Hyundai Santa Fe research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Santa Fe has changed shape more than most SUVs: a roomy two-row crossover in 2011-2012, a two-row Santa Fe Sport plus a three-row V6 Santa Fe in 2013-2018, a refined two-row model for 2019-2023 (adding Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions from 2021-2022), and a boxy three-row SUV from 2024. Newer models offer strong standard safety tech and good hybrid mpg. On older four-cylinder models, Hyundai's Theta II engine recall and settlement and several ABS fire-risk recalls make a VIN check essential.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. Verify 2026 trims, hybrid availability and specifications against current Hyundai data; the 2026 gas model's switch to a conventional 8-speed automatic is a key change from 2024-2025.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Roomy comfortable cabin
Strong standard safety features 2019 and later
Hybrid about 34 36 mpg combined
Plug in hybrid about 31 electric miles 2022 2023
Three row seating standard 2024 and later
Smooth V6 on older three row models
Long original powertrain warranty
Good used value

Things to know before you buy

Model body and engine vary widely resolve by VIN
Theta ii four cylinder program 2013 2019
Abs module fire recalls 2011 2018
2 5 turbo dual clutch 2021 2025 recalls and low speed feel
Key start models need anti theft update
2024 and later third row is tight for adults
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2007–2012)

The second-generation Santa Fe (2007-2012) was updated for 2010 with a 175-hp 2.4L four (6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic) and a 276-hp 3.5L V6 (6-speed automatic), front- or all-wheel drive. It was a two-row midsize crossover sold below the three-row Veracruz.

Buyer takeaway: An inexpensive, simple used crossover. The V6 is the smoother choice; confirm the ABS-module fire recall and, on 2012 2.4L models, the connecting rod bearing recall.

Generation 3 (2013–2018)

The third generation split into the two-row Santa Fe Sport (190-hp 2.4L or 264-hp 2.0L turbo, retuned to 185 hp and 240 hp for 2017) and the long-wheelbase three-row Santa Fe with a 290-hp 3.3L V6, which replaced the Veracruz. All use direct injection and a 6-speed automatic. The 2017 facelift added new styling, drive modes and more safety tech; the three-row model ran one more year as the 2019 Santa Fe XL.

Buyer takeaway: The three-row V6 avoids the Theta II four-cylinder issues and suits families; Sport buyers should confirm the engine recall, KSDS update and settlement coverage. Every year needs an ABS fire recall check.

Generation 4 (2019–2023)

The fourth generation (2019-2023) is a two-row midsize crossover. It launched with a 185-hp 2.4L or 235-hp 2.0L turbo and an 8-speed automatic, with standard automatic emergency braking. The major 2021 refresh brought a 191-hp 2.5L, a 277-hp 2.5L turbo with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch, and the Santa Fe Hybrid (about 225 hp); a 261-hp Plug-in Hybrid followed for 2022.

Buyer takeaway: 2021-2023 models are the most refined; the Hybrid is the best all-rounder, the 2.5L turbo the quickest (check DCT and fuel-pipe recalls), and the Plug-in Hybrid suits short commutes with home charging.

Generation 5 (2024–present)

The fifth-generation Santa Fe (2024-) is a boxy three-row SUV with a 277-hp 2.5L turbo (8-speed dual-clutch for 2024-2025, conventional 8-speed automatic from 2026) or a 231-hp 1.6L turbo Hybrid with a 6-speed automatic. The XRT trim adds ground clearance and 4,500-lb towing. No plug-in hybrid is offered in this generation in the U.S.

Buyer takeaway: Choose the Hybrid for fuel economy and the 2.5L turbo for towing; a 2026 gas model avoids the dual-clutch. Check newer-model recalls by VIN.

