huge safety concern. My [XXX] was also in the car at the time and I cannot even imagine how I would recover if something worse were to happen while he's on board. Hopefully this reporting will keep something bad from happening to others who own this type of vehicle but failed to report it. Thank you for your time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I had a serious issue with the Santa Fe lane keeper system. I was driving on I15 in a winding portion through the Virgin River Gorge in relatively high traffic on a corner. I have used this feature many times in the past and expected a gentle nudge on the steering wheel. But unexpectedly the steering wheel turned hard left, almost causing a total loss of control. I am safe driver always checking for other drivers doing what they shouldn't, but I never expected my car to be the one making dangerous movements. If I hadn't had a firm grip on the wheel, I would have been out of control on a narrow bridge in heavy traffic. Am I the only one with this problem?
This is the second time my 2019 Hyundai Santa has suddenly veer right out of the lane. The error message was BAC Active. The dashboard turned red and the vehicle shook for a few seconds. I'm scheduled to take it back to the dealer. I have problems with the engine making noise and have been told the noise is normal.
Of 11 reports about this part, 2 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 11):
I HAD RENTED A HYUNDAI SANTE FE IN SEPTEMBER 2019. I HAD THE VEHICLE FOR A FEW WEEKS WITH NO ISSUES UNTIL I DROVE OVER THE MOUNTAINS. I HAD PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT AND WAS LOOKING TO PARK, COASTING THROUGH THE PARKING LOT, I THEN BACKED UP AND FOUND A PARKING SPOT. I WAS TURNING RIGHT IN AT A VERY SLOW SPEED, A VIRTUAL CRAWL INTO A PARKING SPACE WHEN I PRESSED THE BRAKES TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHEN IT SUDDENLY REVS ITS ENGINE AND BEGAN ACCELERATING OUT OF CONTROL JUMPING OVER THE FRONT PARKING CURB AND SLAMMING INTO A CHAIN LINK FENCE. THE BRAKE WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR AND WOULD NOT STOP, I PUMPED THE BRAKES TO STOP AND WHEN IT WOULD NOT STOP, I QUICK SLAMMED THE VEHICLE INTO THE PARK POSITION TO PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM HITTING A TRACKER AND CAUSING FURTHER DAMAGE OR INJURY. I CONTACTED MY INSURANCE AGENT AND THEN I CONTACTED ENTERPRISE RENTAL COMPANY IN BEND OREGON. I WAS ON HOLD FOR ROUGHLY 30 MIN. I EXPLAINED THE SITUATION AND THEY STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS THEY KNEW OF AND THEY ADVISED ME TO CONTACT THEIR TOW COMPANY AND HAVE IT TOWED TO THE AIRPORT IN REDMOND OREGON TO SWITCH OUT THE VEHICLES. I RESEARCHED ON MY OWN AND FOUND THAT THEIR WAS A SIMILAR INCIDENT IN LAS VEGAS, NV REPORTED IN JANUARY 31ST, 2018. THIS INCIDENT NEEDS TO BE LOOKED INTO BEFORE SOMEONE IS SERIOUSLY INJURED. THE ISG MAY BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN THIS CASE.
Was at a complete stop at a light with a car in front me, I had plenty of space when I started accelerating and then suddenly the automatic system braked hard. Like there was literally NO REASON for what the car did. It took a few seconds to get out of that issue but then was able to proceed as normal. There have been at least 2 other times where a side sensor was triggered while on the freeway violently jerking me to the left, nearly putting into another lane.
The contact owned a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that as his daughter was driving at 20 MPH on the highway, she depressed the brake pedal, the brakes failed to respond, and the vehicle started to smoke from the engine and into the cabin. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact's daughter then tried to depress the brake pedal again, and the contact's daughter then jumped out of the vehicle on the ramp. The vehicle was coming down on the intersection unoccupied, engulfed in smoke, initially hitting a stop sign and then another unknown sign and sequentially coming to a stop. The contact then saw the vehicle at the hillside engulfed with fire and smoke and tried to break a window, however, the contact heard his daughter and stopped. The Fire Department and Police Department were on scene and extinguished the remaining of the fire and the hillside. The origin of the fire was on the engine. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was consumed by the fire and the remainder were taken to Lenzi Automotive. The contact was the only occupant in the vehicle and sustained scrapes and bruises to her elbow, finger, right thigh, buttocks, and back rib that require medical attention. The failure mileage was approximately 77,200.
