2022 Hyundai Santa fe
The Verdict
The 2022 Hyundai Santa fe has 188 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are engine (67 complaints) and body (57 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 57/100, it earns a "Proceed with Caution" rating. If you're shopping for a Hyundai Santa fe, consider the 2006 model year which has 43% fewer complaints.
Safe Bet
The 2006 has 43% fewer complaints
View the 2006 Hyundai Santa fe dashboard →
Klunk Score: Proceed with Caution
About average for complaint volume. Research the specific issues before buying.
How is this calculated?
The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.
Recalls 1
Active safety recalls from NHTSA for this vehicle year.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Santa Fe and Santa Cruz vehicles. The oil supply pipe to the turbocharger may crack, which could result in an oil leak in the engine compa...
Risk
An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the turbocharger oil supply pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai...
Reported Apr 10, 2026
Get notified if a recall hits this car.
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Under the Hood
Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.
| Year | Body | Brakes | Electrical | Engine | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 104 | 7 | 27 | 50 | 22 |
| 2002 | 94 | 17 | 16 | 31 | 13 |
| 2003 | 134 | 41 | 55 | 44 | 34 |
| 2004 | 122 | 39 | 48 | 76 | 18 |
| 2005 | 70 | 29 | 75 | 36 | 6 |
| 2006 | 28 | 17 | 39 | 17 | 5 |
| 2007 | 211 | 74 | 154 | 217 | 21 |
| 2008 | 88 | 21 | 93 | 323 | 14 |
| 2009 | 71 | 39 | 54 | 177 | 16 |
| 2010 | 59 | 7 | 28 | 59 | 103 |
| 2011 | 50 | 17 | 29 | 77 | 8 |
| 2012 | 52 | 16 | 37 | 236 | 10 |
| 2013 | 190 | 49 | 36 | 299 | 27 |
| 2014 | 101 | 48 | 38 | 294 | 9 |
| 2015 | 39 | 21 | 25 | 162 | 6 |
| 2016 | 38 | 14 | 15 | 158 | 10 |
| 2017 | 108 | 47 | 41 | 665 | 74 |
| 2018 | 20 | 16 | 11 | 56 | 4 |
| 2019 | 78 | 9 | 19 | 70 | 14 |
| 2020 | 75 | 4 | 25 | 82 | 8 |
| 2021 | 58 | 5 | 23 | 39 | 37 |
| 2022 | 57 | 4 | 18 | 67 | 42 |
| 2023 | 82 | 20 | 25 | 43 | 29 |
| 2024 | 58 | 10 | 19 | 13 | 31 |
| 2025 | 76 | 2 | 19 | 12 | 9 |
By Category
By Severity
Worst Problems
Complaints
I did a navigation update as requested by the infotainment system on the Hyundai. After the update, the air conditioner would not turn on when the ac button was depressed . I took the vehicle to my local Hyundai dealer and they found the ac blower and ac button working intermittently. After further inspection, the mechanic found the multi fuses that sit on the PCB bloc had one burnt fuse that did not blow and was still hot and the PCB block had melted around where the fuse connected to it. ( Hyundai stated that they required the damaged PCB fuse, the PCB block and the harness). I'm concerned that the electrical short discovered by the Hyundai mechanic could have progress and burnt my car or my house since I keep my car in the garage. The Mechanic working for the Hyundai dealer found the burnt fuses and PCB block and kept them after replacing them with new parts. The ac was working fine until I did the navigation update and there were no warnings whatsoever.
The airbag sensor is on in the car. When I told the dealership they stated that the sensor is not covered under the warranty even though it was over by a fe hundred miles. None of the airbags will deploy if there is an accident. I don't see why a safety issue is not covered by the warranty. For the dealership to fix it, it is going to be over $800.
