Owners have filed 1,281 complaints
about the 2017 Hyundai Santa FE with NHTSA between 2016 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 26 worst.
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.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Hyundai Santa FE. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 31
6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
65% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2017 compares with every other Hyundai Santa FE
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Automatic Emergency Braking
626.1%
Blind Spot Detection
417.4%
Body
417.4%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
313.0%
Adaptive Cruise Control
28.7%
Cruise Control
28.7%
Critical Fasteners
14.3%
Rearview System Braking
14.3%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
4912.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
10327.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
7218.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
5313.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
338.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
307.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
3910.2%
150,000+ miles
30.8%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD
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2017 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
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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.
May 2016peak 28Sep 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2017 Hyundai Santa FE
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.
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,...
DP24001Opened 8 Feb 2024Closed 16 May 2024ENGINE
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 allegations of a loss of motive power, often resulting in an engine seizure. The stall is preceded by a knocking sound, decreased performance and no warning lights. An analysis of the subject vehicle population was undertaken using complaints submitted to ODI along with manufacturer data. It was determine...
DP22003Opened 12 Sep 2022Closed 12 Dec 2023ENGINE
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 2017 Hyundai Santa FE
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
22V056000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
17V578000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Santa Fe vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The crankshaft assemblies may have been produced with surface irregularities in the crankshaft pin, causing engine bearing wear.
Risk: The engine bearing wear may cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
17V142000
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The affected vehicles have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that may not have been set in the correct mode during vehicle assembly, and therefore will not provide an appropriate warning in the event of an underinflated tire. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Risk: An underinflated inflated tire can increase the risk of a crash.
16V842000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Tucson vehicles manufactured May 19, 2015, to November 14, 2016, and 2017 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured November 28, 2015, to November 14, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result, in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
16V145000
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured September 1, 2015 to February 12, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the wires in the front seat belt buckle harnesses may be damaged by the seat's height adjuster mechanism, resulting in a failure to provide an audible warning when front seat occupants do not fasten their seat belts. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: Without a warning to remind the front seat occupants that their seat belts are not buckled, they may forget to buckle their seat belt, increasing their risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024552824,695 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 2023125404,543 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: Hyundai is conducting a special service campaign that provides anti-corrosion treatment to certain underbody components. Over time, components under the vehicle, including brake lines could corrode. If this happens, a brake line could fail and leak. A brake fluid leak can result in reduced braking. Safety Risk: Reduced braking can cause an extended stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the underbody, including the brake lines. The dealer will apply an anti-corrosion treatment to certain parts, and replace the brake lines if necessary.
Recall 202261686,599 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, the control module for the antilock brake system (ABS) could short circuit. Note: This recall doesn't affect vehicles equipped with smart cruise control (SCC). This recall replaces Transport Canada recall 2022-046. Vehicles that were already repaired under Hyundai recall R0208 don't require this repair. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the ABS multi-fuse. Hyundai advises that you may continue to drive your vehicle, however recommends that you should park it outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 202204674,169 units in Canada
Brakes
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada Recall No. 2022-616 due to increase in the number of recalled vehicles. Issue: On certain vehicles, the control module for the antilock brake system (ABS) could short circuit. Note: This recall does not affect vehicles equipped with smart cruise control (SCC). Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk. Corrective Actions: Hyundai will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the ABS multi-fuse. Hyundai advises that you may continue to drive your vehicle, however recommends that you should park it outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 2017297128,865 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.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Alsip, ILFire
ENGINE
While driving home on the highway from our sons hockey game at about 8:30 pm we were going about 60 mph when the car made a noise and began smoking and as we were trying to pull over on the side of the highway noticed by the reflection of a passing car that the engine on our vehicle was on fire under the vehicle. We had to evacuate the vehicle quickly and get our children out on the side of a busy highway with fire showing under the front end of the car.
