10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
3 / 19
Injuries / Deaths:
3 / 0
Average Mileage:
41,515 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2014 Hyundai Santa Fe engine problems

engine problem

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2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Owner Comments (Page 1 of 13)

problem #259

Dec 122024

Santa Fe

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Crack was found in oil pan during regular maintenance. The engine was replaced by Hyundai and now has around 60,000 miles on it. At my expense, the oil plan was replaced.

- Huntsville, MO, USA

problem #258

Jun 292024

Santa Fe

  • miles
The engine went out while driving on the freeway. All maintenance has always been done and it was burning oil.

- Vineyard, UT, USA

problem #257

Dec 062024

Santa Fe

  • miles
Check engine light came on and acceleration failed. Hyundai dealership indicated there are no valves in the intake and exhaust ports.

- Northbrook, IL, USA

problem #256

Oct 302024

Santa Fe

  • 63,547 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormal knocking sound. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle sputtered and hesitated while responding. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,547.

- Moreno Valley, CA, USA

problem #255

Sep 052024

Santa Fe

  • miles
I have been notified that I am in need of a new engine due to possible complete engine failure which is on the near horizon. I have the Lambda II V6 3.3L engine. It is knocking, making noises, hesitates to go, feels like it will stall out at all speeds, and is scaring me terribly. My certified local mechanic replaced a part for failed emissions, which cost almost $900. However the check engine light came back on. They stated I must go to Hyundai because they did not believe they could fix the car as it required a new engine. I took it to my Hyundai dealer, where my contact stated yes it should be covered as it was having the issues as have been identified with this engine. He later came back and stated his managers would not let him put through the claim, and said my estimate was now a whole new timing system at a cost of $4600. My car has less than 83,000 miles on it. My previous Hyundai is still running at 200,000 miles, so yes, I take good care of my vehicles. This is an early equipment failure on the part of Hyundai and Kia that they are now owning up to. I drive on busy 4 lane local roads, and I am afraid of this engine failure. Also, when I did take my Hyundai into the dealership, they did not have the ABS part needed for the recall. I was told it would be in within a couple of days. I have not been contacted back by them if it is in and to schedule me an appt. This is a huge failure in itself! I did make a claim to Hyundai Customer Care, that stated it was out of warranty. Today, I have my car at a 3rd automotive mechanic in the area to get a 3rd opinion. He has a minor timing issue code P0018 that emissions still kicked out once I finally got it passed. I am waiting to hear what he has to say regarding my engine with no beforehand knowledge of what I know so far. If my car catches fire or breaks down or seizes up on a busy road, I don't think that will go safely at all. I am very concerned for my safety and that of others.

- Zion, IL, USA

problem #254

Jun 242024

Santa Fe

  • miles
My 2014 Hyundai Sonata is subject to the recall campaign for the 2.0L and 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. Since June 24, 2024, the vehicle has exhibited multiple issues: 1. Check Engine Light: The check engine light is continuously on and blinking, signaling that the vehicle is unsafe to drive. Diagnostic codes retrieved include P0140 (O2 Circuit), P0172 (System Too Rich), and P0126 (Knock Sensor Circuit). While the P0126 code pertains to the knock sensor, there has been no definitive diagnosis to determine if the issue is isolated to the sensor or indicative of a deeper engine problem. 2. Engine Power Issue: The car experiences jolts and kicks back during acceleration, along with intermittent lack of power. Furthermore, an independent mechanic performed some tests on the engine, determining that it runs too rich. After the second white smoke through exhaust incident, the vehicle struggles, and often does not reach, 60 MPH; aligning with "Reduced power and/or hesitation" (case #2) in the recall campaign. 3. Exhaust Smoke: On two separate occasions, within a month, white smoke has been observed exiting the exhaust. Engine oil has been below 3/5 empty each time. No oil leak found; must be exiting through exhaust. Despite qualifying for the recall, the Hyundai Colorado Springs dealer has refused to inspect or replace the engine as required. These ongoing issues pose significant safety risks, including the potential for unexpected engine failure and loss of power while driving.

- Colorado Springs, CO, USA

problem #253

Sep 172024

Santa Fe

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

On [XXX] I was driving down a busy 4-lane in Los Angeles and my engine suddenly died. There were no warning signs like indicator lights or warning noises. It was traumatic and frightening and I thought I was going to be struck by a car or truck. I had little control over the car-it would not accelerate to get out of the road lane. I was coasting, stopped half toward the side of the road but still sticking out in the road lane and was terrified I'd get hit by another vehicle from my back driver's corner. Cars and trucks that were traveling at normal speed were trying to avoid a collision with me and swerving around me, putting myself and others at risk for serious injury or death. I had had all the systems updated 2 years ago at a HMA, Hyundai dealership as I was directed, which included the KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System). Dealer said it was to warn me of possible engine noise and issues. I never got any warning. I was NEVER told by anyone including Hyundai or any regulatory agency that the engine could suddenly fail as I'm driving the car OR I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DRIVING IT! There were never any warnings at that time or any time that anything was wrong with the vehicle. The car was towed to a Hyundai dealership and they diagnosed the problem on 8/28/2024 as a failed engine bearings clearance test at 63Kmiles. I kept all maintenance records, all done timely and properly with full synthetic oil. The components were assessed by the Hyundai dealership in communication and with guidance through HMA, Hyundai Technical /Techline confirmed failed engine bearings clearance test. My engine was not making any noises beforehand at all, and no engine warning light or sounds gave any warnings to be cautious or do anything other than drive normally. I was told I need an engine replacement. A Prior Approval for the engine replacement was started on 8/28/24 and sent to HMA, Hyundai. 9/17/2024, I still don't have engine replacement, dealer refuses to give records. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORM

- Tujunga , CA, USA

problem #252

Jul 062024

Santa Fe

  • miles
Engine was replaced in Feb. 2020 as part of the 162 engine recall. Car engine completely shuts down while driving and cannot be restarted for 20 or so minutes. This leaves me stuck in traffic with no ability to move the car. The new engine only has 40,000 miles on it. Dealership first said it was an issue with the engine and valves but when I wanted them to pay, they said the car is fine and passes all inspections. The check oil light and engine light come on when the engine stops, but they are not on prior to the engine stalling. I have made three visits regarding this - 1 to my personal mechanic and two to the Hyundai dealership. I filmed a video of the stall but it is too long to upload.

- Marina Del Rey, CA, USA

problem #251

Jul 192024

Santa Fe

  • miles
vehicle was driving then all of a sudden there was an excessive amount of white smoke coming out of exhaust Engine was making a clicking sound before like a card in spokes on a bike and has been excessively consuming oil recently Auto shop discovered that a piston came loose and was rattling around the engine until it eventually shot through the engine

- Moses Lake, WA, USA

problem #250

Jul 232024

Santa Fe

  • miles
This past Tuesday, July 23, 2024, I started to drive out of my driveway and I heard a very loud knocking noise coming from under the hood. Upon driving the car less than 100 feet the car lost power. It was extremely difficult to get the car back to my driveway. The car was completely impossible to drive and control of my Santa Fe Limited was lost. I had a tow company tow my Santa Fe to the place where I got normal routine service done. Both the tow truck driver and the owner of the auto service business stated the failure was a broken connecting rod or something very similar in the engine. The result was the engine is not able to be repaired and would need to be replaced by a new engine. I purchased the Santa Fe Limited new on May 17, 2024 and I am the only owner. It currently has 72,600 miles on it. I performed all service requirements and changed oil and filter every 5000 miles. Also had my tires rotated and balanced every 5000 miles.

- Moneta, VA, USA

problem #249

Apr 172024

Santa Fe

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

On [XXX] I purchased a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport from an auto dealer in Wichita, Kansas. When I bought the car, On [XXX], my car started making a funny noise and the engine light came on and then it quit running and would not restart. I coasted to a back street and then got a ride home. I had it towed home and then purchased a new battery, thinking that might be the issue; but the new battery didn-??t start my car. I called my dealership, as my car has a limited warranty on the engine and other parts for 24 months or 24,000 miles. Whichever comes first. At this time, I only had put 8,311 miles on the car; and had only owned it for 8 months. The dealership had my car towed to the mechanic they use. They determined that the engine had locked up. I received a call from the dealer stating they found out there was a recall on the engine through Hyundai; and stated that they have been in contact with a Hyundai dealership to have my car towed there. I contacted the Hyundai dealership and was informed they do not have a loaner car. I was paying for Lyft rides to work and getting rides by family home during this time. I received a call from the Hyundai dealership stating my car had been approved for a new motor to be installed; but it would take 3 to 4 weeks before it is shipped; and they still do not have a loaner car. I then rented a car from Enterprise on 5/11/24 for a week. On 5/15/24 I got a call from the Hyundai dealership stating my car would be ready on 5/16/24. I asked if the motor had been shipped in, and was told yes (which seemed odd since he had said a few days ago that it would take 3 to 4 weeks). I got a call on 5/16/24 that my car was ready. I went in to pick up my car and drove it a couple of days; and oil ran out. Dealership picked it up, supposedly fixed it; and now the oil light keeps coming on. I don't believe I got a new engine; and I am paying a lot of money for a salvage valued car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

- Wichita, KS, USA

problem #248

Jun 182024

Santa Fe

  • miles
2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 3rd owner with 54,098 miles, all maintenance records. Engine seized without warning on 6/18/2024. Hyundai states VIN is not part of published open recall for similar reason. Prior to Engine failure, Dealership updated the computer after vehicle went into limp home mode (November 2022) and a second auto repair facility replaced the anti-knock sensor under an extended warranty plan after a second Limp Home mode (Spring 2023).

