2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Vehicles › Hyundai › Santa Fe Sport › 2015
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
These records cover every 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
3 recalls name the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. Newest first.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by NHTSA Recall 21V-303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V-303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.
The factory white paint on my vehicle’s hood is suffering from severe delamination and peeling down to the bare primer and metal. The paint is flaking off in large sheets from the hood with no prior collision or physical damage. Hyundai has acknowledged a known manufacturing defect involving primer adhesion failure on white vehicles under Service Campaigns like Z05 and TXXW, yet my VIN has been excluded from coverage despite exhibiting the exact same failure. They have denied any "Goodwill" considerations. This issue presents serious safety hazards on the road: - Flying Debris Hazard: Because the failure is on the front hood, large sheets of paint catch high-speed airflow and tear away at highway speeds, creating flying debris that can hit or distract trailing drivers. - Dangerous Sunlight Glare: The large patch of exposed bare metal and dull primer on the hood reflects intense sunlight directly into my field of vision, causing severe glare that impairs visibility while driving. - Rapid Structural Corrosion: Without protective topcoat paint, the hood metal is directly exposed to moisture and road salts (winter is approaching), causing premature surface rust and structural degradation. Hyundai's refusal to remediate this documented factory defect leaves a hazardous and deteriorating vehicle condition unaddressed.
I had my engine replaced on XXX from a Hyundai dealership in [XXX]. About a year and some months I was at the Sansone auto mall on [XXX] in [XXX]. I did have a transmission replaced under warranty XXX at that same dealership. My problem is that every so often I lose acceleration when I step on the gas. It's very random and happens more on highway driving. Long story short they said it was my catalytic converter. This was in 2025 I believe and I do have the receipt in my folder. I let the dealership know that it's still happening. I spent over 3k dollars and it's frustrating. They even had me go out with a tech to drive in the road. While he drove he didn't experience this but when I drove with him I let him know look my foot is down on the gas and we're not moving. I filed with BBB but when they said to them to have me come back I just couldn't do it anymore. I've been there and they gave me loaner cars each time. The fact that they just give me looks as if I'm lying is not good. Some time has passed and it was fine. Just recently when I was on the outer bridge I felt no acceleration. I don't want to go back to that particular dealership and am wondering if this is just an engine issue with my car. I've read that these engines have a history of this type of problem. I'm not sure what steps to take but I just don't want to be on the road and it fails for longer than a few seconds. One local place in [XXX] said it will be. Waste to bring in if this issue is very random. Thank you for your time . I almost forgot to say but some days it does that and I try to keep my foot on the gas the car shakes a little. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
See Attached Letter For Complaint
The vehicle suffered a severe engine overheating failure that created an immediate fire risk and electrical safety signaling failure. A brand-new replacement engine was installed by an authorized dealership in April 2026 under a goodwill warranty and had only been driven ~ 3,100 miles since installation. While operating the vehicle, the air conditioning suddenly stopped functioning. Upon restarting, the check engine light illuminated; however, there was never any dashboard temperature warning indicator, notification, or chime to alert the driver to an active overheating situation. Shortly after, the engine completely disabled itself and died while in transit in a parking lot. AAA was contacted to tow the vehicle. Smoke was visible coming out of the engine's oil dipstick and oil intake spout before being towed. After being towed home, an overwhelming chemical burning odor was noted and continued to get worse. A physical check revealed that the oil level on the dipstick was critically overfilled a full inch above the maximum fill line. The local fire department responded to the scene to mitigate the thermal risk, ordered the battery disconnected due to safety hazards, and deemed the vehicle entirely unsafe to operate or connect to power. This represents a catastrophic failure of critical safety equipment and onboard driver warning networks on a newly installed engine assembly, presenting an active safety and fire hazard to passengers. An official corporate safety case has been opened with Hyundai Motor America under Case Number: 43112676.
While I was driving my Theta engine got seized and Hyundai denied extended warranty of power train.
Today while driving to church we started hearing a ping noise ever so often. This just started then . After leaving church to go home the pinging noise got louder than the engine stalled and wouldn't start again. I had to have my car towed to my house. That is where it is now. The tow truck driver said that it was a rod. He said that he was mostly sure that it was happened. He stated that he has towed similar ones like mine with the same problem.
