2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems

Immediately following the mandatory Hyundai Servie Campaign Update 9C2-ECU THETA 11my vehicle began exhibiting severe hesitation, very rough idling, jerking at slow speeds and when gear changes, difficulty going up inclines and almost feel at times as though it is about to lose power which poses life threatening situations especially when turning into traffic. I have reported it to the dealers who never once test drove the vehicle but said to me that they did and could find no problem, however they did make me pay for repairs which never fixed the problem. I returned three times with the same issue. They recommended a Fuel Induction Service and a Auto Trans Service. Spark plug change. Igniton coils change. Nothing worked!

Component/System Failed: Engine assembly (Theta II 2.4L GDI) and Exhaust/Catalytic Converter. Description: The vehicle suffered a failure associated with the known Theta II engine defects. Engine oil consumption and internal engine wear directly led to unburned fuel and debris entering the exhaust stream, resulting in severe catalytic converter restriction/failure. Safety Risk: The combined failure caused sudden loss of power while driving, engine stalling, and significant driveability hazards, creating an immediate risk of a rear-end collision on public roads. Confirmation & Inspection: The failure was confirmed and diagnosed by a certified service facility. Replaced components and diagnostic documentation remain available for inspection upon request.

Immediately following the mandatory Hyundai Servie Campaign Update 9C2-ECU THETA 11my vehicle began exhibiting severe hesitation, very rough idling, jerking at slow speeds and when gear changes, difficulty going up inclines and almost feel at times as though it is about to lose power which poses life threatening situations especially when turning into traffic. I have reported it to the dealers who never once test drove the vehicle but said to me that they did and could find no problem, however they did make me pay for repairs which never fixed the problem. I returned three times with the same issue. They recommended a Fuel Induction Service and a Auto Trans Service. Spark plug change. Igniton coils change. Nothing worked!

Component/System Failed: Engine assembly (Theta II 2.4L GDI) and Exhaust/Catalytic Converter. Description: The vehicle suffered a failure associated with the known Theta II engine defects. Engine oil consumption and internal engine wear directly led to unburned fuel and debris entering the exhaust stream, resulting in severe catalytic converter restriction/failure. Safety Risk: The combined failure caused sudden loss of power while driving, engine stalling, and significant driveability hazards, creating an immediate risk of a rear-end collision on public roads. Confirmation & Inspection: The failure was confirmed and diagnosed by a certified service facility. Replaced components and diagnostic documentation remain available for inspection upon request.

Vehicle was brought to an authorized dealership for service, and while there Campaign 9C2 (ECU Software Update for Theta II Emissions Improvement) was performed. Immediately following this software update, the vehicle developed drivability degradation, specifically engine stutter/hesitation and rough transmission shifting during cold starts. When attempting to accelerate in the first few minutes of driving, the vehicle delays engagement and then suddenly surges or lurches forward unpredictably. This creates a safety hazard, as the unpredictable power delivery and lag prevent the vehicle from accelerating safely when merging into traffic or turning across oncoming lanes, placing occupants at an immediate risk of a collision. The software logic error is fully reproducible every time the vehicle has sat long enough to cool down. The dealership confirmed the update was applied. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the 9C2 update; the failure was caused directly by the manufacturer's campaign software modification to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The vehicle and its ECU are available for inspection upon request.

Directly after the dealer, Johnson Hyundai of Apex, completed Service Campaign 9C2 on 4/28/26, my vehicle began sticking, surging, and harshly changing gears. I have followed up with the dealer multiple times. They said they are not getting back any diagnostic error codes (outside mechanic shop also confirmed they're also not seeing error codes), but went ahead and recalibrated the ECM. They told me to drive for 200 miles and the issue should be resolved. I have now driven 1,500 miles and the issue persists. I'm now seeing Hyundai put out a 'Driveability Communication" about this issue, but there is no proposed fix/recall. This issue did not exist before this service campaign was performed by the dealership.

Cold-Start Hesitation & Rough Shifting: Following the 9C2 ECU update, my vehicle is experiencing a brief period of throttle hesitation, rough shifting, or jerky transmission behavior specifically during cold-start operations.

