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2017 Hyundai Santa Fe: engine failure

288 of the 975 complaints about the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe describe engine failure.

owner complaints
288
of this car's complaints
30%
typical repair cost reported
$8,000
typical mileage
98,000
recalls
1
Is there a fix? There is 1 recall and 17 service bulletins for this area of the car. See below

Engine failure by model year

What owners say

Filed Nov 5, 2026 · Engine · TX

I am submitting a complaint regarding engine oil consumption in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.4L 4-cylinder with approximately 117,000 miles. The vehicle consumes approximately one quart of engine oil every 5,000 miles during normal operation. There are no visible oil leaks or noticeable exhaust smoke. I am concerned that the engine may be consuming oil internally due to a possible defect involving the piston rings, valve seals, or another internal engine component. The exact cause has not been professionally diagnosed. Excessive oil consumption creates a safety concern because low engine oil levels can lead to inadequate lubrication, sudden engine failure, or loss of engine power while driving, potentially putting the driver and other motorists at risk. The condition has not yet been formally confirmed by a dealership or independent repair facility. The vehicle has not undergone a formal manufacturer or third-party inspection specifically for this issue. The engine is available for inspection upon request. There are currently no check-engine warning lights or diagnostic trouble codes. No visible smoke or external oil leaks have been observed. The primary symptom is the gradual loss of engine oil during normal driving. I am requesting that the federal safety agency document and investigate this condition to determine whether it may be related to an engine defect affecting Hyundai vehicles equipped with the 2.4L engine.

Filed Nov 2, 2026 · Engine · NV

On October 14, the vehicle experienced a sudden and catastrophic loss of motive power ("limp mode") while driving at highway speeds, creating an immediate and severe risk of a high-speed rear-end collision. Notably, no Check Engine Light or dashboard warning illuminated prior to or during this sudden deceleration to warn of the failure. On October 16, the vehicle was transferred to an authorized manufacturer dealership (ABC Hyundai in Las Vegas, Dealer Code NV031), where it is currently located and available for inspection. The vehicle has now been in the dealership's custody for 17 consecutive days. Despite telematics data proving the vehicle is being actively started and driven around the dealership lot across multiple shifts, the service department has refused to formally document the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or submit the mandatory engine failure diagnostic paperwork to the manufacturer. The manufacturer's corporate customer care department confirmed on day 17 that the dealership has submitted zero diagnostic data to them regarding this failure. Furthermore, the vehicle had three open safety recalls when surrendered. Records indicate the dealership has performed two of these recall repairs during this 17-day hold without providing any notification, status updates, or documentation to me. Yet, they have deliberately left the most critical mandate—an "URGENT: FIRE RISK WHEN PARKED" safety recall (the federal safety agency Recall 22V056000)—unrepaired. The dealership is actively holding, starting, and driving the vehicle without mitigating this urgent fire risk, while simultaneously refusing to process the engine failure diagnostics or provide a safe alternative vehicle. The dealer's deliberate refusal to process the catastrophic engine failure while selectively performing other recall work in secret presents an ongoing safety hazard and a gross lack of transparency.

Filed Aug 31, 2026 · Engine, Suspension · WI

My truck began emitting a strong oil odor on XXX. I took it to Amato in [XXX], where I was told the oil pan was leaking. They replaced the oil pan, and I paid for the inspection as well. About an hour after picking up my truck, the check‑engine light came on. I returned to the dealership, and they then said additional repairs were needed, even though I had already paid $2,211.57 for the work they claimed was necessary. At that time, my truck had 145,776 miles on it. Because the manager at [XXX] refused to address my concerns, I was told to go to another Amato location, and I was effectively blacklisted from the first dealership. I went to Amato Glendale, where I experienced the same issues. They fixed only one of the problems, and that was only after I contacted Hyundai corporate. My truck continued to have oil‑consumption issues. Amato required me to complete a three‑month, 1,000‑mile oil consumption test before they would consider providing assistance. I completed the test as instructed. Now, however, they are saying that due to the age and mileage of my truck, they will not cover the engine replacement — even though the problems began at 145,000 miles, not 156,000. Other drivers have reported that Hyundai delays necessary repairs until major engine damage occurs, and I believe that is exactly what has happened in my case. There was also a suspension recall that applied to the 2018 model but not the 2017. Amato Hyundai covered part of that repair only because I contacted corporate again. My current complaint is about the failing engine and Amato Hyundai’s lack of responsibility in properly diagnosing and repairing my truck. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 24, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · NJ

