91 of the 1,266 complaints about the 2017 Hyundai Santa FE are about the other systems — 7% of everything reported for this model year. Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before 16,500 miles.
91
Complaints
2
Crashes
6
Fires
2
Injuries
Filed with NHTSA, in their own words.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Was driving down highway, 95 South in VA, when sunroof blew out. No traffic in front at the time, nothing hit the car. Driving around 65 mph. Temp outside was ~85-87, AC in car at 74. Just blew up and out after a large "Bang". There was no impact to the vehicle prior and no other marks or scratches to the vehicle indication an impact.
NHTSA complaint #11755867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
After having the Service Campaign 9C2 ECU SOFTWARE UPDATE FOR THETA II EMISSIONS IMPROVEMENT, TSB 26-01-013H-2 done, my vehicle started having driveablity issues. On a normal, cold start the engine's RPMs go up really high, so I take my foot of the gas and the revs drop, almost stalling the car, and then the car bucks. I put my foot back on the gas pedal, and the engine revs really high again and takes off. If I try to drive normally, the car bucks and runs rough. My car also revs a lot higher during highway driving, than it did before the update. All of this is also causing terrible gas mileage. My car did nothing like this until I had the 9C2 update.
NHTSA complaint #11750493 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX]) was brought to Herb Chambers Hyundai of [XXX], in December 2023 to address the Underbody Corrosion Recall/Campaign (9A0). The dealer performed the preventative service. However, the remedy completely failed because the frame was already severely structurally compromised by rust. In early 2024, I relocated to [XXX] with the vehicle. Now 2026, The front subframe sub-assembly deteriorated to a hazardous point, forcing me to spend a large sum of my own money on front-end repairs caused directly by this corrosion. Currently, the rear subframe and rear suspension components are heavily corroded and structurally disintegrated. The vehicle is completely unsafe to drive, presenting an imminent risk of structural collapse and suspension failure while in motion. Hyundai's recall remedy was ineffective and merely masked the rust. The rear subframe (crossmember/cradle) and control arm anchor points are severely corroded, rusted out, and crumbling to the touch, creating an imminent risk of suspension collapse while driving. The extreme corrosion has spread to the metal fuel line the vehicle is unsafe to drive due to the advanced corrosion . Denial of Service by Local Distributor: The vehicle is currently located in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. I presented the vehicle and documentation to the local authorized distributor, Sojitz de Puerto Rico (Hyundai of Puerto Rico). As indicated I brought the Vehicle to MVP Hyundai Humacao (XXX) and filed a claim (# XXX) However they never sent a anyone to inspect the vehicle or process a safety claim, claiming they bear no responsibility because the vehicle was imported from the mainland, Because this is a failed federal safety campaign remedy that now poses an immediate threat to my life and public safety, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11750549 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
After going to the Hyundai dealership for them to perform Service Campaign SC2 on 6/10/26, the engine is a little jumpy for the first minute or two of driving, especially low speeds through my neighborhood.
NHTSA complaint #11749509 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
We are driving on the highway and the engine just stop working but all lights are still working. I am trying to put gas but it seemed that the engine completely shuts off dangerously without warning. This put my family at risk because there were a lot of big trucks beside us. Theta II 2.0L Turbo engine just stalled I believe this has been around . Can you please help us.
NHTSA complaint #11747482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Hi, I have a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe sport and I recently went to the dealership to get my brakes done and that day they did the recall 9C2 which is a software update on the engine/transmission and the next morning when I drove my car the rpm’s were going up and my mph wouldn’t go past 15 mph for about a block down the road and the car jerked two times and then drove like normal. I call the dealership let them know about the issue and it’s never been an issue in the past and they set up a appointment I come in and they tell me if it’s not related to the brakes then I’ll have to pay $250.00 for a diagnosis test. Unbelievable I don’t believe this is a coincidence I have taken well care of my car and the past owner as well and the car doesn’t even have 100k miles. I have researched other people in the same situation as me and even read that Hyundai is recommended us to warm up our cars before driving now. It is so frustrating my car was perfectly fine until that recall and they won’t do anything about it.