My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased new from Lynnes Hyundai in February 2017, has approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle previously developed a significant oil-consumption/engine problem that was diagnosed by Hyundai, and Hyundai replaced the engine with a remanufactured engine. Approximately two weeks after the engine replacement, the check-engine light illuminated and DTC P1326 was identified. The dealership replaced the knock sensor. Approximately two weeks later, the check-engine light illuminated again with a recurring P1326 condition. The vehicle is currently at Lynnes Hyundai and has been there approximately three weeks while they attempt to determine the cause. Hyundai Techline is involved. Prior to the current repair visit, while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a very forceful hesitation that jerked the vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled onto the shoulder. The vehicle continued to hesitate intermittently while I drove slowly to safety. I was concerned that the vehicle could lose power or shut down while I was driving at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. The recurring P1326 condition has been confirmed by the Hyundai dealership. The vehicle and engine have been inspected by Hyundai/Lynnes Hyundai multiple times, including after the engine replacement. The current recurring condition has not been resolved. The check-engine light is the warning lamp associated with the current condition. I do not know the underlying cause of the recurring P1326 condition; Hyundai is currently attempting to diagnose it. The vehicle is currently available for inspection at Lynnes Hyundai.

Hyundai performed recall #9C2, on 7/2/26. Since that time, the engine has a full time miss. When it is cold, it will hesitate, kick and buck. Hyundai is aware of this. Their solution is to warm the car for 3 to 5 minuets before moving. What happens if there is an emergency and you can't wait? Possible accident with injuries trying to pull into, or cross traffic! I have filed a case with Hyundai, and they just update that they are aware and working on a solution with no expected date for the software fix. This is a serious problem, and they need to fix SOON! Also, when an engine runs like this, over a period of time it will destroy the catalytic converter. Who's going to pay for that??

Directly after the dealer, Johnson Hyundai of Apex, completed Service Campaign 9C2 on 4/28/26, my vehicle began sticking, surging, and harshly changing gears. I have followed up with the dealer multiple times. They said they are not getting back any diagnostic error codes (outside mechanic shop also confirmed they're also not seeing error codes), but went ahead and recalibrated the ECM. They told me to drive for 200 miles and the issue should be resolved. I have now driven 1,500 miles and the issue persists. I'm now seeing Hyundai put out a 'Driveability Communication" about this issue, but there is no proposed fix/recall. This issue did not exist before this service campaign was performed by the dealership.

Bottom brake lights will not work but top high brake light works. I was stopped by police three times. They state all three brake lights must operate.

After performing regular oil changes, and even a new fuel pump sensor, I experienced an issue. Last oil change was within the past two weeks. Driving home from the mountains, I heard a knocking sound from the engine bay. I narrowed it down to all gears above 2500RPM, increasing knocking with RPM speed. I took it easy on the engine, mostly coasting down the mountain. Suddenly during acceleration on an uphill, a pop sounded, and copious white smoke started coming from the engine bay. I pulled over despite having no power brakes but I was fortunate to be near an off ramp in a rural area. Trying to troubleshoot roadside, i noticed fluid on the tie rod, but I wasnt able to determine what kind of fluid it was. When I try to start the car, there is one single click, the engine wont even attempt to turn over. Oil, battery and check engine lights are all on. After towing, I found that the fluid leaking from the vehicle is oil. The vehicle is currently at a transmission shop, but from my research, this isnt a transmission issue but a blown rod bearing the Hyundai engines are know for. I will be contacting a dealership to see if they will at least confirm my diagnosis.

The steering left side electrical components quit working at the same time without warning. This is all related to the Air Bag clock spring a serious safety defect that disables the airbag and possibly horn. I have taken the vehicle to a Hyundai dealership for diagnostics and this is what was found. "Needs immediate attention [Primary]: SSD : STEERING OR SUSPENSION DIAGNOSIS Air Bag - Clockspring Assembly / Spiral Cable: CLOCK SPRING HAS SHORTED OUT CAUSING ALL THE BUTTONS ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL NOT TO WORK This assembly consists of a clock spring, which is a coil that retracts and expands inside its housing as the steering wheel turns. Its function is to maintain electrical continuity for all the components on the drivers airbag.

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was jumping from left to right. The contact stated that the ESC and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the passenger’s side wheel speed sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. Additionally, the steering column housing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. While driving, the steering wheel had extensive play. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 6,200.

Airbag light on. La Quinta Hyundai verified light on scanned codes found active b134800 Driver airbag resistance circuit short to ground 1st stage. Testing found clock spring issue internal fault. Since this clock spring is related to driver airbag, & horn, it would seem that this would be a safety hazard that would be under warranty. The extended warranty (Z01) that I received from Hyundai doesn’t cover my problem.