For a few months- the ABS light, Downhill assist light, and Slippery road light have all been on. Read it could be due to a bad sensor. Then on Saturday July 4th, I turned the car on and the Ebrake light was on but my ebrake was NOT initiated. Car was making a low humming noise on front passenger side of vehicle as well. I read the ebrake light could come on due to low brake fluid, so I wanted to drive it around the block to further try and diagnose the issue. My car then made a pop noise and started smoking from where the ABS pump is located and my tail lights all started flickering like Christmas lights. I instantly turned the car off and disconnected the battery to prevent an electrical fire. UPON researching- there is a recall for 2015 Santa Fe’s for this exact issue except mine isn’t on the list. I need to talk to someone who has seniority upon this situation because I have called Hyundai Customer service and my local dealership and nothing is being done or nobody cares to resolve this situation. My car is currently at a trusted local garage awaiting repair- I can not tow it back and forth between the garage and a dealership. I rely on my car for my children and work.. I can’t play around waiting for them to inspect it weeks from now. This is a serious issue as my children were also in the car. Everything is VERY similar to the recall on other 2015 Santa Fe’s..
FHW Garage used car dealer [XXX], sold this Hyundai Santa fe 2015 knowing the vehicle is defective. It Stalls and stops in the middle of the road in High Traffic. This Hyundai Santa Fe 2015 Lock up the Steering Wheel, Lock up the breaks, Lock up the gas. it Stalls and stops without Warning then after it freeze and stop it flashes all of the Warning Lights on the dash board. FHW Garage is Falsely Advertising this vehicle in Excellent Condition. Its Advertised on Craigs List, and [XXX]. I was almost in a Serious Accident. [XXX] keeps getting his people in the workshop to Machanically Rig the Vehicle to run and drive until someone gets killed when this vehicle is in a terrible Accident. The Gas Cap dont screw on properly. Fhw Garage [XXX] sold me this Vehicle with full knowlege of the Mechanical Defects, and refuses to give my money back. I paid $5,400 Cash plus traded my car. The Hyundai Santa fe was $6,900. Deceptive Practices Fraud, and Title Jumping. FHW still have the two cars after I purchased them. I would like to see FHW Dealer License Suspended or Revoked. Give my money back and return my car. I will be filing a complaint Affidavit with the FLHSMV. [XXX] lied on the Bill of Sales how much I paid and he put $900 in his pocket. I will also file a complaint to FHW [XXX]. For defrauding me, Misrepresentation saying the Vehicle is in Excellent Condition when its Mechanically Defective, and Dangerous should not be on the road to kill someone. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
On 4/25/2026 I lost power on business freeway an orange light flash on along with whining noise I had to steer to right side shoulder for safety. Had it towed to dealership on 4/27/2026 they informed me 3 days later on 4/30/2026 that my car overheated. My car never overheated no smell of coolant nor no steam from the car when I exit to shoulder and turn car off. Retrieved manual from glove compartment it stated it had went into limp model. This has been a constantly nightmare my family could have been planning a funeral. These car manufacturers needs to be held accountable for their vehicle.
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65-70 MPH, the check engine warning light started flashing, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road, where the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a parking lot, where a mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was towed to the residence and then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that the engine had failed, and there was sludge in the engine oil. The dealer informed the contact that the engine replacement could not be covered due to missing oil change documentation prior to the ownership of the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
Engine failed while driving down the road, car was looked at by two mechanics with no known reason for engine failure so car was took to Hyundai of murfreesboro for diagnostic testing and was there for a total of 12 days for inspection, in which during that time i as asked to submit maintenance records for vehicle which i provided 18 pages of oil changes, other records. I was then told my claim was denied by Hyundai due to maintenance neglect as worded by the technician through a text message “is not proceeding with coverage on the engine due the cause of engine failure being maintenance neglect ” i received to other valid reason or cause, nor via email or in writing only a text message.
The contact’s daughter owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. While the owner was driving approximately 70 MPH, the engine started making a knocking sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The driver called the contact and was advised to pull over to the side of the road and turn off the vehicle. Once the vehicle was turned off, it was towed to a certified mechanic who was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to another mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer, who confirmed the failure and that the engine needed to be repaired. The dealer informed the contact of a Class Action Lawsuit for the engine failure and that the engine could be repaired; however, because the vehicle had not received the software update for Hyundai Campaign: (Hyundai TXXM Warranty Extension Number: 966/953/TXXM); the vehicle was no longer eligible to receive the engine replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer opened a case. The failure mileage was 86,204.
