FaultScore

FaultScore report

2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport problems

Owners have filed 89 complaints about the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport with NHTSA between 2017 and 2026. The largest single group is the engine & cooling. Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 6 worst.

C

FaultScore 42/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Hyundai Santa FE Sport.

How this is worked out

The numbers

89

Complaints

3

Crashes reported

20

Fires reported

4

Injuries reported

70,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

10%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 17 vs 50 Severity 100 vs 50 Early failure 16 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 17
Against the median year of the Hyundai Santa FE Sport. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
30.3% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 16
10% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2016 compares with every other Hyundai Santa FE Sport

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Engine & Cooling 44 49.4%

1 crashes, 10 fires · median 105,000 mi

0 crashes, 3 fires · median 42,000 mi

Electrical System 7 7.9%

0 crashes, 3 fires · median 57,698 mi

Brakes 6 6.7%

Median failure at 70,000 miles

Fuel & Propulsion 4 4.5%

0 crashes, 1 fires

Airbags 3 3.4%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 67,900 mi

Transmission & Drivetrain 3 3.4%
Body & Structure 2 2.2%

1 crashes, 1 fires

Driver Assist & Collision Avoidance 1 1.1%
Seat Belts 1 1.1%

0 crashes, 1 fires

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 1 1.1%

Median failure at 7,500 miles

Lights 1 1.1%

0 crashes, 1 fires

Suspension 1 1.1%

Median failure at 38,000 miles

Steering 1 1.1%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

1,000 – 9,999 miles 1 3.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 8 25.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 7 22.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 6 19.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 7 22.6%
150,000+ miles 2 6.5%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Aug 2017 peak 10 Aug 2026

NHTSA investigations into the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

1 investigation is still open.

AQ23002 Opened 17 Nov 2023 Still open SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543,...

DP22003 Opened 12 Sep 2022 Closed 12 Dec 2023 ENGINE

Loss of Motive Power

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complain...

Recalls on the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

17V358000

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.

Risk: If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2024552 824,695 units in Canada

Label

Issue: On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: These small errors do not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. The company has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.

Recall 2022659 84,034 units in Canada

Electrical

Issue: On certain vehicles, the rear parking assist sensors (mounted in the rear bumper) could short circuit. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall 2022-118. Vehicles that were already repaired under Hyundai recall R0212 don't require this repair. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and instruct you to bring your vehicle to a dealership to replace the rear parking assist sensor fuse and any defective sensors. Hyundai recommends that if the instrument cluster does not work, the transmission shifter is stuck in park, or if you see melted plastic on the rear bumper, you should park the vehicle outside and contact a Hyundai dealer.

Recall 2020091 29,959 units in Canada

Electrical

Issue: Certain vehicles may be equipped with an accessory trailer wiring harness kit that could fail. Over time, moisture could enter the control module and cause a short circuit. Note: This recall only affects Hyundai Genuine Accessory trailer wiring harness kits that were manufactured by third parties and sold in Canada. These kits may have been ordered at the time of a vehicle purchase, or purchased separately from a dealer as an aftermarket accessory. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk. This risk remains even when the vehicle is parked. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and instruct you to inspect your vehicle to see if it has an affected trailer wiring harness installed. If it does, Hyundai will advise you to take your vehicle to a dealer to install a redesigned trailer wiring harness. Hyundai recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors, and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.

Recall 2019640 275,533 units in Canada

Engine

Issue: Hyundai Auto Canada is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign that provides an update to the engine control module to detect potential problems before an engine fails. An engine failure would cause a sudden loss of power with an inability to restart. Note: This affects Sonata and Santa Fe Sport equipped with a 2.4 L GDI or 2.0 L Turbo GDI engine, as well as Tucson equipped with a 2.4 L GDI engine. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of an accident. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to update the software for the engine control module. Note: Vehicles previously repaired under Product Improvement Campaign R0153 (TC # 2019-130) do not require this software update. Owners can find additional information at <a href="http://www.hyundaiengineinfo.ca">www.hyundaiengineinfo.ca</a>.

Recall 2019420 5,327 units in Canada

Other

Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.

