Hyundai brand mark

Is the 2013–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

3.8/ 10
Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Hyundai Santa Fe rates 3.8 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 of them are rated critical and 2 high, so a bad example can be expensive. The weak points cluster around engine, brakes and body. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical
1
High
2
Medium
3
Low
2

Weak points cluster around engine, brakes, body, drivetrain.

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The faults that decide it

EngineCritical

Theta II 2.0T/2.4 GDI rod-bearing failure / seizure.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen for engine knock and confirm any engine replacement or recall/warranty work.
Typical repair
Major mechanical repair · £800–£2,500
EngineHigh

Oil consumption on GDI engines.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check oil level and consumption history.
Typical repair
Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
DrivetrainHigh

Loss of four-wheel drive and clunking from the front differential due to stripped transfer box splines.

Typically appears
70,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect
Check for a flashing 4WD light. On a test drive, accelerate sharply on a loose or wet surface to see if the front wheels spin excessively without rear axle engagement.
Typical repair
Driveline / differential repair · £450–£1,800
BrakesMedium

Brake wear and ABS faults.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Test braking and scan for ABS codes.
Typical repair
Brakes (discs, pads, caliper) · £200–£800
Engine (Diesel)Medium

Rough idle, hesitation, and illuminated EML caused by a carbon-clogged EGR valve or cooler.

Typically appears
50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine from cold and let it idle. Listen for hunting or uneven revs. Rev to 2,500rpm and check for hesitation or excessive smoke from the exhaust.
Typical repair
EGR valve / cooler replacement · £300–£900

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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