My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased new from Lynnes Hyundai in February 2017, has approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle previously developed a significant oil-consumption/engine problem that was diagnosed by Hyundai, and Hyundai replaced the engine with a remanufactured engine. Approximately two weeks after the engine replacement, the check-engine light illuminated and DTC P1326 was identified. The dealership replaced the knock sensor. Approximately two weeks later, the check-engine light illuminated again with a recurring P1326 condition. The vehicle is currently at Lynnes Hyundai and has been there approximately three weeks while they attempt to determine the cause. Hyundai Techline is involved. Prior to the current repair visit, while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a very forceful hesitation that jerked the vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled onto the shoulder. The vehicle continued to hesitate intermittently while I drove slowly to safety. I was concerned that the vehicle could lose power or shut down while I was driving at highway speed, creating a risk of a crash. The recurring P1326 condition has been confirmed by the Hyundai dealership. The vehicle and engine have been inspected by Hyundai/Lynnes Hyundai multiple times, including after the engine replacement. The current recurring condition has not been resolved. The check-engine light is the warning lamp associated with the current condition. I do not know the underlying cause of the recurring P1326 condition; Hyundai is currently attempting to diagnose it. The vehicle is currently available for inspection at Lynnes Hyundai.

Filed Aug 23, 2026 · Engine · NC

My 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe 3.3L V6 (148,000 miles) has documented oil consumption and a recurring DTC P0278 (Cylinder 6 Contribution/Balance). Hyundai's formal oil-consumption test confirmed oil consumption, but said it was below the threshold for combustion-chamber cleaning. The check-engine light and P0278, and losing acceleration ability continue to recur. The vehicle is available for inspection. Hyundai has confirmed the oil-consumption issue but has not determined the cause of P0278 or performed the TXX8 engine inspection I am requesting. I am concerned about worsening engine performance, loss of power, or engine failure, particularly given Hyundai's history of engine-bearing issues with certain 2017 Santa Fe 3.3L engines. I am not claiming diagnosed bearing failure; I am requesting a TXX8 inspection to determine whether an eligible engine condition exists. I have contacted both the dealership and Hyundai Corporate, but have been told I must repeat the oil-consumption test. At 148,000 miles, I am requesting prompt inspection before the 150,000-mile TXX8 limit and covered repair/replacement if an eligible condition is found.

Filed Aug 21, 2026 · Engine · OK

There is a class action lawsuit for the Theta Engine in some Kia and Hyundai vehicles and my type of vehicle falls into this lawsuit category. I drive a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and what the lawsuit described what happened to my vehicle, it seized up and you’re supposed to have a lifetime warranty for this problem. I submitted all the paperwork and Norman Hyundai sent videos it was seized up but denied my claim so I have a car that no longer drives with a car loan still so can’t buy a new vehicle. I was told they didn’t see oil additive anytime but their own business this in March ‘26 and May ‘26. It states on the lawsuit if anyone’s in the class action lawsuit they are covered if this happens to your vehicle. Also, part of the lawsuit is the oil consumption and how much it’s eating gas and then it seizes possibly or catch fire and my car was barely getting a 1,000 miles and it would be empty so couldn’t keep up always checking it and the car seized up due to what’s supposed to be covered.

Filed Aug 12, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · TX

Complete unmitigated loss of acceleration and power while traveling at highway speeds, creating an immediate life-threatening road hazard. Following a warranty engine replacement and mandatory dealer software flash at Clay Cooley Hyundai (Sherman, TX), the vehicle began experiencing powertrain communication issues. While operating the vehicle at 65 MPH on the highway, the vehicle completely failed to accelerate and lost propulsion power, nearly resulting in a catastrophic rear-end collision with an oncoming 18-wheeler semi-truck. Dealership diagnostics claim "no trouble codes present," but live data telemetry confirms the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) is actively commanding and delivering a dangerous 1,600 PSI to the fuel rail at hot idle. This abnormal fuel delivery is paired with a severe powertrain stutter in 3rd gear. Service personnel at multiple locations confirm a widespread, high volume of transmission failures and severe drivability issues specifically tied to this recent Hyundai software update. Corporate has denied repair coverage. The vehicle remains an active highway safety hazard and is completely undrivable.

Filed Jul 27, 2026 · Engine · MI

On June 10, 2024 at 107,129 miles Hertrich Hyundai dealership of New Castle inspected my vehicle and submitted a request to Hyundai for engine replacement under the recall settlement of the Theta II Engine Settlement. Hyundai denied the request because of the rebuilt title, even though the rebuilt title resulted only from prior Roof damage unrelated to the engine, powertrain, or recall issue. After continuing to seek assistance from Hyundai, my engine ultimately seized and suddenly stopped working on May 10, 2026, while driving on the highway with my two children. The vehicle lost power and stopped in traffic, creating a dangerous situation and causing my children extreme fear and distress. Had Hyundai honored the Theta II Engine Settlement when I first requested assistance, this failure could have been prevented. I request that Hyundai honor the Theta II Engine Settlement and replace my defective engine at no cost to avoid any future problems. My Hyundai Santa Fe is covered under the Theta II Engine Settlement. For over three years, I repeatedly contacted Hyundai after experiencing symptoms consistent with the known Theta II engine defect. Hyundai failed to provide meaningful assistance, did not properly process my requests, and denied coverage solely because of the vehicle’s rebuilt title.

