What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

A significant number of owners report catastrophic **engine failures**, including seizing and component breakage, often occurring after 100,000 miles but sometimes much sooner.

How many recalls does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe have?

The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. A significant number of owners report catastrophic **engine failures**, including seizing and component breakage, often occurring after 100,000 miles but sometimes much sooner. Two critical safety recalls exist: one for **steering wheel separation** and another for an **ABS module fire risk**. Verify these have been completed. The **engine** is the most frequent complaint category, accounting for 36% of all reported issues. Other notable complaint areas include **service brakes** (often related to the ABS recall) and the **electrical system**. Despite mechanical concerns, the Santa Fe earned a strong **NHTSA overall safety rating of 5 out of 5**. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe.

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

A significant number of owners report catastrophic engine failures, including seizing and component breakage, often occurring after 100,000 miles but sometimes much sooner.
Two critical safety recalls exist: one for steering wheel separation and another for an ABS module fire risk. Verify these have been completed.
The engine is the most frequent complaint category, accounting for 36% of all reported issues.
Other notable complaint areas include service brakes (often related to the ABS recall) and the electrical system.

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Overview

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. The primary concern is a pattern of severe engine issues, including catastrophic failures that can occur without warning. Additionally, two safety recalls address critical components: steering wheel separation and a potential fire risk from the ABS module. While it achieved high safety ratings, these mechanical and safety concerns warrant careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

Critical engine failures, including seizure and component breakage, are a significant concern. These issues can occur without warning and sometimes at relatively low mileage, often just outside the powertrain warranty.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

136

Engine49

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

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and passenger space over long-term mechanical dependability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a worry-free, long-term ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 49 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 12 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 - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

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

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 136.

How practical is the 2018 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. Boot capacity is 382 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 4.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $8,000+).

What engine is in the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.

What transmission does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, seating capacity is 7.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

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

What are the most common engine problems on the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Top complaint category: engine (49 reports, 36% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota Highlander and 2018 Honda CR-V.