While driving, my vehicle displayed “Shifter System Malfunction! Service Immediately.” Immediately after, I was unable to shift the vehicle from Drive into Park, Reverse, or Neutral. The only way to park the vehicle was to turn the engine off while it was still in Drive, restart it, and then shift into Park. This is an extreme safety hazard. A driver who cannot change gears can lose control of the situation during an emergency, be unable to safely park, reverse, or place the vehicle in neutral if needed. Having to shut the engine off while the transmission is still in Drive is unsafe and not how the vehicle is intended to operate. This issue first occurred around 45,000 miles while the vehicle was under warranty, but it temporarily resolved on its own. It has now returned in June 2026 at approximately 65,500 miles, after the warranty expired, and is happening repeatedly. After researching online, I found many Hyundai owners reporting the same “Shifter System Malfunction” with identical symptoms, indicating this may be a widespread defect. I request that NHTSA investigate this issue, as it poses a serious risk to driver and public safety.
Latch system for fuel tank door failure.
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the automatic emergency braking system engaged while there were no objects or vehicles near the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the pre-collision message was displayed while the vehicle was parked or was idling. The vehicle was taken to dealer on several occasions; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed that the dealer assessment was most important. The failure mileage was unknown.
Child opened the back hatch (as instructed). The child then pressed the button to close the back hatch. Fingers were trapped at the bottom of the hatch, and the hatch “clamped” into position. The interior hatch release was not sufficiently intuitive for the chiller to remove the trim and slide the tab, resulting in the child being trapped for 10-15 minutes before help arrived.
I have videos of these two incidents and others that I could not upload. While driving on the PA Turnpike at 4:25PM on 5/22/26 75 mph my accelerator pedal stopped responding, my front collision warning light, engine, EPB, and numerous other lights came on across my dashboard despite there being no contact with any object and my speed rapidly dropped. The front camera came on as if there was an object too close. I was in the middle lane. While I was trying to move to the shoulder there were tractor trailers behind me and to my right that began flashing their lights because my speed drastically dropped and was unable to safely stay with the flow of traffic in the heavy rain. While still in Drive car started changing through notices on my digital screen "Check Blind-Spot Safety system" "Check Forward Safety system" with the car crash icon, and "Check Driver Attention Warning (DAW) system." Then I began trying to press the accelerator pedal again and the car would not move at all but the tachometer was going to 2x1000rpm. When I turned the car off and turned it back on again the engine light was still on, but the accelerator pedal was responsive. About an hour later when the tow truck driver from AAA attempted to drive the car on to the flat bed the accelerator pedal was unresponsive again. This was at least the fifth time my vehicle had lost propulsion without warning. Every prior time Bowser Hyundai had different reasons for the failure, made a repair, and said it was safe to drive. Another incident occurred 4/7/2026 using cruise control at 84 mph when the car unexpectedly lost propulsion. The accelerator was again unresponsive, I was on the turnpike with two children in the vehicle. I steered towards the shoulder and the car slowed to a stop. After that incident, Bowser Hyundai replaced the transmission on the car. They notified me on June 18 that they believe they fixed the problem again but I don't feel the vehicle is safe for my family and worry it will be deadly
Vehicle: 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe | Current Mileage: 140,000 Description of Safety Defect: While operating a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe at speed, the vehicle suffered a sudden, complete, and catastrophic loss of motive power in the middle of a live, active roadway without any prior warning or dashboard indicator lights. The transmission abruptly dropped out of gear and the engine shut down entirely, trapping the driver and three young children in active traffic and creating an immediate, life-threatening highway safety hazard. The vehicle was towed to Sport Durst Hyundai in Durham, NC, where technicians confirmed a total internal transmission failure where the gears fail to engage. This exact mechanical failure mechanism directly mirrors the severe engineering defect detailed in NHTSA Campaign Number 22V746000 (Hyundai Safety Recall 236) for electric oil pump failures causing a sudden loss of drive power. Hyundai Motor America Corporate Case Management has issued a flat denial of all safety and goodwill repair coverage based strictly on the vehicle's 140,000 miles, claiming that mileage absolves them of product liability for a catastrophic drivetrain safety defect that endangered three young children. Furthermore, the franchise dealership is actively withholding the GDS diagnostic failure scan codes from the consumer, calling them "internal documents" to actively suppress federal evidence of this safety failure. Further, the authorized Hyundai dealership engaged in deceptive practices by refusing to put anything in writing, and refusing my request for any diagnostic information, including any report indicating diagnostic error codes, technician summary, etc.