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated and remained on, despite no accident occurring. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who could not determine the failure and advised the contact to visit the dealer. At the dealer, the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed passenger air bag inflator that needed replacement. The dealer also found that the SRSCM (Supplemental Restraint System Control Module) required replacement due to the part shorting the inflator. The airbag was replaced, but the dealer refused to replace the SRSCM as it was no longer under warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure occurred at approximately 77,000 miles.

My truck began emitting a strong oil odor on XXX. I took it to Amato in [XXX], where I was told the oil pan was leaking. They replaced the oil pan, and I paid for the inspection as well. About an hour after picking up my truck, the check‑engine light came on. I returned to the dealership, and they then said additional repairs were needed, even though I had already paid $2,211.57 for the work they claimed was necessary. At that time, my truck had 145,776 miles on it. Because the manager at [XXX] refused to address my concerns, I was told to go to another Amato location, and I was effectively blacklisted from the first dealership. I went to Amato Glendale, where I experienced the same issues. They fixed only one of the problems, and that was only after I contacted Hyundai corporate. My truck continued to have oil‑consumption issues. Amato required me to complete a three‑month, 1,000‑mile oil consumption test before they would consider providing assistance. I completed the test as instructed. Now, however, they are saying that due to the age and mileage of my truck, they will not cover the engine replacement — even though the problems began at 145,000 miles, not 156,000. Other drivers have reported that Hyundai delays necessary repairs until major engine damage occurs, and I believe that is exactly what has happened in my case. There was also a suspension recall that applied to the 2018 model but not the 2017. Amato Hyundai covered part of that repair only because I contacted corporate again. My current complaint is about the failing engine and Amato Hyundai’s lack of responsibility in properly diagnosing and repairing my truck. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe (VIN: [XXX]) was brought to Herb Chambers Hyundai of [XXX], in December 2023 to address the Underbody Corrosion Recall/Campaign (9A0). The dealer performed the preventative service. However, the remedy completely failed because the frame was already severely structurally compromised by rust. In early 2024, I relocated to [XXX] with the vehicle. Now 2026, The front subframe sub-assembly deteriorated to a hazardous point, forcing me to spend a large sum of my own money on front-end repairs caused directly by this corrosion. Currently, the rear subframe and rear suspension components are heavily corroded and structurally disintegrated. The vehicle is completely unsafe to drive, presenting an imminent risk of structural collapse and suspension failure while in motion. Hyundai's recall remedy was ineffective and merely masked the rust. The rear subframe (crossmember/cradle) and control arm anchor points are severely corroded, rusted out, and crumbling to the touch, creating an imminent risk of suspension collapse while driving. The extreme corrosion has spread to the metal fuel line the vehicle is unsafe to drive due to the advanced corrosion . Denial of Service by Local Distributor: The vehicle is currently located in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. I presented the vehicle and documentation to the local authorized distributor, Sojitz de Puerto Rico (Hyundai of Puerto Rico). As indicated I brought the Vehicle to MVP Hyundai Humacao (XXX) and filed a claim (# XXX) However they never sent a anyone to inspect the vehicle or process a safety claim, claiming they bear no responsibility because the vehicle was imported from the mainland, Because this is a failed federal safety campaign remedy that now poses an immediate threat to my life and public safety, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The panoramic sunroof spontaneously shattered while driving under normal conditions. It sounded like a loud gunshot and then shards of the glass fell into the car - luckily the liner caught the majority of the shattered glass. The vehicle is currently at a dealership to fix the damage. I am fortunate that no other cars were around me when the spontaneous shattering happened. The loud noise caused me to slow down considerably, and some glass shards fell backward. If the glass shards had fallen into the vehicle it could have cut me. The dealership has no idea why my sunroof spontaneously combusted, but after doing some research, I saw that Hyundai has had this happen to many other of their vehicles with panoramic sunroofs, and they have gone through a handful of class action lawsuits over the damage. As it is the holidays, I have yet to hear back from my insurance company, but I have started the process of filing a claim online - however, the online form said I would need to call since the damage is on the sunroof which fell under a specialty circumstance. There were no warnings, messages, or other symptoms before the failure. The shattered glass came out of nowhere and without warning.

While driving down a California freeway, the sunroof of my wife's 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport exploded without warning. Glass rained down on my niece and nephew in the backseat and caused my wife to swerve a bit in surprise. Luckily there was no one else on the road and no one was hurt by the glass. She was not near anyone or anything, plus nothing fell into the backseat so we know that it wasn't anything that impacted the glass causing it to break. Upon further review, this is a problem with Hyundai vehicles and it looks like they are the subject of multiple class-action lawsuits for it. This is the second time something like this has happened. In 2016, my wife was leasing a Sonata and the sunroof exploded unprovoked. The dealership took responsibility that time and one of the mechanics stated that it was "a known issue".

