Hyundai Santa Fe 2019–2023 problems by year and mileage
4th generation (TM)
NHTSA data through 18 October 20261,161 complaints, 197 with mileageMethod
A DO NOT DRIVE recall covers part of this generation — check the VIN before driving it home.
Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
Close- Median failure report
- 10,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 203
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2019
- Engine73 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise47 reports
- Transmission and driveline37 reports
Recall areas Trailer hitches · Air bags — side/window
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe
Close- Median failure report
- 15,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 216
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
Most reported on the 2020
- Engine80 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise42 reports
- Transmission and driveline26 reports
Recall areas Trailer hitches · Visibility — windshield
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
Close- Median failure report
- 21,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 187
- Recalls naming this year
- 8
Most reported on the 2021
- Transmission and driveline58 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise46 reports
- Engine45 reports
Recall areas Back over prevention — sensing system · Trailer hitches · Seat belts — front
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 265
- Recalls naming this year
- 8
Most reported on the 2022
- Transmission and driveline75 reports
- Engine74 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise58 reports
Recall areas Back over prevention — sensing system · Trailer hitches · Fuel system, gasoline — storage
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 290
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
Most reported on the 2023
- Problems owners could not categorise75 reports
- Transmission and driveline62 reports
- Engine61 reports
Recall areas Trailer hitches · Seat belts — front
Check the VIN at NHTSA
Tiles: each year’s median failure mileage. † Median likely runs low (complaints filed after 2020). Latest: the 2021; earliest: the 2019, and the 2019 is 2 years older (part of the gap is age). 2 of these years carry fewer than 30 reports with an odometer reading and show no median at all, rather than one computed from a handful.
The short answer
“Is the 2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?”
- Median of reported failures
- 15,000 mi
- 90% of reports came by
- 75,000 mi
- Reports with mileage
- 197
- Recalls
- 12
At least 40% of this generation’s complaints came after 2020, so its median likely runs low (why).
Most reported
- Engine28.7% of complaints · median 18,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise23.1% of complaints · median 7,000 mi
- Transmission and driveline22.2% of complaints · median 17,000 mi
Documented problems
Owners filed 1,161 complaints with NHTSA about the 2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe; the engine leads with 28.7% of them, and half of the 197 that record an odometer reading came by 15,000 miles — complaints, not a failure rate.
47% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 1.1 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000. Failures clustered that early usually indicate a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear.
Note: in 2019, both this generation and the previous one were sold at the same time, and NHTSA complaints are not separated by body.
Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗
How many miles does a 2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe last?
On the 2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, half of the 197 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 15,000 miles and 90% by 75,000 miles (why that is not a lifespan).
Figure 1 · Hyundai Santa Fe 2019–2023 · 197 reports with mileage
Mileage at failure
20,000-mile bins, 0 to 200,000 miles, linear scale; tallest bar 113 complaints
- First 12,000 miles — 47% of all failures
- Rest of the range
- Median
- 10%
- 367
- 25%
- 2,500
- Median
- 15,000
- 75%
- 41,000
- 90%
- 75,000
Show the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 0–20,000 | 113 | 57.4% |
| 20,000–40,000 | 31 | 15.7% |
| 40,000–60,000 | 21 | 10.7% |
| 60,000–80,000 | 16 | 8.1% |
| 80,000–100,000 | 14 | 7.1% |
| 100,000–120,000 | 1 | 0.5% |
| 120,000–140,000 | 1 | 0.5% |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
Common Santa Fe problems, and when they happen
Figure 2 · Hyundai Santa Fe 2019–2023
When each system fails
Bar: middle half of reports · notch: median · proportional (log) scale (how to read it)
- Electrical system185 reportsmedian 5,000middle half 2,000–40,000
- Problems owners could not categorise268 reportsmedian 7,000middle half 309–18,000
- Brakes67 reportsmedian 9,500middle half 2,500–33,000
- Transmission and driveline258 reportsmedian 17,000middle half 9,000–56,000
- Engine333 reportsmedian 18,000middle half 5,000–40,000
- Visibility equipment37 reportsmedian 29,000middle half 9,000–47,000
- Your odometer, once entered below
Ordered by median mileage, earliest first.