NHTSA complaint #11746619 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
vehicle serviced on 5/7/2026 for Hyundai service campaign 9C2 immediately after noticed car was not driving as it had been prior to this update, sluggish acceleration on start, chugging and then rapid sudden acceleration. returned to service dept May19. Diagnostics revealed no issues, problem persisted. returned to service dept. May22. Informed Hyundai was looking into this issue related to the 9C2 update and awaiting a new update to fix the problem. As of todayJune15 there has been no action to remedy the problem. Do not feel safe driving a vehicle that hesitates when starting to drive and then accelerates roughly. this has happened consistently upon cold start up thus far but concerned it may happen while in traffic or at other times and result in an accident.
NHTSA complaint #11744314 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Overview Over approximately six months, I reported persistent drivability concerns to Hyundai on Perryville — specifically hesitation, engine trembling, power loss on acceleration, and eventually a flashing check engine light, particularly when the engine was cold. Despite multiple dealership visits and over $1,500 in out-of-pocket expenses, the root cause was not identified until my fifth visit: a clogged catalytic converter. Hyundai Motor America determined the repair was not covered and declined to explain the diagnostic basis for that decision. When I sought a second opinion at an independent shop (recommended by the dealership), that shop ignored my explicit instructions not to drive the vehicle, drove it, and the car broke down in their care. Their own invoice now states the vehicle needs a new motor. I am filing this complaint to document the full pattern of negligence, misdiagnosis, and failure of care by both parties.
NHTSA complaint #11743838 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On 4/17/26 McDonalds Hyundai of [XXX] , dealership performed an ECU update for THETA II Emissions logic improvement (Hyundai campaign number 9C2). Ever since that time the vehicle has been lurching during acceleration. This happens particularly when the vehicle has been sitting for several hours. I reported this to the dealership on 4/28/26 (Scott, service manager) and to Hyundai on 4/29/26 (Hyundai Case Management #: 42610495). I noted to Hyundai that this same/similar problem has been reported by other owners ( see [XXX] ) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11735182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Service Campaign Update 9C2 was installed. Since then erratic shifting occurs including up and down shifting without change in acceleration and deceleration or lag. This lasts between 1-5 minutes after initial vehicle start-up. This is dangerous when vehicle attempts to pull out into traffic. Hyundai has been aware of the issue as early as December 2025 but no notice of corrective action has been received.
NHTSA complaint #11727271 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dashboard cracking - not overly parked in sunlight.
NHTSA complaint #11719165 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Excessive oil leaks. When I fix an oil leak another pop up. Im fixing my 4th oil leak. You can smell the oil burning. Engine is making knocking sounds. Hood latch is not working. You have to hold the hood or it will come down.
NHTSA complaint #11708508 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving- in total movement- the car completely shut off. Without any prior warning or indication. Immediately after, the car restarted, drove a couple blocks over, continuing to shut off while driving. It was then towed. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The warning lights did not appear until AFTER the car quit. They all came on & flashed & quickly went back out. Uncertain which component misfired or is affected- possibly related to an engine or fuel/ cylinder failure. Car is at mechanic for inspection. Our safety & lives were in critical jeopardy as the vehicle stopped without warning while driving in traffic congested area. It is unknown if this is a known issue or if this situation has been replicated however the current mechanic facility has experienced the same issue with this vehicle. Also strong odor of gas was experienced during shutoff.
NHTSA complaint #11705698 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sunroof exploded It sounded like a bomb went off and had my inside cover been opened I don’t know if I would’ve veered off the road been injured or injured someone else in the process. As it is I don’t know where the big huge piece of glass went. I do have pictures I reported it to my insurance company and also to corporate Hyundai. I was shaken up until the next day.
