2014 Hyundai Santa FE
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 494 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 25 Santa FE model years with reports.
Of the 2014 reports, 16 involved a crash and 30 involved a fire. 20 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 22, 2023
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
Campaign 23V651000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, hood, latchJun 5, 2017
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.
Campaign 17V358000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, sidewallDec 16, 2013
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2014 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured November 5, 2013, through November 15, 2013, and equipped with P235/65R17 103T Continental Crosscontact LX tires. The tires may have a damaged sidewall.
The damaged sidewall may result in a separation between the belt edges which could cause tread detachment or rapid air loss, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai notified dealers to suspend sales of affected Santa Fe Sport vehicles equipped with the P235/65R17 103T tires, and replace them with alternative tires. All affected vehicles were remedied prior to retail sale. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Care Center at 1-800-633-5151.
Campaign 13V624000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
494 reports, newest first.
Structure, Dec 10, 2024
Locked the doors normally with the remote. Went into the doctor's office. Returned to the car the driver's door would not unlock. All other doors worked normally. Could not unlock the door with either handle, the switch or the remote. The Dealer says that the door latch mechanism failed in the locked position with the door closed. This would make it very difficult to exit the car in an accident, fire or submersion. The only exit is to crawl over the high mid console and exit through the right front passenger door, this is a very difficult maneuver.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 7, 2024
Twice in the last year the high pressure fuel line has cracked while I was driving and started spraying gas all over the engine bay.
Power train, Engine, Oct 31, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormal knocking sound. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle sputtered and hesitated while responding. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,547.
Other or unspecified, Oct 20, 2024
My drivers side door will not close. Everytime I close it, it doesn’t latch and remains open. There is absolutely no way to close the door. This happen while I was driving my car, the door flew open and when I shut it, it wouldn’t latch.
Service brakes, Oct 14, 2024
On [XXX}, the abs module failed. I did not know this until it was diagnosed by Pope Automotive, Lubbock, TX on 9/27/24. They discovered there was a recall 205 related to this issue. They started a case with Hyundai in regard to this: #[XXX]. I was in contact with my case worker who told me to have it towed to a Hyundai dealership. I did and it is currently at Gene Messer Hyundai, Lubbock, TX. Messer diagnosed the vehicle and stated the abs module is not related to the recall, because the recall work was done on 2/25/24 in Alabama. I contacted Messer Service Dept and spoke with Victoria. She stated that perhaps only the fuse was replaced, but not the abs. We need a copy of the invoice from Feb 2022, in order to know. I called Carvana, where I purchased the vehicle on [XXX] (only weeks from when the service was done). I was told it has been too long, they don't have the record. Serra Hyundai Trussville, AL said I'd have to get the information from Carvana, they cannot provide it to me. I called Carvana again today. I spoke with a different person and was told it would take 24-48 hours to send me the copy. On this invoice, we will find the abs module was replaced. There is no logical reason for it to go out in just 2.5 years. Perhaps it was a bad part. I feel it is unfair that I am being held responsible for it's replacement. If the abs module was not replaced as part of the 205 recall, I would expect it replaced. There were several model years included in the recall and hundreds of thousands of vehicles affected. There was also a class action lawsuit. There was a period of time where Hyundai parts were not quality or reliable. This has been a very stressful situation requiring many phone calls and research. It should have been a simple solution - replace the defective abs module at no cost to me. I have been without my vehicle now since [XXX]. It is the only transportation for a family of 4. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Oct 7, 2024
