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2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 179.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

95 reports with mileage · 225 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Engine. Review the 196 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic. Review the 36 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Fuel/propulsion System. Review the 33 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

7 crash reports8 fire reports3 injury reports

What owners actually said

320 reports
100,316 miles · Aug 26, 2025
Engine

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the engine seized. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was coasted to the shoulder of the roadway; however, the vehicle was in an unsafe location. The contact and his wife exited the vehicle and stood further back off the r…

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The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the engine seized. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was coasted to the shoulder of the roadway; however, the vehicle was in an unsafe location. The contact and his wife exited the vehicle and stood further back off the roadway for their safety. The contact stated that because of the unsafe location of the vehicle, the contact and his wife were fearful of remaining in the vehicle. Additionally, other vehicles were driving by fast. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while on a trip. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or special programs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,316.

NHTSA ODI #11683096

Mileage unknown · Aug 7, 2025
Engine

Burning oil, going through 1 quart every 250 miles. Paid over $1000 for last service. Replaced valves, gasket, fuel pump gasket, spark plugs, etc… Had us drive 1000 miles and bring back at which they said they would further help. Brought it back 950 miles later. It burned 3.5 qts of oil and now saying we need to pay $7000 for an…

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Burning oil, going through 1 quart every 250 miles. Paid over $1000 for last service. Replaced valves, gasket, fuel pump gasket, spark plugs, etc… Had us drive 1000 miles and bring back at which they said they would further help. Brought it back 950 miles later. It burned 3.5 qts of oil and now saying we need to pay $7000 for an engine. It only has 104k miles

NHTSA ODI #11679045

60,000 miles · Jul 24, 2025
Back Over PreventionElectrical System

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a blue screen while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The warning system failed to operate as int…

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The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a blue screen while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The warning system failed to operate as intended. The contact stated that the GPS showed the wrong directions. Due to the failure, the vehicle went into the wrong lane. In addition, several unknown warning lights illuminated while driving. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the vehicle was too old for the update. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

NHTSA ODI #11676003

Mileage unknown · Jul 18, 2025
Fuel/propulsion System

High pressure fuel pump leaking gas into engine oil

NHTSA ODI #11674656

Mileage unknown · Jul 14, 2025
Engine

While I was dropping on the highway my vehicle suddenly slowed down when and the engine started shaking when I approached around 40mph and the check engine light started flashing. After checking I’m getting the error codes P1326 and P0014. I’m not unable to go past 40mph and the vehicle starts stalling when I approach that speed…

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While I was dropping on the highway my vehicle suddenly slowed down when and the engine started shaking when I approached around 40mph and the check engine light started flashing. After checking I’m getting the error codes P1326 and P0014. I’m not unable to go past 40mph and the vehicle starts stalling when I approach that speed which is incredibly dangerous depending on what road I’m on. I’ve had zero issues with this vehicle previously and have always had regular maintenance. After researching other Santa Fe sport have had identical issues and there are recalls for other years but my year 2018 was skipped for some reason even though it’s clearly affected.

NHTSA ODI #11673404

Mileage unknown · Jul 2, 2025
Unknown Or Other

I was driving down the road when the check engine light began to flash. The vehicle started to decelerate and began to sputter. This was a serious safety issue as there were vehicles behind me which put myself and other drivers at risk. I was able to pull over on the side of the road. I cut the vehicle off and waited a few minut…

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I was driving down the road when the check engine light began to flash. The vehicle started to decelerate and began to sputter. This was a serious safety issue as there were vehicles behind me which put myself and other drivers at risk. I was able to pull over on the side of the road. I cut the vehicle off and waited a few minutes. I cut the vehicle back on and the check engine light was still blinking. I was able to drive the vehicle back to my home but was not able to go over 40 mph and had to repeatedly pull over to ensure my safety. Diagnostic of the vehicle indicated a code P1326. The vehicle was taken to a local Hyundai Dealership to get a second diagnostic. This was truly terrifying for me. I’m glad I didn’t have my son in the car with me at this time. Also done research and it states that the P1326 code in Hyundai Santa Fe sport vehicles, particularly those with 2.0L turbo and 2.4L engines, is linked to a recall concerning connecting rod bearing wear and potential engine failure. This issue is addressed through a recall or a product improvement campaign, which may involve engine replacement or software updates. The knock sensor detection system (KSDS), associated with code P1326, is designed to detect excessive bearing wear and activate engine protection mode. My Hyundai only has 82000 miles on it. So I’m writing this to let you know that this is a big safety issue and needs to be addressed and fixed on my Hyundai.

