2013 Hyundai Santa Fe
Introduction:
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV available with three engine options: a 2.4L inline-four, a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four, and a 3.3L V6. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic, a 6-speed manual, and a 5-speed automatic.
Owners praise the Santa Fe for its comfortable interior, spacious cargo area, and balanced handling. However, some have encountered issues with reliability.
Engine
2.4L Inline-Four
- Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption can lead to engine damage. Requires engine rebuild or replacement. $4,000 - $8,000+
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Failure can cause engine rattle or stalling. Requires replacement of timing chain and tensioner. $500 - $1,000
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four
- Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves: Accumulation of carbon can restrict airflow, causing reduced power and fuel economy. Requires professional cleaning or valve replacement. $300 - $1,000+
- Turbocharger Failure: Can lead to reduced power, smoke from the exhaust, or a whistling sound. Requires replacement of turbocharger. $1,500 - $3,000
3.3L V6
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Causes engine stalling or difficulty starting. Requires replacement of sensor. $200 - $400
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping: Can cause delayed or erratic shifting, or loss of power. Requires transmission rebuild or replacement. $2,000 - $4,000+
- Torque Converter Shudder: Vibration felt during gear changes. Requires replacement of torque converter. $1,000 - $2,000
6-Speed Manual
- Gear Grinding or Difficulty Shifting: Can indicate worn synchronizers or other transmission components. May require transmission rebuild or replacement. $1,500 - $3,000+
Suspension
- Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear: Can cause clunking or knocking noises over bumps. Requires replacement of control arm bushings. $100 - $200
- Rear Sway Bar End Link Failure: Can lead to clunking or popping noises when turning. Requires replacement of end links. $50 - $150
Electrical
- Headlight Switch Failure: Can cause headlights to flicker or turn off. Requires replacement of headlight switch. $100 - $200
- Battery Discharge: Excessive battery drain can occur due to a malfunctioning electrical component. Requires diagnosis and repair of the faulty part. $100 - $500+
Exterior
- Tailgate Latch Failure: Latch can malfunction, causing the tailgate to open unexpectedly. Requires replacement of latch. $100 - $200
Interior
- Passenger Airbag Deploying Unexpectedly: Can occur due to faulty airbag sensor. Requires replacement of airbag sensor. $500 - $1,000+
- Center Console Lid Malfunction: Lid may not open or close properly. Requires replacement of lid or latch mechanism. $100 - $200
Summary
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe has a mixed record of reliability. Engine and transmission issues can be serious and costly to repair. Electrical and interior problems are less severe but still inconvenient.