2018 Hyundai Santa FE
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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 |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 209 |
| 2002 | 165 |
| 2003 | 308 |
| 2004 | 303 |
| 2005 | 216 |
| 2006 | 106 |
| 2007 | 683 |
| 2008 | 541 |
| 2009 | 358 |
| 2010 | 258 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2012 | 353 |
| 2013 | 605 |
| 2014 | 493 |
| 2015 | 254 |
| 2016 | 236 |
| 2017 | 962 |
| 2018 | 108 |
| 2019 | 197 |
| 2020 | 209 |
| 2021 | 166 |
| 2022 | 197 |
| 2023 | 207 |
| 2024 | 145 |
| 2025 | 131 |
| 2026 | 35 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
49% of complaints: engine — 53 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
In September 2024, my 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe experienced an unexpected engine lock-up while driving, creating an immediate safety hazard. Vehicle lost power, began smoking, and posed a potential fire risk.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251114
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and UNKNOWN OR OTHER
18% of complaints: service brakes — 19 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH INJURY9% of complaints: power train — 10 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURY8% of complaints: electrical system — 9 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO REPORT A HOT SMELL IN MY CAR ON TUESDAY. THEY TOLD ME TO BRING IT IN FOR SERVICE INSPECTION. THURSDAY MORNING THE CAR WAS DRIVEN FOR A SHORT TIME AND PARKED IN THE DRIVE WAY AFTER.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190719
7% of complaints: steering — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The steering wheel assembly may break, possibly resulting in the steering wheel separating from the steering column while driving.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will check the production lot number of the steering wheel assembly, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 26, 2018.
Campaign 18V118000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022.
Campaign 22V056000 — check if this car was fixed
Loss of Motive Power
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Hyundai Santa FE — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (53 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (19 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 18V118000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V056000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Hyundai Santa FE reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2018 Hyundai Santa FE is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Santa FE?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 49% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Hyundai Santa FE 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.