NHTSA complaint #11734049 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 63,000 milesMerritt Island, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe equipped with a Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter, Part Number: 10101194. The contact stated that after the mobility scooter lifter was installed on the vehicle, the vehicle experienced electrical failures. The A/C became inoperable, and the hatch opened intermittently. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked approximately a month after the lifter installation, the alarm sounded intermittently during the day. The contact observed the vehicle from the residence, but did not notice any abnormality. The contact installed the mobility scooter on the vehicle in the evening. The contact stated that the vehicle alarm sounded at night, and the contact noticed that the vehicle had caught on fire and there were flames coming from underneath the hood by the engine and firewall location. The vehicle was significantly burned from the front end to the trunk. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. A fire department report and a police report were filed. There was no property damage. There was no physical injury sustained. The contact sustained mental trauma, causing headaches and the right side of the lip to quiver. The contact had called Gregory Fox, an investigative reporter and anchor at WESH 2 News(NBC), who notified the manufacturer of the failure. The manufacturer followed up with the contact and informed the contact that a third-party investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the fire incident. The vehicle was towed to a salvage yard, where a third-party investigation was conducted, and the manufacturer informed the contact that the fire was caused by the Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter. The vehicle was totaled. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #11729701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owned a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe equipped with a Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter, Part Number: 10101194. The contact stated that after the mobility scooter lifter was installed on the vehicle, the vehicle experienced electrical failures. The A/C became inoperable, and the hatch opened intermittently. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked approximately a month after the lifter installation, the alarm sounded intermittently during the day. The contact observed the vehicle from the residence, but did not notice any abnormality. The contact installed the mobility scooter on the vehicle in the evening. The contact stated that the vehicle alarm sounded at night, and the contact noticed that the vehicle had caught on fire and there were flames coming from underneath the hood by the engine and firewall location. The vehicle was significantly burned from the front end to the trunk. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. A fire department report and a police report were filed. There was no property damage. There was no physical injury sustained. The contact sustained mental trauma, causing headaches and the right side of the lip to quiver. The contact had called Gregory Fox, an investigative reporter and anchor at WESH 2 News(NBC), who notified the manufacturer of the failure. The manufacturer followed up with the contact and informed the contact that a third-party investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the fire incident. The vehicle was towed to a salvage yard, where a third-party investigation was conducted, and the manufacturer informed the contact that the fire was caused by the Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter. The vehicle was totaled. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #11729701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
White, GACrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
On November 28, 2025 at approximately 2:20am, I was involved in a multi-car pile up crash on Interstate 85 south near Durham NC. At least 5 vehicles were involved and significantly damaged. At least two drivers were taken by ambulance to local hospitals. Fortunately I was not one of them. I was driving in the left lane of the 2 lane southbound interstate. It happened right in front of me and I had no chance of completely avoiding it so I veered to my left onto the shoulder to attempt to avoid a direct hit on the large Nissan SUV that was now straddling both lanes. I hit the front of the Nissan and the guardrail almost simultaneously at somewhere around 50 to 60mph which caused considerable damage to the front right quadrant and the entire drivers side of my vehicle, but my airbags never deployed and I sustained moderate to significant injury to my arms, shoulders, chest and neck, most likely due to how I was gripping the steering wheel in anticipation of the impact and from the seat belt. I did not require medical treatment at the scene but have since received treatment at home. I believe the airbags should have deployed given my speed at impact and where my vehicle came in contact with both the Nissan SUV as well as the guardrail. I believe this was a clear failure of the airbag system in my vehicle, which has since been deemed to be totaled by my insurance company.
