Summary
The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has 16 recalls spanning the 2013–2018 model years, with the most serious being an anti-lock brake module defect on 2018 models where the module can short circuit and start an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or being driven. The same fire risk from an ABS module short applies to 2013–2015 models as well, where brake fluid can leak into the module and cause an electrical short. Prior repair attempts on some 2013 model year vehicles did not fully resolve this brake system issue, and those owners required a second repair. On 2013 models, rear parking assist sensors in the rear bumper can also short circuit and create a fire risk, with earlier repair attempts similarly found to be incomplete, requiring follow-up service.
The 2018 model year carries several additional concerns. Front coil springs can fracture under load while driving, puncturing a tire and causing loss of vehicle control. The side curtain airbags have a component that can detach during deployment, preventing the curtain from inflating fully in a crash. The 2017 model year has a recall where the driver's seat belt anchor bolt may not have been tightened properly during assembly, meaning the belt can pull free from its mounting point in a collision. On 2016 models, wiring to the seat belt buckle monitor in the driver's seat can be damaged by the height adjuster, which affects the buckle's ability to detect whether the belt is fastened.
Going back to 2013, metallic debris from factory machining in 2.0L and 2.4L engines can restrict oil flow to the main and rod bearings, accelerating wear and risking engine damage. There is also a secondary hood latch corrosion issue on 2013 models where the cable connecting the actuating lever to the latch can corrode, leaving the secondary latch in the open position when the hood appears closed.
