2003 Hyundai Santa Fe

2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Overview

The 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe was a popular mid-size SUV available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It offered two engine options: a 2.4L inline-four with 138 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque and a 2.7L V6 with 173 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, the Santa Fe provided a smooth and comfortable ride. While it was praised for its spacious interior and affordability, some owners reported issues with various components.

Engine

2.4L Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, rough idle, decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult starting, stalling, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, catastrophic engine damage
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff clutch pedal, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid Pack Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping gears, transmission shuddering
  • Solution: Replace solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn out suspension components, reduced ride quality, handling issues
  • Solution: Replace struts and/or shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per corner
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushings Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking and groaning noises when turning or braking, poor alignment
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, reduced battery life
  • Solution: Test battery, check for parasitic draw, replace battery if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Shorts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, faulty wiring, erratic electrical behavior
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty wiring harness or components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles break or become loose
  • Solution: Replace door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Cable Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate is unable to open or close due to broken cable
  • Solution: Replace tailgate cable
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows get stuck or fail to operate
  • Solution: Replace power window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced or no cooling from air conditioning
  • Solution: Replace air conditioning compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comfortable and affordable SUV experience, it had its fair share of issues. Engine and transmission problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and timing belt failure, could lead to costly repairs. Suspension and electrical issues were also prevalent. However, these issues were generally not widespread and many owners reported having a positive experience with the vehicle. The severity and cost of repairs varied depending on the issue and its location.