NHTSA complaint #11702606 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FLFire
POWER TRAIN
2017 Santa Fe, car had fire in 09/2024 and was with dealership until 05/2025. BSD, ABS, TRACTION, and Parking Brake lights on the dash when vehicle was picked up. Dealership not complaint to pay as the assume it is an Outside issue
NHTSA complaint #11670835 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FLFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2017 Santa Fe, car had fire in 09/2024 and was with dealership until 05/2025. BSD, ABS, TRACTION, and Parking Brake lights on the dash when vehicle was picked up. Dealership not complaint to pay as the assume it is an Outside issue
NHTSA complaint #11670835 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
La Vista, NE
POWER TRAIN
Vehicle was brought to an authorized dealership for service, and while there Campaign 9C2 (ECU Software Update for Theta II Emissions Improvement) was performed. Immediately following this software update, the vehicle developed drivability degradation, specifically engine stutter/hesitation and rough transmission shifting during cold starts. When attempting to accelerate in the first few minutes of driving, the vehicle delays engagement and then suddenly surges or lurches forward unpredictably. This creates a safety hazard, as the unpredictable power delivery and lag prevent the vehicle from accelerating safely when merging into traffic or turning across oncoming lanes, placing occupants at an immediate risk of a collision. The software logic error is fully reproducible every time the vehicle has sat long enough to cool down. The dealership confirmed the update was applied. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the 9C2 update; the failure was caused directly by the manufacturer's campaign software modification to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The vehicle and its ECU are available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11763180 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
La Vista, NE
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Vehicle was brought to an authorized dealership for service, and while there Campaign 9C2 (ECU Software Update for Theta II Emissions Improvement) was performed. Immediately following this software update, the vehicle developed drivability degradation, specifically engine stutter/hesitation and rough transmission shifting during cold starts. When attempting to accelerate in the first few minutes of driving, the vehicle delays engagement and then suddenly surges or lurches forward unpredictably. This creates a safety hazard, as the unpredictable power delivery and lag prevent the vehicle from accelerating safely when merging into traffic or turning across oncoming lanes, placing occupants at an immediate risk of a collision. The software logic error is fully reproducible every time the vehicle has sat long enough to cool down. The dealership confirmed the update was applied. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the 9C2 update; the failure was caused directly by the manufacturer's campaign software modification to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The vehicle and its ECU are available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11763180 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
La Vista, NE
ENGINE
Vehicle was brought to an authorized dealership for service, and while there Campaign 9C2 (ECU Software Update for Theta II Emissions Improvement) was performed. Immediately following this software update, the vehicle developed drivability degradation, specifically engine stutter/hesitation and rough transmission shifting during cold starts. When attempting to accelerate in the first few minutes of driving, the vehicle delays engagement and then suddenly surges or lurches forward unpredictably. This creates a safety hazard, as the unpredictable power delivery and lag prevent the vehicle from accelerating safely when merging into traffic or turning across oncoming lanes, placing occupants at an immediate risk of a collision. The software logic error is fully reproducible every time the vehicle has sat long enough to cool down. The dealership confirmed the update was applied. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the 9C2 update; the failure was caused directly by the manufacturer's campaign software modification to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The vehicle and its ECU are available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11763180 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
East Stroudsburg, PA
ENGINE
-The primary mechanical failure is a burned exhaust valve in Cylinder 2, which has resulted in 0 PSI compression and a persistent engine misfire. This severe top-end valve degradation occurred as a direct consequential result of a chronic, underlying defect in the engine's internal oil-delivery and consumption systems. The vehicle is currently fully assembled, intact, and available for immediate inspection upon request at Brown-Daub Hyundai. -The vehicle suffered a sudden, severe loss of motive power while operating in traffic due to the cylinder drop, triggering a sudden transition into a dangerous operating state. The extreme oil consumption rate (burning 5 to 6 quarts of motor oil every 3,000 miles) created an ongoing, severe risk of sudden highway stalling, catastrophic moving component seizure, and potential engine bay fire due to extreme internal operating friction and chronic oil starvation. -Failure has been confirmed by two independent automotive facilities: Independent Confirmation: On XXX, [XXX]’s Service Center performed a diagnostic scan and an engine compression test, formally documenting diagnostic trouble code P030200 (Cylinder 2 Misfire) and verifying 0 PSI compression in Cylinder 2.Dealership Confirmation: On XXX, the service manager at Brown-Daub Hyundai executed a formal electronic and mechanical inspection under Repair Order #XXX, duplicating the failure and logging active trouble codes P0301, P0302, and P0128. -Symptoms first appeared progressively through an accelerating, severe oil consumption defect, which was documented during multiple routine maintenance: XXX oil consumption (115,865 mi): XXX (119,601 mi) no external leaks: XXX (125,502 mi) excessive oil consumption:XXX (135,116 mi) excessive oil consumption:XXX (133,022 mi) P0420 Cat Code: XXX (approx. 