2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Safety Report

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe presents a mixed safety picture, with a significant number of owner complaints, particularly concerning engine issues, despite a relatively low number of reported crashes and injuries. With 231 total complaints, 5 crashes, 2 fires, and 6 injuries, the vehicle's overall incident rate is notable. The most alarming pattern is the high volume of engine-related complaints, accounting for 123 reports (over 53% of all complaints), many describing catastrophic engine failure, knocking noises, sudden loss of power, and excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to vehicle stalls at highway speeds. This poses a severe safety risk, as evidenced by complaints detailing vehicles shutting off in traffic or experiencing smoke and fire from the engine compartment. Recall history for this model includes three significant campaigns. One recall addresses a potential engine compartment fire risk due to the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module, affecting 2016-2018 Santa Fe models. Another recall pertains to the secondary hood latch, which could corrode and bind, potentially leading to an unexpected hood opening while driving. The third recall involves front seat belt warning light wiring, which could prevent the warning from activating, increasing injury risk in a crash. These recalls highlight specific manufacturing defects that could compromise safety. NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe are not available (N/A) for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover categories, which makes it difficult to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, the high volume of engine complaints, including instances of sudden power loss and potential fires, suggests a significant safety concern that is not directly addressed by crash test ratings. The combination of numerous engine failures, some leading to dangerous roadside situations, and specific recalls for fire risk and hood latch failure, indicates areas where the vehicle's safety could be compromised.

Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of severe engine failures and multiple safety recalls, exercise extreme caution; a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on engine health and recall completion, is absolutely critical before considering this vehicle.