2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

3 recalls, 268 complaints - 154 TSBs

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburo... Read more

Consequence

Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead... Read more

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.

1,712,336 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

EQUIPMENT

Defect Description

CURT MANUFACTURING IS RECALLING CERTAIN TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESSES, PART NUMBER 55538, THAT CONNECT TOW VEHICLE LIGHTING CIRCUITS TO TRAILER LIGHTING CIRCUITS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 THROUGH 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE VEHICLES. THE UNITS ARE NOT WATER-TIGHT AND MOISTURE CAN SEEP INTO T... Read more

Consequence

WITHOUT THE CIRCUIT PROTECTION, THE MODULE CAN OVERHEAT POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.

Remedy

CURT MANUFACTURING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESS. THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MANUFACTURING AT 1-715 831-8713.

2,254 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

Defect Description

HYUNDAI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SANTA FE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 28, 2010, THROUGH NOVEMBER 25, 2010. SOME OF THE REAR BRAKE CALIPERS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY MACHINED.

Consequence

AS A RESULT, BRAKE FLUID WILL LEAK, FOLLOWED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT INDICATING THE BRAKE FLUID LEVEL IS LOW AND SHOULD BE CHECKED, THEN A SOFT OR SPONGY BRAKE PEDAL FEEL, AND IF NOT SERVICED, REDUCED BRAKING POWER WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR CALIPERS AND REPLACE IT IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 17, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AT 1-800-243-7766.

1,785 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

Complaint Statistics

268 total complaints 24 crashes 9 fires 18 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	61
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	25
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	24
STEERING	20
POWER TRAIN	19
SERVICE BRAKES	15
SUSPENSION	15
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	13
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	9
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)	7

Incident date: Mar 17, 2026

To whom it may concern at NHTSA, I am filing a formal complaint regarding a critical technical discrepancy in Honda’s manufacturing records that is preventing essential safety diagnostics and maintenance for my vehicle. Vehicle Details: • VIN: [XXX] • Model: 2022 Honda Civic Touring (11th Gen... Read more

Incident date: Mar 17, 2026

Passenger front suspension failure due to failed hydraulic pump (at 67k miles), resulting in wheels rubbing against interior, making vehicle almost inoperable without placing occupants at risk. It was immediate and without warning inside vehicle. When I spoke with technician they informed me that i... Read more

Incident date: Oct 25, 2025

I had Hold feature engaged during a I-70 construction traffic stop. after 7 or 8 minutes auto rolled forward by it's self and something like eps turned on. I was floored at this hazzard and it could have killed someone, if they were infront of my auto.

Incident date: Aug 8, 2025

Recently, the rear evaporator core failed, causing a refrigerant leak that disabled the entire A/C system. This left both the front and rear HVAC units inoperable, which not only compromises passenger comfort but also directly impacts safety by reducing the system’s ability to defrost and dehumidi... Read more

Incident date: Jun 13, 2025

The car consumes a lot of oil. After 4000 miles I was under 3.5 qt and the oil pressure light would go off

Incident date: Dec 31, 2024

I am [XXX] old and live in Denver, Colorado. In August of 2021, I bought a Hyundai as a graduation gift for myself. This has easily been the worst mistake I have ever made, a decision that haunts me every second of every day. With the car chip shortage and the pandemic, car prices were at an all-t... Read more

Incident date: Mar 29, 2013

I leased a 2024 CR-V Sport Hybrid in April 2024. And in early October I backed out of a parking spot. When I applied the brakes there was no response and I back into a parked car. No damage was done to it but I had an estimate of $2000.00 to mine since it was on the hatch back door. I didn't report... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Sep 30, 2023

See attached document for complaint

Incident date: Sep 30, 2023

See attached document for complaint

Incident date: Jul 19, 2022

I started the vehicle and it displayed a message on the infotainment system screen that the system had lost power. I believed that this would only affect the radio functionality which I was not concerned about immediately. I placed the vehicle in reverse and I accidentally backed up into a parked ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Mar 20, 2024