For the duration of the vehicle's ownership, it has underperformed and operated unpredictably under hard braking, specifically with relation to the vehicle's ABS system. The conditions have caused meto never drive the car in snow, as this weather condition in particular exacerbates the braking issues and makes the car unsafe. Issues with the braking/ABS include: The ABS activating at slow speeds in all conditions, even on dry roads The ABS activating and preventing the vehicle from being emergency stopped in adverse conditions The ABS activating and exponentially extending the braking distance until it disnegages The ABS, once activated, does not stop unless the brake pedal is lifted from its initial activation position The vehicle doesn't appear to have any mechancial braking issues. Everything seems to be related to the ABS system, wheel-speed sensors and/or vehicle-management systems. The overall braking experience in this vehicle with the ABS on is that it simply will not stop within a safe braking distance window. The only way to stop this vehicle is without ABS. There is no other way to safely stop this vehicle with ABS. I have reached out to my Hyundai dealer and Hyndai corporate directly, both times being dismissed without anyone attempting to recreate the braking issues. I have a life's worth of experience driving in snow and multiple ABS activations in a range of vehicles. This is abnormal based on all of the experiential knowledge I possess, as well as a lifelong interest in cars. While I am not an engineer, I possess enough firsthand and academic vehicle experience to recognize the abnormality of this vehicle braking operation.
MY VEHICLE APPLIES THE BRAKES WHILE DRIVING ON BUSY ROADS WHEN NOTHING IS IN MY PATH. I'VE ALMOST BEEN REAR ENDED A FEW TIMES BECAUSE OF IT AND HYUNDAI HAS NO RESOLUTION. THEN ALSO MY VEHICLE HAS LANE ASSIST AND THE COMPUTER FOUGHT ME STEERING THE WHEEL WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. HYUNDAI REPLACED STEERING COMPONENTS IN THE VEHICLE BUT DON'T KNOW WHY IT HAPPENED SO THEY NEVER DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM. WE HAVE TRIED TO GO TO HYUNDAI ABOUT THE ISSUE BUT BASICALLY THEY ONLY CARE ABOUT OUR MONEY WE PAY AND NOT OUR SAFETY.
Of 7 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 7):
COMPLAINT SUMMARY: [XXX] / ENGINE THERMAL FIRE RISK / WARRANTY DECEPTION My 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe (2.4L GDI Engine) is experiencing severe powertrain degradation under the known Theta II engine defect class-action framework. On November 7, 2025, the vehicle logged a Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 via an independent scan, indicating catastrophic internal rod bearing wear. On XXX, the vehicle was brought to Hyundai of Milledgeville for safety recall verification. Instead of executing the mandatory corporate-directed Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) to replace the failing engine block, the service department committed technical campaign malpractice. The technician forced the 9C2 ECU Software Update directly over the locked mechanical fault to suppress the dashboard warning lights and alter the vehicle's ROM ID parameter limits. When caught via a photograph of their active GDS diagnostic tablet showing 7 historical system faults, the service manager provided a truncated printed report hiding Page 1 and omitting the critical P1326 powertrain code count to evade a warranty engine replacement. Due to these unmitigated delays, the vehicle has suffered severe consequential safety damage. The advanced engine degradation and oil consumption have flooded the exhaust system, melting the catalytic converter substrate and triggering a new DTC P042000 (Catalyst Efficiency) fault immediately after the dealer visit. The extreme engine vibrations have also damaged the transmission's torque converter clutch (DTC P074100). The dealership refused a service loaner and knowingly sent a disabled consumer and an elderly passenger away in an active, failing vehicle that presents a sudden stall-on-highway hazard and a severe thermal exhaust fire risk under extreme summer heat conditions. Hyundai Motor America Corporate has failed to provide emergency towing or alternative mobility accommodations despite a registered corporate case file. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
On March 04, 2026, I took my 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe to the local dealer for oil change service. As part of that service visit, they performed Hyundai recall 9C1 which was supposed to lower tailpipe emissions. The next morning, and ever since, my vehicle ran differently. The engine had several 1000rpm surges and was sluggish at other times. This behavior has continued. Particularly when I first start out in the morning and the engine is cold. Never after the engine is warmed up. A visit to the Hyundai forum shows a growing list of other Hyundai owners who are experiencing the same issues. This recall is defective and should be corrected.
My Hyundai Santa Fe 2019 Limited is burning oil. It started after the Turbo broke in October 2024. The turbo began leaking oil and then died. I took it to the dealership as it is still under warranty and they replaced the turbo. As a result, I have had issues ever since and now my car burns oil at a fast rate. In between oil changes I need to put oil in the engine to avoid it being drained. I am able to go about 3k miles on Synthetic oil and by 2.5-3k it is almost empty. It has been doing this now since 2024. I just had my 90k mile check up complete and with that I got an oil change. This was done in November 2024. Syntehtic oil was used. On January 16, as I was driving my car mileage decreased, the car began to shake and the engine light came on. I was able to safely stop and have the car towed. It was found that after driving just 2k miles the oil had completely burned off. I currently have an appointment at the dealer for them to run diagnostics on why it is burning. I saw there was a class action lawsuit against other Hyundai's doing the same thing and as a result Hyundai has to replace the engine. I also have read numerous forums where everyone is reporting the same thing with this particular model of it burning oil. I wanted to report this in case there were other owners of the same car experiencing the same thing.
I HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE SINCE VERY SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE IN JUNE 2019. I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT MY VEHICLE THREE TIMES DUE TO SERVICE/WARRANTY RELATED ISSUES - TWICE IN A RENTAL, AND NOW THE THIRD TIME I AM USING A FRIEND'S VEHICLE. MY COMPLAINTS BEGAN WITH A "HARD START" AND A DELAYED TURNOVER OF THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE BEHAVES AS THOUGH IT WANTS TO STALL OUT. HYUNDAI TOLD ME FOR MONTHS THAT THEY COULDN'T RECREATE THE PROBLEM TO FIX IT EVEN THOUGH IT HAPPENED 2-3 TIMES MINIMUM PER WEEK. THEN THE OTHER THINGS STARTED GOING WRONG...HERE IS A SHORT LIST FOR YOU OVER MULTIPLE VISITS AND PHONE CALLS TO THE DEALERSHIP: -HARD START - VEHICLE JERKS FORWARD UPON ENGINE START -DELAYED TURNOVER - FEELS LIKE IT IS GOING TO STALL -VEHICLE ENGINE TICKING UPON START -MOST RECENTLY, VEHICLE ENGINE LOUDLY KNOCKING UPON START -VEHICLE AUTO COLLISION SENSORS MALFUNCTIONED AND ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT ON A BUSY 4 LANE HIGHWAY BY CAUSING MY BRAKES TO SLAM TO AN ALMOST STOP BECAUSE THE CAR IN A LANE NEXT TO ME WAS TURNING (I WAS GOING 60MPH AT THE TIME WITH NO RISK OF COLLISION). -APPLE CAR PLAY MALFUNCTIONS - SOUNDS LIKE WIRES ARE CROSSED (USING APPLE CHARGER AND GENERIC CHARGER) -REAR VIEW CAMERA STAYS ON FOR 10-15 MINUTES AT A TIME TO THE POINT THAT I HAVE TO TURN OFF AND RESTART THE VEHICLE -WHILE GOING 25-40 MPH, AT TIMES, THE VEHICLE WILL CREATE A NOTICEABLE FRONT END JERKING MOTION -WHILE THE FLIGHT RECORDER WAS IN ME VEHICLE, IT WENT OFF ON AN EMERGENCY ALARM FOR OVER 3 HOURS AND HYUNDAI'S SERVICE TEAM COULDN'T DETERMINE A PROBLEM -THE GAS CAP DOOR WILL NOT OPEN OR CLOSE PROPERLY -VEHICLE, ON 5 OCCASSIONS, WOULD NOT RESPOND TO DEPRESSION OF GAS PEDAL THERE ARE OTHER SMALLER ISSUES THAT I HAVE EXPRESSED MY CONCERN OVER, AND I NO LONGER FEEL SAFE IN THIS VEHICLE WITH MY TWO SMALL CHILDREN HAVE NOW BEEN WITHOUT VEHICLE FOR 30+ CUMULATIVE DAYS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ABNORMAL BURNING ODOR COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHEN DRIVING UP HILL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,700.
Of 7 reports about this part, 5 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 7):
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 75 MPH AND WAS ABOUT TO SWITCH OVER TO THE LEFT LANE WITH THE LEFT SIGNAL INDICATOR LIGHT ON, THE WARNING LEFT INDICATOR ALERT SENSOR LIGHT FAILED AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT COLLIDED SIDE BY SIDE WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS DRIVING BETWEEN 75-80 MPH, AND CRASHED INTO THE DRIVER FRONT SIDE DOOR, THE REAR END AND THE FRONT END BUMPER AND TIRE OF THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LEFT ARM, NECK, BACK, WHIPLASH AND A CONCUSSION. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT HALF OF HER BODY WAS NUMB THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION AND WAS INFORMED BY HER DOCTOR THAT SHE HAD NERVE DAMAGE AND POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MASSEY HYUNDAI DEALER, LOCATED AT 1706 MASSEY BLVD, HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740, (301) 739-6756, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT IT WAS NOT THEIR PROBLEM ANYMORE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS IN AN ACCIDENT. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE DEALER THAT THE SAFETY FEATURE WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE SAFETY FEATURES WERE TURNED OFF. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER: 15818438. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,500.