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while in reverse (R) on several occasions the rearview camera went completely white and the camera did not come on at all. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,500.
Beginning on 04/17/2026, my vehicle began displaying multiple safety-related dashboard warnings simultaneously, accompanied by audible alerts. The warnings included the Forward Collision Safety System, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), Stability and Traction Control, Lane Keep Assist, and AUTO HOLD — all activating at the same time. These warnings reappeared on several occasions and were photographed with date and location data embedded in each image. My vehicle was brought to Burlington Hyundai dealership, where a repair order was opened and a loaner was provided. The car was returned without the issue being fixed. Within days, the same warnings reappeared and the situation worsened. On multiple occasions, the engine shut off completely and the transmission shifted into neutral on its own while my vehicle was being driven at approximately 20 to 40 mph. On at least one occasion, the parking brake engaged automatically without any input from the driver. A dashboard photo clearly documents the message "Engine Off! Shift to N, then start engine." These failures are a serious danger to everyone on the road. When the engine shuts off while driving, normal steering and braking ability is lost. When the parking brake engaged on its own, the car stopped abruptly with no warning. Any one of these incidents could have caused a serious accident or injury. My vehicle was returned to the dealership for a second repair visit and a second loaner was provided. The dealership confirmed via text that the car was still in the shop but never followed up with a diagnosis or timeline. When the dealership was called directly, no update was provided. As of 06/04/2026, my vehicle has been at the dealership for at least 30 days across two visits — 11 days for the first and at least 19 days for the second — with no confirmed root cause, no completed repair, and no clear communication.
Engine light for car read codes PO 304 303 420 prior to sale of car per code read out taken when engine light went off shortly after my purchase. Not addressed prior to sale. Codes read and called to dealership. Car taken for service. Reported fuel smell, exceleration issues, short stallings. Same codes. Stated car was " fine." Drivable. Asked for brakes/ rotors to be checked. No documented brake service given. Stated they were "fine." Taken to local brake place next day that confirmed brake rotors needed repair. Car returned after began sputtering. Reported as fuel injector failure. A known issue with this makr and model that shown codes point to that were given to, and read at service center by mechanic at dealership twice. They did not mention replacing catalytic converter, that is damaged from injectors and an emissions issue at time of call regarding repair report. No brake report or inspection requested multiple times to be checked. Did not follow correct protocol to ensure engine was clear of fuel sprayed by injectors into pistons, intake valves, ect. They placed my self at risk for engine fire, sudden car failure. Consistently mislead and failed to do proper reseach and care regarding car issues and hazards it presented. Being a known issue with this make and model it was a failure to inspect for issue. An emissions failure and violation to allow a damaged catalytic converter to be on road. This issue with the car is in class actionable suit. It is not on the recall list. As it damages the whole car systemi including emissions, it should be forced to be on the recall list so dealerships cannot allow potential harm to their customers as well as violating emission laws.
I PUT MY VEHICLE IN PARK AND VEHICLE CONTINUED TO MOVE, IT MOVED OVER A CURB AND INTO A WALL. I BROUGHT VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP NEXT DAY AND THEY STATED IT WAS A GEAR CONTROL ISSUE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO GET AN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIRS AND ESTIMATE IS NEAR $7000. DEALERSHIP SAID THE PART IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND NO RECALLS. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN CHECKED BY MANUFACTURE, POLICE OR INSURANCE AS OF YET NO WARNING LAMPS OR MESSAGES WARNED ME OF A POSSIBLE GEAR FAILURE. I HAVE READ ONLINE OF OTHER PEOPLE HAVING THIS SAME ISSUE WITH HYUNDAI SANTA FE
While driving to work, the rear driver-side window suddenly fell down into the door without warning. The power window/regulator system appears to have failed. The window would not stay up or operate normally afterward. The failed component is available for inspection upon request. This created a safety concern because the vehicle could not be secured, outside air/noise entered the vehicle while driving, and rain/debris could enter the passenger compartment. It also created a distraction while driving because the sudden window drop was unexpected. There were no warning lights, dashboard messages, or prior symptoms before the failure. The issue has not yet been confirmed by a dealer or independent repair shop. The vehicle/component has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance, or others. The suspected failed component is the rear driver-side power window regulator or related window mechanism. Cause is unknown.