Hyundai Santa Fe by model year

2026 Hyundai Santa Fe

For 2026 the gas Santa Fe's 277-hp 2.5L turbo swaps the 8-speed dual-clutch for a conventional 8-speed automatic, and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go becomes standard. The 231-hp Hybrid keeps its 6-speed automatic (about 34-36 mpg combined), the XRT gains terrain modes, and hybrid availability expands across trims. Verify final 2026 trims and specs with Hyundai.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 231 hp 271 lb ft combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic 2 5 turbo replaces dual clutch; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row midsize crossover

What changed:

Gas models switch to conventional 8 speed automatic
Adaptive cruise with stop and go now standard
Xrt gains mud snow and sand terrain modes
Expanded hybrid trim availability

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Connecting rod bolt recall completion; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Third row seat operation.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2025 Santa Fe carries over the three-row design with the 277-hp 2.5L turbo and 8-speed dual-clutch (about 20/29 mpg front-drive) or the 231-hp Hybrid (about 34-36 mpg combined). It is the last year of the dual-clutch on gas models. Certain 2025 models have starter-cover and connecting rod bolt recalls; confirm every open recall by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 231 hp 271 lb ft combined
Transmissions: 8 speed wet dual clutch 2 5 turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row midsize crossover

What changed:

Largely carryover
Final year of the 2 5 turbo dual clutch

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Connecting rod bolt recall completion; Starter terminal cover recall completion; Dual clutch low speed behavior 2 5 turbo; Dct recall and software status; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Third row seat operation.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The all-new 2024 Santa Fe went boxy and longer, with three rows standard. Gas models use the 277-hp, 311 lb-ft 2.5L turbo with an 8-speed dual-clutch (about 20/29 mpg front-drive); the Hybrid pairs a 1.6L turbo with a motor for 231 hp and about 36 mpg combined (front-drive). The XRT adds ground clearance, AWD and 4,500-lb towing. Some 2024 models had a parking rollaway software recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 231 hp 271 lb ft combined
Transmissions: 8 speed wet dual clutch 2 5 turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row midsize crossover

What changed:

All new boxy fifth generation
Three row seating standard
2.5 liter turbo now standard
New xrt trim with raised ground clearance and 4500 lb towing

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Transmission park software recall completion; Dual clutch low speed behavior 2 5 turbo; Dct recall and software status; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Third row seat operation; Maintenance history.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Santa Fe is the last two-row model, carrying over the 191-hp 2.5L, 277-hp 2.5L turbo, about 225-hp Hybrid (up to about 34 mpg combined) and 261-hp Plug-in Hybrid. It suits buyers who want a five-seat midsize crossover; the 2024 redesign added a standard third row. 2019-2023 models with a factory tow hitch have a harness fire-risk recall.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid about 225 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic 2.5 liter; 8 speed wet dual clutch 2 5 turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover 2 row

What changed:

Final year of the two row santa fe
Largely carryover

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Dual clutch low speed behavior 2 5 turbo; Dct recall and software status; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Tow hitch wiring recall completion if equipped; Driver assistance cameras and radar; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe adds a Plug-in Hybrid: 261 hp, standard AWD and about 31 miles of EPA electric range. The 191-hp 2.5L, 277-hp 2.5L turbo (8-speed dual-clutch) and about 225-hp Hybrid (Blue trim about 34 mpg combined) continue. 2021-2022 2.5L turbo models are covered by fuel-pipe and dual-clutch oil pump recalls, so confirm completion by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid about 225 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic 2.5 liter; 8 speed wet dual clutch 2 5 turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover 2 row

What changed:

First santa fe plug in hybrid about 31 electric miles
Hybrid blue trim about 34 mpg combined

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dual clutch low speed behavior 2 5 turbo; Dct recall and software status; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Tow hitch wiring recall completion if equipped; Fuel pipe recall completion 2 5 turbo; Charging port and onboard charger PHEV; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The heavily refreshed 2021 Santa Fe has new styling and powertrains: a 191-hp 2.5L (8-speed automatic, about 25/28 mpg front-drive), a 277-hp, 311 lb-ft 2.5L turbo with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch, and the first Santa Fe Hybrid, a 1.6L turbo with about 225 hp, AWD and roughly 33/30 mpg. 2021-2022 turbos have fuel-pipe and dual-clutch recalls; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 277 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid about 225 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic 2.5 liter; 8 speed wet dual clutch 2 5 turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover 2 row