I have been notified that I am in need of a new engine due to possible complete engine failure which is on the near horizon. I have the Lambda II V6 3.3L engine. It is knocking, making noises, hesitates to go, feels like it will stall out at all speeds, and is scaring me terribly. My certified local mechanic replaced a part for failed emissions, which cost almost $900. However the check engine light came back on. They stated I must go to Hyundai because they did not believe they could fix the car as it required a new engine. I took it to my Hyundai dealer, where my contact stated yes it should be covered as it was having the issues as have been identified with this engine. He later came back and stated his managers would not let him put through the claim, and said my estimate was now a whole new timing system at a cost of $4600. My car has less than 83,000 miles on it. My previous Hyundai is still running at 200,000 miles, so yes, I take good care of my vehicles. This is an early equipment failure on the part of Hyundai and Kia that they are now owning up to. I drive on busy 4 lane local roads, and I am afraid of this engine failure. Also, when I did take my Hyundai into the dealership, they did not have the ABS part needed for the recall. I was told it would be in within a couple of days. I have not been contacted back by them if it is in and to schedule me an appt. This is a huge failure in itself! I did make a claim to Hyundai Customer Care, that stated it was out of warranty. Today, I have my car at a 3rd automotive mechanic in the area to get a 3rd opinion. He has a minor timing issue code P0018 that emissions still kicked out once I finally got it passed. I am waiting to hear what he has to say regarding my engine with no beforehand knowledge of what I know so far. If my car catches fire or breaks down or seizes up on a busy road, I don't think that will go safely at all. I am very concerned for my safety and that of others.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 5, 2024
My 2014 Hyundai Sonata is subject to the recall campaign for the 2.0L and 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. Since June 24, 2024, the vehicle has exhibited multiple issues: 1. Check Engine Light: The check engine light is continuously on and blinking, signaling that the vehicle is unsafe to drive. Diagnostic codes retrieved include P0140 (O2 Circuit), P0172 (System Too Rich), and P0126 (Knock Sensor Circuit). While the P0126 code pertains to the knock sensor, there has been no definitive diagnosis to determine if the issue is isolated to the sensor or indicative of a deeper engine problem. 2. Engine Power Issue: The car experiences jolts and kicks back during acceleration, along with intermittent lack of power. Furthermore, an independent mechanic performed some tests on the engine, determining that it runs too rich. After the second white smoke through exhaust incident, the vehicle struggles, and often does not reach, 60 MPH; aligning with "Reduced power and/or hesitation" (case #2) in the recall campaign. 3. Exhaust Smoke: On two separate occasions, within a month, white smoke has been observed exiting the exhaust. Engine oil has been below 3/5 empty each time. No oil leak found; must be exiting through exhaust. Despite qualifying for the recall, the Hyundai Colorado Springs dealer has refused to inspect or replace the engine as required. These ongoing issues pose significant safety risks, including the potential for unexpected engine failure and loss of power while driving.
Engine, Sep 17, 2024
On [XXX] I was driving down a busy 4-lane in Los Angeles and my engine suddenly died. There were no warning signs like indicator lights or warning noises. It was traumatic and frightening and I thought I was going to be struck by a car or truck. I had little control over the car-it would not accelerate to get out of the road lane. I was coasting, stopped half toward the side of the road but still sticking out in the road lane and was terrified I'd get hit by another vehicle from my back driver's corner. Cars and trucks that were traveling at normal speed were trying to avoid a collision with me and swerving around me, putting myself and others at risk for serious injury or death. I had had all the systems updated 2 years ago at a HMA, Hyundai dealership as I was directed, which included the KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System). Dealer said it was to warn me of possible engine noise and issues. I never got any warning. I was NEVER told by anyone including Hyundai or any regulatory agency that the engine could suddenly fail as I'm driving the car OR I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DRIVING IT! There were never any warnings at that time or any time that anything was wrong with the vehicle. The car was towed to a Hyundai dealership and they diagnosed the problem on 8/28/2024 as a failed engine bearings clearance test at 63Kmiles. I kept all maintenance records, all done timely and properly with full synthetic oil. The components were assessed by the Hyundai dealership in communication and with guidance through HMA, Hyundai Technical /Techline confirmed failed engine bearings clearance test. My engine was not making any noises beforehand at all, and no engine warning light or sounds gave any warnings to be cautious or do anything other than drive normally. I was told I need an engine replacement. A Prior Approval for the engine replacement was started on 8/28/24 and sent to HMA, Hyundai. 9/17/2024, I still don't have engine replacement, dealer refuses to give records. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Sep 10, 2024
Engine was replaced in Feb. 2020 as part of the 162 engine recall. Car engine completely shuts down while driving and cannot be restarted for 20 or so minutes. This leaves me stuck in traffic with no ability to move the car. The new engine only has 40,000 miles on it. Dealership first said it was an issue with the engine and valves but when I wanted them to pay, they said the car is fine and passes all inspections. The check oil light and engine light come on when the engine stops, but they are not on prior to the engine stalling. I have made three visits regarding this - 1 to my personal mechanic and two to the Hyundai dealership. I filmed a video of the stall but it is too long to upload.