NHTSA complaint #11699797 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SPONTANEOUS PANORAMIC SUNROOF EXPLOSION - SERIOUS SAFETY DEFECT On October 12, 2025, at approximately 10:00 PM, while my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport was being driven on Interstate 85 near Greenville, South Carolina, the panoramic sunroof spontaneously exploded without any external impact or warning. What Happened: - My son was traveling at highway speed in normal driving conditions and he said it sounded a shotgun being shot at close range. The explosion created a period of dangerous distraction. - There was NO impact from road debris, rocks, or any external object - The sunroof suddenly and violently shattered, making a loud explosive sound - A few tempered glass fragments entered the passenger cabin, by the vast majority blew out of the vehicle. - The incident created an immediate safety hazard for vehicle occupants and for other vehicles who may have been following. - Visibility was not compromised, but due to glass exploding, my son had to drive on the shoulder of the Interstate at a slow speed with his hazard lights on in order to make it safely to an exit. Safety Concerns: - Sudden Loss of Structural Integrity - The sunroof exploded outward without warning - Glass in Passenger Cabin - Tempered glass fragments fell into the vehicle, endangering occupants - Driver Distraction - The sudden explosion and noise created a dangerous distraction at highway speed - Visibility Impairment - Glass debris and the sudden opening affected visibility - Weather Exposure - Immediate exposure to wind and weather elements at highway speed - Ongoing Safety Risk - This defect affects thousands of vehicles still on the road What Did NOT Happen: - No collision or impact with another vehicle - No road debris struck the vehicle - No rocks or projectiles hit the sunroof - No hail or weather-related damage - No recent sunroof operation or manipulation - No aftermarket modifications or repairs This was a spontaneous failure of a defective component during normal vehicle operation.
NHTSA complaint #11697100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I bought this car a 2017 in December 2023. The first time I got the oil change they told me there’s no oil on a stick and then couple months later again no oil on the stick so I took it to my personal mechanic. He said there is an oil consumption problem so you advise me to take it where I bought it from. I had to go up there for 1000 mile test and then a 500 mile which I was low. Seems like every two weeks I had to put oil in it so where I brought the vehicle from told me to go to Hyundai. Hyundai only did one oil consumption test. I have a records of oil changes from Valvoline, my personal mechanic, Tradition Ford and one from Hyundai. Tradition Ford, where I got the car from with disappointment because I had a lot of proof that I was burning oil. There was no leak. There was no smoke at all. Besides it being under 10 years old, I was under 100,000 mile warranty and I had an extended warranty. tradition Ford where I bought it from took that one back however I lost $7000 from the down payment. I bought new tires for it, new battery, remote starter, spark, plugs, and rain guards. I still have all my papers from that vehicle 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe sport 2.4 engine liter.
NHTSA complaint #11696620 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
In May 2025, the vehicle (2017 Hyundai Santa Fe) developed severe sluggishness. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and I was told the engine would need to replaced due to a recall. Four months later (week of Sept 14 {exact date not known}), the engine was replaced and the vehicle made available for pickup. I drove it home (8.1 miles) and all seemed normal. It sat in the driveway for approx. one week. On Sept 22, 2025, I drove to the store (8.4 miles round-trip). On the way to the store, the engine light came on. I immediately called the dealership and reported the problem. The car was taken in that night (a trip of 8.1 miles) and left at the dealership. On Sept 23, 2025, I was informed that the intake manifold needed to be replaced (this had caused the engine light to come on) at my cost of approx $1000. The car remains at the dealership (unused by me). Online research revealed that if debris had been found in the manifold, it was to be replaced along with the engine (Hyundai TSB #22-EM-010H DATE JULY 2022). The following has been cut-and-pasted from the web: The issue of the intake manifold not being replaced or cleaned after an engine failure is a direct result of the core defect. When the old engine failed, it likely shed metallic debris and shrapnel. That debris could have traveled into other components, including the intake manifold. If the manifold is not cleaned or replaced, the new engine draws that old metallic debris back in, causing it to fail again almost immediately. NHTSA indirectly mandated that the repair must be COMPLETE AND EFFECTIVE. When a dealership refuses a critical part of that repair (like cleaning the manifold), they are effectively carrying out an incomplete remedy to a safety recall, which is a violation of the manufacturer's federal obligation under the Consent Order. It is my contention that residual debris in the intake manifold caused the warning light and will quite possibly damage the new engine.
NHTSA complaint #11690074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This car has oil consumption issues due to a manufacturer defect, design of the engine 2.4L. This has been on going for the last three years and is getting worse. Now is affecting the catalytic converter because of it burning so much oil. The Hyundai dealership will do nothing for me. Now they want $4,500 for a new catalytic converter. I can’t afford a new car and this should be an expense of Hyundai. In my research I have found there are thousands of cars on the road with this issue. They knew about this years ago and just kept making the cars and selling them . They should be helping me and all they are doing is denying that this has a problem. What recourse do I have. Why hasn’t there been a recall?
