2012 Hyundai Santa Fe recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe and 353 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (228), electrical system (43), vehicle speed control (40). It earned a 3-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 22–23 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2012 ranks #11 of 14 Santa Fe model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (308). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Engine
Problem: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the underbody of the vehicle was rusted from living in an area where anti-icing agents were heavily used. The contact associated the failure with Hyundai Service Campaign 947. The dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under Hyundai Service Campaign 947 in 2017. The manufacturer…
On June 16, 2025, I dropped my 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS (VIN: [XXX]) off at Larry H. Miller Southwest in Albuquerque, NM for NHTSA safety recall #20V746000 (Theta II engine connecting rod bearing failure). It has now been over one week with zero communication from the dealership regarding the status of my vehicle. When I attempted to follow up by phone I was unable to reach a…
The contact purchased a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 71,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage on the title 43,655 and the DMV informed her after thei…
Safety ratings
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Santa Fe 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Santa Fe 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 6 cyl · 3.5 L
Regular
Santa Fe 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 6 cyl · 3.5 L
Regular
Santa Fe 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe, most recently for engine (12/01/2020). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Based on 353 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (228), electrical system (43), vehicle speed control (40).
Is the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe safe?
The 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe earned a 3-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2012 a good year for the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The 2012 ranks #11 of 14 Santa Fe model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (308). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe get?
EPA ratings for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe range from 22 to 23 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SANTA FE, Santa Fe.