Service brakes, Air, Aug 12, 2024
See attached document for complaint
Engine, Aug 7, 2024
vehicle was driving then all of a sudden there was an excessive amount of white smoke coming out of exhaust Engine was making a clicking sound before like a card in spokes on a bike and has been excessively consuming oil recently Auto shop discovered that a piston came loose and was rattling around the engine until it eventually shot through the engine
Engine, Jul 26, 2024
This past Tuesday, July 23, 2024, I started to drive out of my driveway and I heard a very loud knocking noise coming from under the hood. Upon driving the car less than 100 feet the car lost power. It was extremely difficult to get the car back to my driveway. The car was completely impossible to drive and control of my Santa Fe Limited was lost. I had a tow company tow my Santa Fe to the place where I got normal routine service done. Both the tow truck driver and the owner of the auto service business stated the failure was a broken connecting rod or something very similar in the engine. The result was the engine is not able to be repaired and would need to be replaced by a new engine. I purchased the Santa Fe Limited new on May 17, 2024 and I am the only owner. It currently has 72,600 miles on it. I performed all service requirements and changed oil and filter every 5000 miles. Also had my tires rotated and balanced every 5000 miles.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Jul 20, 2024
Drive side door latch does not open from inside or out. Even after removing inner door panel and manually pulling latch cables the latch remains in the locked position. This is an obvious and major safety issue where the driver is unavailable to exit the vehicle. Other years were recalled for this issue however my 2014 model is not on the recall list for some reason. Even though the very same safety issue with door latch occurs.
Other or unspecified, Jul 19, 2024
A/c works but will not cool checked for leak none can be located- Frion added will not work
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 19, 2024
I took my vehicle in for recall and they replaced the fuse box. Starting that day, the auxiliary power outlet in the rear (trunk) started to short out my pump that I have used many times while blowing up lake tubing equipment. Also since then my trunk has been randomly opening on its own (mostly while I’m asleep). It is happening about every 3 days. There is nothing in the way of the latch or the door and it is closed and locked before I walk away. Started happening 6/29 and the recall replacement was on 6/27
Forward collision avoidance, Jul 14, 2024
Recently, three different lights went on in my car. When looking it up online I found recall number 251 from Hyundai and it matches the lights and issues my car is facing. However, when looking it up via my VIN there are no open recalls.
