2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport: engine knocking or ticking

Filed Nov 5, 2026 · Engine · TX · 1 injury

the federal safety agency SAFETY & CAMPAIGN NON-COMPLIANCE COMPLAINT (VIN: [XXX] | HYUNDAI CASE #XXX): On XXX, my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.4L Theta II GDI (covered by Hyundai Warranty Extension TXXI Limited Lifetime Warranty under TSB 22-EM-001H-1 / the federal safety agency MC-10211673-0001 and Service Campaign T3G / the federal safety agency [XXX]) entered Engine Protection Mode (Limp Mode) with flashing Check Engine Light / DTC P1326 and a severe metallic connecting-rod bearing knock under 2,000 RPM. At 8:00 AM on XXX, I brought the vehicle to Huffines Hyundai Plano ([XXX]). Despite the federal safety agency ID [XXX] mandating an immediate Service Rental Car (SRC) or 3rd-party rental upon reception ("reimbursed regardless of PA's decision") and prohibiting diagnostic fees after Campaign 953/KSDS, the dealership refused a loaner, told me diagnosis would take a full week while I rent a car out of pocket, forced me to drive the unsafe vehicle in Limp Mode to take my disabled father to a medical appointment, and stranded us in the lobby for 7 hours (causing my father to miss scheduled prescriptions and failing to restore his disability placard). At 2:00 PM, the dealership claimed the vehicle "PASSED" the Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) without giving me the mandatory BCT printout or multi-point inspection sheet, cleared the P1326 code, performed a KSDS software update instead of inspecting the knocking engine, refused to record the mandatory STUI Engine Noise Video or submit a Warranty Prior Approval (PA), and tried to coerce me into signing a falsified Repair Order stating "CUSTOMER IS DECLINING DIAGNOSTICS." At 5:33 PM, HMA Executive Case Manager [XXX] ([XXX]) falsely stated in writing that TXXI is capped at 10 years/120,000 miles (confusing TXXC with TXXI), that T3G does not apply, and that passing BCT means "your rod bearings are in working order." CRITICAL HIGHWAY SAFETY FAILURE (RECORDED ON VIDEO): On the night of Wednesday, XXX — just hour INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Oct 15, 2026 · SC

FORMAL VEHICLE SAFETY AND WARRANTY COMPLAINT Date: [XXX] From: [XXX] Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, 2.4L Theta II engine Mileage: Approximately 150,000 miles (exact current reading to be confirmed) Subject: Recurrent Check-Engine Warning Following Repeated Repairs; Request for Theta II Engine Investigation I am submitting this complaint to formally document recurring engine-related symptoms affecting my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, and my repeated requests for investigation of a possible connection to the known Theta II engine defects and related warranty programs. On [XXX], the check-engine light illuminated again. Previously, on three separate occasions, the vehicle experienced a flashing check-engine light and a light ticking noise while idling. I was advised each time that the knock sensor was responsible, and the sensor was replaced. The vehicle returned to normal operation after those repairs, but similar symptoms subsequently recurred. While my vehicle was still below the 150,000-mile threshold, I repeatedly expressed concern that the symptoms could relate to the Theta II engine issue. During the most recent dealership visit, resulting in repairs on September 10, 2026, I emphasized that the recommended valve-cover gasket and spark-plug work might address a secondary issue without resolving the primary recurring problem. The check-engine light has now returned approximately five weeks after that repair. I am not claiming that a connecting-rod-bearing defect has been conclusively diagnosed. I am asking that the possibility be properly evaluated and that my earlier reports, repair attempts, and the mileage at which I first raised these concerns be preserved and considered when warranty eligibility is reviewed. I am sending this as a record of contact and communication.. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jul 30, 2026 · Engine · WV

My 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is subject to Hyundai Recall 162 / the federal safety agency Recall 17V‑226, concerning premature connecting-rod-bearing wear that can cause engine knocking, engine failure, and loss of motive power. My vehicle developed engine knocking and a flashing check-engine light while I was driving. The vehicle is now at an authorized Hyundai dealership. Hyundai initially denied an engine replacement based on mileage. I escalated the matter to Hyundai Motor America Corporate Consumer Affairs. Hyundai has now confirmed in writing that, because my vehicle is more than eight years old and has more than 150,000 miles, Hyundai is applying the high-mileage provision of the Theta II settlement and will not replace the engine. Instead, Hyundai is offering either a repurchase or $2,000 in lieu of engine replacement. I understand that Hyundai is relying on the court-approved settlement. My concern is specifically whether Hyundai’s application of that settlement to my vehicle is consistent with the administration of Recall 162 and the federal safety-recall remedy, given that my vehicle is experiencing the engine failure that Recall 162 was designed to address. I am requesting the federal safety agency’s review of Hyundai’s handling of this safety-related recall matter.