Recall 2019130 255,370 units in Canada

Engine

Issue: Hyundai Auto Canada is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign that provides an update to the engine control module to detect potential problems before an engine fails. An engine failure would cause a sudden loss of power with an inability to restart. Note: This affects Sonata and Santa Fe Sport equipped with a 2.4 L GDI or 2.0 L Turbo GDI engine, as well as Tucson equipped with a 2.4 L GDI engine. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of an accident. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to update the software for the engine control module. Note: Vehicles repaired under Service Campaigns, C0336, C0344, or C0347, already have this software update. Owners can find additional information at <a href="http://www.hyundaiengineinfo.ca">www.hyundaiengineinfo.ca</a>.

Recall 2019012 7,027 units in Canada

Engine

Issue: When repairs were completed under recall campaign 2015-428 (Hyundai #R0101) or 2017197 (Hyundai #R0130), the high pressure fuel pipe may not have been properly installed on the fuel pump outlet. A fuel leak could occur if the pipe was damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the recall repair. Safety Risk: Leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source could increase the risk of a fire causing injury and/or property damage. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer for an inspection. If fuel leakage is detected, the fuel pipe will be replaced with a new one.

Recall 2017297 128,865 units in Canada

Structure

On certain vehicles, the cable between the actuating lever for the secondary hood latch and the secondary latch may become corroded over time. This could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position when the hood is closed. If the vehicle were to be driven with the primary hood latch disengaged, or primary hood latch is released while driving, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed while the vehicle is in motion. If this were to occur, it could compromise the driver’s ability to see the road and its users, as well as cause damage to the windshield. These issues could result in a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will replace the secondary hood latch cable.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 105,225 miles Charlston, SC Fire

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH and attempting to overtake another vehicle, the vehicle lost automotive power and decelerated with the check engine, battery, and oil warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was parked on the shoulder of the highway, and smoke was coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The contact stated that after parking on the shoulder, the brakes erroneously activated, and the vehicle failed to move forward. The contact stated that moments later there were flames and smoke was coming from under the hood. The contact exited the vehicle. The Fire Department was called to the scene, and the flames were extinguished by the firemen. The vehicle was destroyed in the fire. The vehicle was later towed to the residence. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 105,225.

NHTSA complaint #11755852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The vehicle is a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It had previously been included in an engine-fire-related recall/service campaign, and Hyundai replaced the engine between approximately October 2024 and January 2025 at about 113,000 miles. About 10,000 miles and 14 months later, the vehicle developed engine/performance problems. A Hyundai dealership service center performed about $6,500 in repairs, including installation of a new transmission, and represented that the engine and transmission had a lifetime guarantee. One day after the vehicle was returned from the dealership, the engine compartment caught fire while the vehicle was being driven. The fire rapidly escalated, the vehicle exploded/burned, and the vehicle was destroyed down to the frame. The occupants escaped, but the incident created an immediate risk of serious injury or death. The failed component appears to involve the engine, engine compartment, fuel/oil/electrical systems, transmission-related repair area, or another drivetrain component. The vehicle remains may be available for inspection depending on insurance/tow/storage status. The vehicle had recently been repaired and inspected by a Hyundai dealership service center. This incident raises concern that the recall-related engine-fire risk, replacement engine, recent dealership repairs, transmission installation, or related components may have failed and created a serious fire hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11745727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Franklin, MA Fire

ENGINE

After driving the vehicle around all day, I parked it and turned it off and then it set on fire.

NHTSA complaint #11745648 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Fire

ENGINE

The vehicle is a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It had previously been included in an engine-fire-related recall/service campaign, and Hyundai replaced the engine between approximately October 2024 and January 2025 at about 113,000 miles. About 10,000 miles and 14 months later, the vehicle developed engine/performance problems. A Hyundai dealership service center performed about $6,500 in repairs, including installation of a new transmission, and represented that the engine and transmission had a lifetime guarantee. One day after the vehicle was returned from the dealership, the engine compartment caught fire while the vehicle was being driven. The fire rapidly escalated, the vehicle exploded/burned, and the vehicle was destroyed down to the frame. The occupants escaped, but the incident created an immediate risk of serious injury or death. The failed component appears to involve the engine, engine compartment, fuel/oil/electrical systems, transmission-related repair area, or another drivetrain component. The vehicle remains may be available for inspection depending on insurance/tow/storage status. The vehicle had recently been repaired and inspected by a Hyundai dealership service center. This incident raises concern that the recall-related engine-fire risk, replacement engine, recent dealership repairs, transmission installation, or related components may have failed and created a serious fire hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11745727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lakeland, FL Fire