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a blown engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the warranty service was declined because the oil maintenance records were not available. The failure mileage was approximately 114,080.
My 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe with approximately 101,000 miles has experienced gradual deterioration of both low beam headlights. The light output is extremely dim and unsafe for night driving. Visibility is significantly reduced, making it difficult to see lane markings, pedestrians, and road hazards. The issue developed gradually over time and affects both headlights equally, suggesting an internal projector or reflector failure rather than a bulb issue. Bulbs have been checked/replaced, but brightness remains poor. This condition creates a serious safety hazard when driving at night. I am requesting investigation into potential headlight projector or reflector defects.
SUBJECT: Sabotage of Safety-Related Engine Test via Unauthorized Modification DESCRIPTION: While my vehicle was undergoing an official manufacturer oil consumption test for a potential engine replacement warranty claim, a dealership in Lincolnwood, IL damaged the oil pan threads. Instead of a proper OEM repair, they installed a non-standard, oversized self-tapping "KKB" bolt without my knowledge or consent to conceal the damage. SAFETY RISK: Two independent certified mechanics have verified this as a hazardous "quick-fix." This non-OEM bolt relies on compromised aluminum threads and poses a severe risk of sudden, catastrophic oil loss, which could lead to engine seizure and fire while driving. MANUFACTURER NEGLIGENCE: The manufacturer has been presented with photographic and independent expert evidence confirming this unauthorized modification. Despite the clear safety hazard, the manufacturer has repeatedly delayed resolution through multiple follow-up postponements. CONSEQUENCES: This unauthorized modification has halted the engine safety test, leaving the vehicle with both a failing engine and an unsafe oil pan. The manufacturer has refused to provide safe alternative transportation while the vehicle is in this hazardous state during extreme winter conditions. I am seeking immediate intervention to ensure the vehicle is restored to factory safety standards and the engine safety test is completed.
Dealer failure to to remedy engine replacement under settlement. I am entitled under the March 1, 2022, Settlement Agreement (the “E2 Settlement”) due to recurring Theta II engine failures caused by the oil-starvation/connecting-rod bearing defect. Vehicle stalling on highways and heavy traffic, Repeated codes and failures of MAP sensors, VVT solenoids, camshaft position sensors, starters (×3), batteries (×2), turbo wastegate, fuel pump, EVAP canister, thermostats/housings, etc. — all downstream symptoms of oil starvation and bearing failure Hyundai dealers (Hyundai of Palm Springs and others) have continued to misdiagnose and charge me for unrelated repairs while refusing to acknowledge the covered defect in the replacement engine. Relief Demanded Under the E2 Settlement Pursuant to Settlement ¶¶ 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, and 6, I demand the following within fourteen (14) days: Full replacement of the failed engine with a new or remanufactured long-block assembly at $0 out-of-pocket cost to me, including all related gaskets, hoses, sensors, turbocharger, and PCM reflash: Full reimbursement of all out-of-pocket repair expenses incurred since the 2022 replacement (approximately $8,178.50+ $150 for two maxed out Triple A cards, and a new rental car for this week at $1500.00 total to date $10,148.50— Reimbursement of all towing and rental-car expenses (receipts enclosed); Compensation for diminished value of the vehicle. Confirmation that the Lifetime Warranty remains in full force on any future engine. In the alternative, a cash buyback of $25,000 in full satisfaction of all claims. This vehicle has suffered two qualifying Theta II engine failures, the second occurring in a warranty replacement engine. Hyundai of Palm Springs continued refusal to properly honor the settlement has caused extreme hardship, safety risks (multiple freeway/intersection stalls), and thousands of dollars in unnecessary expense
GDFI MODOR IS BURNING GAS AND OIL TOO QUICKLY Randomly shutting off Burning too much oil
Put in reverse to move backwards 5 feet or so the vehicle kept going and moving faster I applied the brake and hitting the brakes as well I didn't wonna hit the parked cars behind me so I put in park thinking that will also help stop the vehicle nothing worked it only stopped after hitting my other car that was parked on the street I tried everything to stop it it just took off I came out a beautiful morning to change the radiator it was dripping from the bottom I purchased a new one I put the car front wheels on ramps to look underneath to see what sockets I needed I got in vehicle just to lower off ramps backing down slow foot covering brake once the car touch ground it accelerated not fast but wouldn't stop it happened so fast but I applied the emergency brake its moving faster applying the