This vehicle has experienced: • Multiple roadside breakdowns • Three fuel injector system failures • 2 complete transmission failures and replacements • Loss of propulsion • Fuel and chemical odor safety risks • A cumulative total of over 60 days out of service, currently at dealer since 4-15-26. SUMMARY OF SAFETY-RELATED FAILURES AND REPAIR HISTORY Incident #1 — May 20, 2022 (Mileage In: 4,899 | Mileage Out: 4,909) Vehicle broke down roadside in an unsafe, unlit area, requiring towing. Failure attributed to fuel injector defect. Vehicle remained in repair until May 24, 2022. Incident #2 — July 19, 2022 (Mileage In: 9,316 | Mileage Out: 9,321) Vehicle emitted strong gasoline odor, creating a potential fire and safety hazard. Vehicle was not drivable and required towing. Released July 26, 2022. During a recorded phone call, Hyundai Case Manager provided a verbal assurance that this failure would not recur. Incident #3 — September 9, 2025 (Mileage In/Out: 65,232) Vehicle exhibited engine shuddering, suspected fuel injector failure, and transmission shifting defects. Dealer released vehicle without resolving the defect on September 9, 2025. Incident #4 — January 13, 2026 (Mileage In: 72,089 | Mileage Out: 72,098) Vehicle lost power and broke down, requiring towing. Dealer determined full transmission replacement was required. All four fuel injectors were replaced again, marking the third injector-related failure. Released January 23, 2026. Incident #5 — January 30, 2026 (Mileage In: 72,467 | Mileage Out: 72,487) Vehicle overheated, lost power, and emitted chemical odors, requiring towing. Dealer confirmed cooler hose failure and fluid leakage. Released February 5, 2026. Incident #6: 4-15-26 - Sent back to dealer. Dealer still has car in shop. Advising needing new transmission. Still no confirmation as of 5-16-26 if car is repairable.
when vehicle accelerates from stopping position motor immediately increases rpm's from 700 to about 4,000 and increases and decreases with jerking motion. sometimes much difficulty controlling speed and controlling car when there are approaching vehicles. the transmission does not perform safely there is the same problem when passing other vehicles and travelling uphill , sometimes 50 to 75 mph. the selling dealer informed me this may be this transmission's way of learning how to accelerate.I don't believe this. I am [XXX] old, never a ticket with two safety classes in my first 30 years of driving heavy vehicles for my employer. the selling dealer was unable to completely reproduce problem. I have this problem when vehicle is first activated in the morning as I begin driving also. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel injector failed the entire engine on my 2022 Santa Fe had to be completely replaced. The dealership put in a new engine. Santa Fe is only four years old. That is highly unusual.
Rearview camera has failed with a green screen instead of the camera view. This recall was covered by recall 24V87900 (Hyundai recall 271) for 2022 Santa Fe but my 2022 Santa Fe is not covered by this recall.
The fuel tank opener has become increasingly hard to operate. The fuel tank is supposed to unlock when the doors are unlocked. Sometimes it takes 10 or more times of unlocking the doors and checking the fuel door to successfully open the fuel door.
Vulnerable exposed radiator to road debris from the front and underneath my 2022 Santa Fe. It seems that this is an issue that is not covered by warranty and owners are held responsible with filing an insurance claim or pay out of pocket. Manufacturer needs to provide some type of protection for radiator or lose repeat customers.
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the glass panoramic sunroof suddenly exploded, causing glass shards to fall into the cabin of the vehicle. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The contact stated that there was no impact on the panoramic sunroof glass to cause the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle only operated in LIMP Mode. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the fuel injector was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The fuel injectors were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 55,000.
188 total