2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value for money. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine producing approximately 190 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine producing approximately 264 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally appreciate the vehicle’s design and features, some common complaints revolve around engine issues, particularly with the 2.4L engine, and some electrical glitches. Others have expressed concerns regarding the responsiveness of the transmission and ride quality.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder Engine

• Engine Failure/Seizing
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure, often preceded by a knocking sound. Can be caused by connecting rod bearing failure due to oil starvation or other internal issues. This often results in the engine seizing and being unable to start.
  • Solution: Engine replacement is typically required. In some cases, a short block replacement may be an option if the cylinder head is undamaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: 17V224000, 18V024000, 19V027000, 20V750000
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid depletion of engine oil between oil changes, requiring frequent topping off. May be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, Hyundai has performed oil consumption tests and potentially replaced the engine under warranty extensions or settlements. Depending on the diagnosis, repairs could range from piston ring replacement to complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $6,000+ depending on the extent of the repairs needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 Cylinder Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining or screeching noises from the turbocharger, and/or check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation or delay in shifting can also occur.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and fill may resolve minor issues. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noises/Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Rear end may appear to sit lower than normal.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn shocks, struts, or springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent dead battery, requiring jump starts or battery replacement.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut off lights).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Door Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of door locks to function properly, either with the key fob or the interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, rebooting, or exhibiting distorted audio.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the sunroof area, during rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Cleaning of sunroof drain tubes or resealing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the airbag system, which may involve replacing the clock spring or other faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe, particularly those equipped with the 2.4L engine, can suffer from relatively severe engine-related issues, including engine failure and excessive oil consumption. These repairs can be costly, potentially exceeding $6,000 for an engine replacement. Other issues, such as transmission problems and electrical glitches, are less severe but still require attention. It is very important to check for any recall notices from the NHTSA and get them addressed immediately. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic, and inquire about the vehicle’s maintenance history.