STRUCTURE:BODY

I turned off the car and went inside the house. I was outside and could smell smoke. I walked to the front of the house and saw my neighbor who was calling 911 due to flames from my engine. The flames reached the yard and my garage where minor damage occurred. The vehicle was completely engulfed in flames before the fire department extinguished it.

NHTSA complaint #11716330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lakeland, FL Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I turned off the car and went inside the house. I was outside and could smell smoke. I walked to the front of the house and saw my neighbor who was calling 911 due to flames from my engine. The flames reached the yard and my garage where minor damage occurred. The vehicle was completely engulfed in flames before the fire department extinguished it.

NHTSA complaint #11716330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

at 105,225 miles Charlston, SC Fire

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH and attempting to overtake another vehicle, the vehicle lost automotive power and decelerated with the check engine, battery, and oil warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was parked on the shoulder of the highway, and smoke was coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The contact stated that after parking on the shoulder, the brakes erroneously activated, and the vehicle failed to move forward. The contact stated that moments later there were flames and smoke was coming from under the hood. The contact exited the vehicle. The Fire Department was called to the scene, and the flames were extinguished by the firemen. The vehicle was destroyed in the fire. The vehicle was later towed to the residence. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 105,225.

NHTSA complaint #11755852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Mount Airy, NC

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

my BSD sensor would go on and off for the last several months when no one was around me. I work early and even when I was alone on the road the BSD would flash for 2-3 mins and go off.. then my fan for my air conditioner stopped. When I removed the glove compartment to see the wire connecting to the fan is "melted". When i called bob king hyundai, I was informed there was no recall. So, I attempted to fix the issue myself only to find the fuses (under the hood) are almost all bad. The tips of the fuses will not pull out. only the body of the fuse. With all this happening over the last several days and by the way, the vehicle passed inspection. I wanted to reach out as this is definitely a fire hazard and a huge concern.

NHTSA complaint #11753163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Mount Airy, NC

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my BSD sensor would go on and off for the last several months when no one was around me. I work early and even when I was alone on the road the BSD would flash for 2-3 mins and go off.. then my fan for my air conditioner stopped. When I removed the glove compartment to see the wire connecting to the fan is "melted". When i called bob king hyundai, I was informed there was no recall. So, I attempted to fix the issue myself only to find the fuses (under the hood) are almost all bad. The tips of the fuses will not pull out. only the body of the fuse. With all this happening over the last several days and by the way, the vehicle passed inspection. I wanted to reach out as this is definitely a fire hazard and a huge concern.

NHTSA complaint #11753163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Mount Airy, NC

LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION

my BSD sensor would go on and off for the last several months when no one was around me. I work early and even when I was alone on the road the BSD would flash for 2-3 mins and go off.. then my fan for my air conditioner stopped. When I removed the glove compartment to see the wire connecting to the fan is "melted". When i called bob king hyundai, I was informed there was no recall. So, I attempted to fix the issue myself only to find the fuses (under the hood) are almost all bad. The tips of the fuses will not pull out. only the body of the fuse. With all this happening over the last several days and by the way, the vehicle passed inspection. I wanted to reach out as this is definitely a fire hazard and a huge concern.

NHTSA complaint #11753163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Gardendale, AL

ENGINE

The engine (2016 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0L/2.4L Theta II GDI engine) suffered a catastrophic internal mechanical failure, specifically related to the known connecting rod bearing defect. The vehicle is currently un-driveable and is located at Serra Hyundai in Trussville, AL. The vehicle and its failed engine are available for inspection upon request. The engine suddenly failed and lost all power while driving at highway speeds in active traffic. I was forced to coast a dead vehicle across multiple lanes of traffic to the shoulder without any acceleration capability. Yes. The vehicle experienced a complete failure, cannot be restarted, and is currently parked at an authorized Hyundai dealership The vehicle is currently at an authorized Hyundai dealership awaiting a formal corporate inspection and evaluation for engine replacement approval. It has not been inspected by police or insurance. There were no long-term warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the incident. The vehicle was operating normally until the exact moment of the failure, when the engine suddenly began knocking loudly, lost power, and stalled within seconds.