Filed Jul 10, 2026 · Transmission · VA

The vehicle is in limp mode and is displaying a flashing check engine light with a P1326 powertrain code. The vehicle in question is a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport equipped with a Theta II 2.4L GDI engine at 118,000 miles. Per the service campaign T3G, listed on the federal safety agency website, this vehicle is covered under warranty repair since it is a Theta II engine vehicle that is displaying an active P1326 power train code. The vehicle is under he 10 Year/120,000 miles limitations of the extended warranty. The dealer just submitted to us a quote to repair the vehicle and is stating that none of the repairs listed are covered under warranty. This includes a quote to replace the engine knock sensor, which is a warranty item under the T3G service campaign’s extended warranty.

Filed Jun 10, 2026 · Engine · OH

My wife was driving our 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe around March 8, 2023 with our 3 children in the vehicle. She began merging onto interstate 70 when the vehicle made a noise and became undriveable. She could still steer but pushing the pedal down did not do anything. She had to carefully pull over off of the highway so that she did not get in an accident. This vehicle had to be towed to a mechanic who said the engine had seized up and that the oil is gone from the engine and that I would need to have it sent to a Hyundai dealer. This vehicle had 108,334 miles on it so it was just past Hyundai's 100,000 mile warranty. This vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealer who confirmed that the engine was locked up and that an oil sample found metal in the oil. The dealership recommended to replace the engine with a used one for over $11,000 which I declined then charged me $160 for evaluating. No warning lights or indicators were ever showing any issues. We did notice sometimes after an oil change that they would state on the invoice that the oil was a half quart low. This vehicle was parked in a garage and never had a drop of oil leak. Hyundai recently extended the warranty for this vehicle to 150,000 miles and then declined my repair claim due to the repair not being done at a dealership. The sudden loss of power while driving was a scary incident for my family but thankfully no one was hurt.

Filed Jun 9, 2026 · Engine · MA

I was told my top side of my engine failed, and they only cover bottom side engine failure. As well as pieces was missing. When I looked at the video it showed that my screws has fell off vs removed.

Filed Jun 4, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · VA

Hi, my name is [XXX], i bought used Hyndai Santafe sport 2017 from dealership in 2020. It had around 47,000 Miles on it, intitially it was running fine but after driving 2 years i discovered that engine is burning oil and after the oil change right after 1000 miles i had to add a quart of oil and it was like every two weeks. I had many srevices from dealership and other auto mechanic stores but it didn't improved. I had no choice but to keep driving the card on XXX th the engine crashed with out any sign on dashboard. There was slight noise and it increase by the way car was parked on the side road from Highway. The car was towed to my local mechanic and confirmed that engine is crashed. After i had to towed to dealership and i am still waiting for their response. Now we have put 43,000 miles in 6 years (91,000) total mileage. I had bought the waranty from dealership by $ 2500 which expired in 2025 Currently no warranty. My question here is that the car is still under 100,000 and engine failed. What if the dealership refuse to replace the engine. What are my leagal rights. Thanks [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Service bulletins that may apply

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported September 20, 2017 · 420 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Santa Fe vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The crankshaft assemblies may have been produced with surface irregularities in the crankshaft pin, causing engine bearing wear.
Risk
The engine bearing wear may cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify all owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 168.

Recall number 17V578000 · Recall details

Questions about the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe engine failure

Is engine failure a common problem on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?

288 of 975 owner complaints about the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe (30%) mention engine failure. The model year with the most reports is 2017.

How much does it cost to fix engine failure on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $8,000 (median of 46 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?

There is 1 recall and 17 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.

Other symptoms on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

Check engine light 198Oil consumption 170Knocking 152Stalling 124Loss of power 101Hesitation 86Jerking 43Fire or smoke 39Won't shift 26Won't start 24ABS 22Harsh shifting 17Airbag light 16Misfire 16Sunroof shattered 14Warning lights 13Overheating 8Adaptive cruise 7Power steering loss 7Grinding brakes 6Shudder 6Sudden acceleration 6Transmission failure 6No deployment 5Backup camera 5

All model years of the Hyundai Santa Fe

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