137,000 mi)engine rough-riding, shaking, & violent misfires began, preceding the mechanical breakdown INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11762822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fuquay Varina, NC
ENGINE
On May 26.2026, Southern States Hyundai performed mandated Service Campaign 9C2 (Theta II Emissions Improvement). The software immediately caused drivability degradation and a catalytic converter failure, mirroring the defects Hyundai acknowledged to the NHTSA on May 18, 2026. Corporate customer care is using an unrelated oil consumption testing protocol to deflect liability and charge me $1,400 for the testing and/or $4002 for the catalytic converter out of pocket for damage caused by their own recall software. This hesitation is a severe safety risk when accelerating into traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11761955 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
POWER TRAIN
Cold-Start Hesitation & Rough Shifting: Following the 9C2 ECU update, my vehicle is experiencing a brief period of throttle hesitation, rough shifting, or jerky transmission behavior specifically during cold-start operations.
NHTSA complaint #11760934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Milwaukee, WI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My truck began emitting a strong oil odor on XXX. I took it to Amato in [XXX], where I was told the oil pan was leaking. They replaced the oil pan, and I paid for the inspection as well. About an hour after picking up my truck, the check‑engine light came on. I returned to the dealership, and they then said additional repairs were needed, even though I had already paid $2,211.57 for the work they claimed was necessary. At that time, my truck had 145,776 miles on it. Because the manager at [XXX] refused to address my concerns, I was told to go to another Amato location, and I was effectively blacklisted from the first dealership. I went to Amato Glendale, where I experienced the same issues. They fixed only one of the problems, and that was only after I contacted Hyundai corporate. My truck continued to have oil‑consumption issues. Amato required me to complete a three‑month, 1,000‑mile oil consumption test before they would consider providing assistance. I completed the test as instructed. Now, however, they are saying that due to the age and mileage of my truck, they will not cover the engine replacement — even though the problems began at 145,000 miles, not 156,000. Other drivers have reported that Hyundai delays necessary repairs until major engine damage occurs, and I believe that is exactly what has happened in my case. There was also a suspension recall that applied to the 2018 model but not the 2017. Amato Hyundai covered part of that repair only because I contacted corporate again. My current complaint is about the failing engine and Amato Hyundai’s lack of responsibility in properly diagnosing and repairing my truck. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11760878 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Milwaukee, WI
SUSPENSION
My truck began emitting a strong oil odor on XXX. I took it to Amato in [XXX], where I was told the oil pan was leaking. They replaced the oil pan, and I paid for the inspection as well. About an hour after picking up my truck, the check‑engine light came on. I returned to the dealership, and they then said additional repairs were needed, even though I had already paid $2,211.57 for the work they claimed was necessary. At that time, my truck had 145,776 miles on it. Because the manager at [XXX] refused to address my concerns, I was told to go to another Amato location, and I was effectively blacklisted from the first dealership. I went to Amato Glendale, where I experienced the same issues. They fixed only one of the problems, and that was only after I contacted Hyundai corporate. My truck continued to have oil‑consumption issues. Amato required me to complete a three‑month, 1,000‑mile oil consumption test before they would consider providing assistance. I completed the test as instructed. Now, however, they are saying that due to the age and mileage of my truck, they will not cover the engine replacement — even though the problems began at 145,000 miles, not 156,000. Other drivers have reported that Hyundai delays necessary repairs until major engine damage occurs, and I believe that is exactly what has happened in my case. There was also a suspension recall that applied to the 2018 model but not the 2017. Amato Hyundai covered part of that repair only because I contacted corporate again. My current complaint is about the failing engine and Amato Hyundai’s lack of responsibility in properly diagnosing and repairing my truck. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11760878 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Cold-Start Hesitation & Rough Shifting: Following the 9C2 ECU update, my vehicle is experiencing a brief period of throttle hesitation, rough shifting, or jerky transmission behavior specifically during cold-start operations.