NHTSA complaint #11747757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The vehicle is a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It had previously been included in an engine-fire-related recall/service campaign, and Hyundai replaced the engine between approximately October 2024 and January 2025 at about 113,000 miles. About 10,000 miles and 14 months later, the vehicle developed engine/performance problems. A Hyundai dealership service center performed about $6,500 in repairs, including installation of a new transmission, and represented that the engine and transmission had a lifetime guarantee. One day after the vehicle was returned from the dealership, the engine compartment caught fire while the vehicle was being driven. The fire rapidly escalated, the vehicle exploded/burned, and the vehicle was destroyed down to the frame. The occupants escaped, but the incident created an immediate risk of serious injury or death. The failed component appears to involve the engine, engine compartment, fuel/oil/electrical systems, transmission-related repair area, or another drivetrain component. The vehicle remains may be available for inspection depending on insurance/tow/storage status. The vehicle had recently been repaired and inspected by a Hyundai dealership service center. This incident raises concern that the recall-related engine-fire risk, replacement engine, recent dealership repairs, transmission installation, or related components may have failed and created a serious fire hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11745727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Franklin, MA Fire

ENGINE

After driving the vehicle around all day, I parked it and turned it off and then it set on fire.

NHTSA complaint #11745648 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Fire

ENGINE

The vehicle is a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It had previously been included in an engine-fire-related recall/service campaign, and Hyundai replaced the engine between approximately October 2024 and January 2025 at about 113,000 miles. About 10,000 miles and 14 months later, the vehicle developed engine/performance problems. A Hyundai dealership service center performed about $6,500 in repairs, including installation of a new transmission, and represented that the engine and transmission had a lifetime guarantee. One day after the vehicle was returned from the dealership, the engine compartment caught fire while the vehicle was being driven. The fire rapidly escalated, the vehicle exploded/burned, and the vehicle was destroyed down to the frame. The occupants escaped, but the incident created an immediate risk of serious injury or death. The failed component appears to involve the engine, engine compartment, fuel/oil/electrical systems, transmission-related repair area, or another drivetrain component. The vehicle remains may be available for inspection depending on insurance/tow/storage status. The vehicle had recently been repaired and inspected by a Hyundai dealership service center. This incident raises concern that the recall-related engine-fire risk, replacement engine, recent dealership repairs, transmission installation, or related components may have failed and created a serious fire hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11745727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Ithaca, NY

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The vehicle stooped running while driving and will not start, available for inspection upon request. The vehicle or component has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.

NHTSA complaint #11743935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Henderson, CO

ENGINE

The engine powertrain system, specifically the internal engine lubrication, timing chain, and camshaft sensors. The vehicle's Theta II engine suffers from systemic, excessive oil consumption, which starved the engine of lubrication. This caused the timing chain to stretch and mechanically fail, and compromised the camshaft sensors. The vehicle is currently un-repaired and is available for inspection upon request at Hyundai of Downtown LA. While driving, the engine suddenly stalled and completely shut off mid-drive without warning. This caused an immediate loss of motive power and a dangerous reduction in steering and braking control while surrounded by active traffic. Operating a vehicle that randomly shuts down on public roads presents an extreme, life-threatening safety hazard to myself, my passengers, and other drivers. Furthermore, the dealership is attempting to force me to drive the vehicle for an additional 1,000 miles in this stalling, un-repaired condition to complete a corporate oil test, compounding the safety risk. The failure and safety hazard have been physically confirmed and diagnosed by an authorized dealership: Hyundai of Downtown LA (3850 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037). Their service department mechanically diagnosed the physical failure of the camshaft sensors, a stretched timing chain, and severe engine oil starvation. There were absolutely no dashboard warning lights, check engine lights, low oil pressure lamps, or messages prior to the engine stalling and shutting off. The vehicle computer failed to trigger any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or dashboard warnings to alert me to the low oil level or the impending mechanical timing failure before the vehicle completely shut down mid-drive.

