2002 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe marked the introduction of Hyundai’s entry into the SUV market, offering a blend of practicality and affordability that resonated with many buyers. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 149 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7L V6 producing 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5L V6 producing 200 hp and 219 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic transmission and a 5-speed manual transmission, depending on the engine configuration. Owners often praised the Santa Fe for its value, comfortable ride, and spacious interior, but common complaints revolved around reliability issues, particularly concerning the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail prematurely, leading to engine damage due to valve interference. Symptoms include rough running, misfires, or complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt at recommended intervals (typically 60,000 miles) is crucial. If the belt breaks, a complete engine overhaul may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the extent of engine damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, often resulting in a burning oil smell and visible oil accumulation on the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky gear changes, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, possible valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,500+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, poor acceleration, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement and possibly a transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken/Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps or turning. Reduced handling and control of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, slow starting, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating properly or not going up/down at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the underbody, wheel wells, and around the door panels, potentially leading to structural damage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which can range from minor body work to replacing entire panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and aging.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair, or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe has a range of issues. The severity of these issues vary, from minor nuisances like valve cover gasket leaks to more serious problems like timing belt failures or transmission issues. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work.