NHTSA complaint #11760934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Milwaukee, WI
ENGINE
My truck began emitting a strong oil odor on XXX. I took it to Amato in [XXX], where I was told the oil pan was leaking. They replaced the oil pan, and I paid for the inspection as well. About an hour after picking up my truck, the check‑engine light came on. I returned to the dealership, and they then said additional repairs were needed, even though I had already paid $2,211.57 for the work they claimed was necessary. At that time, my truck had 145,776 miles on it. Because the manager at [XXX] refused to address my concerns, I was told to go to another Amato location, and I was effectively blacklisted from the first dealership. I went to Amato Glendale, where I experienced the same issues. They fixed only one of the problems, and that was only after I contacted Hyundai corporate. My truck continued to have oil‑consumption issues. Amato required me to complete a three‑month, 1,000‑mile oil consumption test before they would consider providing assistance. I completed the test as instructed. Now, however, they are saying that due to the age and mileage of my truck, they will not cover the engine replacement — even though the problems began at 145,000 miles, not 156,000. Other drivers have reported that Hyundai delays necessary repairs until major engine damage occurs, and I believe that is exactly what has happened in my case. There was also a suspension recall that applied to the 2018 model but not the 2017. Amato Hyundai covered part of that repair only because I contacted corporate again. My current complaint is about the failing engine and Amato Hyundai’s lack of responsibility in properly diagnosing and repairing my truck. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11760878 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
Cold-Start Hesitation & Rough Shifting: Following the 9C2 ECU update, my vehicle is experiencing a brief period of throttle hesitation, rough shifting, or jerky transmission behavior specifically during cold-start operations.
NHTSA complaint #11760934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highlands Ranch, CO
POWER TRAIN
Known as an issue with Hyundai, but unresponsive to correct because no diagnostic code is sent. Transmission will shift extremely hard from 1st to 2nd gear randomly. In keeping track of the mileage, this appears to happen every 200 miles or so. Also, it faild to upshift correctly, making the entire car shudder. Also, at times it will not go into reverse gear. On one occasion, after finally doing so, it slammed so hard into reverse I almost collided with the car behind me.
NHTSA complaint #11760479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newark, NJ
POWER TRAIN
My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased new from Lynnes Hyundai in February 2017, has approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle previously developed a significant oil-consumption/engine problem that was diagnosed by Hyundai, and Hyundai replaced the engine with a remanufactured engine. Approximately two weeks after the engine replacement, the check-engine light illuminated and DTC P1326 was identified. The dealership replaced the knock sensor. Approximately two weeks later, the check-engine light illuminated again with a recurring P1326 condition. The vehicle is currently at Lynnes Hyundai and has been there approximately three weeks while they attempt to determine the cause. Hyundai Techline is involved. Prior to the current repair visit, while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a very forceful hesitation that jerked the vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled onto the shoulder. The vehicle continued to hesitate intermittently while I drove slowly to safety. I was concerned that the vehicle could lose power or shut down while I was driving at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. The recurring P1326 condition has been confirmed by the Hyundai dealership. The vehicle and engine have been inspected by Hyundai/Lynnes Hyundai multiple times, including after the engine replacement. The current recurring condition has not been resolved. The check-engine light is the warning lamp associated with the current condition. I do not know the underlying cause of the recurring P1326 condition; Hyundai is currently attempting to diagnose it. The vehicle is currently available for inspection at Lynnes Hyundai.