What changed:

Major refresh on a new platform
New 2.5 liter and 277 hp 2.5 liter turbo with 8 speed dual clutch
First santa fe hybrid with standard AWD
New calligraphy top trim

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dual clutch low speed behavior 2 5 turbo; Dct recall and software status; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Tow hitch wiring recall completion if equipped; Fuel pipe recall completion 2 5 turbo; Driver assistance cameras and radar; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2020 Santa Fe carries over the 185-hp 2.4L and 235-hp 2.0L turbo with an 8-speed automatic, rated about 22/29 mpg (2.4L front-drive) and 20/27 (2.0T). The three-row XL was dropped; Hyundai's Palisade became the three-row choice. Standard driver aids make it a sensible family pick; check recalls and the anti-theft update on key-start models.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 235 hp 260 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover 2 row

What changed:

Santa fe xl discontinued
Largely carryover

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Tow hitch wiring recall completion if equipped; Oil level and consumption; Driver assistance cameras and radar; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

The redesigned 2019 Santa Fe is a five-seat crossover (formerly the Sport) with a 185-hp 2.4L or 235-hp 2.0L turbo, both with a new 8-speed automatic (about 22/29 mpg 2.4L front-drive), and standard automatic emergency braking. The old three-row model continued for one year as the Santa Fe XL with the 290-hp V6 and 6-speed automatic. 2019 2.4L and 2.0T engines are in the Theta II settlement.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 235 hp 260 lb ft; 3.3 liter V6 290 hp santa fe xl
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic santa fe; 6 speed automatic santa fe xl
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover 2 row; Santa fe xl 3 row carryover

What changed:

All new fourth generation two row santa fe
New 8 speed automatic
Three row model renamed santa fe xl for one year
Standard automatic emergency braking and lane keeping

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; Tow hitch wiring recall completion if equipped; Driver assistance cameras and radar; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe

2018 is the last year of the Santa Fe Sport name: 185-hp 2.4L or 240-hp 2.0L turbo, plus the three-row Santa Fe with the 290-hp 3.3L V6, all 6-speed automatic. Sport four-cylinders are covered by the Theta II settlement and KSDS software, and 2016-2018 Santa Fe and 2017-2018 Sport models have an ABS-module fire recall, so confirm both by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 240 hp 260 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

Final year of the santa fe sport name
Largely carryover

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2017 facelift brought new front and rear styling, a drive mode selector and more available safety tech. The Santa Fe Sport's engines were retuned for lower-rpm power: 185 hp for the 2.4L and 240 hp/260 lb-ft for the 2.0L turbo (about 21/27 and 20/28 mpg front-drive). The three-row Santa Fe keeps the 290-hp V6; some 2017 V6s were recalled for possible bearing wear.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 240 hp 260 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

Refreshed front and rear styling
Sport engines retuned to 185 hp and 240 hp for more low end torque
Drive mode selector added
Available automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; V6 engine bearing recall completion 2017; Hood latch recall completion; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2016 Santa Fe Sport (190-hp 2.4L or 264-hp 2.0L turbo) and three-row Santa Fe (290-hp 3.3L V6) carry over before the 2017 facelift, with 6-speed automatics and about 20/27 mpg (Sport 2.4L front-drive). 2016-2018 three-row models are in an ABS-module fire recall (park outside until fixed), and Sport four-cylinders are in the Theta II settlement.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 190 hp 181 lb ft sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 264 hp 269 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