Filed Jul 13, 2026 · Engine · TX

Vehicle is a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport with the 2.4L Theta II GDI engine. A Hyundai dealer documented excessive oil consumption in December 2025 (3 quarts consumed over 1,703 miles during a dealer-administered oil consumption test; repair orders on file and available for inspection). On April 19, 2026, at 160,913 miles, following a highway drive, the engine developed a pronounced knock and vibration at low RPM and began stalling within seconds of idling in Park, with check engine and charging warning lamps illuminated. An engine that stalls at idle presents a safety hazard in traffic due to loss of power braking and steering assist. The vehicle was removed from service the same day, has not been driven since, and remains available for inspection. Knock Sensor Detection System software (Campaign 953) was installed and did not prevent the failure. Manufacturer has been notified in writing and consumer affairs cases are on file.

Filed May 28, 2026 · Engine · NY

I noticed a Check Engine Light flashing on my dashboard while driving on May 27, 2026. The vehicle suddenly losing power is extremely unsafe for me and my family, and also others on the road. This is a repeated P1326 code which happened before in 2021 and 2024. Based on the receipts I have from the previous inspections from the dealer, the Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) was not done in 2024, but was performed in 2021. The knock sensor was replaced in 2024 and I was denied engine replacement. This is a repeat failure of the same condition under Hyundai Motors TSB T3G Theta II. Once again, my safety was at extreme risk as the engine lost its power suddenly. It could have easily lead to a crash. In 2024, Hyundai and the dealer declined an engine replacement despite me showing the safety concerns and my possible eligibility for an engine replacement for the underlying condition.

Filed May 20, 2026 · Engine · 147,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, an abnormal knocking sound was heard coming from under the hood while the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the steering wheel would shudder. The Check engine oil warning light illuminated. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHSTA Campaign: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it remains for further investigation; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to a lack of maintenance records, and the recall repairs were rejected. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the recall repairs were performed under previous ownership; however, the recall repairs were not completed. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

Filed Apr 29, 2026 · Engine · CA

I am reporting a serious safety defect involving my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport equipped with a Theta II engine While driving and exiting the freeway with my wife as a passenger, the engine suddenly failed after knocking symptoms and completely seized/locked while the vehicle was still in motion. The vehicle immediately lost motive power and came to a stop, creating an immediate and dangerous traffic safety hazard. Had this engine seizure occurred moments earlier while traveling at freeway speed, it could have caused a catastrophic accident involving serious injury or death. The Hyundai dealership diagnosed the vehicle with rod bearing failure, which is the known defect associated with Hyundai Theta II engine failures. My VIN falls under the Theta II extended engine warranty program, and the dealership confirmed eligibility and accepted the vehicle for inspection under that coverage. Despite this, Hyundai denied the repair claim, first alleging maintenance-related issues and later stating the vehicle was out of warranty. I maintain that the vehicle was properly maintained with oil changes performed approximately every 6,000/8,000 miles. Some calendar-time gaps occurred because the vehicle was stored and driven very little during my recovery from a personal injury surgery and recovery, but the vehicle was maintained on mileage intervals. This engine defect resulted in sudden engine seizure and total loss of motive power while driving, creating a serious safety risk to vehicle occupants and surrounding motorists. I am reporting this defect so it can be documented and investigated.

Filed Apr 10, 2026 · Engine · IL

On [XXX] while entering the parking lot of my office, I noticed a blinking check engine light on the car's dashboard. I've never experienced this before so I called my husband. He asked me to use a diagnositic tool he kept in the car. I did and there was a code "P1326" when I pressed the key for more information it said something about the manufacturer. My husband told me to call the nearest dealer. I called Castle Hyundai in Downers Grove. I was instructed not to drive the care and have it towed to the dealership as soon as possible which I did. Castle Hyundai verified the P1326 code and fixed the knock sensor, changed the oil. I picked the car up on March 13. On [XXX], the flashing check engine light returned while driving home from work. Again, we used the diagnostic tool and again the code P1326 appeared. The car was towed back to Castle Hyundai. On Monday, I spoke with Christain Jones the service director because I hadn't heard anything about the car. He called later in the day and said that the car needed a new engine. He asked for records of my oil changes since purchasing the car in 2021. I emailed him three from 2022, 2023 and 2024, the four change was done by Castle on March 12 2026. I was told that he would send the the information to Hyundai regarding a new engine. However, he stated that he was not confident the company would approve the claim. This after, I received an email from Eric Marcum with Castle. The email stated that Hyundai denied the engine replacement due to "lack of maintenance". He wanted to know if we wanted an estimate on replacement of the engine. I responsed that I needed Hyundai's rejection in writing and I also wanted an estimate of the replacement. I attempted to contact Hyundai's Customer Care, however, their offices were closed until Monday. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jan 2, 2026 · Engine · LA

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

Filed Jan 2, 2026 · Brakes, Engine · TX

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.

Filed Nov 24, 2025 · Engine · OH

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.

Filed Sep 18, 2025 · Engine · KS

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.