Does the Hyundai Santa Fe Have Engine Problems?
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a reputation for being a reliable SUV. That reputation is likely what has led it to be such a hit for the brand. But apparently, some Santa Fe models do experience engine problems, and they can be pretty expensive to fix. Do those issues mean you should avoid this compact crossover?
Which Hyundai Santa Fe models have engine trouble?
Not every Santa Fe SUV has engine issues, but from 2010 to 2012, engine problems seem to be common. Both the 2.4-liter engine and the 3.5-liter V6 have received many complaints from owners. And if you want a used Hyundai Santa Fe compact crossover, it might be best to avoid these model years.
According to Vehicle History, the engines can stall out, even at highway speeds. And that certainly is not something you want to have happen to your SUV. To make matters worse, Santa Fe owners spend an average of $5,100 on replacing the 2.4-liter engine.
Is the new Santa Fe reliable?
In 2019, Hyundai introduced a new generation of Santa Fe, and it seems to be reliable. However, in 2021, a recall was issued over the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. The recall is due to a poor pipe connection, which can cause fuel leakage. And that increases the risk of fire.
Ultimately, 15,752 Santa Fe and Sonata units were impacted. In today’s automotive world, it is worth noting that recalls are fairly common. And once a fix is completed, it should mitigate the issue.
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe worth buying?
According to Car and Driver, there is a lot to like about the new Santa Fe. Even though it boasts value-oriented pricing, it does come with a long list of standard features. These include active safety tech, which should add to overall driver confidence.
The engine lineup for the new Santa Fe is also fairly diverse. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter powerplant that makes 191 horsepower. But, there’s also an available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that puts out 277 hp.
One of the bigger perks of the new Santa Fe is that you can get it as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. PHEV SUVs are becoming fairly popular, because they offer the perks of an EV without giving up a gas engine.
Which Santa Fe is best?
If you have the budget, the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited might be the ideal pick for this SUV. Mainly, because you can opt for the turbocharged engine. At the same time, the Limited trim delivers on some luxury features. You’ll get leather seating, dual-zone climate control, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Plus, heated and ventilated front seats are included.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Limited does have a starting cost of $40,050. And that is certainly more expensive than the base model, which starts around $28k. But with what the Limited trim delivers, that price increase might be worth it to some. Hopefully, Hyundai has been able to sort out the engine issues of the past.
