VehicleVerdict

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe engine problems

The 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe has 234 engine complaints filed with NHTSA — 49% of the year's total, and up sharply from the prior model year.

234

Engine complaints

49%

Share of year

6

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Engine complaints by year

Related recalls

20V746000EngineDecember 1, 2020 · 128,948 units

Defect

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.

Consequence

A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.

What owners report

My 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe caught fire on October 29, 2025. Prior to this, the dealership completed one recall but left another open. Hyundai denied my claim and refused to provide the inspection report. I am filing this complaint because I believe the incomplete recall may be related and I want…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · October 29, 2025 · fire

Common questions

How many engine complaints does the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe have?

NHTSA has 234 complaints about the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe engine — 49% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe engine?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the engine: 20V746000.

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.