This vehicle has the sticky/jerky steering problem. It started around 5500 miles. It is an intermittent problem that is very noticeable when it is cool outside. This is the same problem that the NHTSA has been investigating (investigation EA23003)

Incident date: Feb 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle restarted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 12, 2023

I let my daughter borrow my crv, she was coming backing from making errands going around a corner and she could not control the vehicle, she continued to try to turn the wheel in the direction she wanted to go but it would not, she ended up hitting another vehicle and came to a rest in someone’s y... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Apr 12, 2023

The vehicle drove fine on Christmas Eve. Then Christmas Day while leaving from a visit the car was in then randomly shut off in the middle. Checked the inside. No issues. Made it home and tried to go back out, the car crunk up and after a few seconds cut off. Tried it again and it started knocking.... Read more

Incident date: Apr 12, 2023

It's been close to 6 months since they did the hydraulic brake switch fuse recall. This is a pretty big deal with cars catching on fire out of nowhere. How long do they have to come up with a solution?

Incident date: Sep 12, 2023

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4 Prime. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V478000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. A local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated tha... Read more

Incident date: Apr 16, 2023

Steering wheel vibrates uncomfortably and appears to lose steering effectiveness when the car goes over road irregularities when driving at moderate to high speeds. Irregularities experienced include driving over cross joints, bumps or dips on the road, and poorly repaired road surfaces. The sensati... Read more

Incident date: Apr 16, 2023

Ac not working compressor or condenser not working after only 39 months

Incident date: Nov 12, 2021

The contact's mother owns a 2018 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that the front passenger's side seat belt warning light failed to illuminate and alert the passenger to fasten the seat belt. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed th... Read more

Incident date: Nov 12, 2021

The contact owns a 2002 Workhorse W22 Chassis. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal went to the floorboard while depressed. Additionally, the ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V110000 (Service Brak... Read more

Incident date: Nov 12, 2021

Incident date: Sep 17, 2022

While driving on a highway at 70 mph the hood unlocked and was caught by the safety latch. It is available for inspection. My safety was at extreme risk. Loosing the ability to see out of my windshield had the safety latch failed could have been catastrophic. This could have caused a crash at high... Read more

Incident date: Nov 26, 2022

The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while taking the vehicle to the yearly inspection, the vehicle failed the inspection due to a hole in the rear driver’s side subframe. The dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repai... Read more

Incident date: Jul 16, 2022

UNKNOWN warning I’m the owner of a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe and a week ago at 185k mikes all of a sudden driving on the freeway it started hesitating and sounded like metal grinding and smoking really bad. Pulled to the side of the freeway on a ramp at that. Tried to restart the vehicle and I heard a... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Feb 8, 2022

ENGINE STALLS

Incident date: Oct 4, 2021

The brakes on this Santa Fe have produced some unexplainable issues? A complete brake job was done approximately six months ago by a reputable brake shop because of similar issues with the brakes that occurred again last week and yesterday. Additionally, all fluids were normal during routine oil c... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Sep 21, 2021

We have (had) a 2011 Hyundai Sante Fe. On 9/21/21, driving to Bozeman, just west of Livingston MT, on I-90, the car had a sudden stalling, loss of power (check engine light, oil light came on), then knocking sound that increased in volume and frequency. Smoke began pouring from under the hood as w... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Aug 15, 2021

While driving about 35mph a fast ticking sound came from the turn signal/steering column area then it started smoking so I turned on the turn signal and it stopped ticking I almost panicked. Incident has happened 2 more time's but I put on the turn signal quickly before it overheated and it did not ... Read more

Incident date: May 4, 2021

Unexplained battery drain has been an issue.

