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
- 110
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 2
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2018
Opened by NHTSA
49% of complaints
Complaints per year
2018: 110 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 209 |
| 2002 | 165 |
| 2003 | 308 |
| 2004 | 303 |
| 2005 | 216 |
| 2006 | 106 |
| 2007 | 684 |
| 2008 | 541 |
| 2009 | 359 |
| 2010 | 260 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2012 | 355 |
| 2013 | 605 |
| 2014 | 493 |
| 2015 | 255 |
| 2016 | 236 |
| 2017 | 971 |
| 2018 | 110 |
| 2019 | 203 |
| 2020 | 217 |
| 2021 | 168 |
| 2022 | 201 |
| 2023 | 213 |
| 2024 | 156 |
| 2025 | 138 |
| 2026 | 39 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
49% · 54 reportsShow 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, 2025-11-14
Also filed under Electrical system
While driving, the vehicle developed a strong odor of engine oil, followed within minutes by illumination of the red oil pressure warning light.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-22
Service brakes
17% · 19 reportsMost commonly citing hydraulic.
Power train
9% · 10 reportsElectrical system
8% · 9 reportsShow 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, 2019-07-19
Steering
7% · 8 reportsSafety timeline
2 recalls · 2 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2018-03-26Steering18V118000 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.
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R
2022-05-31Service brakes, hydraulic22V056000 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.
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I
2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
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I
2023-11-17Audit queryOpen Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Hyundai Santa FE — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 54 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 19 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 10 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 18V118000 · Steering
- Recall 22V056000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →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 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.