general problems of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe - part 1

I was driving on March 20, 2026 at about 12:00 pm when I suddenly noticed smoke, a strong gasoline smell, an oil smell, and a burning odor coming from the vehicle. I pulled over immediately because I believed the vehicle was unsafe and at risk of fire. The vehicle had to be towed. An independent repair shop later found a fuel leak at the high-pressure fuel line / fuel pump area, a loose ground wire on the right-hand side of the engine, a valve cover gasket leak, and engine timing chain noise. I was informed that gasoline had sprayed throughout the engine bay. This created an immediate fire hazard even though no actual fire occurred. This problem was especially concerning because the vehicle had been inspected and serviced by an authorized Hyundai dealer in December 2025, less than about 3,000 miles earlier. The loose engine ground wire and fuel leak raise serious concerns about vehicle safety and the adequacy of the prior inspection. I contacted Hyundai the same day and reported this as a fire-risk safety issue, but I did not receive timely assistance. Because immediate dealer service was not available, I had to authorize emergency repairs at a local shop for safety reasons. No warning lights were noted before the incident. The failure was confirmed by the repair shop.

While traveling at approximately 80 mph on the highway, my vehicle suddenly lost all response to the accelerator pedal. Despite continued pressure on the gas, the vehicle rapidly decelerated to approximately 40 mph on its own. There were no warning lights, unusual noises, or physical indicators of a problem before, during, or after the event. I was able to safely navigate the vehicle off the highway. The vehicle appeared to operate normally afterward. The following day, I brought the vehicle to a mechanic who was unable to replicate the issue and found no stored fault codes. No repairs were made. Given the known concerns surrounding the theta ii engine in this model year, I am submitting this incident for documentation purposes and to contribute to any ongoing or future investigation into sudden acceleration loss in 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles.

Engine seizure. Driving 80mph on i90, pop sound from under the hood happens & check engine light came on; immediately pulled over & the oil and battery light came on; turned car off & it would not start again. Smoke then came from engine while trying to restart. Code 1326.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact stated that the repair coverage was denied because of the maintenance record of the previous owner of the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Official dealer refusal to perform critical safety recall (VIN: [xxx] ) description: I am reporting a formal refusal by the official Hyundai distributor in the dominican republic (magna motors) to perform critical safety recalls on my us-spec vehicle. Pending recalls: recall #251 (NHTSA 23v651000): abs module fire risk. Campaign #953: ksds software update. The dealer (magna motors) refuses to perform the service, claiming a "lack of tools," and has declined to provide a written explanation for this denial. This is a severe violation of safety regulations regarding life-threatening defects (fire risk). As the vehicle is a us-spec unit, I request NHTSA’s intervention to ensure the manufacturer (Hyundai) compels its local representative to complete these repairs immediately at no cost. Please note: I am using a us mailing address only to complete this form. The vehicle and I are physically located in the dominican republic. The local official distributor, magna motors, is failing to honor these NHTSA safety recalls. " information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The knock sensor recall was done. Currently engine started knocking and became undrivable. This vehicle qualifies for the Hyundai engine replacement recall, but they denied my claim.

I requested engine oil consumption tests on November 12, 2020 and March 27,2021 at vandergriff huyndai, arlington, TX. Nothing was resolved,. I have been adding oil myself and getting oil changes regularly since. At 146,000 miles it's been worse. After just 2,000 miles after an oil change it was below low, my mechanic topped it off 3 weeks ago and I've had to add oil since. Took my car to jerry's huyndai, weatherford, texas on December 29,2025. Due to oil consumption, smoke, smell, and I'm wondering if the vibrating is from the engine or if I need new spark plugs. I was told that my valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. I feel like I'm still getting the run around and the car can't keep oil above low level. I've never seen oil under the car and when I took the car to vandergriff in 2020 and 2021 they didn't see a leak they said. I also took my car in 8/21 and had the abs repaired and as of recent its out again. I took my car into an independent mechanic shop today 1/2/2026 and he said he felt that the valve cover gasket is not the main problem he feels it would be a waste of money until the engine is replaced. I also heard a new noise today not knocking but tapping noise while driving. My car has hesitated recently, but jerrys huyndai didnt have that happen while driving it. My car would be available for inspection any time requested. I am just concerned about the smoking if it will get worse, is there a risk of fire and I'm disabled, so I'm concerned if I will have a problem getting out of the car in time if that were to happen or if the car would stop in the middle of the street. This is my only car and I care for 2 sons that are disabled. I need a safe car. Also, the car manager rachel at jerry's huyndai seemed focused that I would be charged 225. 00 if it was not the rod bearings. It just seemed like she more focused on that instead of finding the problem. The only lights on is the abs.

