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2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

Overall Score

4.9/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Significant engine and powertrain issues are the dominant concern, with owners reporting hesitation and stalling.
  • Critical recalls for engine bearing failure and ABS module fire risk necessitate careful inspection and verification of repairs.
  • The vehicle's All-Wheel Drive system offers enhanced traction, but potential powertrain issues could compromise its usability.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, averaging 19 MPG combined, but high fuel costs are a consideration.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a spacious cabin and all-wheel drive capability, making it a practical choice for families. However, its appeal is significantly tempered by notable reliability concerns. A high volume of owner complaints centers on the engine and powertrain, frequently describing dangerous hesitation and stalling during acceleration. This, combined with critical recalls for engine bearing failure and ABS module fire risk, suggests a substantial risk for used car buyers. With 7 recalls and over 1100 complaints logged, potential buyers must exercise caution and prioritize thorough inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners frequently report significant hesitation or complete stalling during acceleration, particularly at low speeds or when turning. This issue is often linked to powertrain control module (PCM) programming or fuel delivery problems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1153
Engine587
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

3.9/ 10

Practicality

4.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing space and AWD capability on a tighter budget, willing to accept higher potential repair risks.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or a vehicle with a strong reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 587 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 144 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 Brakes

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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
7 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe is 3.9/10. Reliability score is 3.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 1,153.

How practical is the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe is 4.9/10. Overall score is 4.9/10 (Caution). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 4.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $7,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Base MSRP is $38,700.

What engine is in the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.

What transmission does the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, seating capacity is 7.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Top complaint category: engine (587 reports, 50.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Highlander and 2017 Honda CR-V.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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