At 1641, I was driving 55mph on tonganoxie rd with the right of way & no stop signed. The other driver did have a stop sign but did not yield and entered the intersection causing my vehicle to strike the middle of the passenger side and spinning my vehicle and stopped 90’ to my right facing the direction she was traveling. All of my air back opened and inflated properly, except the driver side airbag. Because of this, my head slammed into the glass window, which then threw up upper body towards the passenger side. Had I not had a seatbelt on I would have ended up there. Due to the kinetic impact to the window (airbag only inflated about 1/4 of the way) I suffered a TBI severe concussion, tore my upper ribs from the breast bone, whiplash to my neck and back. There was a recall for this EXACT vehicle and driver airbag issue but mine was not listed as being on it. It has been a month and I still have a lump and tenderness at the impact site, brain fog and severe headaches, neck and back pain causing my to out of work at leave without pay. The headaches are worsening a bad do not want anyone else hurt.
Front side airbags only came down maybe sun visor length. Broadsided a car that pulled out in front of me, I was going 55mph when I hit her and no time to brake. I am 5’4” and when I hit her my head hit below the bag and into the glass getting a concussion. This is a major safety factor. Progressive Insurance claim #[XXX], vin [XXX]. I have not received police incident report yet. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Auto accident. Front end gone Air bag did not deploy. Only driver in car. Suffered 2 Broken ribs and broken sternum. Insurance company totaled car after inspection. No warning lights or messages presented at any time prior to accident.
IT'S A RENTAL CAR. IT WAS A SNOW DAY AND HIT ON THE CONCRETE WALL BUT THE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. COMPARED TO THE DAMAGE TO THE CAR, IT IS A SAFETY CONCERNS.
Of 5 reports about this part, 4 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 5):
The forward collision avoidance system is malfunctioning and shuts down the traction and stability control systems making the vehicle more vulnerable to collisions. Multiple attempts to repair this system have been unsuccessful
While pulling into a parking space at an extremely low speed, foot tapping the brake, the car excelerated (uncommanded) at what appeared to be full throttle. Depressing the brake had little to no effect and the vehicle stopped after hitting a metal pole. The vehicle sustained severe damage and was determined to be a total loss. The airbags did not deploy.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, WHEN THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE SUDDENLY REVVED UP, ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY CAUSING THE CONTACT TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASH INTO A WATER PIPE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE CONTACT DID NOT RECEIVE ANY INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWEDFOLSOM LAKE HYUNDAI (12530 AUTO MALL CIR, FOLSOM, CA 95630; (916) 293-4760) WHO WERE NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE THEREFORE WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED TWICE WITHIN THE LAST 18 MONTHS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,000.
I HAD RENTED A HYUNDAI SANTE FE IN SEPTEMBER 2019. I HAD THE VEHICLE FOR A FEW WEEKS WITH NO ISSUES UNTIL I DROVE OVER THE MOUNTAINS. I HAD PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT AND WAS LOOKING TO PARK, COASTING THROUGH THE PARKING LOT, I THEN BACKED UP AND FOUND A PARKING SPOT. I WAS TURNING RIGHT IN AT A VERY SLOW SPEED, A VIRTUAL CRAWL INTO A PARKING SPACE WHEN I PRESSED THE BRAKES TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHEN IT SUDDENLY REVS ITS ENGINE AND BEGAN ACCELERATING OUT OF CONTROL JUMPING OVER THE FRONT PARKING CURB AND SLAMMING INTO A CHAIN LINK FENCE. THE BRAKE WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR AND WOULD NOT STOP, I PUMPED THE BRAKES TO STOP AND WHEN IT WOULD NOT STOP, I QUICK SLAMMED THE VEHICLE INTO THE PARK POSITION TO PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM HITTING A TRACKER AND CAUSING FURTHER DAMAGE OR INJURY. I CONTACTED MY INSURANCE AGENT AND THEN I CONTACTED ENTERPRISE RENTAL COMPANY IN BEND OREGON. I WAS ON HOLD FOR ROUGHLY 30 MIN. I EXPLAINED THE SITUATION AND THEY STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS THEY KNEW OF AND THEY ADVISED ME TO CONTACT THEIR TOW COMPANY AND HAVE IT TOWED TO THE AIRPORT IN REDMOND OREGON TO SWITCH OUT THE VEHICLES. I RESEARCHED ON MY OWN AND FOUND THAT THEIR WAS A SIMILAR INCIDENT IN LAS VEGAS, NV REPORTED IN JANUARY 31ST, 2018. THIS INCIDENT NEEDS TO BE LOOKED INTO BEFORE SOMEONE IS SERIOUSLY INJURED. THE ISG MAY BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN THIS CASE.
VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION AS WE SLOWED AND TURNED INTO A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL RESTAURANT PARKING LOT. ENGINE REVED, CAR ACCELERATED RAPIDLY, BRAKES DID NO HOLD AND THE VEHICLE PLOWED INTO AND THEN ON TOP OF A SAFETY BARRIER STOPPING JUST SHORT OF A CHAIN LINK FENCE GUARDING A SET OF LARGE PROPANE TANKS. POLICE WERE CALLED TO SCENE, HE TOOK PICTURES. CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP COLLISION CENTER.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 4 of 4):
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while the vehicle was either stationary, parked, or being driven, the seat belt buckle failed to operate as designed. The seat belt warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that during the colder months, the seat belt buckle was more difficult to latch securely. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Seatbelt wont snap or lock. This is a safety issue
Seat belt won't snap on the driver side.
2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEATBELT CONCERNS. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED EVERY PASSENGER SEAT BELT WAS UNSATISFACTORY, THE FRONT DOORS ON THE VEHICLE HAVE SHARP CORNERS CAUSING CUTS, AND THE VIEW BUTTON WAS MISPLACED. *JS
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 4 of 4):
Wipers are in the office position, but suddenly go up and down 2 inches, while off, and won't turn on. It snowed the day before, but wasn't while I was driving. Also, my hood is peeling. I have white paint.
Panoramic sun roof glass exploded and shattered as I was driving down the highway on a 50 degree F cloudy day. There was no known object that struck the roof nor did we hit a bump in the road or anything. The sound was like that of a shotgun blast. I've seen other posts and settlements for earlier Hyundai vehicle makes and models where warranty was extended to cover a defect causing this. But my 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe damage is not being covered under warranty since it is a couple thousand miles over the 60,000 mile warranty. Hyundai service reported there was no object or damage found to indicate it was caused by something impacting the vehicle. My concern is what will prevent the replacement glass from breaking again if the defect causing it to happen is not fixed.
• What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? When ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, sufficient heat is not produced from the vehicles defroster to keep the windshield from icing. Also, sufficient heat is not produced to keep vehicle occupants warm. A Hyundai dealership confirmed the problem and replaced the thermostat, but the problem still persists. • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Visibility through the windshield cannot be maintained. Also, the cabin temperature is insufficient for safe transport of young children. • Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. • Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? It has been inspected and confirmed by a Hyundai dealership. The problem persists and has been an issue since the vehicle was purchased in 2019. The first winter that the vehicle was operated during (2020) was when the problem first presented. • Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The water temperature gauge on the dash board “bounces” back and forth while driving the vehicle when the ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This has been reported to Hyundai corporate –Hyundai case # 19328435.
WHILE DRIVING MY NEW 2019 SANTA FE I NOTICED THE FIRST TIME IT RAINED I HAD SEVERE REDUCED VISIBILITY IN THE LEFT PORTION OF THE WINDSHIELD WHERE THE WIPERS DON'T REACH. THE RAIN POOLS THERE AND DOES NOT GET ANY BETTER THAN PICTURED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS YOU CAN NOT SEE OUT OF 15% OF THE WINDSHIELD AND COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 4 of 4):
The Forward Collision Assist would intermittently disable during driving. The Lane Keeping Assist light illuminated and would not allow me to disable it causing the vehicle to drive straight only and to make left or right turns extremely hard to turn the vehicle. This incident occurred on [XXX] and was dropped off at Johnson Hyundai in Wake Forest on that date. After a week of no contact of a diagnosis, I had to visit the dealer and was told the steering column was the issue and needed to be replaced. I contacted Hyundai America to report this issue and currently waiting on a response from their warranty to see if they will cover all or a percentage of the replacement of the steering column since my mileage is over their 100k (113k to be exact) coverage. While I appreciate their efforts, I also feel this could have resulted in a very serious incident had my daughter been driving on the highway when this occurred. Thankfully, she was picking me from home and it happened as we drove off from our house in our neighborhood. A steering column should outlast any other part(s) of a vehicle. If not, this is a huge safety concern. My [XXX] was also in the car at the time and I cannot even imagine how I would recover if something worse were to happen while he's on board. Hopefully this reporting will keep something bad from happening to others who own this type of vehicle but failed to report it. Thank you for your time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I had a serious issue with the Santa Fe lane keeper system. I was driving on I15 in a winding portion through the Virgin River Gorge in relatively high traffic on a corner. I have used this feature many times in the past and expected a gentle nudge on the steering wheel. But unexpectedly the steering wheel turned hard left, almost causing a total loss of control. I am safe driver always checking for other drivers doing what they shouldn't, but I never expected my car to be the one making dangerous movements. If I hadn't had a firm grip on the wheel, I would have been out of control on a narrow bridge in heavy traffic. Am I the only one with this problem?