Incident date: Mar 17, 2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE BACK TO THEIR RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO LOCAL DEALER (H... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Mar 17, 2021

Fire

Incident date: Jan 5, 2021

WHEN I AM DRIVING THE CAR SIMPLY STOPS ON THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE REDUCES THE VELOCITY TO 5MPH AND OTHER CARS COMING IN MY BACK HAVE TO STOP ALSO STOP OR MOVE TO THE OTHER LINE TO AVOID COLLITION. AT THIS MOMENT WE CAN'T BE IN THE ROAD SAFETY. I HAVE NOTICED THAT THIS PROBLEM IS A REASON FOR RECALL ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 7, 2021

WHEN TRYING TO START THE TRUCK USING THE REMOTE STARTER THE AREA WHERE THE TURNING SWITCH IS STARED TO SMOKE AND THE SMELL OF BURNING WIRE WAS SMELT AND THE SOUND LIKE MY HAZARD LIGHT WAS HEARD I TURNED THE TRUCK OFF THEN TURN IT BACK ON THE NOISE WAS GONE. THE TRUCK WAS STATIONARY( PARK) AND THE ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 9, 2021

NORMAL DRIVING TURN SIGNAL LEVER STARTED TICKING BEGAN SMOKING FROM THE BASE CONTINUES TO TICK INTERMITTENTLY AND SMOKES IN MOTION WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY

Incident date: Jan 9, 2021

NORMAL DRIVING TURN SIGNAL LEVER STARTED TICKING BEGAN SMOKING FROM THE BASE CONTINUES TO TICK INTERMITTENTLY AND SMOKES IN MOTION WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY

Incident date: Jun 11, 2020

AS I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY HOME FROM A SOCCER MATCH IN DENVER TO OUR HOME IN BRECKENRIDGE MY CAR(HYUNDAI, SANTA FE 2011) LOST ALL POWER WITH OUT THE ENGINE DYING. WE WERE HEADING WEST AND IN THE TUNNEL. IT WAS EXTREMELY SCARY AND PUT MY FAMILY IN DANGER. NO WARNING LIGHTS HAVE EVER COME UP ON MY C... Read more

Incident date: Jun 11, 2020

Incident date: Jul 1, 2017

CAR SMOKING FROM EXAHUST SINCE AROUND 42000 MILES OIL SMOKE STARTED IN 2017 . I HAVE TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP ABOUT 8 TIMES IN 3 YEARS NOW OIL ALL IN THE SPARKPLUGS USING OVER A QUART OF OIL EVERY 1000 MILES NOW HAS 56000 MILES AND UNABLE TO DRIVE IT. DEALSHIP TELLING ME THEY WILL HAVE CAR FOR ONE MON... Read more

Incident date: Oct 12, 2020

STEERING WHEEL LEFT SIDE DETERIORATING. HOLE ALREADY. CONCERNED IT MAY COME APART CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. I REPORTED TO BROWNS HYUNDAI WHERE I HAVE HAS SERVICE FOR 10 YEARS. MY EXTENDED WARRANTY WAS 10 YEARS AND 100,000 MILES. UNDER 10 YEARS BUT OVER MILEAGE. OTHERS SEEM TO HAVE EXPERIENCED :HTTPS://WW... Read more

Incident date: Feb 5, 2020

NOTHING HAS HAPPENED SO FAR, MY COMPLAINT IS THAT EVERY 4-6 MONTHS, I NEED TO BUY PARTS FOR MY SANTA FE. IT STARTS WITH A KNOCK ON THE RIGHT FRONT END OF THE CAR. I NEED TO GET TO WORK, SO I TAKE MY TIME GETTING THERE. I ALSO WAS ABOUT TO GET ON THE HIGHWAY, AND THE SPRING BROKE ON THE ON RAMP. I SE... Read more

Incident date: Feb 5, 2020

Incident date: Sep 18, 2020

PURCHASED USED VEHICLE SEP 2018 FROM USED CAR CHEVY DEALER. 3 DAYS INTO DRIVING THE RIGHT FRONT SPRING BROKE AND PUNCTURED THE TIRE FORCING ME TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE QUICKLY, LUCKILY WITHOUT ACCIDENT. CAR TOWED & REPAIRED BY DEALER. HYUNDAI WOULD NOT RESPOND TO COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS EVEN THOUGH HA... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2020

