2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe represents a significant redesign for the model, moving into its fifth generation. It offers a bold new exterior design and a more luxurious interior. The Santa Fe is available with two primary engine options: a 2.5L inline-4 gasoline engine producing around 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L Turbo Hybrid engine producing 178 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque when combined with the electric motor. Both engines are paired with automatic transmissions. People generally appreciate the redesigned interior, enhanced technology features, and increased cargo space. Some common dislikes include the divisive exterior styling and potential reliability concerns associated with new model years.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Gasoline Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil additions between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly is crucial. If consumption is excessive, a dealer visit is recommended for diagnosis, potentially including oil consumption testing. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (if piston ring replacement is required)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the engine stalling unexpectedly while driving, leading to a loss of power and potential safety hazards.
  • Solution: The issue may be related to the fuel delivery system or engine control unit (ECU). A diagnostic check at a dealership is recommended. Software updates or component replacements (fuel pump, injectors) may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbo Hybrid Engine

• Hybrid System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues reported with the hybrid system, including error messages on the dashboard, reduced electric range, and occasional failure to switch between electric and gasoline power.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a certified Hyundai technician is essential. The problem could stem from the battery management system (BMS), electric motor, or related sensors. Recalibration or component replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.5L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: A transmission control module (TCM) software update may resolve the issue. If not, inspection of the transmission fluid level and condition is recommended. In rare cases, internal transmission damage may require repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 1.6L Turbo Hybrid Engine)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of clunking or rattling noises emanating from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven road surfaces.
  • Solution: Inspecting the rear shocks, struts, and sway bar links is recommended. Worn or loose components should be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Performing a hard reset of the infotainment system may temporarily resolve the issue. A software update from the dealer is recommended for a more permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Blind Spot, Parking)
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failures of blind spot monitoring, parking sensors, or other driver-assistance systems. Error messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis with a scan tool is required to identify the faulty sensor. Replacement of the affected sensor is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate either fails to open or close fully, or operates erratically.
  • Solution: Checking the tailgate struts and sensors is recommended. Recalibrating the system or replacing faulty components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard/Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report experiencing rattles or vibrations originating from the dashboard or door panels while driving, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the rattle can be difficult. Dealership technicians may use specialized tools and techniques to pinpoint and address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the complexity
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, while boasting a fresh design and enhanced features, appears to have some common issues reported by early owners. These range from relatively minor infotainment glitches and interior rattles to more concerning problems such as excessive oil consumption, hybrid system malfunctions, and engine stalling. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements or software updates to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and carefully inspect used vehicles. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning signs are essential to maintaining the long-term reliability of the 2024 Santa Fe.