NHTSA complaint #11680619 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
back up camera operates very erratically. some times it works properly, some of the time it is very slow to engage. other times it comes on after i have completed my rearward movement, and some times it comes on after shifting into drive. then there are times t never comes on. i spoke to a dealer tech and was told there are a lot of them like that. if i wanted to spend about $900, they might be able to fix it. this has been going on for a couple of years.
NHTSA complaint #11675190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
All of a sudden my liftgate in the back will not stay up. The pistons for the liftgate are no longer working on either side, so kind of strange as they don't usually go like that Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11668086 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
From the day we purchased this used vehicle, the check engine light came on. We had to have the catalytic converter replaced next. Now we’re having oil leak issues. Multiple oil leaks have been repaired, and I’ve most recently paid over $700 to have this issue resolved. A week after the Hyundai dealership repaired it, the vehicle is leaking oil again. We have to add oil about every 5-7 days. Today we were told that my [XXX] daughter needs to drive it until the engine goes out, and not to add any oil. This is not only unacceptable, it’s also unsafe! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11665072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The engine had no oil. No indication was given by the dashboard lights. I heard a ticking noise soon after I started my car. My husband checked the oil; it was bone dry. I still had 200 more miles before my next oil change. Needless to say, the engine would have blown up if I hadn’t payed attention to the noise coming from the vehicle. In fact, this happened about a year ago, I just thought it was a fluke. Since this is the second incident, this is not a fluke and something needs to be done. We can’t afford to have a vehicle blow up on us. There was no sign of leaking on the driveway.
NHTSA complaint #11663224 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On April 28, 2025 my car cut off in the middle of traffic. I turned the car completely off. I was able to turn it back on and move it out of traffic. I called my mechanic and he looked at it, He checked the oil and there was oil I'm it. He drove it around a parking lot and heard a rattling noise, He tried to get it to his shop, the rattling got louder and louder, He was scared the engine would lock up, We parked it and had to have it towed to my residence. In the last 6-8 months I had to put oil in my car EVERY week. I have taken to mi mechanic several times checking for leaks. I have been to the dealer checking to see if they there has been any recalls. Due to this situation I have NO transportation. I am already financially struggling and now I have to figure out what to do I have already paid out of pocket for the ABS to be replaced as well. My sun roof I cannot open due to the rollers r stop working. This has worst experience I have has with a brand new car, I previously owned a Hyundai and had a wonderful experience.
NHTSA complaint #11658169 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The engine in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN [XXX] ) began knocking, losing power, and showing signs of imminent failure. These symptoms directly match those identified in Recall #168 (NHTSA Campaign 17V578000), which involves engine bearing wear due to crankshaft irregularities in Hyundai 3.3L GDI engines. However, my VIN is not currently included in the recall batch. Hyundai has denied engine replacement under warranty or goodwill, citing a gap in oil change records between 5,000 and 45,000 miles — mileage which occurred before I purchased the vehicle used at ~60,000 miles. I have since performed multiple oil changes, though not always on a tight schedule. The vehicle is now at ~89,000 miles and located at Murdock Hyundai of Logan, UT, where technicians confirmed the engine is failing. This defect poses a serious safety concern due to the risk of sudden power loss while driving. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by Hyundai service technicians, but they declined coverage and repair despite the failure matching a known federal recall issue. There were no warning lamps initially; the knocking and loss of power began subtly, then worsened rapidly. The vehicle is available for inspection, and all failure symptoms are consistent with others affected by Recall #168. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this VIN for potential inclusion in the recall and take action to expand the recall scope, as this appears to be the same dangerous engine defect already recognized under federal recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11653112 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The engine on my car was consuming oil at a rapid rate. The dealer service department gave me the run around for many month. Stating they could never duplicate the issue. when clearly the whitish blue smoke pouring out of tailpipe and horrible combustion fumes inside cabin of car. At some point bluish smoke turned to black smoke and that when the $800 combustion test was suggested. Which they say will tell me if the engine is bad. how do they not know the signs of a bad engine. my car sat in service department for 2 months for them to say it's not covered under warranty. I tried everything to hold the manufacture responsible and they was unwilling to budge and help. The car has the extended warranty and my car was under the mileage and years. My car been sitting in my driveway since May 2024 needing a engine replacement. The fumes in cabin of vehicle was unbearable which cause me to have to drive with window down. Vehicle never show any warning lights when engine oil was low or empty. another incident was with the radio not turning off even after the battery went died. The radio continue to work and connect to phone when battery was died. After charging battery radio would again kill battery and not shut off. The only way it would shut off is to disconnect radio. How dealer explained the issue was that of a modem. That the car probably need to be reset when radio was disconnected it worked. But after that it happen 3 more times. these cars need to be recalled and all customer should get there money back. To own a 2005 Santa Fe with over 216,000 miles with no oil burning / leaking or smoke out tailpipe say a lot on the manufacturing of this vehicle. I have no mechanical issues with this car and that was the reason i wanted to upgrade to 2017. Now I wish I had never brought the 2017. Beware before buying this brand because they are no good.