NHTSA complaint #11759120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newark, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased new from Lynnes Hyundai in February 2017, has approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle previously developed a significant oil-consumption/engine problem that was diagnosed by Hyundai, and Hyundai replaced the engine with a remanufactured engine. Approximately two weeks after the engine replacement, the check-engine light illuminated and DTC P1326 was identified. The dealership replaced the knock sensor. Approximately two weeks later, the check-engine light illuminated again with a recurring P1326 condition. The vehicle is currently at Lynnes Hyundai and has been there approximately three weeks while they attempt to determine the cause. Hyundai Techline is involved. Prior to the current repair visit, while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a very forceful hesitation that jerked the vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled onto the shoulder. The vehicle continued to hesitate intermittently while I drove slowly to safety. I was concerned that the vehicle could lose power or shut down while I was driving at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. The recurring P1326 condition has been confirmed by the Hyundai dealership. The vehicle and engine have been inspected by Hyundai/Lynnes Hyundai multiple times, including after the engine replacement. The current recurring condition has not been resolved. The check-engine light is the warning lamp associated with the current condition. I do not know the underlying cause of the recurring P1326 condition; Hyundai is currently attempting to diagnose it. The vehicle is currently available for inspection at Lynnes Hyundai.
NHTSA complaint #11759120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newark, NJ
ENGINE
My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased new from Lynnes Hyundai in February 2017, has approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle previously developed a significant oil-consumption/engine problem that was diagnosed by Hyundai, and Hyundai replaced the engine with a remanufactured engine. Approximately two weeks after the engine replacement, the check-engine light illuminated and DTC P1326 was identified. The dealership replaced the knock sensor. Approximately two weeks later, the check-engine light illuminated again with a recurring P1326 condition. The vehicle is currently at Lynnes Hyundai and has been there approximately three weeks while they attempt to determine the cause. Hyundai Techline is involved. Prior to the current repair visit, while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a very forceful hesitation that jerked the vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled onto the shoulder. The vehicle continued to hesitate intermittently while I drove slowly to safety. I was concerned that the vehicle could lose power or shut down while I was driving at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. The recurring P1326 condition has been confirmed by the Hyundai dealership. The vehicle and engine have been inspected by Hyundai/Lynnes Hyundai multiple times, including after the engine replacement. The current recurring condition has not been resolved. The check-engine light is the warning lamp associated with the current condition. I do not know the underlying cause of the recurring P1326 condition; Hyundai is currently attempting to diagnose it. The vehicle is currently available for inspection at Lynnes Hyundai.
NHTSA complaint #11759120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Belmont, NC
ENGINE
My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe 3.3L V6 (148,000 miles) has documented oil consumption and a recurring DTC P0278 (Cylinder 6 Contribution/Balance). Hyundai's formal oil-consumption test confirmed oil consumption, but said it was below the threshold for combustion-chamber cleaning. The check-engine light and P0278, and losing acceleration ability continue to recur. The vehicle is available for inspection. Hyundai has confirmed the oil-consumption issue but has not determined the cause of P0278 or performed the TXX8 engine inspection I am requesting. I am concerned about worsening engine performance, loss of power, or engine failure, particularly given Hyundai's history of engine-bearing issues with certain 2017 Santa Fe 3.3L engines. I am not claiming diagnosed bearing failure; I am requesting a TXX8 inspection to determine whether an eligible engine condition exists. I have contacted both the dealership and Hyundai Corporate, but have been told I must repeat the oil-consumption test. At 148,000 miles, I am requesting prompt inspection before the 150,000-mile TXX8 limit and covered repair/replacement if an eligible condition is found.
