2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a popular compact SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available features. Engine options included a 2.4L naturally aspirated inline-4 and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.4L engine produces 190 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the Santa Fe Sport’s value for the money and its user-friendly technology. Some common complaints include concerns about engine reliability and fuel economy not matching advertised numbers.

Engine

2.4L GDI Inline-4

• Engine Failure/Seizing
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure, often preceded by a knocking sound. Can be related to connecting rod bearing failure. This can lead to complete engine replacement.
  • Solution: Engine replacement. Some vehicles may have been eligible for warranty extension or recall-related repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: 17V224000, 19V131000, 20V750000
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warnings between oil changes, burning smell, and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Oil consumption test performed by a dealership. Potential repairs include piston ring replacement or engine replacement depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged GDI Inline-4

• Engine Failure/Seizing
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.4L, sudden engine failure, often preceded by a knocking sound. May also experience turbocharger issues.
  • Solution: Engine replacement is the most common resolution. Turbocharger inspection and possible replacement may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: 17V224000, 19V131000, 20V750000
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the turbocharger, and potential oil leaks.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement. Inspection of related hoses and connections is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM) or transmission fluid flush. In some cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Often related to worn sway bar links or bushings.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links and/or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Test the charging system and check for parasitic draws. Common culprits include faulty door lock actuators, the audio system, or the Bluetooth module. Replace the affected component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera screen goes black or displays distorted images, or stops working altogether.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. The camera unit or head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to open or close properly, or may leak water. Can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged seals, or debris in the tracks.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks and seals. Repair or replace the sunroof motor or seals as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light remains illuminated on the dashboard. This indicates a problem with the airbag system.
  • Solution: Scan the airbag system with a diagnostic tool to identify the fault code. Common issues include faulty clock springs in the steering wheel, seatbelt pretensioners, or airbag sensors. Replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the reported engine issues, particularly with the 2.4L and 2.0L turbo engines. Addressing these issues can be costly, with engine replacements being a major concern. Transmission problems and electrical issues are also prevalent. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s history, check for any signs of engine trouble (knocking, oil consumption), and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Addressing these issues can easily cost thousands of dollars, making it important to get these checked out before buying.