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Known Faults Database

Hyundai Santa Fe Common Problems & Known Faults (UK)

If you are considering buying a used Hyundai Santa Fe, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 4 known faults for this model, 3 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Hyundai Santa Fe 2010-2018 Models (2010-2018) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

Manufacturing debris in crankshaft oil passages causing rod bearing failure, engine seizure, and fire risk

Rough guide
£3000-6000

Typical symptoms

  • cyclic engine knocking noise that rises with RPM
  • sudden engine stall while driving
  • flashing check engine light (limp mode)

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 & 2.4 Petrol (Theta II)
Typical mileage:
60000-120000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SteeringLow severity💬 Owner reports

Flexible rubber coupling (MDPS star) in the steering column motor disintegrates, causing a loud clunk

Rough guide
£150-300

Typical symptoms

  • loud clunking or knocking noise from the steering wheel when turning left to right
  • loose feeling in the steering

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All
Typical mileage:
50000-100000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Timing chain tensioner failure causing the chain to jump teeth and damage the engine

Rough guide
£800-2000

Typical symptoms

  • rattling noise on cold start
  • engine management light
  • loss of power and misfires

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.6 GDi Petrol
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Turbocharger failure caused by blocked oil feed pipes/strainers due to carbon buildup from infrequent oil changes

Rough guide
£800-1500

Typical symptoms

  • loud whining or 'siren' noise from turbo
  • loss of power
  • blue smoke from exhaust

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.6 & 1.7 CRDi Diesel
Typical mileage:
70000-120000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: June 2026

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