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2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for this model is engine issues, including stalling and power loss, which can be costly to repair.
  • Electrical system problems are also prevalent, potentially affecting various vehicle functions.
  • The trailer hitch recall related to fire risk and the airbag recall require confirmation of completion.
  • Despite a 5-star overall safety rating, the underlying mechanical concerns temper its appeal.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a spacious interior and all-wheel drive capability, making it a practical choice for families. However, its below-average reliability verdict, stemming from numerous engine and electrical system complaints, warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. With 5 recalls and 235 complaints logged, potential buyers must be diligent.

Critical Failure Risk

Engine complaints are the most frequent, with owners reporting instances of stalling or significant power loss. This can stem from various issues within the fuel, ignition, or air intake systems. Early detection through regular maintenance is crucial.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

235
Engine51
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

7.3/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 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 over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 51 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 24 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 and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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

FAQ

Is the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is 7.3/10. Reliability score is 7.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 235.

How practical is the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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 and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Base MSRP is $25,750.

What engine is in the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.

What transmission does the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, seating capacity is 5.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 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 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

Top complaint category: engine (51 reports, 21.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

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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