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2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport problems

The most common problem on the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is engine and cooling, typically around 91,588 miles. It has fewer complaints than a typical Santa Fe Sport model year.

Fewer complaintsAmong the best years of this model
Year score
87/100
Owner complaints
84
Recalls
3
Service bulletins
1423 warranty
Worst area
Engine

The worst 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

  • Engine
    46
  • Brakes
    23
  • Electrical
    9
  • Transmission
    7
  • Steering
    4
  • Airbags
    3
  • Body
    3
  • Fuel system
    3
  • Locks
    3
  • Lights
    2
  • Acceleration
    1
  • Driver assistance
    1
  • Visibility
    1

Specific symptoms reported on the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Engine failure 20Check engine light 12Stalling 12Knocking 10Fire or smoke 6Won't start 6ABS 5

Recalls 3

Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip: control unit/moduleReported April 28, 2021 · 151,205 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
Risk
An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2021. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under the federal safety agency recall number 20V‑520. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 205.

Recall number 21V303000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip: control unit/moduleReported August 27, 2020 · 151,205 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
Risk
If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ABS module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began December 22, 2020. Note: This recall has been superseded by the federal safety agency Recall 21V‑303 and all affected vehicles will now be repaired under 21V‑303. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 194.

Recall number 20V520000 · Recall details

Latches/locks/linkages: hood: latchReported June 5, 2017 · 437,400 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch actuating cable may corrode and bind, causing the secondary hood latch to remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
Risk
If the hood is not securely closed or the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary latch cable, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑671‑3059. Hyundai's number for the recall is 163.

Recall number 17V358000 · Recall details

See all 3 recalls for the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Defect investigations

Hyundai and Kia ABS Module FiresOpened November 17, 2023, still open

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V‑520, 20V‑543, 21V‑161, 21V‑160, 21V‑303, 22V‑056, 22V‑810, and 23V‑651. Kia recalls 16V‑815, 20V‑518, 20V‑519, 21V‑137, 21V‑331, 22V‑051, 22V‑800, and 23V‑652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.

AQ23002

Loss of Motive PowerOpened September 12, 2022, closed December 12, 2023

the federal safety agency received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to the federal safety agency which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in the federal safety agency's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, the federal safety agency does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing the federal safety agency’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to the federal safety agency cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to

DP22003

Technical service bulletins for the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 142

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 142 bulletins for the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

What 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Oct 20, 2026 · Body · MA

The factory white paint on my vehicle’s hood is suffering from severe delamination and peeling down to the bare primer and metal. The paint is flaking off in large sheets from the hood with no prior collision or physical damage. ​ Hyundai has acknowledged a known manufacturing defect involving primer adhesion failure on white vehicles under Service Campaigns like Z05 and TXXW, yet my VIN has been excluded from coverage despite exhibiting the exact same failure. They have denied any "Goodwill" considerations. ​ This issue presents serious safety hazards on the road: ​- Flying Debris Hazard: Because the failure is on the front hood, large sheets of paint catch high-speed airflow and tear away at highway speeds, creating flying debris that can hit or distract trailing drivers. ​- Dangerous Sunlight Glare: The large patch of exposed bare metal and dull primer on the hood reflects intense sunlight directly into my field of vision, causing severe glare that impairs visibility while driving. ​- Rapid Structural Corrosion: Without protective topcoat paint, the hood metal is directly exposed to moisture and road salts (winter is approaching), causing premature surface rust and structural degradation. ​ Hyundai's refusal to remediate this documented factory defect leaves a hazardous and deteriorating vehicle condition unaddressed.

Filed Oct 2, 2026 · NJ

I had my engine replaced on XXX from a Hyundai dealership in [XXX]. About a year and some months I was at the Sansone auto mall on [XXX] in [XXX]. I did have a transmission replaced under warranty XXX at that same dealership. My problem is that every so often I lose acceleration when I step on the gas. It's very random and happens more on highway driving. Long story short they said it was my catalytic converter. This was in 2025 I believe and I do have the receipt in my folder. I let the dealership know that it's still happening. I spent over 3k dollars and it's frustrating. They even had me go out with a tech to drive in the road. While he drove he didn't experience this but when I drove with him I let him know look my foot is down on the gas and we're not moving. I filed with BBB but when they said to them to have me come back I just couldn't do it anymore. I've been there and they gave me loaner cars each time. The fact that they just give me looks as if I'm lying is not good. Some time has passed and it was fine. Just recently when I was on the outer bridge I felt no acceleration. I don't want to go back to that particular dealership and am wondering if this is just an engine issue with my car. I've read that these engines have a history of this type of problem. I'm not sure what steps to take but I just don't want to be on the road and it fails for longer than a few seconds. One local place in [XXX] said it will be. Waste to bring in if this issue is very random. Thank you for your time . I almost forgot to say but some days it does that and I try to keep my foot on the gas the car shakes a little. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 21, 2026 · Engine · VA

See Attached Letter For Complaint

Filed Aug 13, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · NC

The vehicle suffered a severe engine overheating failure that created an immediate fire risk and electrical safety signaling failure. A brand-new replacement engine was installed by an authorized dealership in April 2026 under a goodwill warranty and had only been driven ~ 3,100 miles since installation. While operating the vehicle, the air conditioning suddenly stopped functioning. Upon restarting, the check engine light illuminated; however, there was never any dashboard temperature warning indicator, notification, or chime to alert the driver to an active overheating situation. Shortly after, the engine completely disabled itself and died while in transit in a parking lot. AAA was contacted to tow the vehicle. Smoke was visible coming out of the engine's oil dipstick and oil intake spout before being towed. After being towed home, an overwhelming chemical burning odor was noted and continued to get worse. A physical check revealed that the oil level on the dipstick was critically overfilled a full inch above the maximum fill line. The local fire department responded to the scene to mitigate the thermal risk, ordered the battery disconnected due to safety hazards, and deemed the vehicle entirely unsafe to operate or connect to power. This represents a catastrophic failure of critical safety equipment and onboard driver warning networks on a newly installed engine assembly, presenting an active safety and fire hazard to passengers. An official corporate safety case has been opened with Hyundai Motor America under Case Number: 43112676.