ON JUNE 14,2020, I BACKED OUT OF A PARKING SPOT IN A LOT OUTSIDE A GROCERY STORE AND MY HYUNDAI SANTA FE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED BACK HITTING A BARRIER POLE. WHEN I PUT IT IN DRIVE, IT LEAPT FORWARD AND SPED BETWEEN A POKE AND A PARKED CAR, RACED DOWN A TEN-FOOT EMBANKMENT AND CRASHED INTO THE CORNER O... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Aug 29, 2020

FRONT RIGHT STRUT SPRING RELEASED FROM THE MOUNTING WITH A LOUD BANG AND WAS RUBBING AGAINST THE TIRE. THIS HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH. THE TIRE WAS DAMAGED. I HAVE REPLACED BOTH FRONT STRUTS.

Incident date: Dec 5, 2017

CAR STARTED SMOKING BLUE SMOKE OUT OF THE EXHAUST AT 45,000 MILES WAS NEVER TREATED FOR AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST. I DIDN'T KNOW THERE WAS SUCH A THING WAS NOT ADVISED AT THAT TIME NOW 3 YEARS LATER SUV ONLY HAS 56,000 IT USED 2 QUARTS OF OIL IN 1700 MILES. SINCE I DON'T DRIVE IT MUCH THEY ARE SAYING ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2013

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO MOISTURE INSIDE THE LIGHT FIXTURES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER AND REPAIRED. NO... Read more

Incident date: Apr 27, 2020

ENGINE BLOWN SHORTLY AFTER 'SERVICE ENGINE' LIGHT CAME ON

Incident date: Dec 16, 2019

THIS IS TO MAKE AWARE OF POTENTIAL/ POSSIBLE ENGINE FIRE CAUSE IN SOME HYUNDAI VEHICLES. I OWN A 2011 SANTA FE. AT LESS THAN 70K MILES THE OIL LIGHT BEGAN TO FLICKER AND LEAK OIL. DEALERSHIP INDICATED I RUINED ENGINE AND I WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL REPAIR COSTS DUE TO BLA BLA BLA. I TOOK VEHICLE TO I... Read more

Incident date: Dec 16, 2019

Showing 50 of 268 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

2011 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV 4WD

Category	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.9%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

154 manufacturer communications from 93 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	25
350000 EQUIPMENT	15
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	14
100000 POWER TRAIN	11
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	8
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	7
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	5
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	4

130000 VISIBILITY

This bulletin contains information about the proper removal of the windshield wiper blade protective cover on all models. If the protective cover is not removed correctly, there is a possibility of the rubber insert and rail spring becoming

130000 VISIBILITY/WIPER (PWS)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993), combined with an anti-theft steering wheel lock campaign (Campaign P32), and anti-theft ignition cylinder protector campaign (Campaign 9A5) in res

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Certain Hyundai vehicles may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This bulletin provides the service procedure to install a key cylinder reinforcement protector assembly and installation of two anti-theft decals on the front windows.

116320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:SENSOR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

Hyundai Motor America is offering steering wheel locks to owners of certain 2011 a?? 2017MY vehicles that are not eligible for Service Campaign 993 anti-theft software. This bulletin describes the procedure to provide the steering wheel loc

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides important checkpoint guidelines when performing engine oil and filter change services.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

A class action lawsuit against Hyundai Motor America (a??HMAa??) alleges that certain Hyundai vehicles (a??Class Vehiclesa??) were manufactured, marketed, sold, and/or leased with an engine defect that can result in sudden engine seizure,

010000 STEERING

Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993), combined with an anti-theft steering wheel lock campaign (Campaign P32), in response to an increase in thefts of certain 2011-2022MY Hyundai vehic

