2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 182 |
| 2023 | 79 |
| 2024 | 35 |
| 2025 | 17 |
| 2026 | 4 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
32% of complaints: power train — 25 distinct reports on file.
25% of complaints: engine — 20 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
driving/pulling on interstate speed only went to 20 miles per hour, no more. Pulled off and turned truck off, waited and restarted. all fine. No warning was given. Short time later engine light came on. Called and got appointment at dealers.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260710
18% of complaints: electrical system — 14 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
The system that failed was electrical near or in the Tow Hitch which caused the vehicle fire. Vehicle is available for inspection at Auto Body Evolution Essex MD.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250330
On May 1, 2023 I pulled my 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz into my garage at about 5pm and fyi It was blustery outside and had been raining & snowing all day. At about 5:15 pm I heard a loud bang followed by another.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230526
The push-to-open fuel filler door repeatedly failed to release, preventing refueling. The door locks through an electronic actuator tied to the central locking system, and there is no interior lever or owner-accessible manual override.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260909
8% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 6 distinct reports on file.
CRASH8% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing throttle.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Tucson and 2022-2023 Santa Cruz vehicles. The roof moldings may detach.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace, or secure the roof moldings, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Campaign 23V038000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an...
Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge.
Campaign 23V181000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (25 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (20 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V038000 (structure) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V181000 (trailer hitches) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.