- Browns Mills, NJ, USA

problem #247

May 172024

Santa Fe

  • miles
My 2014 Santa Fe was scheduled for a Recall 251 ABS Brake Failure-Fire hazard. NHTSA and Hyundai both advised owners of vehicles associated with this recall to park away from structures and recommended the vehicle not to be driven. Hyundai did not have a solution for roughly 6 months. During that time I kept my vehicle parked and away from structures as recommended for that 251 safety concern. I periodically would start the car and let it run to keep it from failing. I went through an entire winter season waiting for a solution a recall. My car just sat. Extreme weather and susceptible to dirt as it sat outside parked. Finally in May 2024 I was informed that Hyundai had a solution and parts were ready for the 251 recall repair. Well the day I was scheduled to bring my vehicle in to be repaired I went out and attempted to start the vehicle but could not. I tried to jump the battery and it still wouldn-??t start so I called the dealer and told them that I couldn-??t get the vehicle started. They would not provide a tow so I rescheduled the appointment and I called a tow service the next day. Tow came and checked the battery. The battery was fine. They jumped the battery and the vehicle turned on. the vehicle to a local dealer and they repaired the recalls. The vehicle was driven to the dealer that week. My vehicle-??s recalls were completed and I picked up the car a week later. All of a sudden when I went to start the car it would not turn over. I stalled in the lane of travel and avoided a collision. I called a private tow again, towed to the same dealer that did the recall. Engine light came on and they were able to determine that the crank position sensor failed as to the reason for stalling and intermittent starting. $600 later they repaired it. I left and the next day my car wouldn-??t start again. I associated this with the 251 recall and wear as it sat dormant for too many months. Hyundai refused to provide Goodwill or reimbursement for the crankshaft repair.

- Schnecksville , PA, USA

problem #246

Apr 302024

Santa Fe

  • miles
Car seized on the freeway. No warning, no lights, nothing it just died. Waiting on an explanation from the dealership;

- Port Lavaca, TX, USA

problem #245

Jan 112024

Santa Fe

  • 92,000 miles
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH on a highway exit ramp, she depressed the brake pedal and the "ABS" and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not slowing and was vibrating while depressing the brake pedal. The contact stated that the brake pedal was very soft while being depressed and the vehicle was stalling. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the brake seals and other unknown brake parts. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the brake failure reoccurred along with the engine stalling. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

- Naples, FL, USA

problem #244

Apr 192024

Santa Fe

  • miles
We were driving along the freeway at approximately 65 miles per hour. The car suddenly started to hesitate and then the engine cut completely out. We lost power steering and brakes when the engine cut out, but managed to get the vehicle to the shoulder of the road safely. There were no warning lights and the engine quit almost instantly. We had it towed to the Hyundai dealer and they said that the engine was destroyed and needed to be replaced.

- Chandler, AZ, USA

problem #243

Apr 082024

Santa Fe

  • miles
Check light flashing found dtc p1326 and the engine is knocking tech found tab Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

- Allentown, PA, USA

problem #242

Apr 012024

Santa Fe

  • miles
Engine has excessive oil consumption. Many complaints on engines failing and Hyundai not doing anything about it. They won-??t even run tests on the car.

- Hamburg, NJ, USA

problem #241

Feb 242024

Santa Fe

  • miles
While driving engine began to sputter and power ceased, stranding my wife on a busy highway in the dark. Engine suffered 2 out of 4 cylinders failure on the highway, engine is dead. Dealership quoted $18,000 all told to fix the damages. Routine maintenance performed and on top of that, constant topping off of oil for a bad oil consumption issue. Hyundai refused to warranty or help at all in any way even after stating over the phone that it has been a known defect for some time and should be covered. Hyundai has left me with a dead car, no help to fix it or replace it and a loan still to pay off.

- Pottstown, PA, USA

problem #240

Mar 152024

Santa Fe

  • miles
What component failed or malfunctioned" Vehicle's engine is burning oil. There are no leaks and no oil left behind after it has been parked for extended periods, yet the engine is bone dry when oil levels are manually checked with the dip stick. The vehicle's engine has been the subject of numerous lawsuits and settlements for connecting rod bearing failures, so it is likely that my vehicle is in the early stages of this failure. Despite the lawsuits, settlements, and known issues, the manufacturer refuses to inspect or test for these issues under warranty. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk" One of the recalls that resulted from one of the previous lawsuits led to the installation of an engine knock sensor which is meant to stall the engine and place it into a "limp mode" when the failure is happening. If this is to happen while I am operating the vehicle (especially on the highway), it could put myself, my child, or others on the road at risk when the vehicle suddenly goes from operating at 65+ MPH to something much slower without warning. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center" The manufacturer refuses to test for these issues under warranty, despite the symptoms clearly pointing to early rod bearing failure. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The manufacturer refuses to test for these issues under warranty, despite the symptoms clearly pointing to early rod bearing failure. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear" There has been no warning aside from a simple "check engine" light. Had I not manually checked my oil levels, I would not have noticed the engine was bone dry before operating the vehicle.

- Melissa, TX, USA

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