2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Safety Report
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Significant Engine Reliability and Fire Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
Reliability Score
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Engine Oil Consumption/Failure Numerous complaints detail engines burning oil at an alarming rate, leading to low oil levels, misfires, stalling, and eventual engine failure, sometimes linked to the Theta II 2.0L Turbo engine. |
High | Common | 30000-100000+ miles |
| Engine Stalling/Hesitation Vehicles reportedly hesitate or stall while driving, sometimes at speed, with RPM fluctuations, posing a significant crash risk. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine Fires Several complaints, including one detailed sample, describe the engine catching fire while parked or driving, aligning with the tow hitch recall's consequence. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Side Curtain Airbag Deployment Issue Recall 19V-613 indicates mounting bolts may damage airbags during deployment, preventing proper inflation and increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Transmission Shuddering/Slipping Reports of the 8-speed automatic transmission shuddering or slipping during acceleration, potentially requiring a new torque converter. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Paint Peeling/Chipping Owners report white paint peeling extensively on various panels, with Hyundai reportedly aware but denying recourse. |
Low | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe:
The most frequent complaint category, with 37 reports, primarily concerning excessive oil consumption, stalling, misfires, and engine failure.
A significant number of complaints fall into this general category, indicating various unspecified issues.
Includes issues like paint peeling and chipping.
Relates to transmission issues such as shuddering and slipping.
Combined engine and powertrain issues, often related to acceleration problems.
Reports related to steering system performance.
Concerns related to airbag system, including the recall for side curtain airbags.
Reports of the system malfunctioning, such as unexpected hard braking.
Various electrical issues, including remote start failure and backup camera problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
Is the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, owner complaints reveal significant safety concerns, particularly with engine failures leading to stalling and fires (11 reported fires), and an airbag recall (19V-613) for potential deployment issues. These real-world issues suggest a higher risk than crash ratings alone might indicate.
What are common problems with the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe are engine-related, accounting for 37 complaints. These frequently involve excessive oil consumption, engine stalling, misfires, and complete engine failure. Other common problems include transmission shuddering, paint peeling, and issues with the forward collision avoidance system.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Yes, there are two significant recalls for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. Recall 23V-651 addresses a tow hitch harness that can cause a fire. Recall 19V-613 concerns side curtain airbag mounting bolts that may damage the airbags during deployment, potentially preventing proper inflation and increasing injury risk.
Does the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe have engine problems?
Yes, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe has documented engine problems. With 37 complaints, the engine is the top reported component issue. Owners frequently report excessive oil consumption, engine stalling while driving, misfires, and in some cases, complete engine failure, with some complaints specifically mentioning the Theta II 2.0L Turbo engine.
What is the reliability of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The reliability of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe appears to be compromised by significant engine issues and recalls. While crash test performance is strong, the high volume of critical engine complaints (37 reports, including stalling and fires) and two safety recalls suggest a lower-than-average reliability, particularly concerning powertrain longevity and fire risk.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash ratings but significant engine reliability issues, fire risks from a recall, and an airbag recall, prospective buyers should proceed with caution. Thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, especially for engine-related repairs and recall completion, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine and powertrain.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. The data includes 178 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 16 reported crashes, 11 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 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.