NHTSA complaint #11740491 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Miami, FL

ENGINE

The engine seized up and hyundai refused to approve my claim al though i had the extended warranty. Reason for the denial because a recall in 2019 was not performed. I had purchased the vehicle in 2023 used from Rick case honda.

NHTSA complaint #11737803 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Henderson, NV

ENGINE

My car only has 93,000 miles on it. I was driving home from work and all of a sudden the check engine light came on while I’m on the freeway. I made it home and went to research then all of a suddenly the check engine light would just start flashing. I got it checked by a mechanic. They said that there was metal shavings in the oil which I have no clue how that would happen and that there was a code for knocking.

NHTSA complaint #11735585 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bellflower, CA

ENGINE

Connecting rod bearing failure, stated a recall was active but it hadn't been assigned to my vehicle. Vehicle went into engine failiure and does not have appropriate measures to prevent engine failiure. No warning messages prior to engine failiure.

NHTSA complaint #11730270 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Miami Gardens, FL

POWER TRAIN

While driving the vehicle at approximately at 55 MPH on a the 826, the engine suffered a sudden and catastrophic mechanical failure without warning. The vehicle lost all motive power in active traffic, creating an immediate safety hazard and nearly resulting in a rear-end collision. Upon inspection, it was determined that the engine assembly, which is a replacement unit provided by Hyundai under the Theta II Settlement, with less than 12,000 miles, suffered an internal breach. This breach allowed coolant to contaminate the lubrication system sort of a milky oil, which led to a connecting rod bearing seizure. Despite this being a repeat failure of a safety-recall component and the vehicle being covered under the Theta II Settlement Lifetime Warranty, Hyundai Motor America has denied the repair claim. I am reporting this as a safety defect because the sudden engine stall resulted in a loss of power-assisted steering and braking while the vehicle was in motion.

NHTSA complaint #11726371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Miami Gardens, FL

ENGINE

While driving the vehicle at approximately at 55 MPH on a the 826, the engine suffered a sudden and catastrophic mechanical failure without warning. The vehicle lost all motive power in active traffic, creating an immediate safety hazard and nearly resulting in a rear-end collision. Upon inspection, it was determined that the engine assembly, which is a replacement unit provided by Hyundai under the Theta II Settlement, with less than 12,000 miles, suffered an internal breach. This breach allowed coolant to contaminate the lubrication system sort of a milky oil, which led to a connecting rod bearing seizure. Despite this being a repeat failure of a safety-recall component and the vehicle being covered under the Theta II Settlement Lifetime Warranty, Hyundai Motor America has denied the repair claim. I am reporting this as a safety defect because the sudden engine stall resulted in a loss of power-assisted steering and braking while the vehicle was in motion.

NHTSA complaint #11726371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Miami Gardens, FL

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

While driving the vehicle at approximately at 55 MPH on a the 826, the engine suffered a sudden and catastrophic mechanical failure without warning. The vehicle lost all motive power in active traffic, creating an immediate safety hazard and nearly resulting in a rear-end collision. Upon inspection, it was determined that the engine assembly, which is a replacement unit provided by Hyundai under the Theta II Settlement, with less than 12,000 miles, suffered an internal breach. This breach allowed coolant to contaminate the lubrication system sort of a milky oil, which led to a connecting rod bearing seizure. Despite this being a repeat failure of a safety-recall component and the vehicle being covered under the Theta II Settlement Lifetime Warranty, Hyundai Motor America has denied the repair claim. I am reporting this as a safety defect because the sudden engine stall resulted in a loss of power-assisted steering and braking while the vehicle was in motion.