010000 STEERING

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

Hyundai applies a Paint Protection Film (PPF) on new vehicles before delivery to dealerships. It provides a barrier between the paint and contaminants, such as rail dust, acid rain, and industrial fallout. In rare cases, the paint can becom

130000 VISIBILITY

This bulletin provides information regarding condensation related to the accumulated moisture in the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp. This TSB illustrates the various causes of condensation inside th

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

OP CODE/PART NUMBER (REFERENCE GUIDE FOR SERVICE CAMPAIGN T6G)

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

OP CODE/PART NUMBER (REFERENCE GUIDE FOR SERVICE CAMPAIGN T6G)

061700 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR

OP CODE/PART NUMBER (REFERENCE GUIDE FOR SERVICE CAMPAIGN T6G)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The warranty coverage for engine repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use, wh

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain vehicles listed below may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or an engine concern/noise related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage. Follow the procedure to inspect the vehicle and replace

061700 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR

061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain vehicles may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or engine may exhibit abnormal noise, or no crank/no start condition related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage. This Dealer Best Practice ou

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

061400 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Follow the guidelines outlined in this bulletin to inspect and clean or replace certain components of the engine intake system accordingly during engine short block or sub-assembly replacement.

190000 TIRES

Effective June 2, 2008, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110 (FMVSS 110) established a threshold for correcting load carrying capacity information indicated on tire placards when vehicle weight has been increased before retail sale

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain vehicles that have completed Service Campaign 966 may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or an engine concern/noise related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage. Follow the procedure to inspe

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Hyundai is conducting a service campaign to enhance the knock sensor software to detect abnormal engine bearing noise before potentially severe engine damage occurs. If abnormal engine bearing noise is detected, the Malfunction Indicator La

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Hyundai is conducting a campaign to enhance the knock sensor software to detect abnormal engine bearing noise before potentially severe engine damage occurs. If abnormal engine bearing noise is detected, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The Powertrain warranty coverage for certain engine repairs and/or replacement where the engine damage or malfunction is related to connecting rod bearing wear, has been extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles from the date of original retail

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Hyundai is conducting a product improvement campaign to enhance the knock sensor software to detect abnormal engine bearing noise before potentially severe engine damage occurs. If abnormal engine bearing noise is detected, the Malfunction

010000 STEERING

The warranty coverage for the clock spring has been extended to 15 years with unlimited mileage from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use, whichever occurs first. This warranty coverage applies to both the original and

140000 AIR BAGS

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the service procedure for engine connecting rod bearing clearance testing. Perform the procedure outlined in this bulletin to fulfill the Bearing Clearance Test inspection requirements to determine next required steps

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The Powertrain warranty coverage for certain engine repairs and/or replacement where the engine damage, defect, or failure is related to connecting rod bearing wear, has been extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles from the date of original r

100000 POWER TRAIN

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the inspection procedure and repair guidelines for certain vehicles listed below.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides the inspection procedure and repair guidelines for certain vehicles listed below.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

This bulletin describes the procedure to inspect and identify fluid which may appear around the brake caliper area.

190000 TIRES

This bulletin provides tire vibration service procedures, including how to optimize vehicle vibration performance. For all wheel/tire balance claims, the a??Tire Balance Data Sheeta?? must be fully completed including imbalance and Road For

200000 WHEELS

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This bulletin provides information regarding condensation related to moisture accumulation in the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp. The TSB illustrates the various causes of condensation inside the la

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but part

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with the following symptoms and DTC, follow the Service Procedure on Page 4. i?? Check Engine light on i?? DTC P0880/P088000 - TCM Power signal error open/short i?? Transmission stuck in 4th ge

190000 TIRES

This bulletin provides information on tire maintenance best practices and procedures for dealers and customers to maximize tire life and performance.

