VehicleVerdict

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

A typical year for this model

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz sits mid-pack among Santa Cruz years: 51 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 51, with a single recall and no defect investigations.

No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across transmission (11), driver assistance (8), and engine (6), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect. In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.

51

NHTSA complaints

1

Recalls

0

Investigations

4

Crash-involved

0

Fires reported

4

Injuries

0

Deaths

5

NCAP overall · of 5 stars

How does 2024 compare to other Santa Cruz years?

Santa Cruz NHTSA complaints by model year, 2024 highlighted269 complaints2022: 269 complaints2023: 106 complaints2024: 51 complaints2025: 25 complaints2026: 6 complaints
Santa Cruz NHTSA complaints by model year, 2024 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all Santa Cruz years to avoid →

What are the most common 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz problems?

ComponentComplaintsShare
Transmission1122%
Driver Assistance816%
Engine612%
Speed Control510%
Other48%
Fuel System48%
Brakes24%
Airbags24%
Electrical System24%
Steering24%
Lighting12%
Body & Structure12%
Suspension12%
Seat Belts12%
Tires & Wheels12%

Does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz have recalls?

1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

24V412000SteeringJune 5, 2024 · 795 units

Defect

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Tucson and Santa Cruz vehicles. The circuit board in the motor-driven power steering assembly may short circuit, resulting in a loss of power steering assist.

Consequence

A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the motor-driven power steering electric power pack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 261.

Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA

Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.

while driving my car lost power and slowed on its own from 65 mph down to 45 mph. i had to power/acceleration and all the dashboard codes lit up and the infotainment system had an error messsage. i was force to pull over on the freeway and restart the car to get power to it. this is the 2nd time…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Transmission · November 20, 2023

When the lane keeping assistant is operating, a constant, fairly loud buzzing sound emanates from the steering column, accompanied by a slight vibration on the steering wheel. When driving at low speeds and in traffic jams, this makes you nervous and distracts you from driving. The dealership…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Driver Assistance · July 30, 2024

while driving my car lost power and slowed on its own from 65 mph down to 45 mph. i had to power/acceleration and all the dashboard codes lit up and the infotainment system had an error messsage. i was force to pull over on the freeway and restart the car to get power to it. this is the 2nd time…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · November 20, 2023

while driving my car lost power and slowed on its own from 65 mph down to 45 mph. i had to power/acceleration and all the dashboard codes lit up and the infotainment system had an error messsage. i was force to pull over on the freeway and restart the car to get power to it. this is the 2nd time…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Speed Control · November 20, 2023

The sun roof exploded in an upward projection while traveling 65mph with driver window slightly open. Glass everywhere with tiny glass slivers inbedded in my right hand and cheeck. Heard slight popping noise just prior to glass failure. Headed to dealership on 3/3/2025. Found other reports online…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Other · February 28, 2025

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz — common questions

Is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz reliable?

It is close to typical for the Santa Cruz: 51 NHTSA complaints, 1 recall, and no investigations on file.

What are the most common 2024 Santa Cruz problems?

According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are transmission (11 complaints), driver assistance (8 complaints), engine (6 complaints).

Does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Which Hyundai Santa Cruz years should you avoid?

Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Santa Cruz years to avoid are 2022, 2023. The cleanest record among Santa Cruz years belongs to 2026.

How safe is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz earned an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.