2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Introduction

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV that seamlessly combines practicality, style, and performance. Powered by a robust 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Santa Fe delivers impressive power and efficiency. Despite its spacious interior and premium features, the Santa Fe has received some criticisms for its lack of refinement and occasional reliability issues.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups or leading to engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings, honing cylinders, or overhauling the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Premature Timing Chain Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may wear prematurely, causing a rattling noise during startup or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Eight-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifts:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift roughly or hesitate during gear changes.
  • Solution: Updating the transmission software or replacing the transmission valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip out of gear or fail to engage properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission clutches or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely, especially after the vehicle has been parked for an extended period.
  • Solution: Testing and replacing the battery, alternator, or any other affected electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Rearview Camera:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rearview camera may display a blurry or distorted image, or fail to function altogether.
  • Solution: Replacing the rearview camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage:
  • Description/Symptoms: The undercarriage may show signs of rust, particularly in areas such as the frame and suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspecting, cleaning, and treating affected areas with rust-resistant coatings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaking Sunroof:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof seals or drains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Loose Trim Pieces:
  • Description/Symptoms: Some interior trim pieces, such as door panels or dashboard accents, may become loose or rattle over time.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, causing inconsistent temperatures or failure to respond to user input.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the affected climate control components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is a solid choice for those seeking a spacious and feature-rich SUV. However, it has been plagued by some reliability issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. While the costs to fix these issues can be significant, most of them are covered under warranty. The severity of the issues varies, and not all Santa Fe owners experience these problems.