200000 WHEELS

This bulletin provides information on tire maintenance best practices and procedures for dealers and customers to maximize tire life and performance.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin describes the general guidelines to help disinfect and protect vehicle exterior/interior surfaces using recommended safe chemical products.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information on identifying dealer stock vehicles with either: a?? A Battery SOC alert - low Battery State of Charge (SOC) at or below 50%. a?? A 30 Day alert - vehicle has not started and reported an SOC in 30 days.

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with a a??Check Enginea?? light on and one or more of the DTC listed below, follow the repair procedure and replace the related solenoid and oil pressure harness.

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

046300 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin describes the general guidelines to disinfect and protect vehicle interior surfaces using certain safe chemical products.

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin describes the requirements for all wheel alignment and/or vehicle tracking claims and best practices when diagnosing and conducting alignment-related repairs for all models and model years.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides guidelines to inspect the USB, head unit, and multi-box for common connection conditions. 2. This bulletin presents guidelines to inspect for common Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connection conditions. 3. This bullet

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose and repair a transaxle for the following Incorrect Ratio DTC (transaxle clutch slipping more than 200 rpm in gear).

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing a vehicle with a transmission slipping concern, follow the Service Procedure shown below and perform a stall test. This TSB provides a procedure to test each clutch in the transmission. If the vehicle fails the stall te

350000 EQUIPMENT

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) or Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) is a system that measures the speed of and distance from the following vehicles by using two magnetic wave radar sensors attached in the rear bumper. The BSD/BCW detects v

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin provides instruction detailing the proper methodology for scanning and uploading captured GDS data files to the Techline Repository. Compliance with this bulletin ensures that the GDS data files are correctly transferred and m

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with a ?Check Engine? light on and one or more of the DTC listed below, follow the repair procedure and replace the related solenoid and oil pressure harness

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

036500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR

This bulletin provides information on the rear wheel speed sensor for Santa Fe (CM), Santa Fe / XL (NC), Santa Fe Sport (AN), and Veracruz (EN) vehicles equipped with front wheel drive (FWD). The rear wheel speed sensor is available as a se

Showing 100 of 154 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SANTA FE

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2017

3.3L Engine Loss of Motive Power (LOMP)

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition on February 2, 2024, requesting a defect investigation into an alleged defect of the "engine" on the following vehicle model: 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles equipped with the 3.3L V-Shaped GDI Lambda-II engines. The petition cites allegat... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Non-crash Vehicle Fires

During this Preliminary Evaluation (PE), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) assessed the scope, frequency and potential safety-related consequences of non-crash vehicle fires caused by both engine failures and failures of other vehicle systems/components in model year (MY) 2011-2014 Hyundai S... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Non-crash Vehicle Fires

In a letter dated June 11, 2018, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into non-collision related fires on model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima and Sorento, and Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehi... Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2012

Scope and Timeliness

NHTSA opened Recall Query (RQ) 17-004 to investigate the timeliness and scope of Hyundai?s Theta II GDI engine recalls (Recall Nos. 15V-568 and 17V-226), and Hyundai?s compliance with reporting requirements. On November 23, 2020, the Agency entered into a Consent Order with Hyundai to administrative... ly resolve NHTSA?s assertions of violations of law in connection with RQ17-004. NHTSA?s assertions included that Hyundai may be liable for civil penalties on multiple grounds, including the untimeliness of Recall Nos. 15V-568 and 17V-226, inaccuracies in Hyundai?s recall reports, and that a required report describing potential safety-related issues contained certain inaccuracies or omissions.Under the Consent Order, Hyundai agreed to a total civil penalty of $140,000,000. The total civil penalty included payment of $54,000,000 as a Non-Deferred Amount. Hyundai also agreed to a sum of $46,000,000 as an Abeyance Amount to be deferred and held in abeyance pending its satisfactory completion, as reasonably determined by NHTSA, of the requirements of the Consent Order.Additionally, Hyundai agreed to a $40,000,000 Performance Obligation Amount to be expended by Hyundai to fulfill specified Safety Data Analytics Infrastructure obligations and Test and Inspection Laboratory obligations. The Consent Order also includes other terms designed to enhance Hyundai?s safety practices, and requires Hyundai to retain a Third-Party Auditor who directly reports to NHTSA.Other than RQ17-004, the Consent Order is not intended to affect any other current or future investigation which may involve vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines. In particular, Engineering Analysis (EA) 21-003 (which is upgraded from Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 19-003) continues NHTSA?s evaluation of certain performance and design issues relating to the Theta II and other engines.Nothing in the Consent Order discharges Hyundai from any obligation to comply with the Safety Act or regulations thereunder, including the obligation to carry out recalls in accordance with law, and to initiate a recall upon any future determination by Hyundai, or upon any finally adjudicated order from NHTSA, that vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines contain a defect related to motor vehicle safety or do not comply with an applicable FMVSS.This RQ is closed. Closure of this RQ has no bearing on the terms of the Consent Order, including Hyundai's ongoing performance obligations, and does not represent a determination by the agency as to Hyundai?s performance under the Consent Order to date.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013

