2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Safety Report
2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Engine Failure and Fire Risks
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Reliability Score
The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catastrophic Engine Failure Engines seizing, losing power at highway speeds, and making knocking noises, often linked to manufacturing defects or the P1326 code (Knock Sensor Detection System). |
High | Common | 60000-150000 miles |
| Engine Fires Multiple reports of vehicles catching fire, originating from the engine compartment, sometimes with smoke or burning odors preceding the event. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Secondary Hood Latch Failure Corrosion of the secondary hood latch cable can cause the hood to open unexpectedly while driving, obstructing vision and leading to crashes. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment One complaint details airbags failing to deploy in a severe, high-speed collision. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Brake Lock-Up One report of brakes locking up randomly without application while driving at moderate speeds. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport:
The most prevalent issue, with 23 out of 56 complaints, involves catastrophic engine failures, sudden power loss, knocking, and engine fires. This includes issues related to engine seizing, metal debris, and the P1326 code.
A significant number of complaints (7) are categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', indicating various unspecified issues or those not fitting standard categories.
Complaints include instances of airbags failing to deploy during severe accidents.
Issues reported include random brake lock-up and ABS warning light illumination.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Is the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport received excellent 5-star overall crash safety ratings. However, it has a concerning number of real-world complaints, particularly 23 engine-related issues out of 56 total, including 7 fires and 3 crashes, which raise significant safety concerns regarding mechanical reliability.
What are common problems with the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport are overwhelmingly related to the ENGINE, accounting for 23 out of 56 complaints. These include catastrophic engine failures, sudden loss of power, knocking noises, and engine fires. Other less frequent but serious issues include secondary hood latch failures and airbag non-deployment.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?
Yes, there is one recall for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (NHTSA Campaign Number 17V416000). This recall addresses a potential issue with the secondary hood latch actuating cable corroding and binding, which could cause the hood to open unexpectedly while driving.
How does the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It also received 5 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover.
Are engine failures common in the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?
Yes, engine failures are notably common in the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, representing 23 of the 56 total NHTSA complaints. These failures often involve sudden loss of power, engine seizing, and knocking, with some complaints directly referencing the P1326 code and related recalls for engine bearings.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant and frequent engine-related issues, including fires and sudden power loss, and ensure all recalls, especially the hood latch recall, have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The data includes 56 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.