NHTSA complaint #11726371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Waukesha, WI

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and running, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact exited the vehicle and inspected it. The hood was opened, and the engine cover was removed, and there was condensation dripping from the fuel pump. The contact’s brother inspected the vehicle and became aware of the strong fuel odor and the condensation dripping from the high-pressure fuel pump. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA complaint #11723852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hilo, HI

ENGINE

The engine light started blinking and my car would not accelerate anymore. I took it to the mechanic immediately, who said that there was an engine recall. I contacted the dealership, but they cannot do an initial inspection for more than 2 months. It would likely take another 2-3 months after the inspection before the engine can be replaced. I called Hyundai and they confirmed that my vehicle should be covered under an extended warranty based on the service history and error code from my car (TXXI for the Theta 2 engine - knock sensor detection, code p1326). However, Hyundai will not provide any help until the vehicle is inspected by a dealership. The dealership completely refuses to look at my car as they are busy. I live on an island, so the only other Hyundai dealership is two hours away. They will not answer any of my calls. I'm expected to figure out how to commute to work alone for the next two months, but since I live in a rural area, there are no alternative transportation options. An independent mechanic confirmed and reproduced the issue. The car is unsafe to drive. The dealer will not inspect my component in a reasonable time frame, much less repair it despite the fact that it is covered under extended warranty. The car was driving normally prior to the issue, and I did not notice any problems until the engine light started blinking. I have the car available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11718660 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lakeland, FL Fire

STRUCTURE:BODY

I turned off the car and went inside the house. I was outside and could smell smoke. I walked to the front of the house and saw my neighbor who was calling 911 due to flames from my engine. The flames reached the yard and my garage where minor damage occurred. The vehicle was completely engulfed in flames before the fire department extinguished it.

NHTSA complaint #11716330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lakeland, FL Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I turned off the car and went inside the house. I was outside and could smell smoke. I walked to the front of the house and saw my neighbor who was calling 911 due to flames from my engine. The flames reached the yard and my garage where minor damage occurred. The vehicle was completely engulfed in flames before the fire department extinguished it.

NHTSA complaint #11716330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lakeland, FL Fire

ENGINE

I turned off the car and went inside the house. I was outside and could smell smoke. I walked to the front of the house and saw my neighbor who was calling 911 due to flames from my engine. The flames reached the yard and my garage where minor damage occurred. The vehicle was completely engulfed in flames before the fire department extinguished it.

NHTSA complaint #11716330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 132,000 miles Lake Butler, FL

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. While driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road; and the check engine warning light illuminated. A handheld scanner was used to retrieve DTC: P1326 (KSDS – Connecting rod bearings failure). The vehicle was towed to the residence, and then towed to the dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and informed the contact that the rod bearings had failed, causing engine failure. The dealer notified the manufacturer of the failure; however, the manufacturer declined to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer informed the contact that the prior owner had submitted a complaint regarding the failure in January of 2024. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.

NHTSA complaint #11714583 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Corpus Christi, TX

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The sunroof glass suddenly shattered while driving slowly into a parking lot.

NHTSA complaint #11713385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bridgewater, MA Fire

SEAT BELTS

Six weeks ago the alternator and battery had also been replaced. My Hyundai Santa Fe Sport turbo engine, exhibited a persistent rubber-like odor for approximately three weeks after the latest maintenance. During this period, the push-start button intermittently failed, requiring multiple attempts to engage, and the vehicle experienced noticeable shaking. After being parked, smoke began to emerge from under the hood, followed by visible flames. Within roughly 3-5mins minutes, the vehicle was completely engulfed in fire and blew up 6 times. Notably, the car had undergone significant repairs in the past year, including an engine replacement, starter, OEM parts, O2 sensors, brakes, valve cover gasket, new tires, and routine oil changes.

NHTSA complaint #11702863 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bridgewater, MA Fire

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Six weeks ago the alternator and battery had also been replaced. My Hyundai Santa Fe Sport turbo engine, exhibited a persistent rubber-like odor for approximately three weeks after the latest maintenance. During this period, the push-start button intermittently failed, requiring multiple attempts to engage, and the vehicle experienced noticeable shaking. After being parked, smoke began to emerge from under the hood, followed by visible flames. Within roughly 3-5mins minutes, the vehicle was completely engulfed in fire and blew up 6 times. Notably, the car had undergone significant repairs in the past year, including an engine replacement, starter, OEM parts, O2 sensors, brakes, valve cover gasket, new tires, and routine oil changes.

NHTSA complaint #11702863 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.