Engine, Jul 9, 2024
On [XXX] I purchased a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport from an auto dealer in Wichita, Kansas. When I bought the car, On [XXX], my car started making a funny noise and the engine light came on and then it quit running and would not restart. I coasted to a back street and then got a ride home. I had it towed home and then purchased a new battery, thinking that might be the issue; but the new battery didn’t start my car. I called my dealership, as my car has a limited warranty on the engine and other parts for 24 months or 24,000 miles. Whichever comes first. At this time, I only had put 8,311 miles on the car; and had only owned it for 8 months. The dealership had my car towed to the mechanic they use. They determined that the engine had locked up. I received a call from the dealer stating they found out there was a recall on the engine through Hyundai; and stated that they have been in contact with a Hyundai dealership to have my car towed there. I contacted the Hyundai dealership and was informed they do not have a loaner car. I was paying for Lyft rides to work and getting rides by family home during this time. I received a call from the Hyundai dealership stating my car had been approved for a new motor to be installed; but it would take 3 to 4 weeks before it is shipped; and they still do not have a loaner car. I then rented a car from Enterprise on 5/11/24 for a week. On 5/15/24 I got a call from the Hyundai dealership stating my car would be ready on 5/16/24. I asked if the motor had been shipped in, and was told yes (which seemed odd since he had said a few days ago that it would take 3 to 4 weeks). I got a call on 5/16/24 that my car was ready. I went in to pick up my car and drove it a couple of days; and oil ran out. Dealership picked it up, supposedly fixed it; and now the oil light keeps coming on. I don't believe I got a new engine; and I am paying a lot of money for a salvage valued car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Jun 28, 2024
2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 3rd owner with 54,098 miles, all maintenance records. Engine seized without warning on 6/18/2024. Hyundai states VIN is not part of published open recall for similar reason. Prior to Engine failure, Dealership updated the computer after vehicle went into limp home mode (November 2022) and a second auto repair facility replaced the anti-knock sensor under an extended warranty plan after a second Limp Home mode (Spring 2023).
Steering, Jun 21, 2024
I drive a 2014 Sante Fe Sport. I noticed a clicking noise when turning the steering wheel. Initially, I heard it once in a while. I thought it was a one-time event. The clicking noise is more constant, when making a turn while the car is in motion. Sometimes the steering wheel feels 'loose' or uncontrollable. It seems to be an issue with the steering coupler. It seems as this is a safety concern for me and others while driving.
Service brakes, Engine, Jun 20, 2024
My 2014 Santa Fe was scheduled for a Recall 251 ABS Brake Failure-Fire hazard. NHTSA and Hyundai both advised owners of vehicles associated with this recall to park away from structures and recommended the vehicle not to be driven. Hyundai did not have a solution for roughly 6 months. During that time I kept my vehicle parked and away from structures as recommended for that 251 safety concern. I periodically would start the car and let it run to keep it from failing. I went through an entire winter season waiting for a solution a recall. My car just sat. Extreme weather and susceptible to dirt as it sat outside parked. Finally in May 2024 I was informed that Hyundai had a solution and parts were ready for the 251 recall repair. Well the day I was scheduled to bring my vehicle in to be repaired I went out and attempted to start the vehicle but could not. I tried to jump the battery and it still wouldn’t start so I called the dealer and told them that I couldn’t get the vehicle started. They would not provide a tow so I rescheduled the appointment and I called a tow service the next day. Tow came and checked the battery. The battery was fine. They jumped the battery and the vehicle turned on. the vehicle to a local dealer and they repaired the recalls. The vehicle was driven to the dealer that week. My vehicle’s recalls were completed and I picked up the car a week later. All of a sudden when I went to start the car it would not turn over. I stalled in the lane of travel and avoided a collision. I called a private tow again, towed to the same dealer that did the recall. Engine light came on and they were able to determine that the crank position sensor failed as to the reason for stalling and intermittent starting. $600 later they repaired it. I left and the next day my car wouldn’t start again. I associated this with the 251 recall and wear as it sat dormant for too many months. Hyundai refused to provide Goodwill or reimbursement for the crankshaft repair.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Engine, May 29, 2024
Car seized on the freeway. No warning, no lights, nothing it just died. Waiting on an explanation from the dealership;
Electrical system, May 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brake warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuse needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, but additional assistance was not provided. The failure mileage was approximately 148,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, May 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine, May 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH on a highway exit ramp, she depressed the brake pedal and the "ABS" and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not slowing and was vibrating while depressing the brake pedal. The contact stated that the brake pedal was very soft while being depressed and the vehicle was stalling. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the brake seals and other unknown brake parts. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the brake failure reoccurred along with the engine stalling. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000. Parts distribution disconnect.