Largely carryover
Final year before the 2017 facelift

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; Hood latch recall completion; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2015 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2015 Santa Fe Sport keeps the 190-hp 2.4L or 264-hp 2.0L turbo, and the three-row Santa Fe the 290-hp 3.3L V6, all with a 6-speed automatic (about 20/27 mpg Sport 2.4L, 18/25 V6, front-drive). Sport four-cylinders fall under the Theta II settlement and KSDS campaign, and 2013-2015 models have ABS-module fire recalls, so check the VIN closely.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 190 hp 181 lb ft sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 264 hp 269 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

Largely carryover
Ultimate trims on sport 2 0t and three row

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; Hood latch recall completion; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2014 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2014 Santa Fe Sport (190-hp 2.4L or 264-hp 2.0L turbo) and three-row Santa Fe (290-hp 3.3L V6) carry over with 6-speed automatics and front- or all-wheel drive, rated about 20/27 mpg for the front-drive Sport 2.4L and 18/25 for the V6. 2013-2014 Sport engines were recalled for possible connecting rod bearing wear and later covered by Hyundai's engine settlement, so confirm recall and KSDS status.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 190 hp 181 lb ft sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 264 hp 269 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

Largely carryover
Sport 2.4 liter and 2 0 turbo still in theta ii recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Theta ii engine recall completion sport; Engine knock or oil pressure warning four cylinder; Ksds software and engine warranty status four cylinder; Oil level and consumption; Hood latch recall completion; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

For 2013 the lineup split in two: the five-seat Santa Fe Sport with a 190-hp 2.4L or a 264-hp 2.0L turbo, and a longer three-row Santa Fe with a 290-hp 3.3L V6 that replaced the Veracruz. All use a 6-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drive (Sport 2.4L about 21/29 mpg front-drive; V6 about 18/25). 2013-2014 Sport engines are in Hyundai's Theta II engine recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 190 hp 181 lb ft sport; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 264 hp 269 lb ft sport; 3.3 liter gdi V6 290 hp 252 lb ft 3 row
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Santa fe sport 2 row 5 passenger; Santa fe 3 row long wheelbase

What changed:

All new third generation
Two row santa fe sport with 2.4 liter or 2.0 liter turbo
Three row long wheelbase santa fe with 3.3 liter V6 replaces veracruz
All engines direct injected with 6 speed automatic

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2012 Santa Fe is the last of the second generation, with the 175-hp 2.4L four (manual or 6-speed automatic) or 276-hp 3.5L V6 (6-speed automatic), rated about 20/26-27 mpg front-drive. 2012 2.4L engines were later recalled for possible premature connecting rod bearing wear, and 2010-2012 models for an ABS-module fire risk, so confirm both remedies by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 175 hp 169 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual 2.4 liter FWD; 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Final year of the second generation
2.4 liter part of connecting rod bearing recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Connecting rod bearing recall completion 2.4 liter; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Clutch wear if manual; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2011 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2011 Santa Fe is the second-generation model, updated for 2010 with a 175-hp 2.4L four (6-speed manual on base front-drive models or 6-speed automatic) and a 276-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic, front- or all-wheel drive. Rated about 20/27 mpg (2.4L automatic, front-drive) and 20/26 (V6). It is a roomy, simple crossover; check the VIN for the ABS-module fire recall.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 175 hp 169 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual 2.4 liter FWD; 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

2.4 liter and 3.5 liter V6 engines from the 2010 update
6 speed manual on base 2.4 liter
Two row midsize crossover below the veracruz

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact model engine and transmission by VIN; Abs module fire recall completion; Clutch wear if manual; Automatic transmission shift quality; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

