What are the most common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The **powertrain** and **engine** are the most frequently cited areas of concern, with owners reporting issues like power loss and transmission problems.

How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe have?

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe currently has 14 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **powertrain** and **engine** are the most frequently cited areas of concern, with owners reporting issues like power loss and transmission problems. A high number of **recalls** (14) and **complaints** (203) indicate potential systemic issues that warrant careful examination. The **Forward Collision Avoidance** system has also been a source of complaints, with some drivers experiencing unexpected automatic emergency braking. Despite reliability concerns, the Santa Fe achieved excellent **NHTSA safety ratings**, scoring 5 out of 5 stars overall. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of **24 MPG**. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller4 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The powertrain and engine are the most frequently cited areas of concern, with owners reporting issues like power loss and transmission problems.
A high number of recalls (14) and complaints (203) indicate potential systemic issues that warrant careful examination.
The Forward Collision Avoidance system has also been a source of complaints, with some drivers experiencing unexpected automatic emergency braking.
Despite reliability concerns, the Santa Fe achieved excellent NHTSA safety ratings, scoring 5 out of 5 stars overall.

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Overview

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a comfortable ride and a decent set of features for its class. However, used-car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating, primarily stemming from documented issues with the powertrain and engine. With 14 recalls and over 200 complaints logged, vigilance during the pre-purchase inspection is paramount. Despite these concerns, its strong safety scores and practical SUV form factor remain appealing.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints frequently describe sudden loss of power, stalling, and transmission issues including hesitation, rough shifting, or complete failure. These issues are often reported early in the vehicle's life.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls14

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

203

Power Train42

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 a comfortable family SUV experience.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 24

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 42 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 31 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

Est. shop cost: $75 - $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

14 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is 6.4/10. Reliability score is 6.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 203.

How practical is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

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

How many people fit in a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

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

What are the most common power train problems on the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Top complaint category: power train (42 reports, 20.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

This model year has 14 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Highlander and 2021 Honda CR-V.