2014 Hyundai Santa FE engine problems

ENGINE

We are the original owner of a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The vehicle is experiencing issues from internal engine oil consumption caused by a manufacturing defect in the GDI powertrain. In 2023, while driving under normal operating conditions, the vehicle began severely jerking, shuddering and hesitating during acceleration. This hesitation and sudden drop in power creates a severe and immediate traffic hazard, as the vehicle loses acceleration capabilities unpredictably while driving, merging, entering a highway or crossing intersections. I have since experience low oil volume due to this systemic oil consumption. On April 7, 2023 while I was under the 100,000 mile factory warranty (at 99,644), the issues were reported to the dealership but they found no issues. Since then the engine light come up regularly and we must add or change oil soon. On June 15, 2026 we took it back with the same issue and we have been told after checking it and filling it up we must repeat the process from 2023, drive it for 1000 miles without changing or adding oil, even if it dries up. This will create a safety hazard not only for the public but for my family. Now we are told the engine needs to be replaced but since we're out of warranty, we must pay $21,000. We were under warranty when we reported the issue and they purposedly led us out knowing the issues were happening to other Sonata and Santa Fe models. Now we are left with a dangerous vehicle which we cannot in good faith sell to any other family.

NHTSA complaint #11744914 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My car was in shop for Smog inspection and failed. Mechanic told me that the most likely reason was that the engine has issues related to failing crankshaft position sensor which triggered the check engine light. He further explained that the engine with this condition will have abnormal oil consumption. My experience is that is exactly what I wondered. No smoke in the exhaust, no oil leaks under the hood and no oil on the parking space at home nor work. Mechanic recommended I take the car to Hyundai dealer in Folsom. The service department there diagnosed my car and did not find fault with crankshaft position sensor but did find that there is a problem with timing mechanisms. They also said that the engine has difficulty starting, which I never experienced in over 50,000 I have driven it, save the time of battery replacement about 2 years ago. I decided to take my car back to my mechanic where he diagnosed it with timing issues. The abnormal engine noise was accounted for as a link to timing. In the interim I drive a rental at the rate of about $65.00 /day. I m in a quandary; if my mechanic repairs the timing issues, which may not be under warranty, does that invalidate the existing engine warranty? If I can get the warranty to cover the ongoing issues, we can save ourselves wasting time and money. If safety concerns are a priority, which is not, then we cannot sacrifice safety in the interest of celerity. In the meantime, my family are in the crossroads and I cannot accept that.

NHTSA complaint #11742287 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Driving to work at 0730 on 20 may, i put my foot down to accelerate from 40mph and nothing happened, i tried again thinking foot placement and the engine died. All ligjts went out, engine turned off and i free coasted for 100 -150yards. Once stopped i mangaed to get the hazard lights on, and get out the vehicle. I was 30yards from traffic lights on a 3 lane road. Once pushed from the road, the car showed lights and internal radio etc, but no noise on the push start. There was no noise from the engine prior to this, there was no dash lights showing issues and no warning. I was then towed 4hrs later to a garage where the diaognostics show engine failure and new engine required. A service 4000k miles ago and the car had used 5.5quarts of oil. All eveidence ive mainated the vehicle is online. 1st garage advices not driveable due to 10ks of miles of damage.

NHTSA complaint #11739568 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My engine failed and was diagnosed as needing to rebuilt or replaced by the dealership. During the pandemic it was hard to get parts so they rebuilt it. At first it was missed diagnosed because it was a 3.3l V6 and only the 4 cylinder engines were on recall. I had check engine lights on all the time. I paid for repairs that only masked the problem for a short time. It was such a problem I had to get a waiver to register my vehicle. After having more problems with my engine. Hyundai of Kennesaw confirmed my engine needed to be replaced they actually requested Corporate to approve an engine replacement for my vehicle in 2021. It was denied. So I paid for the rebuild. In August of 2025 i sent a letter extending the warranty which covered my vehicle engine rebuild. Hyundai denied that claim Jan 2026.

NHTSA complaint #11711112 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The engine has been running rough for awhile and emissions light came on. My car was having problems accelerating, 2 years ago the light came on but didn’t stay on so the dealer couldn’t diagnose problem.

