One problem related to engine exhaust system has been reported for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe based on all problems reported for the 2012 Santa Fe.
I was driving on the freeway, and noticed a ticking sound. Over 2 miles it became progressively worse until it was a loud knocking. I had to exit one freeway, and merge to another, before I could get to an actual exit. Upon trying to accelerate to speed to merge, the knock became severe, I lost compression, and the SUV died. There was a puff of smoke out of the exhaust and I rolled to the shoulder. After being towed to the dealership I found out that the #4 rocker arm had shot through the engine block causing a hole in the engine.