2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a unique vehicle, blending the characteristics of a compact SUV and a pickup truck. It offers two engine options: a 2.5L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful turbocharged 2.5L inline-4 cylinder engine generating 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The base engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the turbo engine comes with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Owners often praise the Santa Cruz for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and practical bed. Common complaints often revolve around the DCT transmission feeling jerky at low speeds, especially in the Turbo configuration, fuel economy not meeting expectations, and limited bed space compared to traditional trucks.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Cylinder (191 hp, 181 lb-ft)

• No Issues Found

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 Cylinder (281 hp, 311 lb-ft)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (paired with 2.5L)

• No Issues Found

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) (paired with 2.5L Turbo)

• Jerky Shifting/Hesitation at Low Speeds
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can exhibit jerky or hesitant behavior, particularly at low speeds and during initial acceleration from a stop. Some drivers have reported difficulty achieving smooth acceleration from a stop.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update from Hyundai can improve the transmission’s shifting logic. In more severe cases, replacement of the dual clutch assembly or other transmission components may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update if under warranty) - $2,000+ (clutch replacement or other major repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This is often attributed to the rear shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers. Some owners have reported success with aftermarket shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot while driving. This can affect navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: A software update from Hyundai often resolves this issue. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update if under warranty) - $500 - $1500+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of the Automatic Emergency Braking system activating unnecessarily, even when there is no obstacle in front of the vehicle. This can be jarring and potentially dangerous.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the AEB system sensors. In some cases, replacement of the radar sensor or camera may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (recalibration if under warranty) - $300 - $1000+ (sensor or camera replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Window Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the rear window cracking without any apparent impact. This appears to be a stress fracture.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear window.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling from Dashboard/Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises coming from the dashboard or door panels, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the rattle. This may involve adding foam padding or tightening loose fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver’s Seat Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seat, particularly in leather-equipped models, can develop a squeak, especially during movement or when turning.
  • Solution: Lubricating the seat frame and springs. Tightening any loose bolts or fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $25 - $100+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz presents a mixed bag of potential issues. The most prevalent complaints revolve around the 8-speed DCT transmission, particularly in models equipped with the turbocharged engine, with owners reporting jerky shifting. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment glitches and AEB malfunctions, are also a concern. Other reported issues such as rear shock absorber noise, window cracking, and interior rattling are also prevalent among owners. While some fixes may be relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission or infotainment unit replacement, can be costly. Overall, it’s advisable to thoroughly inspect a used 2023 Santa Cruz, paying close attention to the transmission’s performance and the functionality of electronic systems before making a purchase.