All systems in a table
| System | Complaints | Share | Median | 25–75% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 333 | 28.7% | 18,000 | 5,000–40,000 |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 268 | 23.1% | 7,000 | 309–18,000 |
| Transmission and driveline | 258 | 22.2% | 17,000 | 9,000–56,000 |
| Electrical system | 185 | 15.9% | 5,000 | 2,000–40,000 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 120 | 10.3% | — | — |
| Fuel and propulsion system | 105 | 9.0% | — | — |
| Brakes | 67 | 5.8% | 9,500 | 2,500–33,000 |
| Throttle and speed control | 62 | 5.3% | — | — |
| Body structure | 42 | 3.6% | — | — |
| Visibility equipment | 37 | 3.2% | 29,000 | 9,000–47,000 |
Known problems with the 2019–2023 Santa Fe
Engine — Theta II Family (2.4L/2.0T) 2019–2020
The 2019-2020 carryover 2.4L GDI and 2.0T remain in the Theta II family covered by Hyundai's knock sensor detection system software campaigns for connecting-rod bearing wear. The 2021 switch to the Smartstream 2.5L is a clean powertrain break within the generation.
Transmission — 8-speed Wet Dual-clutch 2021–2023
Drivability complaints (low-speed shudder, hesitation from a stop, jerky engagement) with the wet DCT paired to the 2.5L turbo introduced in the 2021 facelift.
Before you buy a 2019–2023 Santa Fe: the 3-minute check
Generated from 197 mileage-tagged complaints, 12 recall campaigns, 2 documented problem areas.
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 12 campaigns cover this generation.
- Ask for problems owners could not categorise repair records. Reports on this area come at a median of 7,000 miles — a newer example may not have reached that mileage yet, so ask what was repaired under warranty and what the warranty still covers.
- Ask for electrical system repair records. Same question here: a median of 5,000 miles.
- Check engine — theta II family (2.4L/2.0T) on 2019–2020 cars. What each looks like: Known problems.
- Check transmission — 8-speed wet dual-clutch on 2021–2023 (2.5T only) cars.
- End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car.
Santa Fe problems by mileage: where your car sits
Type your odometer, or read the table.
| System | Middle half of reports, mi | At 60k mi84% below | At 90k mi94% below | At 120k mi99% below | At 150k mi100% below | At 200k mi100% below |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5,000–40,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 309–18,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Transmission and driveline | 9,000–56,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Electrical system | 2,000–40,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Brakes | 2,500–33,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Visibility equipment | 9,000–47,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
Figure 3 · Hyundai Santa Fe 2019–2023 · 197 reports with mileage
Share of reports below each mileage
Steps at bin edges (how to read it)
- 60,000 mi — 84% of reports below
- 120,000 mi — 99% of reports below
- 200,000 mi — 100% of reports below
- Median (the 50% line)
- Your odometer, once entered
Linear axis, same as Figure 1.
2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe recalls (12)
NHTSA records 12 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation (what a recall is).
1 of these carry a severe advisory — do not drive or park outside; check those first by VIN.
The campaigns cluster around the fuel system (3), the airbag system (2), the reversing camera and sensors (1) (why one area can repeat).
Nov 2024 · 2021–2022 · Back Over PreventionA rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Santa Fe HEV, Elantra, Elantra HEV and 2022 Elantra N and Santa Fe PHEV vehicles. Due to a damaged printed circuit board, the rearview camera image may fail to display. As such, these…
What can happen. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2025. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for…
Mar 2023 · 2019–2023 · Trailer Hitches park outsideA fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
The defect. 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…
What can happen. A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
The free 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…
Jan 2023 · 2022 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The fuel tank may have been improperly molded, which can result in a fuel leak.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel tank, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 20, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.…
Oct 2022 · 2021–2023 · Seat BeltsAn exploding seat belt pretensioner can project metal fragments into the vehicle, strike vehicle occupants…
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023 Genesis G80 Electric, 2021-2022 Santa Fe Hybrid, and 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioners may explode…
What can happen. An exploding seat belt pretensioner can project metal fragments into the vehicle, strike vehicle occupants, and result in injury.
