2011 Hyundai Santa FE Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2011 Hyundai Santa FE recalls

Most common 2011 Hyundai Santa FE problems

Problem areas named in the 181 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Engine	64
Electrical System	26
Vehicle Speed Control	24
Power Train	21
Steering	20
Service Brakes	17
Suspension	16
Exterior Lighting	14
Structure	10
Engine And Engine Cooling	8

What owners report

2026-04-09, Engine
My 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe (approx. 153,000 miles) developed a new stalling and engine-dying-at-idle condition immediately following a knock sensor replacement performed by a Hyundai dealership. Prior to this repair, the vehicle ran normally with no stalling or idle issues. The vehicle was originally brought in for diagnosis related to code P1326, which is covered under Hyundai Service Campaign T6G (engine rod bearing / knock sensor campaign). The dealership replaced the knock sensor but subsequently claimed my vehicle's P1326 condition did not qualify under Campaign T6G. Immediately after the knock sensor replacement, the vehicle began stalling and completely shutting off at idle — a cond

2025-12-10, Structure
The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the rear chassis was rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The independent mechanic performed no repairs on the vehicle. The contact stated that while touching the metal parts the parts were disintegrating. The contact stated that the 4x4 failed to operate as needed. The contact stated that the abnormal sound was worsening. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

2025-09-26, Engine
CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. With no prior indications, the engine seized while driving on side street at 25mph. Engine blew hole in block and dumped engine parts, including piston rod, piston and engine block remnants, and oil on street. Very dangerous as power steering stopped and was unable to turn. Very low miles, 40,680, with all maintenance performed by dealer. Filed a report with Hyundai USA, no action taken.

2025-06-17, Suspension
The undercarriage is completed rusted and is not drivable, I had the treatment done by the dealer to have it coated to protect it from rust. well, its rusted.

2025-01-31, Engine
The contact owned a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while the contact's daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed a burning odor and the vehicle stalled. The contact idled the vehicle to the shoulder of the road and exited the vehicle. The vehicle burst into flames after the occupants exited the vehicle. The contact's daughter and daughter's friend were occupants of the vehicle at the time of the failure. No injuries were sustained. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The vehicle was condemned to total loss. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The

2011 Hyundai Santa FE questions

Does the 2011 Hyundai Santa FE have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2011 Hyundai Santa FE: Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Caliper. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2011 Hyundai Santa FE?

Based on 181 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (64), Electrical System (26), Vehicle Speed Control (24).

How do I check if a recall on my 2011 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.