NHTSA complaint #11758839 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cary, NC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Directly after the dealer, Johnson Hyundai of Apex, completed Service Campaign 9C2 on 4/28/26, my vehicle began sticking, surging, and harshly changing gears. I have followed up with the dealer multiple times. They said they are not getting back any diagnostic error codes (outside mechanic shop also confirmed they're also not seeing error codes), but went ahead and recalibrated the ECM. They told me to drive for 200 miles and the issue should be resolved. I have now driven 1,500 miles and the issue persists. I'm now seeing Hyundai put out a 'Driveability Communication" about this issue, but there is no proposed fix/recall. This issue did not exist before this service campaign was performed by the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11758484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cary, NC
ENGINE
Directly after the dealer, Johnson Hyundai of Apex, completed Service Campaign 9C2 on 4/28/26, my vehicle began sticking, surging, and harshly changing gears. I have followed up with the dealer multiple times. They said they are not getting back any diagnostic error codes (outside mechanic shop also confirmed they're also not seeing error codes), but went ahead and recalibrated the ECM. They told me to drive for 200 miles and the issue should be resolved. I have now driven 1,500 miles and the issue persists. I'm now seeing Hyundai put out a 'Driveability Communication" about this issue, but there is no proposed fix/recall. This issue did not exist before this service campaign was performed by the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11758484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Belton, SC
ENGINE
After the update earlier this summer for an emissions issue, my car, a 2017 Hyundi Santa Fe Sport, has not run right. When it is cold, the first trip on the day, it hesitates and sputters to an extent that it is not safe on the nearest highway where the speed limit is 35. We have been compensating by driving slowly around the neighborhood for a few minutes, and then it's fine. It has been happening since the update of service campaign 9C2, the "Theta II Emissions Logic Improvement" recall. The local Hyundai dealer has been unable to provide a fix. We just picked it back up today, 8/21/26, after deciding against their latest idea, a fuel injector treatment for $200. Based on other examples I've read with similar or identical issues after the recall software update, I have concluded this is a safety issue that Hyundai must resolve.
NHTSA complaint #11758504 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norman, OK
ENGINE
There is a class action lawsuit for the Theta Engine in some Kia and Hyundai vehicles and my type of vehicle falls into this lawsuit category. I drive a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and what the lawsuit described what happened to my vehicle, it seized up and you’re supposed to have a lifetime warranty for this problem. I submitted all the paperwork and Norman Hyundai sent videos it was seized up but denied my claim so I have a car that no longer drives with a car loan still so can’t buy a new vehicle. I was told they didn’t see oil additive anytime but their own business this in March ‘26 and May ‘26. It states on the lawsuit if anyone’s in the class action lawsuit they are covered if this happens to your vehicle. Also, part of the lawsuit is the oil consumption and how much it’s eating gas and then it seizes possibly or catch fire and my car was barely getting a 1,000 miles and it would be empty so couldn’t keep up always checking it and the car seized up due to what’s supposed to be covered.
NHTSA complaint #11758520 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cary, NC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Directly after the dealer, Johnson Hyundai of Apex, completed Service Campaign 9C2 on 4/28/26, my vehicle began sticking, surging, and harshly changing gears. I have followed up with the dealer multiple times. They said they are not getting back any diagnostic error codes (outside mechanic shop also confirmed they're also not seeing error codes), but went ahead and recalibrated the ECM. They told me to drive for 200 miles and the issue should be resolved. I have now driven 1,500 miles and the issue persists. I'm now seeing Hyundai put out a 'Driveability Communication" about this issue, but there is no proposed fix/recall. This issue did not exist before this service campaign was performed by the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11758484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Park City, KS
ENGINE
We have been involved with an Oil Consumption problem since 2025 maybe earlier. No leaks just an over use of oil. I have had to fill it myself or take it to the dealer. They did testing and di some kind of cleaning that took 8 hours. We still have the problem and while driving the whole car shut down. No power in the middle of a highway. This has now happened twice and the first time we had to call AAA for help. It showed an engine sign and we checked the code. First it was an small air leak but they didn't find anything. It came up again, same message so we replaced the gas cap, but the oil was still disappearing and the car had shut down again. I spoke with the Hyundai corporation and they said to do the combustion cleaning again. So we set it up but found out that we had to pay for it so we declined. They refused to do anything about the car. We later found there were other cars made by the same company with the same problem. I did some research and they have had an Oil Consumption problem for quite a while. Now the Catalytic Converter is showing up as having problems. Well that's where the oil goes and can shut down the car due to airflow. They never disclosed it to us face to face, we had to find out about it after the the warranty was up. That was very dangerous to have stopped on a highway.