the systems forward collision and lane departure warning are randomly turned off. Dealership is not aware of how to fix
Adaptive Cruise Control Automatic Emergency Braking Blind Spot Warning Forward Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Lane Keeping Assistance Parking Collision Warning Rear Cross Traffic Warning Every one of these lights are going off in the car. I’ve taken it twice to the Hyundai dealership. Both times they have not been able to figure out what is wrong with it even with the OPD it’s not showing any issues or fault codes a technician has even had the car for one week went through every single sensor, cable, battery, alternator fuses and didn’t come up with any results. He returned the car back to me completely baffled and unable to fix the issue. Please email at[ XXX] For photos and video which I cannot add here on this website through mobile. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 4 of 4):
Panoramic sun roof glass exploded and shattered as I was driving down the highway on a 50 degree F cloudy day. There was no known object that struck the roof nor did we hit a bump in the road or anything. The sound was like that of a shotgun blast. I've seen other posts and settlements for earlier Hyundai vehicle makes and models where warranty was extended to cover a defect causing this. But my 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe damage is not being covered under warranty since it is a couple thousand miles over the 60,000 mile warranty. Hyundai service reported there was no object or damage found to indicate it was caused by something impacting the vehicle. My concern is what will prevent the replacement glass from breaking again if the defect causing it to happen is not fixed.
I was at a traffic light (stopped) and all of a sudden my sunroof exploded with no rhyme or reason behind it and glass shattered everywhere on top of me. Nothing was thrown at it and no other vehicles were around me to have any debris thrown up onto it. I got out and inspected the sunroof and found that there was no object imbedded on, in, or near the sunroof that would lead me to believe anything hit it. I contacted the Hyundai dealership about this and they will not cover it under warranty. I believe this is a quality control issue with faulty engineering of the sunroof and upon looking at other Hyundai forums, I found that others have reported the same thing occurring to their vehicles of the same make and model and the pictures of their damage look identical to my damage.
• What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? When ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, sufficient heat is not produced from the vehicles defroster to keep the windshield from icing. Also, sufficient heat is not produced to keep vehicle occupants warm. A Hyundai dealership confirmed the problem and replaced the thermostat, but the problem still persists. • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Visibility through the windshield cannot be maintained. Also, the cabin temperature is insufficient for safe transport of young children. • Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. • Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? It has been inspected and confirmed by a Hyundai dealership. The problem persists and has been an issue since the vehicle was purchased in 2019. The first winter that the vehicle was operated during (2020) was when the problem first presented. • Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The water temperature gauge on the dash board “bounces” back and forth while driving the vehicle when the ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This has been reported to Hyundai corporate –Hyundai case # 19328435.
•What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? When ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, sufficient heat is not produced from the vehicles defroster to keep the windshield from icing. Also, sufficient heat is not produced to keep vehicle occupants warm. A Hyundai dealership confirmed the problem and replaced the thermostat, but the problem still persists. •How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Visibility through the windshield cannot be maintained. Also, the cabin temperature is insufficient for safe transport of young children. •Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. •Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? It has been inspected and confirmed by a Hyundai dealership. The problem persists and has been an issue since the vehicle was purchased in 2019. The first winter that the vehicle was operated during (2020) was when the problem first presented. •Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The water temperature gauge on the dash board “bounces” back and forth while driving the vehicle when the ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This has been reported to Hyundai corporate –Hyundai case # [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 3 of 3):
AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE COMPUTER HAS ATTEMPTED TO PULL THE CAR OUT OF THE LANE INTO THE ADJOINING LANE AS IF IN ATTEMPT TO AVOID SOMETHING. THIS IS HAPPENED AT HIGHWAY SPEED'S ABOUT SIX TIMES. VEHICLE ALSO AT ONE TIME APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AS THE VEHICLE IS APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION AS AN EMERGENCY STOP. THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. WHEN I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE INTO THE HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP THE REPRESENTATIVE IMMEDIATELY SUGGESTED THAT THERE WAS A RODENT PROBLEM. THIS WAS CONFIRMED NOT TO BE THE CASE.AS THERE DID NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY OTHER COMPUTER MESSAGING THE TECHNICIAN SUGGESTED THAT MAYBE IT WAS THE CALIFORNIA FASTRACK RESPONDER UNIT. THEY SUGGESTED IT BE RELOCATED WHICH I DID. THE PROBLEM LIES THAT YOU'RE NOT SURE THAT THIS IS WHAT CAUSED THE PROBLEM AND THE SUGGESTION 'TO DRIVE IT TO SEE IF IT REPEATED' AS IT DOES NOT SOUND PRUDENT FROM A SAFETY PERSPECTIVE. THE COMPUTER PULLS AT A HARD LEVEL WHICH MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN THE VEHICLE IN THE LANE AND IT SUDDENLY RELEASES THE PULLING WHICH JERKS THE CAR BACK INTO THE DRIVING LANE MUCH LIKE AN OVER CORRECTION. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY QUITE DANGEROUS AND I WOULD SUGGEST SOMETHING ELSE IS DONE TO EITHER CONFIRM OR DISAPPROVE THE RESPONDER ISSUE AS THESE RESPONDERS ARE COMMON AND IT WAS PLACED PER THE INSTRUCTIONS OF THE FASTRACK.
SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE SAFETY FEATURES OF THIS 2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE DEACTIVATES. 3+ OCCASIONS THE VEHICLES FRONTAL COLLISION AVOIDANCE, LANE KEEP ASSIST BLIND SPOT DETECTION AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAM LIGHTS AS WELL AS CROSS TRAFFIC ALERT SUDDENLY WILL CUT OFF. HAVE TAKEN VEHICLE BACK TO DEALERSHIP WHERE PURCHASED TO BE TOLD NO CODES ARE BEING STORED. CONTACTED HYUNDAI USA SEVERAL TIMES TO GET A RUN AROUND OR THE RESPONSE IF ITS NOT RECORDING THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. I HAVE OWNED A 4 HYUNDAI SANTA FE'S AND NEVER HAD THE ISSUES I AM HAVING LIKE I AM WITH THIS ONE.I DO NOT TAKE MY GRANDKIDS IN THIS VEHICLE AS IM WORRIED THAT IF THESE SAFETY FEATURES FAIL TO WORK I DONT WANT TO CHANCE THEIR LIVES IN A VEHICLE THAT COULD POSSIBLY EXPERIENCE MORE SEVERE ISSUES OR WORSE. DEALING WITH HYUNDAI HAS BECOME A DISAPPOINTMENT AS THE 2004 SANTA FE I OWN IS BY FAR MORE DEPENDABLE THAN THIS ONE .
ON MARCH 5, THIS VEHICLE STOPPED WHILE DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE OF A STREET. I WAS UNABLE TO START THE VEHICLE AND ME AND MY PASSENGER COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED. CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP AND HAS 2600 MILES ON IT. I HAVE FOUND THAT HYUNDAI IS DOING A RECALL TO REPLACE STARTER AND A SOFTWARE UPDATE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT BECAUSE OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGY THIS VEHICLE HAS WHICH IS AN AUTOMATIC START AND STOP AT A STOP SIGN OR STOP LIGHT THAT THE STARTER SHORTED OUT AND APPARENTLY THE SOFTWARE IN THE CAR JUST STOPS THE CAR WHILE DRIVING.. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING THE CAR AT 35 MILES/HOUR ON A BUSY STREET. IT IS A MIRACLE THAT I WAS NOT HIT AND INJURED OR KILLED. CAR IS AT THE DEALERSHIP WAITING FOR A NEW STARTER AND SOFTWARE UPDATE WITH A POSSIBLE SHIP DATE OF MARCH 31, 2019. THESE 2019 SANTA FE ARE NOT SAFE TO BE SELLING TO THE PUBLIC WITH THIS KNOWN DEFECT.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 2 of 2):
A year after I purchased vehicle the paint started peeling off the wheel. When I took it to the dealership they kept telling me they were still addressing problem and would get back to me. Contacted them several times and they still didn’t have the problem solved. Then the dealership changed ownerships. New dealership says not their problem. And it was too late at this point. I also have the paint on my hood of my car peeling. Both of these problems are gonna be very expensive to repair! I see this is a known problem. Hyundai needs to be accountable. I live in Auburn Al
YA HE LLEVADO 4 O 5 VECES MI CARRO AL DEALER,EL LADO DE DRIVING CUANDO YO ENTRO A CIERTO DRIVE WAY HACE UN SONIDO EXTRAO AL IGUAL SI ME PARKEO EN RIVERSA Y TENGO QUE MOVER EL QUIA PARA LA DERECHA TAMBIEN, 4/21/2021 ME HICIERON UN TRABAJO Y DESDE ESA FECHA EL MOTOR ESTA TENIENDO UN SONIDO EXTRAO Y LA REBOLUCIONES .
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 2 of 2):
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stoplight, the vehicle failed to respond. The Auto START/STOP feature failed to restart the engine as designed. The contact stated that the Turbo light was illuminated as if the turbo was activated, even though the contact had not activated the feature. The vehicle was taken to a Certified mechanic who determined that the turbo had failed. The turbocharger was replaced. After the vehicle was repaired, the failure reoccurred while the vehicle was idling or parked. There were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer was informed of the failure however, the vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was 90,000.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that on various occasions while driving at various speeds with the automatic START/STOP function activated, the vehicle started losing motive power while the brake pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving from a complete stop. The vehicle was able to restart. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) warning light was intermittently illuminated. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,500.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 2 of 2):
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 22 MPH, the vehicle struck a pot-hole which caused the driver seat to move out of place. The contact stated that while accelerating, the front driver seat would shift backward and while shifted into reverse the seat would move forward. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the seat rail was damaged and the seat rail and seat needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
Continuous issue of front driver passenger power seat front level button failure. Continuous Headlights, fog lights getting fused every 4 months. Indoor back roof light works and sometime just does not work for months.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 2 of 2):
Continuous issue of front driver passenger power seat front level button failure. Continuous Headlights, fog lights getting fused every 4 months. Indoor back roof light works and sometime just does not work for months.