brake as well im looking in the mirror at wants behind me as well I put in park thinking that would stop the vehicle but it was accelerating didnt stop until it hit the car parked on the street that's also mine it was dangerous and scary and im thankful it wasnt a tragedy normally my grandkids would be playing out there i could killed them I cant stop thinking about the what could been driving 42 years I consider myself a good driver defensive driving course never had a chargeable accident drove professional also for 32 years I did all I could think of in that little bit of time it just accelerated again backing tapping brakes 2 or 3 times coming down off ramps front maybe 4 or 5 inches off ground lowering to ground it take off something worth looking into thank you last thing my wife was coming to bring me a flashlight the fence hit her 30 more seconds she probably would been hit or killed so this is really affecting me
I am writing to express my concern regarding an ongoing and persistent issue with excessive engine oil consumption in my 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, Subject: Severe Oil Consumption Issue - 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe - VIN: [XXX] The vehicle consumes an alarming amount of oil, approximately 1 quart every 300 miles. This rate of consumption is far beyond what is considered normal and strongly suggests a serious mechanical or manufacturing defect. I have already taken the vehicle to a mechanic to diagnose and attempt to resolve this problem. Based on their professional advice, the following parts were recently replaced: 1.Engine Valve Cover Gasket 2.Turbo Charger Oil Line 3.Spark Plugs Unfortunately, despite these repairs, the issue of excessive oil consumption remains unresolved. The rate of oil loss remains consistent and dangerously high. This was first informed by a service center when I took the car for a random check. Then, after traveling 1,000 miles, the engine oil level dropped again. After that, I am keeping an eye on that. This level of oil consumption poses a significant risk to the engine's long-term health and reliability, and it is a major inconvenience and expense for me as the owner. I am deeply concerned that a major engine component may be failing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Driving on freeway and noticed smoke. Realized I needed to pull over and brakes weren’t working. Off ramp was at an incline so car came to a stop just in time to get toddler and myself out of vehicle. Car was on fire.
I bought the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe yesterday evening. Upon leaving the dealership I promptly broke for a car in front of me. Immediately the vehicle turned off completely. I put the vehicle in the park and attempted to start the vehicle back up. The vehicle would not start up and begin leaking a prominent scent. Following this, white smoke with the same pungent smell was coming from the engine. I propped the hood and saw the smoke continue to release. I then motioned away from the vehicle and called for a tow truck. The car is now being inspected by the dealership I purchased it from the same day. I believe this is related to the NHTSA recall on 2010-2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, recall date 09/22/2023, recall number 21V303000, and Hyundai Safety Recall 251s Anti-Lock Braking System Fuse Replace. This issue is not listed under my vehicle VIN number but it’s apparent to be the case and issue and is being inspected further by the dealership.
While parked in front of 7-11 with engine not running, the power steering attachment in the wheel well broke and released fluid on the hot engine. Patrons in sore alerted me that the car was smoking out the hood. I raced back to my santa fe and noticed fire. The front left wheel had turned radically after I parked it. Fire extinguishers were brought from the store. I retrieved as much as I could. My santa fe burst into flames and was totally consumed. The fire department came and put out the fire. Obviously, my vehicle was destroyed. 7-11 has the event on tape. I received no compensation from anyone. I had to clean up the charred remains. Why was this vin not recalled/
Despite regular oil changes and maintenance. Engine failed due to lack of oil at 122,000 miles. Complete oil change was done at 120,000 miles. Tune up completed at 118,000 miles
Per Franklin County Fire Department report, they determined a malfunction in the canister vent valve associated with the gas tank initiated a fire. According to the department findings, the canister vent valve detached from the vehicle and was discovered approximately 200 yards behind the final position of the vehicle, still burning. This malfunction is believed to have compromised the fuel system, leading to an ignition and subsequent vehicle fire. The vehicle sustained extensive damage and was deemed a total loss.
During acceleration to pass car sputters and has no power. Merging into traffic is dangerous. The best shift is faulty as well . Mine is in park but it is showing it in drive and won't crank
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing. There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.