Front Axle Shaft Failure

In a letter dated August 9, 2013, Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc. (Hyundai-Kia) submitted two Defect Information Reports (DIR) to NHTSA identifying a safety defect related to fracture of the right front axle shaft in MY 2013 front wheel drive Hyundai Santa Fe Sport vehicles built from Jul... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Steering Shaft Universal Joint Failure

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE12-029 based on one complaint alleging that a fastener became loose in the steering shaft of a model year (MY) 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicle and related Early Warning Reporting field report data.In it's response to ODI's information request letter f... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2010

Transmission Intermediate Driveshaft

On April 25, 2011, Kia Motors Corporation submitted a defect notification letter to NHTSA regarding a transmission intermediate driveshaft condition in approximately 12,690 model year (MY) 2011 Kia Sorento 2-wheel drive vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions and 2.4L engines (NHTSA Recall No... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

REAR TRAILING ARM CORROSION FAILURE

IN A LETTER DATED APRIL 14, 2009, HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER, INC (HYUNDAI) NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL OF APPROXIMATELY 85,000 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 THROUGH 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED PRIOR TO JANUARY 27, 2003, THAT ARE REGISTERED AND OPERATED IN TH... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM FAILURE

IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER SENT BY THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) DURING THIS PRELIMINARY EVALUATION, HYUNDAI PROVIDED ODI WITH 15 ALLEGATIONS OF CORROSION FAILURE OF THE LEFT- AND/OR RIGHT-REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM.THREE OF THE 15 CONSUMERS ALLEGED A LOSS OF VEHICLE ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE SEIZURE

There is no summary currently available

HYUNDAI SANTA FE - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the HYUNDAI SANTA FE across all model years (2001, 2026).

96 Total Recalls

10,465 Total Complaints

10 Investigations

576 Reported Crashes

254 Reported Fires

17 Reported Deaths

HYUNDAI SANTA FE - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	4	52	View
2025	5	194	View
2024	7	214	View
2023	1	323	View
2022	5	310	View
2021	7	242	View
2020	2	295	View
2019	2	282	View
2018	2	143	View
2017	6	1,281	View
2016	3	291	View
2015	2	332	View
2014	3	679	View
2013	3	807	View
2012	1	475	View
2011 (current)	3	268
2010	3	333	View
2009	3	507	View
2008	6	718	View
2007	9	982	View
2006	1	143	View
2005	3	300	View
2004	3	386	View
2003	4	390	View
2002	4	219	View
2001	4	293	View

Other HYUNDAI Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SONATA	184	21,863	View
ELANTRA	133	11,853	View
PALISADE	124	2,704	View
TUCSON	95	8,074	View
SONATA HYBRID	67	1,129	View
IONIQ 5	66	1,865	View
ACCENT	64	2,745	View
SANTA FE HYBRID	57	347	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2011 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SANTA FE

HYUNDAI SANTA FE - All Years Overview

HYUNDAI SANTA FE - Year by Year

Other HYUNDAI Models