THE HEADLIGHTS ON DIM WILL GIVE THE ONCOMING CAR THE " BRIGHTS EFFECT" ON ROUGH UP AND DOWN ROADS. RESULTING IN THE ONCOMING CAR GIVING ME THE "BRIGHTS FLASH" OR JUST LEAVING THEIR VEHICLE 'BRIGHTS' ON PERMANENTLY. THIS IS VERY BLINDING AND DANGEROUS. SEEMS THERE IS A FINE LINE OF BEING DIM OR BRIGHT ON THESE TYPES OF HEADLIGHTS. I HAVE HAD THEM INSPECTED BY THE DEALER AND TOLD THEY ARE OK. THERE ARE MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET. THIS IS NIGHT TIME DRIVING.
Of 2 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 2 of 2):
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V181000 (Trailer Hitches) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH. The contact stated that the vehicle caught on fire while they were driving on the street. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The fire department was on the scene and filed a report. The husband had extinguished the fire using a fire extinguisher. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V181000 (Trailer Hitches) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact had taken the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it had not been diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. VIN tool confirms parts not yet available.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
Engine is burning a tremendous amount of motor oil. Dealer does acknowledge engine is burning oil. No warning lights on. Told burning motor oil is normal for a hyundai engine. Engine can seize during driving with no warning and is a safety issue. Front struts are also failing. No warning and is a safety issue: Currently trying to get dealer to cover defective components under warranty. Nothing has been repaired or resolved as of yet.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
The seat is able to forward face up to 40 lbs with a seatbelt install and 35 lbs with a latch install. When trying to install this seat with the seatbelt the instruction manual states not to lock the seatbelt after install however if the seatbelt inst not locked the seatbelt moves easily with some pressure (i.e. child pushing legs against back seat) and then becomes so lose that is can fall over. ALternately, i have tried the install with locking the seatbelt and this solution only lasts 1-2 car rides longer. (i.e. i would need to reinstall my seat every other time my child rode in the car). Currently the seat is installed with the latch system as this is the only way to get a safe install however my son is currently 34lbs and it will soon be unsafe to ride rear facing with the latch system which will then force me to turn him front facing before I or my son are ready.
Of 1 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
On June 28th at approximately 1130pm, my son was involved in a single vehicle accident. Upon impact with the tree the car immediately burst into flames
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
The contact's son owns a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe equipped with KUMHO Tires, Tire Line: Solus, Tire Size: 235/65/R17, DOT Number: H25AYA8U1221. The contact stated that while his son was driving 35 MPH, the passenger’s side front tire had a blowout causing damage to the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a body shop and the front end was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unavailable.
Many crash/fire reportsSome crash/fire reportsNo crash/fire in reports
Color = how serious (crash/fire involvement) · number = how many (share of all this car's reports). Tap any part to read real owner complaints.
How it compares
Lower than most complaint volume — 192 complaints ranks #3 of 24 popular models from the same year (fewest first · median 356).
14% of its complaints involved a crash or fire, vs 5% typical for its year — this one is fair to compare directly, because it doesn't depend on how many were sold.
Why raw complaint counts can mislead (and how we correct for it)
A best-selling car naturally collects more complaints than a rare one simply because there are more of them on the road — so a raw count alone can make a popular, reliable car look worse than a troubled niche one. That's why we show the rank alongside the crash/fire percentage (which doesn't depend on sales volume) and the same model's other years. Read all three together.
Computed by us from NHTSA complaint records for 24 popular same-year models · snapshot 2026-07-10. This comparison set is a sample, not every car sold.
Source: NHTSA — Owner Complaints · re-checked about every 24 hours
Crash-Test Safety Ratings
Official U.S. government 5-star crash-test results.
How to read these stars
These come from the government physically crash-testing this vehicle — front, side, and rollover — and scoring it 1 to 5 stars. Ratings are per body style, so a sedan and its coupe twin can differ. If a vehicle shows no rating, it usually means the government never tested that exact configuration — untested is not the same as unsafe, and we'll never blur that line.
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
Source: NHTSA — 5-Star Safety Ratings · re-checked about every 24 hours
Fuel Economy (MPG)
Official EPA estimates — the real numbers, not the brochure.
21–25Combined MPG
19–22City MPG
24–29Highway MPG
$2,450–$2,950Est. fuel cost / yr
Across 4 official EPA configurations · Fuel: Regular. Pick an engine/trim above for exact numbers.
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE — fueleconomy.gov · re-checked about every 24 hours