2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport engine problems
41 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport — 63% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The engine (2016 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0L/2.4L Theta II GDI engine) suffered a catastrophic internal mechanical failure, specifically related to the known connecting rod bearing defect. The vehicle is currently un-driveable and is located at Serra Hyundai in Trussville, AL. The vehicle and its failed…”
filed Jul 1, 2026
“The vehicle is a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. It had previously been included in an engine-fire-related recall/service campaign, and Hyundai replaced the engine between approximately October 2024 and January 2025 at about 113,000 miles. About 10,000 miles and 14 months later, the vehicle developed…”
filed Jun 22, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine problems in other Santa FE Sport years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Santa FE Sport | 194 | 61% |
| 2017 Santa FE Sport | 196 | 57% |
| 2015 Santa FE Sport | 40 | 50% |
| 2014 Santa FE Sport | 91 | 57% |
| 2013 Santa FE Sport | 106 | 55% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.