2009 Hyundai Santa FE Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2009 Hyundai Santa FE recalls

Most common 2009 Hyundai Santa FE problems

Problem areas named in the 359 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Fuel/Propulsion System	109
Engine	60
Vehicle Speed Control	52
Electrical System	51
Service Brakes	41
Unknown Or Other	31
Air Bags	29
Power Train	24
Fuel System, Gasoline	17
Steering	17

What owners report

2026-10-21, Suspension
I am reporting a serious vehicle safety concern involving a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe with approximately 56,000 miles. On [XXX], the vehicle was inspected at West Herr Hyundai in Williamsville, New York, in connection with Hyundai’s underbody corrosion Service Campaign 947. During the inspection, the dealership discovered severe and extensive corrosion affecting the vehicle’s underbody, structural components, and frame-related areas. The corrosion was so significant that the dealership determined the vehicle was unsafe to drive. This is not a cosmetic rust issue. The deterioration involves critical structural areas of the vehicle and raises serious concerns about structural integrity, susp

2026-08-23, Service Brakes
Brake Lights Stay, On ESC OFF Light Illuminated, Cruise Control Won't Engage, Unable to Shift Out of Park. Fuse had to be pulled because the battery was going dead due to lights not turning off. Its doing the same thing that is outlined in this recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 13V113000)

2026-05-29, Electrical System
2 unrepaired recalls. Frame rusted and unsafe to lift to repair the other recall which is an oil leak onto the alternator. Car won't run now. Corporate asked if I had a lawyer. They have declared my car not fixable or drivable. Neither corporate nor dealer will return my calls. No info from them at all. No offer of a buyback. No anything.

2026-05-20, Engine
*The mechanic diagnosed internal engine failure (May 14, 2026). The vehicle is at the second mechanic's shop. *The car stalled twice. The first time, over 20 miles, the air conditioning stopped, followed by the radio, and then acceleration. I pulled over and the acceleration returned but only for a minute. The second time, a clacking noise got louder and faster, and three miles later the engine stopped. I coasted and pulled over but had to shift to neutral and use the parking brake to stop. *The first time was a two-lane road (55 MPH). As I lost acceleration, cars slowed behind me. It took so long to turn off on a side road, the car behind me almost hit me as they speeded up to pass. The se

2026-01-16, Steering
Vehicle will suddenly shutdown in the middle of the road. This could easily have caused a crash at any time. Several batteries have been replaced due to alternator not charging the battery. Then the battery has to be jumped for emergencies. I have taken the car in for repairs of the recall twice. I was told that the front end would come off and parts would have to be replaced because of the age of my vehicle they would not fit again. I need a solution to this problem.

2009 Hyundai Santa FE questions

Does the 2009 Hyundai Santa FE have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2009 Hyundai Santa FE: Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Air Bags:Frontal:Sensor/Control Module-Inactive. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2009 Hyundai Santa FE?

Based on 359 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Fuel/Propulsion System (109), Engine (60), Vehicle Speed Control (52).

How do I check if a recall on my 2009 Hyundai Santa FE has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.