2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The 2016 Santa Fe Sport is equipped with the Theta II 2.4L engine, which is subject to one of the largest engine recalls in automotive history. Manufacturing debris left in the engine crankcase causes premature connecting rod bearing wear, leading to engine knocking, oil starvation, and catastrophic engine seizure — sometimes resulting in engine fires. Over 1 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles were recalled for this defect.

Hyundai issued recall 17V-226 and subsequent expansions covering Theta II engines. Dealers will perform a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update that monitors for bearing noise and limits engine power if detected. If the engine has already failed, it will be replaced free of charge regardless of mileage under the lifetime warranty extension. Contact Hyundai at 1-855-371-9460.

The panoramic sunroof glass on the 2016 Santa Fe Sport can shatter spontaneously without any external impact, raining glass fragments into the cabin while driving. The issue has generated hundreds of NHTSA complaints and led to a class-action lawsuit. The shattering is believed to be caused by manufacturing stress in the tempered glass.

Hyundai settled a class-action lawsuit providing an extended 10-year/120,000-mile warranty for panoramic sunroof repairs on 2012-2016 Santa Fe Sport models. If the sunroof has shattered, contact the dealer and reference the settlement agreement for coverage. File a complaint with NHTSA to document the incident.

The Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system may fail while driving, causing a sudden loss of power assist and requiring significant physical effort to steer. The EPS warning light illuminates and the steering becomes dangerously heavy, particularly at low speeds. This issue has prompted NHTSA investigations.

Hyundai released TSBs for MDPS software updates and hardware replacement. Dealers will update the MDPS ECU software first. If the failure recurs, the entire MDPS column assembly will need replacement. The repair is covered under the powertrain warranty or goodwill if out of warranty.

Even before outright engine failure, the Theta II 2.4L engine exhibits excessive oil consumption, with owners reporting needing to add 1 quart or more every 1,000-2,000 miles. Low oil levels can accelerate the connecting rod bearing failure that the engine is already prone to, making regular oil checks critical.

Have the dealer perform a documented oil consumption test. If consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,000 miles, the engine qualifies for internal repair or replacement under the Theta II warranty extension. Check oil level at every fuel stop and top off as needed to prevent bearing damage.

The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module on the 2016 Santa Fe Sport can develop internal corrosion of the electrical connectors, causing ABS warning light illumination, traction control deactivation, and in severe cases partial loss of braking capability. The issue is accelerated by road salt exposure in cold climates.

Hyundai issued a recall for ABS module corrosion on affected Santa Fe Sport models. Dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it free of charge if corrosion is detected. If you experience any change in brake pedal feel or ABS/ESC warning lights, have the vehicle towed to the dealer rather than driving it.