Exhaust
Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
What Owners Say
"Alternator replacement"
Anonymous, (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 3.5-L V6)
2012
Hyundai Santa Fe
EPA MPG:
22 mpg
EPA MPG:
22 mpg
RECALL ALERT:
There is 1 recall on this vehicle.
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Reliability
Overall Reliability
The 2012 Santa Fe is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
In-car Electronics
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
What Owners Say
"Sometimes the system will fail to connect with phone Bluetooth even though it has been connected frequently in the past."
Anonymous, AB (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 3.5-L V6)""Quite frequently, the system doesnt /cant connect a phone call request. The response back is I dont understand the command, please try again or Im sorry youre having a problem, select back or ask for help. Very frustrating trying to use the hands free system.""
Anonymous, AB (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 3.5-L V6)Suspension/Steering
Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
What Owners Say
"Previously replaced, had to replace the replacement, which the part was under warranty"
Anonymous A., IL (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 3.5-L V6)Engine Electrical
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.
What Owners Say
"Replaced alternator with an after market. Failed numerous times. Replaced with OEM no problems just expensive."
Anonymous, ON (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS 3.5-L V6)Electrical Accessories
Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
What Owners Say
"In the shop now. They are waiting for parts."
Anonymous A., (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Unsure)Fuel System/Emissions
Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.
What Owners Say
"the car did not work. neededreplacment parts"
Anonymous, NJ (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 3.5-L V6)Brakes
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
What Owners Say
"Rust from rain, squeaking when breaking"
Anonymous, AB (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Engine Minor
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.
What Owners Say
"Could not fill tank at all"
Anonymous A., FL (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 3.5-L V6)Body Hardware
Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.
Engine Cooling
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.
Noises/Leaks
Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
Paint/Trim
Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Transmission Major
Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
Transmission Minor
Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.
Drive System
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.
Engine Major
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
Climate System
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
2012 SUVs Reliability
This Car
0
100
Hyundai vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability
Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting
how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability
information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for
about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give
you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential
trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes,
to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
Recalls
PROVIDED BY
ENGINE
Dec 01, 2020
A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Summary:
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
What should you do:
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number:
20V746000
Potential Number of Units Affected:
128948
Check Vehicle for Unrepaired Recalls
Enter a valid 17-character VIN
Enter a valid 17-character VIN
"Crankshaft"
Anonymous, GA (2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 3.5-L V6)