This page covers 2 recalls, 182 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe.
22–25 mpg combined
9.4–10.7 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 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine-related complaints dominate the 2020 Santa Fe owner reports, with a notable share describing unexpected oil consumption, sometimes severe enough that owners discover little to no oil on the dipstick without any visible leaks or warning lights triggering consistently. Some owners report rough running and elevated, erratic RPMs following software updates to the engine management system, with the condition persisting even after a second update attempt. On the powertrain side, owners describe hesitation and rough engagement during acceleration. The electrical system draws a smaller but recurring share of complaints, including doors unlocking or opening on their own while driving. A handful of owners also report sunroof failures, specifically the glass shattering without an obvious external cause, and paint delamination occurring at relatively low mileage.
182
Total Complaints
11
Crash-Related
7
Fire-Related
10
With Injuries
By System
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe has 2 recalls, the most serious involving a tow hitch wiring harness that can overheat and start a fire whether the vehicle is parked or moving.
The second recall affects the windshield, which may not have been properly bonded to the body during manufacturing and can separate from the vehicle in a crash, removing a critical structural barrier for occupants.
At a glance
What can fail
Water can accumulate on the tow hitch harness electrical circuit board, causing a short that may result in fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit at no charge to prevent electrical short and fire risk.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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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 →
At a glance
What can fail
The windshield may not have been properly bonded during manufacturing, which could cause it to detach in a crash.
What the fix does
The dealer will remove and reinstall the front windshield at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