NHTSA complaint #11756697 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Anna, TX
POWER TRAIN
Complete unmitigated loss of acceleration and power while traveling at highway speeds, creating an immediate life-threatening road hazard. Following a warranty engine replacement and mandatory dealer software flash at Clay Cooley Hyundai (Sherman, TX), the vehicle began experiencing powertrain communication issues. While operating the vehicle at 65 MPH on the highway, the vehicle completely failed to accelerate and lost propulsion power, nearly resulting in a catastrophic rear-end collision with an oncoming 18-wheeler semi-truck. Dealership diagnostics claim "no trouble codes present," but live data telemetry confirms the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) is actively commanding and delivering a dangerous 1,600 PSI to the fuel rail at hot idle. This abnormal fuel delivery is paired with a severe powertrain stutter in 3rd gear. Service personnel at multiple locations confirm a widespread, high volume of transmission failures and severe drivability issues specifically tied to this recent Hyundai software update. Corporate has denied repair coverage. The vehicle remains an active highway safety hazard and is completely undrivable.
NHTSA complaint #11756411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Anna, TX
ENGINE
Complete unmitigated loss of acceleration and power while traveling at highway speeds, creating an immediate life-threatening road hazard. Following a warranty engine replacement and mandatory dealer software flash at Clay Cooley Hyundai (Sherman, TX), the vehicle began experiencing powertrain communication issues. While operating the vehicle at 65 MPH on the highway, the vehicle completely failed to accelerate and lost propulsion power, nearly resulting in a catastrophic rear-end collision with an oncoming 18-wheeler semi-truck. Dealership diagnostics claim "no trouble codes present," but live data telemetry confirms the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) is actively commanding and delivering a dangerous 1,600 PSI to the fuel rail at hot idle. This abnormal fuel delivery is paired with a severe powertrain stutter in 3rd gear. Service personnel at multiple locations confirm a widespread, high volume of transmission failures and severe drivability issues specifically tied to this recent Hyundai software update. Corporate has denied repair coverage. The vehicle remains an active highway safety hazard and is completely undrivable.
NHTSA complaint #11756411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Anna, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Complete unmitigated loss of acceleration and power while traveling at highway speeds, creating an immediate life-threatening road hazard. Following a warranty engine replacement and mandatory dealer software flash at Clay Cooley Hyundai (Sherman, TX), the vehicle began experiencing powertrain communication issues. While operating the vehicle at 65 MPH on the highway, the vehicle completely failed to accelerate and lost propulsion power, nearly resulting in a catastrophic rear-end collision with an oncoming 18-wheeler semi-truck. Dealership diagnostics claim "no trouble codes present," but live data telemetry confirms the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) is actively commanding and delivering a dangerous 1,600 PSI to the fuel rail at hot idle. This abnormal fuel delivery is paired with a severe powertrain stutter in 3rd gear. Service personnel at multiple locations confirm a widespread, high volume of transmission failures and severe drivability issues specifically tied to this recent Hyundai software update. Corporate has denied repair coverage. The vehicle remains an active highway safety hazard and is completely undrivable.
NHTSA complaint #11756411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.