NHTSA complaint #11630016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Backup camera and it is available for inspection. I had the car in the dealership for 2 recalls July 3. When I picked up the car backup camera was blank. Dealership states it was a coincidence and nothing they did. Immediately took the car back for repair. I was told they don't know what's wrong., they checked the wiring all good, replaced the camera and it still didn't work. I've been in contact for weeks with Hyundia they don't have any answers yet.
NHTSA complaint #11629059 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The engine seized due to an issue with the oil plug and another part, leading to a lack of oil in the system. The vehicle is currently with Hyundai and available for inspection upon request. How Safety Was Put at Risk: While driving on the highway, I suddenly lost acceleration (below 40mphs). I was forced to pull over to the left side of the highway where it was shallow, where I risked being hit by passing vehicles until there was a safe break in traffic, allowing me to maneuver to an exit. This created a hazardous situation for both myself and other drivers. Reproduction or Confirmation of the Problem: The issue has been confirmed by an independent automotive technician, who diagnosed the problem as a blown engine caused by a lack of oil. The vehicle is now with Hyundai for further inspection. Inspection by Others: The vehicle has been inspected by an independent service center and is currently being inspected by Hyundai. No other parties, such as the police or insurance representatives, have been involved. Warning Lamps or Messages Prior to Failure: The only warning sign prior to the incident was the check engine light blinking at the time of the failure. There were no other warning lamps, messages, or symptoms before the engine seized. The vehicle was within the oil range limit of 7,500 miles at the time of the incident. Additional Notes: The incident occurred suddenly, without prior warning or indication of an issue. Based on the diagnosis and known issues with the oil plug, I believe this failure was caused by a defect.
NHTSA complaint #11627525 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving down the road at around 50 mph with no one in front of us, we heard a loud bang above us, and our Panoramic Sunroof exploded. I continued driving to reach a safe area to pull off and look at the damage, and saw glass flying away behind me into oncoming traffic. When surveying the vehicle, there was a large whole in the middle of the panoramic sunroof. It seems to have simply exploded, as there were no cars in front of us and nothing could have hit the vehicle at the time. We were able to pull off safely and cover the hole with cardboard and duct tape to get home safely. However this is a huge safety risk. Had we been on the interstate, we would have had to drive for miles with a blown out sunroof creating unsafe conditions for ourselves and other drivers. Hyundai (so far) will not warranty this as part of their extended warranty even though there are numerous class action lawsuits against them for this part being defective. I believe that Hyundai should be held responsible for exploding panoramic sunroofs. This is not the first incident they have had as it seems to be a regular occurrence.
NHTSA complaint #11625178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving a 1/2 second squeal came from engine compartment. Motor immediately stopped. No power steering or brakes. Vehicle is available for inspection. We were on an interstate We coasted to shoulder. There issue is frequent on Internet forums. A trusted mechanic old us the engine was totally seized. Could be turned manually. No oil in crankcase. At this time only aforementioned mechanic has inspected the vehicle. No warning sounds or performance changes prior to incident. No warning lights or notice warnings were seen prior coincident.
NHTSA complaint #11620000 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.