What are the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The 2023 Santa Fe has a below-average reliability rating, with significant concerns around its powertrain and electrical systems.

How many recalls does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe have?

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2023 Santa Fe has a below-average reliability rating, with significant concerns around its powertrain and electrical systems. A critical recall addresses a fire risk associated with the trailer hitch harness; ensure this has been remedied. Top complaints include issues with the powertrain, engine, and electrical systems, often appearing early in the vehicle's life. The Santa Fe boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, indicating strong crash protection. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 24 MPG with its standard all-wheel-drive configuration. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2023 Santa Fe has a below-average reliability rating, with significant concerns around its powertrain and electrical systems.
A critical recall addresses a fire risk associated with the trailer hitch harness; ensure this has been remedied.
Top complaints include issues with the powertrain, engine, and electrical systems, often appearing early in the vehicle's life.
The Santa Fe boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, indicating strong crash protection.

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Overview

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is a practical family SUV offering all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride. However, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The vehicle has a notable number of complaints and recalls, particularly concerning its powertrain, electrical systems, and a specific issue with the trailer hitch harness that poses a fire risk. While it achieves excellent safety ratings, these mechanical and electrical concerns warrant careful consideration and thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints include loss of power, engine stalling, and transmission malfunctions. These issues can manifest early in the vehicle's life.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

248

Power Train32

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 strong safety ratings and a comfortable ride in a family SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a proven track record of above-average reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 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: 32 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 29 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 Wiper Blades

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

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is 6.5/10. Reliability score is 6.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 248.

How practical is the 2023 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 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

16 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 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 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Top complaint category: power train (32 reports, 12.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Toyota Highlander and 2023 Honda CR-V.