The contact owned a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe equipped with a Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter, Part Number: 10101194. The contact stated that after the mobility scooter lifter was installed on the vehicle, the vehicle experienced electrical failures. The A/C became inoperable, and the hatch opened intermittently. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked approximately a month after the lifter installation, the alarm sounded intermittently during the day. The contact observed the vehicle from the residence, but did not notice any abnormality. The contact installed the mobility scooter on the vehicle in the evening. The contact stated that the vehicle alarm sounded at night, and the contact noticed that the vehicle had caught on fire and there were flames coming from underneath the hood by the engine and firewall location. The vehicle was significantly burned from the front end to the trunk. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. A fire department report and a police report were filed. There was no property damage. There was no physical injury sustained. The contact sustained mental trauma, causing headaches and the right side of the lip to quiver. The contact had called Gregory Fox, an investigative reporter and anchor at WESH 2 News(NBC), who notified the manufacturer of the failure. The manufacturer followed up with the contact and informed the contact that a third-party investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the fire incident. The vehicle was towed to a salvage yard, where a third-party investigation was conducted, and the manufacturer informed the contact that the fire was caused by the Rockland Electric Mobility Scooter Lifter. The vehicle was totaled. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

The contact owns a Safety 1st safety seat, Model type: Grow and Go All-In-One-Convertible, Model number: CC31-GYY, Manufacturer Date: August 01, 2023. The contact stated that the cloth part that covers the headpiece does not fit. In addition, the insulation part inside the cloth will detach. Most recently, the contact stated that the harness that goes across would become difficult to buckle. It would take several attempts to make it secure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure.

1. STEERING= STICKING STEERING AND PROBLEMS KEEPING CAR STRAIGHT. DRIVING 2. NO WARNING CHIME FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. WHEN DRIVING

MY CAR JUST TURNED OFF. WHILE I WAS DRIVING UNDER 15 MILES, IT TURNED OFF, THIS HAS HAPPENED 3!TIMES SINCE I GOT THE CAR. THE SEATBELT IN THE 2ND ROW BEHIND THE PASSENGER SEAT SOMETIMES DOESN'T WANT TO LOCK. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THEY WEREN'T ABLE TO RECREATE THE PROBLEMS SO THERE'S NOTHING THAT THEY COULD DO ABOUT IT. I SPOKE TO THEIR CORPORATE OFFICE AND SENT EMAILS AND NO ONE CAN FIX THE ISSUES.

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the tailgate and the hood unintendedly lowered after being raised and struck the contact. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

The back passenger door will not open from outside or inside (driver side) which is safety issue that needs to be recalled immediately.

On my Driver/passenger seat the recline switch with not go back only forward. The dealer explains to me that just diagnosing the issue is 250 then the switch is going to cost me over $800. If replace the Power Seat Switch for $49.99 and the Power Seat Switch Knob only cost $ 15 plus dollars, also to replace the motor $200-300 now my air bag light is on not sure if it's because of the seat functioning or not, my kid's car seats are right behind the seats so its concerning to me. Looking online they are hundreds of people complaining of this, but no action has been taken such as a recall.

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated and the vehicle shifted into limp mode, causing the speed to be reduced to 20 mph. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The mechanic was unable to retrieve a fault code. Additionally, while driving at speeds above 60 mph, the 2nd-row captain seats shook and vibrated abnormally. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 40,000.

WRONG TIRE PRESSURE READING

WHILE DRIVING ON DECEMBER 11, 2017 AFTER DARK, DOWN A MOUNTAIN PASS IN COLORADO, AT 55 MPH, ALL OF THE LIGHTS - INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR - FAILED (TURNED OFF) MOMENTARILY. WHEN MY HUSBAND HIT THE BRAKES, HE COULD SEE THE BRAKE LIGHTS ACTIVATE IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. AFTER PLAYING WITH THE HEADLIGHT CONTROLS FOR A FEW SECONDS, EVERYTHING CAME BACK ON. THIS HAPPENED AS MY HUSBAND WAS SWITCHING FROM THE HIGH BEAMS TO THE LOW BEAMS. EVEN THOUGH THE INTERIOR (DASHBOARD) LIGHTS WERE OFF, THE RADIO CONTINUED TO PLAY.