Theta II Four-Cylinder Engine Recall, Settlement and KSDS Campaign (2013–2019)
2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport 2.4L and 2.0L turbo engines were recalled for machining debris that can cause premature connecting rod bearing wear and engine seizure (NHTSA 17V-226; a follow-up 18V-934 addresses fuel pipes damaged during engine replacement). 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport and 2019 Santa Fe four-cylinders are also in Hyundai's Theta II class settlement, which provides lifetime short-block coverage for bearing failure (conditions apply) and the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update.
What to do: Confirm the recall and KSDS update are complete and ask a Hyundai dealer about warranty coverage for the VIN.
Other Engine and Fuel-System Recalls (2012 2.4L, 2017 V6, 2021-2022 2.5T, 2025-2026) (2012–2026)
Separate recalls cover specific engines: 2012 Santa Fe 2.4L engines for possible connecting rod bearing wear (20V-746); 2017 three-row Santa Fe 3.3L V6 engines for bearing wear that can cause stalling (17V-578); 2021-2022 2.5L turbo models for a fuel pipe connection that may leak and create a fire risk (21V-308, 21V-524); and certain 2025-2026 models for improperly tightened connecting rod bolts (25V-549).
What to do: Confirm every engine and fuel-system recall that applies to the VIN is complete.
ABS Module Fire-Risk Recalls (2011-2018) (2011–2018)
Several recalls address ABS modules that can short internally and cause an engine-compartment fire, even when parked: 2010-2012 Santa Fe and 2013-2015 three-row Santa Fe (23V-651), 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport (20V-520, replaced by 21V-303), and 2016-2018 Santa Fe and 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport (22V-056). Hyundai advised parking outside until repaired.
What to do: Do not buy until the applicable ABS recall shows complete, or have a Hyundai dealer complete it first.
2.5L Turbo 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Behavior and Recalls (2021–2025)
2021-2025 Santa Fe 2.5L turbo models use an 8-speed wet dual-clutch. Certain 2021-2022 models were recalled for a transmission oil pump problem that can cause loss of drive power (22V-746), and certain 2024 models for software that could let the vehicle roll away when parked (24V-529). For 2026 Hyundai replaced it with a conventional 8-speed automatic. The 2.5L non-turbo and hybrids use conventional automatics.
What to do: Test-drive a turbo Santa Fe in traffic and confirm transmission recalls are complete.
Tow Hitch Harness Fire Risk and Hood Latch Recalls (2013–2023)
Certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, Santa Fe Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models with a tow hitch harness can collect water on a circuit board and short, creating a fire risk while parked or driving (23V-181). Certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport models have a secondary hood latch cable that may corrode and bind (17V-358).
What to do: Confirm these recalls on hitch-equipped and 2013-2017 vehicles.
Anti-Theft Software Update (Key-Start Models) (2013–2022)
Key-start 2013-2022 Santa Fe, 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport and 2019 Santa Fe XL models are eligible for Hyundai's free 2023 anti-theft software update, which requires the key fob to unlock the vehicle before it will start. Push-button-start models are not affected.
What to do: Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm the update; it is free.
Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, Santa Fe XL, Hybrid and PHEV Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The name covers very different vehicles: the 2011-2012 two-row Santa Fe; the 2013-2018 two-row Santa Fe Sport versus the three-row V6 Santa Fe; the 2019 Santa Fe XL (old three-row) versus the new two-row Santa Fe; 2021-2023 gas, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid two-row models; and the 2024-on three-row Santa Fe. The Santa Cruz pickup is a separate model. Resolve model, engine and seating by VIN.
What to do: Confirm exactly which Santa Fe, engine and seating layout you are buying before comparing prices.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model (Santa Fe, Sport or XL), year, engine, transmission, production date and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls, confirm Theta II engine campaign status on 2013-2019 four-cylinders, and confirm the anti-theft update on key-start models.

Similar vehicles to consider

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Chevrolet Blazer
Mazda CX-90
Subaru Outback
Volkswagen Atlas
Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai Tucson

Questions this guide answers

Is this a Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport or Santa Fe XL?
Does this Santa Fe have a third row?
What engine and transmission does this Santa Fe have?
Is this Santa Fe part of the Theta II engine recall or settlement?
Has the ABS module fire recall been completed?
Does this Santa Fe have a dual-clutch transmission?
What is the difference between the Santa Fe Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?
What fuel economy does the Santa Fe get?
What changed with the 2024 redesign and the 2026 update?
What similar midsize SUVs should I consider?