Circuit board inside the fuse box stopped working and there was no speed indicator, no cruise control, no odometer registering while driving. Also the mechanical fuel pump started leaking fuel at 148,000 miles and now at 156,000 miles it is burning through oil and no oil light came on and the engine went into limp mode and is also now going through coolant too.

The engine in my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe 2. 0t shut off suddenly while driving and would not restart. The dealership confirmed the engine is seized, has bottom-end knocking, and failed the bct (bearing clearance test). Hyundai denied assistance claiming ‘maintenance neglect,’ but the mechanical failure is consistent with known Hyundai gdi engine defects. This presents a serious safety hazard because the vehicle lost power unexpectedly while in motion and could have caused a crash.

Check engine light came on at 100,400 mile while on the freeway and car went into limp mode. Mechanic found p1326 code and the engine knocking. Tried to drive it to the dealership and the engine seized up. Towed it to the dealership and waiting to hear if Hyundai will pay for a new engine under their extended warranty campaign.

While driving the car, started to smell gas and saw smoke. Tried to pull over and abs lights came on and lost brakes. Was able to stop using emergency break. Car was completely engulfed in seconds.

The engine shut down into limp mode. I was on the interstate and this caused me to slow down and cause traffic problems. Yes, I have taken my car to mccarthy olathe Hyundai and was told there was a recall for knocking and would not be fixed because I needed a new engine. My engine light came on and the car slowed down. As soon as this happened I took the car to the dealership to be fixed. I did not drive the car anymore.

Number 4 piston developed a hole in it. Also the engine has been going through a lot of oil.

On Aug 2, 2025, while traveling back from vacation with our family of 4, our engine failed and completely seized up on a very busy highway. The vehicle completely shut off in a lane of travel near an exit ramp, and we were unable to even pull off on a shoulder for safety. We were unable to restart the vehicle or reproduce the issue because the vehicle will not turn on. There were no warning lamps or other messages. However, the car has historically consumed an extraordinary amount of oil, even with routine oil changes and service. Two quarts of oil were added to the vehicle the day before this happened. The vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealership and the incident was reported to Hyundai USA. We've been told the dealership can not run tests or inspect the vehicle until Aug. 21, nearly three weeks after it happened. We were told this is because they have numerous other vehicles with similar problems. This was an incredibly terrifying experience that put the safety of our family of 4, including two young children, at risk. A bystander called 911 and a state trooper arrived to set up flares and expedite a tow truck. We were told the spot we broke down is an incredibly busy part of an interstate where fatal accidents happen every other day.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the odor of gasoline was present inside the cabin of the vehicle. While driving approximately 25 mph, flames were present coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was parked and quickly became engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the fire. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed along was personal items inside. A fire report was taken at the scene that indicated the fire had originated in the engine compartment of the vehicle. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the fire. The contact indicated that the vehicle was recently serviced at the local dealer for a manufacture's campaign p-1326. The failure mileage was 159,000.

