Although it wasn’t here for a long time, the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport was the smaller version of Hyundai’s popular SUV. And now, apparently, it could have some serious problems happening to it. A recall was issued earlier this month that affects Santa Fe Sport models built between May 1, 2017, and May 10, 2018. 

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport reliable?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUV is a fairly reliable vehicle, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be impacted by recalls. In early November, a recall was issued for 2018 Santa Fe Sport models, and the problem can be quite dangerous. 

Because of a faulty ABS module, an electrical short can occur. And if that happens, it is possible that a fire could happen while you are parked or even driving. How big is this problem? Well, if you haven’t had the recall performed yet, you are encouraged to park your vehicle outside and away from structures. 

Are automotive recalls free?

According to the NHTSA, safety recalls are free of charge to have fixed. This is due in part to the Safety Act and other Federal regulations. So, if your Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is impacted by a recall, you can take it to a Hyundai dealership to have the problem remedied. 

In the case of this specific recall, Hyundai does have a fix. A dealership will replace the fuse in the ABS module. This replacement should limit the operating current of the ABS module. If your vehicle does need a recall performed, you will be notified by mail. And Hyundai is expected to notify all owners by December 26, 2022. 

Should you buy a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

So long as the current recall has been performed, the Santa Fe Sport can be a worthy SUV. It was made for the 2017 and 2018 model years before Hyundai discontinued it. Although this is called the Sport model, do not expect it to be some kind of performance SUV. At the time, it was simply small than the regular Hyundai Santa Fe. 

The Santa Fe Sport offered two different engine options. The most powerful is a turbocharged engine with 240 horsepower. Additionally, it comes with front or all-wheel drive. Depending on how the SUV is equipped, the price for a used model will vary. But you will probably want to ensure that the proper recalls have been performed. 

What is the best-selling Hyundai SUV?

Although the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport are popular SUVs, they are not the best sellers that the Hyundai brand has. That award goes to the Hyundai Kona. In 2021, Hyundai sold over 90,000 units. Showing that plenty of consumers are interested in what the Kona has to offer. 

That said, at the time, the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport did bring a lot to the table. Even if it was smaller than the standard Santa Fe. And hopefully, the current recall will help mitigate the risk of fire that can occur with this SUV.