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    Hyundai Santa Fe

    EPA MPG: 22 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2020 Santa Fe has about average reliability compared to other cars from the same model year.

    The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    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 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "Lift gate "sinking" with each use (losing height). Started March 2025. Waiting for resolution."

    Anonymous, IN (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "The front drivers seat belt broke"

    Anonymous, CA (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "driver's seat fabric is separating"

    Anonymous, AZ (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Alternator"

    Anonymous, CA (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Snow builds up under the hood scoop during heavy snowfalls, rendering the wipers ineffective, requiring frequent stops to clear them."

    Anonymous A., NY (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Cruise control doesnt hold the speed on hills. Doesnt shift down"

    Anonymous, WA (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    ""The dealer said it was a stuck fuel injector. Caused very rough idle, noxious exhaust, loss of use for days.""

    Anonymous, DE (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Turbo waste gate actuator"

    Anonymous A., (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "Car would not start. It acted like the brake pedal wasn't depressed and there was no sound when trying to start. I had to pump the brake or put car in neutral or just move the gear shift or even turn the steering wheel back and forth and eventually the car would start. Strangely the problem went away after my summer tires were replaced by winters. Coincidence I'm sure? It may have been a FOB issue but I had replaced both batteries with brand name Energizers and this didn't help when I had the issue beginning last spring and lasting until November. Seems okay now."

    Anonymous, ON (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Calipers

    "Auto hold caused rear left caliper to stick"

    Anonymous, TX (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "I was on a long trip when the right rear brake seized. The calliper and electronic power brake are located there and it seized up and the car wouldnt move without damaging the brake system. The car was towed to the dealership in North Charleston where they have a policy of not looking at a car for 3 to 5 days. They looked at the car on the fifth day and then had to order a part that took 3 days. It was a nightmare and extremely expensive."

    Anonymous A., FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Parking brake

    "The electronic power brake is a new system that replaces the old type On my 2009 Sante Fe. If Id had that system I believe I could have continued on the trip and had other options for repairs."

    Anonymous A., FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Premature brake wear

    "Routers and pads replaced on rear at 30000 klms"

    Anonymous, (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    ""I had a front brake job on 6/3/2024 after experiencing brake pulsing. The brake pads were replaced and the rotors painted. Prior to that date, I had a front brake job on 7/5/2023 after the brake pulsing. The rotors were replaced, and the pads were replaced. I had a rear brake job on 2/13/2025 because they were making noise. The rear left caliper had seized and had to be replaced and the brake shoes on both sides were replaced. I had a rear brake job on 2/9/2024 after experiencing brake pulsing. The brake shoes on both sides were replaced and the rotors were painted. I had a rear brake job on 3/1/2023 where the shoes on both sides were replaced. All of the brake work was performed at the Firestone Complete Auto Care in Columbia Maryland, store #024473.""

    Anonymous, MD (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Rotors

    "Brake rotors were not adjusted to New brake pads"

    Anonymous, DE (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "Paint was chipping and peeling. Hyundai repainted affected areas."

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "On the back of the car, below the back windshield, the paint has peeled off, it is about the size of a softball. This started 4 months ago. On the hood of the car, in the front, the paint peeled off, it is about the size of a quarter. Our local dealership tells us that the paint is not under warranty. It will cost $1,500 to touch up the paint. We are very disappointed in Hyundai and I do not want to buy another one, but my husband loves Hyundai's."

    Anonymous A., FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL Unsure)

    "paint on front passenger side peeling"

    Anonymous, SC (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    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

    Other steering/suspension problem

    ""A loud thump by rear right wheel when going over a bump or drop, getting more frequent but dealer is unable to find cause""

    Anonymous, CA (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Im unsure on the specifics The steering wheel vibrates with the car at 35+ mph"

    Anonymous, NC (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen freezes up

    "Screen freezes up"

    Anonymous A., WI (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Other in-car electronics problem

    "GPS never pick up all the address in my area had it updated and still did pick up all the address in my area like GPS on car screen I use my cell phone for business not maps"

    Anonymous A., WI (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    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.

    What Owners Say

    CV joint

    "Had it replaced"

    Anonymous A., CA (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Driveline vibration

    "Vibrating as soon as it reaches 35+ mph"

    Anonymous, NC (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Cylinder head

    ""The cylinder head blew, at 95000 miles, Hyundai replaced engine as it was under the 1000000 mile warranty. Hyundai was very good supporting their warranty at no cost to me.""

    Anonymous, OH (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Turbo or supercharger

    "They had trouble finding the engine problem gave me the car back and check engine light lit again. It took 3 weeks to resolve gettign a new turbo installed"

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    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.

    What Owners Say

    Door handle

    "Chrome wrapping on both left door handles developed bubbles. Dealer replaced the wrap on both handles about 11 months ago. No cost to me."

    Anonymous A., AZ (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 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

    Oil leaks

    "Oil pan nut thread leak"

    Anonymous A., SC (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "Received new transmission."

    Anonymous, NY (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    ""Really not sure of the problem with air conditioner, but it took 2 times into service to diagnosse and fis""

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    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

    12V battery

    "Stop and go feature stopped working requiring a new battery."

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    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.

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    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.

    2020 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Hyundai vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
    00
    01*
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    07*
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    19*
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    25
    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    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
    TRAILER HITCHES
    Mar 17, 2023
    A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
    What should you do:
    Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
    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.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V181000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 584784
    VISIBILITY
    Dec 28, 2021
    A windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will remove and reinstall the front windshield panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 216.
    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.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V00M000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 26413
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