While driving, my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe suddenly began losing acceleration without warning. No check engine lights were on at the time. The rpms surged to 5,000–6,000, but the vehicle failed to gain speed. Moments later, the car lost all power completely. The red engine warning light and battery light illuminated on the dashboard, and the vehicle became unresponsive and would not restart. I had the vehicle towed to a certified Hyundai dealership, where a diagnostic inspection confirmed a rod bearing failure — a well-documented issue associated with the theta ii engine. The dealership initially stated this type of failure should fall under Hyundai’s extended warranty related to the class action lawsuit regarding defective theta ii engines. I purchased the vehicle used in 2020 and have kept detailed maintenance records for every year of ownership, all of which I submitted to Hyundai in support of my engine replacement claim. Despite this, Hyundai denied coverage and declined to replace the engine. This type of sudden engine failure, without any prior warning indicators, is extremely dangerous and appears consistent with the known defects in theta ii engines previously investigated by NHTSA. I’m filing this complaint in the interest of safety, transparency, and accountability, especially as other drivers may be exposed to similar risks. I respectfully urge NHTSA to review this incident as part of its ongoing oversight of Hyundai’s theta ii engine defects and consider re-opening or expanding its investigation into these failures. I also request that NHTSA encourage Hyundai to reconsider its decision to deny my engine replacement claim, especially given the safety-critical nature of the failure and my full compliance with maintenance expectations.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated while driving 35 mph, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The engine warning light, battery, and abs warning lights illuminated, with another unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle returned to function as intended; however, the failure recurred a short distance afterwards. The contact was able to pull over to a rest area and the engine seized. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed that the engine had seized, and metal shavings were found in the oil. The dealer declined to perform the repair. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact advised that the vehicle never passed inspection. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.

While I acknowledge that my vehicle is no longer under warranty, I remain extremely concerned about the excessive oil consumption issue. My vehicle is equipped with the theta ii engine, which has been the subject of multiple class action lawsuits and recalls due to serious engine defects, including excessive oil consumption and internal engine failure. To be clear, I have already had the vehicle inspected by a non-Hyundai dealership, which confirmed there are no external oil leaks. This indicates the issue is likely internal and consistent with the known defects associated with the theta ii engine. Given Hyundai’s awareness of these problems — as reflected in class action settlements and technical service bulletins — I believe it is reasonable to expect Hyundai to cover the cost of diagnostic inspection and consider goodwill assistance if a defect is confirmed. Hyundai got back to me but and said we have reviewed your vehicle information and have determined your vehicle is affected by campaign txx8. However it’s over the 150000 miles.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport 2. 4l gdi engine failure due to known theta ii defect. Engine developed severe knocking and is unsafe to operate. The vehicle has experienced engine failure consistent with Hyundai’s recalled theta ii gdi defect (metal debris and bearing wear). Hyundai has refused to replace the engine, citing incomplete oil change records from a prior owner. This denial is unreasonable, as the defect is a manufacturer issue, not ordinary wear or maintenance neglect. The vehicle is unsafe to drive and at risk of stalling/fire. I request NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s refusal to honor its recall and extended warranty obligations.

Driving at about 80 mph the engine stalled. Check engine and oil light turned on dealer said there were no lights and no codes present and simply changed oil. 18 miles later engine light was flashing and engine started making horrible noise. Towed back to dealer and vehicle failed bearing test.

While driving to work the gas pedal suddenly would not make the vehicle excellerate and I was barely able to get the car on the side of the road, when I stopped and turned it off it would not start again. I had it towed to the mechanic and they have let us know it was total engine failure, and they would be attempting to get ahold of the manufacture.

2013 Santa Fe burning oil, current with regular maintenance and oil changes. At times will have to top off weekly. Between full oil changes. Doesn’t seem like I should have to do that. My engine could blow if I don’t keep oil in it. Cost me tons of money have documented all of my oil changes, from a professional business thank you.

Car has 88,000 miles on the odometer and is burning oil, resulting in the need for oil replenishment of 1 to 2 quarts every 1000 miles.

