One problem related to brake hoses, lines/piping, and fittings has been reported for the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe based on all problems reported for the 2003 Santa Fe.
The brakes failed as I was backing out of my driveway. This vehicle was purchased and used by my son in the metro new york - new jersey area. It is involved in the Hyundai recall campaign #124 because of a concern with corrosion since it was operated in 'the salt belt' for many years. (I obtained the vehicle from him and it has been in florida for the past few years. ) I believe that the same corrosion from road salt attacked the brake lines on the vehicle and caused this failure. This could have resulted in serious injury or death had I been on the highway. The aaa automobile club driver who picked up the vehicle for transport to my service station noted that he has repeatedly seen this problem with the sante fe model. I believe this is an issue that NHTSA should investigate so that others in the class can be spared injury or death. Aside from the inconvenience and loss of the vehicle's use, I had a direct expense of $455. 59 to make the repair.