The free fix. Dealers will secure the seat belt pretensioners with a cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 14, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.…
Oct 2022 · 2021–2022 · Power TrainLoss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump…
What can happen. Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification…
Mar 2022 · 2022 · Engine and Engine CoolingAn oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Santa Fe and Santa Cruz vehicles. The oil supply pipe to the turbocharger may crack, which could result in an oil leak in the engine compartment.
What can happen. An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the turbocharger oil supply pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's…
Dec 2021 · 2020–2021 · VisibilityA windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.
What can happen. A windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
The free fix. Dealers will remove and reinstall the front windshield panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.…
Dec 2021 · 2022 · Electrical SystemAn illegible instrument cluster will not show information such as vehicle speed or safety system warnings…
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Santa Fe HEV and Santa Fe PHEV vehicles. The instrument cluster liquid-crystal display (LCD) may invert the image on the screen upon vehicle startup, making the display illegible. As such, these…
What can happen. An illegible instrument cluster will not show information such as vehicle speed or safety system warnings, which can increase the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the instrument cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 23, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number…
Jul 2021 · 2021–2022 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
What can happen. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at…
May 2021 · 2021 · Fuel System, GasolineAn insufficiently tightened fuel pipe may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Santa Fe vehicles equipped with 2.5-litre Turbo engines. The fuel pipe connecting the high pressure fuel pump to the fuel rail may not have been tightened properly.
What can happen. An insufficiently tightened fuel pipe may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers inspected and tightened the fuel pipe connection, free of charge. The affected vehicles have been repaired and therefore no owner notification letters will be sent. Owners may contact Hyundai…
Mar 2021 · 2021 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase…
The defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Santa Fe vehicles. The Occupant Detection System (ODS) module may not deactivate the air bag upon detection of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to…
What can happen. In the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
The free fix. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ODS module, free of charge. All affected vehicles have been remedied as of May 12, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at…
Oct 2018 · 2019 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash, if the air bags become damaged during deployment they may not inflate properly…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. 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 free 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…
Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported
Out of 1,161 complaints against this generation, owners also reported:
- Crashes
- 60 (5.2%)
- Fires
- 28
- Injury reports
- 39
- Fatality reports
- 0
Santa Fe problems by model year
The 2023 drew the most complaints of this generation, 290, most of them about problems owners could not categorise, and the 2021 the fewest, 187. A typical year drew about 216.
One caveat on the year figures: in 2019, the manufacturer sold both this generation and the previous one at the same time, and NHTSA records do not distinguish between them. Complaints filed under that year may describe either vehicle.
| Year | Complaints | With mileage | Median miles | Most reported | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 mixed | 203 | 65 | 10,000† | Engine (73) | 2 |
| 2020 | 216 | 45 | 15,000 | Engine (80) | 2 |
| 2021 | 187 | 35 | 21,000 | Transmission and driveline (58) | 8 |
| 2022 | 265 | 28 | under 30 reports | Transmission and driveline (75) | 8 |
| 2023 | 290 | 24 | under 30 reports | Problems owners could not categorise (75) | 2 |
What Santa Fe owners reported
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode and failed to properly accelerate, with the check engine warning light illuminated and flashing. The vehicle was later towed to the local mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause…
2020 · 137,000 miles · Engine and its cooling system
The contact owned a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 50 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly caught on fire. The contact's wife became aware that the radio was inoperable before the failure. Additionally, the contact’s wife’s eyes were irritated, and there was a hot, harsh odor which…
2021 · 58,000 miles · Engine
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked or hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that after two separate warranty repairs of the fuel injector, the failure persisted. In…
2022 · 30,000 miles · Reversing camera and sensors
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while pulling out of the driveway and approaching a stop sign, the message "Check Transmission Oil Immediately" was momentarily displayed. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be diagnosed unless the message was…
2022 · 75,000 miles · Transmission and driveline
Built from 197 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-10-20 · open data · how it is built
Other Santa Fe generations
- Santa Fe 2001–2006 1,007 reports with mileage, most about the suspension
- Santa Fe 2007–2012 1,939 reports with mileage, most about the engine
- Santa Fe 2013–2018 1,610 reports with mileage, most about the engine