2017 Hyundai Santa Fe XL
The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe XL is a three-row SUV that offered a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a good amount of standard features for its time. However, it has been known to have some issues with the engine and other components. The Santa Fe XL came exclusively with a 3.3L Lambda II V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Santa Fe XL’s smooth ride and ample cargo space, but some have reported issues with reliability and certain features.
Engine
3.3L Lambda II V6
- Engine Stalling/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, especially at low speeds or when idling. Some owners have reported hesitation during acceleration.
- Solution: This issue is often attributed to faulty fuel injectors, a dirty throttle body, or a failing crankshaft position sensor. Start by cleaning the throttle body. If the issue persists, test the fuel injectors and replace any that are not performing correctly. The crankshaft position sensor can also be tested and replaced if faulty.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (Throttle Body Cleaning), $200 - $800+ (Fuel Injector Replacement), $100 - $300+ (Crankshaft Position Sensor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets or the oil pan gasket. Visible oil spots under the vehicle and a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gasket. Valve cover gaskets are a common source.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (Valve Cover Gasket), $200 - $600+ (Oil Pan Gasket)
- Recalls: None Found
- Knocking Noise
- Description/Symptoms: A knocking noise may come from the engine, particularly during cold starts or under heavy load. This can sometimes indicate issues with the connecting rod bearings or piston slap.
- Solution: In some cases, a heavier-weight oil might help. However, if the noise persists or worsens, further diagnosis is needed. This could indicate failing connecting rod bearings, requiring engine disassembly or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Oil Change to Heavier Weight Oil). $2,000-$6,000+ (Engine Repair or Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and replacement may resolve the issue. If not, a more in-depth diagnosis of the transmission valve body or solenoids may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Fluid Flush), $500 - $1500+ (Valve Body/Solenoid Repair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of the transmission, especially when shifting from park to drive or reverse.
- Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid flush may help. If the problem persists, the torque converter or the transmission itself may be failing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Fluid Flush), $800 - $2000+ (Torque Converter), $2500 - $5000+ (Transmission Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the rear suspension tends to sag over time, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. This can lead to a rougher ride and reduced ground clearance.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks, springs, or both.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Noisy Suspension
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Inspect and replace worn sway bar links, bushings, or ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, requiring frequent jump starts or battery replacements.
- Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Common causes include faulty relays, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system malfunctions, including freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen.
- Solution: Try resetting the system. If the problem persists, a software update may be needed. In some cases, the unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Reset/Update) $300 - $1000+ (Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
- Solution: Remove the headlight assembly and dry it out. Check the seals and vents for damage and replace them if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (Seals/Vents), $300 - $800+ (Headlight Assembly Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Discomfort
- Description/Symptoms: Complaints about the seat comfort, especially on longer trips.
- Solution: Aftermarket seat cushions or lumbar support can improve comfort.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof, especially during heavy rain.
- Solution: Clean the sunroof drain tubes to ensure they are not clogged. If the problem persists, the sunroof seal may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Cleaning), $100 - $300+ (Seal Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe XL has a mix of potential issues, ranging from minor electrical problems to more serious engine and transmission concerns. Engine issues such as stalling, oil leaks, and knocking noises can be quite costly to address, potentially running into the thousands of dollars for repairs or replacements. Transmission problems like harsh shifting and delayed engagement can also be expensive to fix. Suspension issues are also important, especially sagging rear suspension. Electrical issues such as battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions are common and can be frustrating. While some issues can be resolved with simple fixes like fluid flushes or cleaning drain tubes, others may require extensive repairs. Overall, a thorough inspection of the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems is essential before purchasing a used 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe XL.