NHTSA complaint #11688912 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My daughter owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS, which is currently experiencing internal engine failure and abnormal engine noise. These issues directly align with Hyundai’s notification regarding the extended warranty coverage for vehicles equipped with the 3.3L Lambda II GDI engine, which may experience abnormal engine noise or damage. Hyundai has acknowledged these concerns and extended warranty protection for engine repairs or replacement. The Hyundai Holler dealership in winter park Florida. recently inspected the vehicle and reported a critical failure requiring immediate attention. The recommended service included: Timing job (all CVVTs, intake, camshaft, chains, guides, tensioners) Both valve cover gaskets and RTV replacement ( This is the internal parts of the engine) The estimated repair cost was $6,723.92. This recommendation reflects the exact type of engine-related failure covered under Hyundai’s extended warranty for this VIN. It is both unreasonable and disappointing that my daughter was presented with such a significant repair estimate for a condition Hyundai has already committed to covering. For context, my husband is a certified technician, and we have carefully reviewed the inspection details. The diagnosis provided by Holler Hyundais service department is consistent with the warranty-covered issue. Therefore, this repair should rightfully be processed under Hyundai’s extended warranty program.I must also share that my daughter a single disabled mother of three with limited resources and income. The dealership’s approach in presenting her with an astronomical repair bill—without recognizing the warranty coverage—causes unnecessary stress and financial hardship Mr Jesse Cappiello Service consultant. Refuses to accept this as warranty, by stating the warranty is only for Rod bearing failure. When the warranty clearly states engine failure I have attached the warranty info for your review.

NHTSA complaint #11687469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

In relation to this incident, approximately 3,00 miles after an oil change, the engine oil drain plug fell out and caused all oil to leak and cause engine damage. Engine oil change was at approximately 125,000 miles. Drain plug fell out at approximately 128,000 miles. No warning lights or symptoms were present prior to vehicle shutting off and dying while driving. Vehicle was then towed to shop who previously did oil change. Shop confirmed drain plug was missing and oil level was empty. I am the manager of this shop submitting this on behalf of the customer with this vehicle. We are aware of the ongoing concerns in relation to case DP22-003 and would like to submit this information as further evidence for this case

NHTSA complaint #11683753 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Engine suddenly failed as I was sitting at a stop light and now is making a rattling/knocking noise

NHTSA complaint #11679943 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I was driving my daughters to school and the vehicle made a loud squeal and a subsequently a continuous clicking noise. I did not have any warning of the vehicle malfunctioning. There was no check engine light, no loss of power, or anything related to an impending failure. Upon this happening I was able to quickly get the vehicle moved as I was in the middle of the road with people around and lucking was not hit as I immediately stopped. I was close to home and was able to get the vehicle back to our home. Upon speaking with a Hyundai dealership they made me aware of a “silent recall” on many motors within the Hyundai failure due to internal failures. The vehicle was towed to the dealership and inspected and confirmed to have been linked to the engine failure. Hyundai is now stating that due to me being the second owner of the vehicle I am not apt to the extended warranty and there is no notice on any of the public facing knowledge to any of this information. I have gone through almost 2.5 months of back and forth with Hyundai case managers & the Attorney general.

NHTSA complaint #11670443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Loss of acceleration and stuttering when I was trying to get up to speed on the interstate going up a hill. Instantly blinking check engine light. Won't go above 2000rpm or 60mph. P1326 code read glow relay short circuit

NHTSA complaint #11650108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My car has a known oil consumption problem that has not been recalled on the 2014 vehicles. I have been dealing with issue for the 15 months. Getting the run around because call is out manufacture warranty but when problem first started was still under warranty. I have a extended warranty but

NHTSA complaint #11647034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

While driving we notice an engine knock, particular when the car reached 2000 RPM or more. the car suddenly lost power and would not exceed 40 mph. We took the vehicle to a mechanic and were informed that it needed the engine replaced.

NHTSA complaint #11646243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Engine failed mixing oil and coolant

NHTSA complaint #11643152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11631370 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11630088 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11630171 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11622994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11618527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11618243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11615061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11613852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11607113 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11604688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11600611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11597482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11595624 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11591302 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11587186 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.