Filed Jul 15, 2026 · Engine · TN

While I was driving my Theta engine got seized and Hyundai denied extended warranty of power train.

Filed Jul 12, 2026 · Driver assistance, Engine · SC

Today while driving to church we started hearing a ping noise ever so often. This just started then . After leaving church to go home the pinging noise got louder than the engine stalled and wouldn't start again. I had to have my car towed to my house. That is where it is now. The tow truck driver said that it was a rod. He said that he was mostly sure that it was happened. He stated that he has towed similar ones like mine with the same problem.

Filed Jul 8, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · PA

For a few months- the ABS light, Downhill assist light, and Slippery road light have all been on. Read it could be due to a bad sensor. Then on Saturday July 4th, I turned the car on and the Ebrake light was on but my ebrake was NOT initiated. Car was making a low humming noise on front passenger side of vehicle as well. I read the ebrake light could come on due to low brake fluid, so I wanted to drive it around the block to further try and diagnose the issue. My car then made a pop noise and started smoking from where the ABS pump is located and my tail lights all started flickering like Christmas lights. I instantly turned the car off and disconnected the battery to prevent an electrical fire. UPON researching- there is a recall for 2015 Santa Fe’s for this exact issue except mine isn’t on the list. I need to talk to someone who has seniority upon this situation because I have called Hyundai Customer service and my local dealership and nothing is being done or nobody cares to resolve this situation. My car is currently at a trusted local garage awaiting repair- I can not tow it back and forth between the garage and a dealership. I rely on my car for my children and work.. I can’t play around waiting for them to inspect it weeks from now. This is a serious issue as my children were also in the car. Everything is VERY similar to the recall on other 2015 Santa Fe’s..

Filed Jun 28, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · FL

FHW Garage used car dealer [XXX], sold this Hyundai Santa fe 2015 knowing the vehicle is defective. It Stalls and stops in the middle of the road in High Traffic. This Hyundai Santa Fe 2015 Lock up the Steering Wheel, Lock up the breaks, Lock up the gas. it Stalls and stops without Warning then after it freeze and stop it flashes all of the Warning Lights on the dash board. FHW Garage is Falsely Advertising this vehicle in Excellent Condition. Its Advertised on Craigs List, and [XXX]. I was almost in a Serious Accident. [XXX] keeps getting his people in the workshop to Machanically Rig the Vehicle to run and drive until someone gets killed when this vehicle is in a terrible Accident. The Gas Cap dont screw on properly. Fhw Garage [XXX] sold me this Vehicle with full knowlege of the Mechanical Defects, and refuses to give my money back. I paid $5,400 Cash plus traded my car. The Hyundai Santa fe was $6,900. Deceptive Practices Fraud, and Title Jumping. FHW still have the two cars after I purchased them. I would like to see FHW Dealer License Suspended or Revoked. Give my money back and return my car. I will be filing a complaint Affidavit with the FLHSMV. [XXX] lied on the Bill of Sales how much I paid and he put $900 in his pocket. I will also file a complaint to FHW [XXX]. For defrauding me, Misrepresentation saying the Vehicle is in Excellent Condition when its Mechanically Defective, and Dangerous should not be on the road to kill someone. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jun 28, 2026 · Engine · TX

On 4/25/2026 I lost power on business freeway an orange light flash on along with whining noise I had to steer to right side shoulder for safety. Had it towed to dealership on 4/27/2026 they informed me 3 days later on 4/30/2026 that my car overheated. My car never overheated no smell of coolant nor no steam from the car when I exit to shoulder and turn car off. Retrieved manual from glove compartment it stated it had went into limp model. This has been a constantly nightmare my family could have been planning a funeral. These car manufacturers needs to be held accountable for their vehicle.

Filed Apr 13, 2026 · Engine · 155,000 miles · GA

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65-70 MPH, the check engine warning light started flashing, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road, where the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a parking lot, where a mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was towed to the residence and then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that the engine had failed, and there was sludge in the engine oil. The dealer informed the contact that the engine replacement could not be covered due to missing oil change documentation prior to the ownership of the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport before you buy

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Other model years

201320142015201620172018

Questions about the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Is the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport reliable?

Owners have filed 84 complaints about the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, fewer than a typical Santa Fe Sport model year.

What is the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport year score?

The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport scores 87 out of 100 (good). The score compares it with the other model years of the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

Engine and cooling, with 46 complaints, typically around 91,588 miles. Next is brakes (23).

How many recalls does the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport have?

3 recalls, covering service brakes, hydraulic and latches/locks/linkages.

What year does the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport have bad engine?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport model years with the most engine complaints are 2017 (221 complaints), 2018 (208 complaints) and 2013 (121 complaints).

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