2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Safety Report

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts and 4 stars for rollover, there are notable concerns regarding its reliability and potential for critical component failures. NHTSA has recorded 73 complaints, including 1 crash, 3 fires, and 1 injury, which is significant for a relatively new model year. A concerning pattern of power train and engine issues, including sudden loss of acceleration and transmission failures, is evident in the complaint data, with 'POWER TRAIN' and 'ENGINE' being the top reported components. Two recalls have been issued. One addresses a fire risk associated with the tow hitch harness, which aligns with some of the reported fire incidents. The other recall concerns detaching roof moldings, a potential road hazard. These recalls highlight manufacturing defects that could compromise safety. The high number of complaints related to the power train and engine, often describing scenarios of sudden power loss or transmission malfunction, indicates a potential systemic issue that could lead to dangerous situations on the road. Specific complaints detail instances of the vehicle losing all acceleration, transmission failures leading to being stranded in intersections, and the emergency braking system engaging erroneously at highway speeds. These are critical safety concerns that could increase the risk of a crash. The presence of multiple reports of oil leaks and coolant issues also points to potential manufacturing or design flaws that could lead to engine damage or failure. Despite strong crash test ratings, the operational reliability and potential for sudden failures, as indicated by the complaint data and recalls, suggest that prospective buyers should exercise caution. Overall, while the Santa Cruz performs well in controlled crash tests, the real-world complaint data reveals significant reliability and safety concerns, particularly with the power train and engine, and the fire risk associated with the tow hitch. The 3 fires and 1 injury reported to NHTSA, coupled with numerous complaints about sudden power loss, underscore the importance of addressing these operational safety issues.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz exhibits significant reliability concerns, particularly with its power train and engine, and a recall for fire risk; proceed with caution and ensure all recalls are addressed and a thorough pre-purchase inspection is conducted.