The Hyundai Santa Fe first debuted in the U.S. in 2001 as a compact SUV, marking Hyundai’s bold entry into the competitive crossover market. Initially, the Santa Fe was a smaller, more economical alternative to larger SUVs, but over time it evolved into a mid-size SUV. As the model improved, so did its reputation for value, comfort, and reliability, helping it become a popular choice among drivers. The Santa Fe’s roomy interior, user-friendly tech features, and fuel-efficient performance made it an attractive option for families, adventurers, and commuters. While most years of the Hyundai Santa Fe remain well-regarded, some years have been fraught with mechanical and electrical issues. Below, we break down the five Hyundai Santa Fe years to avoid, based on expert reviews, owner feedback, and historical reliability data.

2007 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe was part of the model’s second generation, and while it introduced several new features, it was also plagued by persistent issues that affected the car’s reliability.

Common Issues:

• Engine and Transmission Problems: One of the major complaints about the 2007 model was related to engine failures. Many owners reported premature engine wear, often leading to costly repairs or replacements. Misfires and rough idling were frequent, with some drivers experiencing complete engine shutdowns, particularly when driving at higher speeds​.
• Fuel System Malfunctions: The fuel system was another weak point, with inaccurate fuel gauge readings and sudden fuel delivery failures. This led to stalling, sometimes without warning, posing safety risks for drivers​.
• Electrical Issues: Many 2007 Santa Fe owners experienced problems with the vehicle’s electrical system, including defective sensors, faulty wiring, and malfunctioning power windows and locks​. These issues not only caused inconvenience but also led to expensive repair bills.

In addition to these mechanical problems, the 2007 model had multiple recalls related to electrical and powertrain systems, which contributed to the overall dissatisfaction among owners. The combination of reliability issues and costly repairs makes this year one to avoid.

2008 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2008 Santa Fe carried forward many of the same issues from the 2007 model, with a few additional complications that made it less reliable than other model years.

Common Issues:

• Fuel System and Engine Problems: Like the 2007 model, the 2008 Santa Fe had problems with its fuel system. Many owners reported faulty fuel sensors that caused the fuel gauge to read inaccurately, leading to potential fuel shortages or stalling. The engine was also prone to stalling, and some owners had to replace the engine entirely due to poor performance or failure​.
• Transmission Problems: Another major issue was with the transmission. Many 2008 Santa Fe owners reported harsh shifting, particularly at lower speeds. Some even experienced complete transmission failure, requiring expensive repairs​.
• Suspension Issues: The suspension system in the 2008 model also garnered complaints. Some drivers noticed that the vehicle had difficulty handling rough roads and exhibited uneven tire wear. Over time, suspension components like bushings and control arms wore out faster than expected​.

These mechanical problems, combined with a high frequency of service visits required for even minor issues, make the 2008 model year a poor choice for anyone seeking a reliable used vehicle.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe, which is part of the third generation, introduced significant updates to styling and features. However, it was not free from a series of mechanical and electrical issues that soured many owners’ experiences.

Common Issues:

• Engine Failures and Excessive Oil Consumption: One of the most serious issues with the 2013 Santa Fe was related to the engine. Many owners reported excessive oil consumption, leading to engine damage and even failure. This was especially common in the models equipped with the 2.4-liter engine. In some cases, engine stalling was reported, especially after the oil levels dropped significantly​.
• Turbocharger Failures: The 2013 model was also available with a turbocharged engine, which, while offering more power, came with its own set of problems. Owners of turbocharged models frequently complained of turbocharger failures, which led to decreased performance and expensive repairs​.
• Steering Problems: Another complaint common among 2013 Santa Fe owners was issues with the steering. Some drivers reported the vehicle pulling to one side, which made handling more difficult and less responsive​.

These engine and steering-related problems led to high repair costs, making the 2013 model year one to avoid for those looking for a trouble-free used car.

2014 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe had some appealing features, but it also came with a variety of mechanical issues that diminished its reliability.

Common Issues:

• Engine and Transmission Failures: Many owners of the 2014 model reported problems with the engine stalling and poor acceleration. This was particularly concerning on highways, where the vehicle would lose power unexpectedly. The transmission was also prone to slipping and rough shifting, requiring costly repairs to restore normal function​.
• Electrical and Powertrain Problems: The electrical system was another weak point, with some drivers experiencing electrical shorts, malfunctions with the power windows, and issues with the vehicle’s lighting. Additionally, the powertrain was susceptible to issues with the drivetrain components, including the drive shaft and axles, which resulted in noticeable vibrations during driving​.
• Steering Issues: Steering was also a concern, with drivers reporting excessive play in the steering wheel and difficulty steering at low speeds.

The widespread mechanical and electrical issues of the 2014 model year make it a less attractive option for used car buyers who prioritize reliability.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

While the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted modern features and a refined interior, it was not without its flaws. This model year was marked by several mechanical issues that affected the driving experience and reliability.

Common Issues:

• Transmission Problems: The 2017 model was notorious for its transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmission. Many owners reported rough shifting, delayed acceleration, and stuttering, which were often dangerous when merging onto highways or during sudden acceleration. These transmission issues were widespread enough to warrant multiple service recalls from Hyundai​.
• Steering Issues: Steering complaints were another common problem. Some drivers noted that the steering felt too loose or unresponsive, especially at higher speeds. Others reported noises coming from the steering column, which indicated a potential problem with the steering rack.
• Electrical Failures: The 2017 Santa Fe also had some electrical issues. Owners frequently cited problems with the infotainment system, including freezing screens, unresponsive touch controls, and connectivity issues with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay. These technological glitches added to the frustration of owning the vehicle​.

The combination of transmission, steering, and electrical issues makes the 2017 model less reliable than other years, especially for buyers looking for a dependable used SUV.

While the Hyundai Santa Fe is generally known for its reliability, certain model years struggled with significant mechanical and electrical problems.

These year models may be best avoided due to frequent engine, transmission, and steering issues, as well as other costly repairs. If you’re in the market for a used Hyundai Santa Fe, consider opting for a later model year. Be sure to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car buying tool to compare listings and find the best deal in your area. Always ensure you get a pre-purchase inspection to catch any potential issues before making a final decision.

By avoiding these troublesome years, you can enjoy the comfort, style, and practicality that the Hyundai Santa Fe is known for, without the headaches associated with its more problematic model years.