Just started stalling , internal engine damage.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the vehicle with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the failure was not determined. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or special program. The contact stated that the dealer declined to diagnose the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact referenced an unstated recall with a similar failure; however, the contact was informed that the recall was closed. The contact stated that the vehicle was purchased used, and had not receive a recall notification. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

While driving at highway speeds (approximately 70 mph), my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport suddenly lost power and began shaking violently. I was forced to quickly maneuver across multiple lanes of traffic to exit the freeway and avoid a potential collision. The vehicle became barely drivable and extremely unsafe, especially at high speed. Hyundai later diagnosed the issue as a complete engine failure due to zero compression in cylinder 2. This catastrophic failure happened without warning lights, abnormal noises, or prior symptoms, making it a severe and unexpected safety hazard. Had this occurred while merging, on a curve, or in heavy traffic, it could have easily led to an accident, injuries, or worse. This type of failure — sudden loss of propulsion at freeway speed — puts both the driver and others on the road at serious risk. I am submitting this report because I believe this engine failure reflects a critical mechanical defect that warrants investigation.

Engine has always burned oil and vehicle only has 72,000 miles on it. Leaking black liquid/oil out exhaust pipe, blowing out black clouds of smoke and have to keep adding oil. Whole rear end had to be replaced, timing chain and cover replaced, ac unit replaced, rear camera replaced, climate controls change settings by them selves, leaking gaskets, all this and more has been going on with this vehicle when it only had 35,000 miles on it. Front suspension creaks for years. No way a vehicle should have all these issues with low mileage and has been very well cared for!.

Unknown car was purchased in September started having engine problem in December.

All of a sudden, while driving the car it started to shake. When I slowed down to stop it was shaking more and idling so low I thought it was going to shut off. Went to the mechanic we use, mis firing on multiple cylinders. After replacing the plugs it was still doing the same thing. The oil was checked, only 2000 miles from my last oil change, I was nearly out of oil. I was told that these cars run a lot of oil, and run hot. Basically getting that low on oil the engine burned up. I never got a low oil light. Its only been 2000 miles into my recent oil change. The mechanic said this is a common problem with these cars, people shouldn't go more than 2000 without at least checking oil level and probably will need oil added. I was told not to drive it anymore, it could potentially over heat or stall out.

The car has class action repair due to faulty engine crank shaft. The oil passages in the crankshaft causing rapid wear to the connecting rod bearings. The car stopped and broke down in the middle of the highway and engine broke down. The engine completely seized. I contacted Hyundai but they don’t wanna replace the engine. The class action lawsuit agreed to replace the engine but they don’t wanna help with my case.

The engine went on fire and smoke’s up. I had to remove the battery and get out of the car before it burn. Luckily I am okay but the engine seized.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound while decelerating. The contact stated that 6,000 miles prior to the failure, there was an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that piston #3 was blown. The vehicle was not repaired due to the warranty being expired. The contact was advised by the local dealer that the failure was related to technical service bulletins: 22-em-001h-1 and 22-em-002h-1. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph a knocking noise was present coming from the engine compartment, the check engine light had illuminated and the vehicle's speed suddenly reduced to under 30 mph. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 166,000.

My wife was driving the vehicle and it was operating perfectly fine. As she was making a turn and accelerating the check engine light and other lights turned on. She started to experience loss of acceleration and was fortunate to get out of traffic where she turned off the vehicle. She let it sit for a little bit and then attempted to start it. It would not start so I came to try to help and when I attempted to start it, the engine would not turn over. We had it towed to our mechanic and he indicated that the engine was seized up. This vehicle is always serviced and babied by my wife. As I mentioned there was no warning, I. E. No rough idle, no loud noises, no leaking fluids,etc. . Prior to the catastrophic failure it was a very smooth and great driving vehicle. After searching this issue it appears that the 3. 3 liter v6 that was in our vehicle has several recalls and accounts of similar failures. Had this happened on the highway it could have caused a serious accident. Given the number of complaints online and allegations, it is reasonable to assume that Hyundai was aware of an issue and they either failed to investigate it, or failed to communicate it. Had there been some sort of recall to address this issue we would’ve had it resolved, but there wasn’t anything tied to our VIN despite us having one of the plagued engines. Please help ensure that they are held responsible for this known liability so that the consumers aren’t. It is not only a financial matter, it is causing risk to safety for any owners that have this engine on the road.

I was stopped at a red light and proceeded to turn right when my car shut down. I was able to pull over and turned my car off. It wouldn’t turn back on. I had it towed and they found the engine is locked up.