What are the most common problems with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

The **2.5L engine** and **powertrain** are the most frequent complaint areas, with owners reporting sudden power loss and acceleration issues, sometimes at very low mileage.

How many recalls does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz have?

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **2.5L engine** and **powertrain** are the most frequent complaint areas, with owners reporting sudden power loss and acceleration issues, sometimes at very low mileage. A critical **steering recall** (EPAS system) affects the 2024 model; confirm this repair has been performed. While safety ratings are excellent (5-star overall), the **power loss concerns** present a significant drivability and potential safety risk. Expect **average fuel costs** with a combined 22 MPG rating. The **tailgate** and **exterior lighting** are also noted complaint areas, though less critical than powertrain issues. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz.

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2.5L engine and powertrain are the most frequent complaint areas, with owners reporting sudden power loss and acceleration issues, sometimes at very low mileage.
A critical steering recall (EPAS system) affects the 2024 model; confirm this repair has been performed.
While safety ratings are excellent (5-star overall), the power loss concerns present a significant drivability and potential safety risk.
Expect average fuel costs with a combined 22 MPG rating.

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Overview

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz blends SUV comfort with truck utility, offering a unique proposition in the compact segment. For used car shoppers, its 5-star overall safety rating is a strong point. However, a notable number of complaints, especially concerning sudden power loss and engine issues, warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection. The standard 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine paired with All-Wheel Drive provides competent, though not thrilling, performance with a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG. Two recalls have been issued, primarily related to the steering system, which should be verified as completed.

Critical Failure Risk

Sudden loss of engine power or inability to accelerate, often accompanied by warning lights. This issue has been reported at very low mileage, suggesting potential systemic causes related to the powertrain or engine control systems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Power Train9

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a versatile vehicle that bridges the gap between SUV and truck.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those prioritizing absolute mechanical reliability and minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (AM-S8)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Pickup
EPA Combined MPG: 22

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 9 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 6 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Steering System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is 7.2/10. Reliability score is 7.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 38.

How practical is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Steering System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Power Train Control Module (PCM) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, transmission is Automatic (AM-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

16 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Top complaint category: power train (9 reports, 23.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2024 Ford Maverick and 2024 Honda Ridgeline.