2011 Hyundai Santa Fe

149 serious complaints of 181, the most about engine (64) and speed control (24); per car on the road, 0.4× this model's usual year. 3 recalls. NHTSA investigation PE12029: steering shaft universal joint failure.

What owners report

“The contact owns a 2011 hyundai santa fe. The contact stated that while sitting at a stop light, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection where they were unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified.”

An owner's complaint to NHTSA about the engine, Oct 2012

“The contact owns a 2011 hyundai santa fe. While driving approximately 5 mph and attempting to park, the engine suddenly revved very high, the rpms increased, and the vehicle attempted to accelerate.”

An owner's complaint to NHTSA about the speed control, Nov 2018

Fixes and extended coverage

• Extended coverage The warranty coverage for engine repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use, whichever occurs first, and is valid for original and… (22-EM-006H-2, Nov 2022)
• Repair program Hyundai is conducting a service campaign to enhance the knock sensor software to detect abnormal engine bearing noise before potentially severe engine damage occurs. (DBP966, Oct 2021)
• Repair program Certain vehicles that have completed Service Campaign 966 may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or an engine concern/noise related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage. (DBPT6G, Apr 2022)
• Repair program Hyundai is conducting a campaign to enhance the knock sensor software to detect abnormal engine bearing noise before potentially severe engine damage occurs. (24-01-068H, Aug 2024)
• Repair program Hyundai Motor America is offering steering wheel locks to owners of certain 2011 – 2017MY vehicles that are not eligible for Service Campaign 993 anti-theft software. (23-01-055H, Jun 2023)
• Repair program This TSB references the Op codes to use for claim submission and the Parts required based on the vehicle’s inspection results from TSB 22-01-023H (DTC P1326 – Engine Bearing Inspection/Engine Replacement) or the latest version. (26-01-033H, Mar 2026)

From the manufacturer's bulletins filed with NHTSA. A dealer can look up whether a car has had the work done or is still covered.

181 owner complaints · 3 recalls (check a car's VIN for open recalls) · EPA combined: 21–23 mpg · NHTSA: Not rated · 2011 trims and features