This page covers 3 recalls, 107 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe.
20–21 mpg combined
11.2–11.8 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate what 2018 Santa Fe owners report, and the pattern is consistent: engines failing with little or no warning, often while the vehicle is in motion. Owners frequently describe sudden stalling or complete engine shutdown while driving, followed by an inability to restart. Several report a knocking noise that develops before failure, sometimes accompanied by a brief episode of hesitation or reduced power. Engine seizure requiring full replacement comes up repeatedly, often at mileage levels owners describe as unexpectedly low. Brake complaints are the second most-reported system, though at a much lower volume. A small number of steering complaints round out the picture. On the engine side, the most pointed symptom owners describe is a rhythmic knock on startup that intensifies under acceleration, frequently the last warning before the engine stops running entirely.
107
Total Complaints
6
Crash-Related
4
Fire-Related
5
With Injuries
By System
The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe has 3 recalls, the most serious being a steering wheel that can break and separate from the steering column while driving, leaving the driver with no way to steer the vehicle.
The anti-lock brake module on certain vehicles can develop an electrical short that starts a fire in the engine compartment, whether the vehicle is parked or in motion. This is worth checking even if the car seems to be running normally, since the short can develop without warning. Owners can look up their specific vehicle by VIN to confirm whether any of these recalls apply, as some affect a broader range of model years across the Santa Fe lineup.
At a glance
What can fail
The Anti-Lock Brake System module can malfunction and cause an electrical short in the engine compartment, potentially leading to a fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse as needed at no cost to restore proper brake system function.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering wheel assembly may have a manufacturing defect that could cause it to separate from the steering column while you're driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect your steering wheel assembly and install a revised one if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering wheel assembly can break and separate from the steering column during driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will check your steering wheel assembly's production lot number and replace it if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