NHTSA ODI #11670686

Mileage unknown · Jun 24, 2025
EngineUnknown Or Other

In May while driving on the highway my car suddenly wouldnt accelerate and started jerking. It would go past 60-65 and the engine light was on. Took it to get repaired and they stated the whole engine needed to be replaced. Never once had an issue with my car until then. Of course we got the runaround went it came to the warran…

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In May while driving on the highway my car suddenly wouldnt accelerate and started jerking. It would go past 60-65 and the engine light was on. Took it to get repaired and they stated the whole engine needed to be replaced. Never once had an issue with my car until then. Of course we got the runaround went it came to the warranty. After repairs I notice my car does not run the same and that its slow to accelerate. Fast forward about a month later the starter goes bad in the car and now its completely unoperable.

NHTSA ODI #11669041

Mileage unknown · Jun 13, 2025
Engine

This car has a GDI THETHA II engine. From what I have read, has been listed in prior and possibly current Hyundai class action law suits. The oil consumption problem. I can not figure why my car did not have a RECALL to have this problem fixed, 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. Upon purchase, this issue was never mention. I am…

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This car has a GDI THETHA II engine. From what I have read, has been listed in prior and possibly current Hyundai class action law suits. The oil consumption problem. I can not figure why my car did not have a RECALL to have this problem fixed, 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. Upon purchase, this issue was never mention. I am [XXX], [XXX], and need a reliable car. Can I obtain help? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI #11666813

Mileage unknown · Jun 4, 2025
Engine

In under 5,000 miles, my vehicle consumed over 5qt of oil. No indication of leaking. Took to an auto shop with ASE-certified technicians who verified that the vehicle is over-consuming oil. They explained that the rings around the pistons are no longer sealing properly, allowing combustion to escape. This explains the char marks…

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In under 5,000 miles, my vehicle consumed over 5qt of oil. No indication of leaking. Took to an auto shop with ASE-certified technicians who verified that the vehicle is over-consuming oil. They explained that the rings around the pistons are no longer sealing properly, allowing combustion to escape. This explains the char marks on my dry dip-stick, which I checked immediately when my engine light turned on, which was my first indication of a problem. I had the vehicle checked out and oil changed immediately upon the engine light turning on. The light turned on as I was parking at the parking lot where I work. I added oil in order to make it to the auto shop, so as not to drive on zero oil. This is a risk of the engine failing while driving and potential to cause a fire.

NHTSA ODI #11664821

Mileage unknown · May 29, 2025
Engine

I was driving on the highway in April when my engine jolted and my car would not accelerate over 65mph. The engine light came on, and I was afraid that my car would seize and cause harm to myself and to other drivers. The flow of traffic was much higher, and I could not keep up with other vehicles. I feared that faster cars woul…

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I was driving on the highway in April when my engine jolted and my car would not accelerate over 65mph. The engine light came on, and I was afraid that my car would seize and cause harm to myself and to other drivers. The flow of traffic was much higher, and I could not keep up with other vehicles. I feared that faster cars would crash into me or cause an accident trying to pass me. I pulled over ASAP and had to wait for roadside assistance. The dealer confirmed it was the knock code sensor p1326 that kicked in. I have maintained proper oil maintenance and have had a fuel induction service, prior to this event. An independent service center told me about the service recall on the engine, but the dealership will not acknowledge it nor my car's warranty.

NHTSA ODI #11663807

Official recalls

4

22V810000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module

Oct 27, 2022

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 237. This recall is an expansion of recall 22V-056.

22V056000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module

Feb 3, 2022

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. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

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. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.

17V801000 · Air Bags:side/window

Dec 13, 2017

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the component detaches during deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, if the detached component were to enter the vehicle occupant compartment, there could be an increased risk of occupant injury.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 171.

17V577000 · Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs

Sep 20, 2017

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The front coil springs may have been improperly manufactured and, as a result, may fracture under certain loads while driving.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the coil spring fractures, it can puncture the tire, causing a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: All of the affected vehicles are currently unsold on dealer lots. Dealers will replace both front coil springs, free of charge prior to the vehicle's sale. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 167.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

AQ23002 · Hyundai And Kia Abs Module Fires

Opened Nov 17, 2023 · No close date supplied

Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.

DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power

Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.