Last updated: 2026-03-04

2022 Hyundai Santa-FE Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE scores 66/100 ("Good"). With 14 recalls and 223 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2022 is 1 year after the 2021 model year refresh refresh.
Recalls
14
Complaints
223
Complaint Rate
19.4
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
$515
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
10%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
14 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2022 is 1 year after the 2021 model year refresh refresh.
- Year 4 in the Fourth generation (TM) (2019–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 4th generation Santa-FE (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
Fourth generation (TM)
Should You Buy the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE?
The 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE scores 66/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2022 is 1 year after the 2021 model year refresh refresh.
Its complaint rate (19.4 per 10k sold) is above the SUV segment average of 13.7. The most common reports involve power train (63).
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (63). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2023 Hyundai Santa-FE, which scored 4 points higher. See also the 2021 Hyundai Santa-FE for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $58 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUVs
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (10%)
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- POWER TRAIN: Transmission malfunctions and acceleration problems (63 complaints)
Compare 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE With
2022 Toyota Highlander
Score: 74/100
2022 Honda Pilot
Score: 72/100
2022 Kia Telluride
Score: 63/100
2022 Toyota Venza
Score: 80/100
2022 Honda Passport
Score: 74/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 14 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- POWER TRAIN (63)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (33)
- ENGINE (28)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (27)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (12)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (9)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (9)
- STEERING (7)
- STRUCTURE (6)
- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
- AIR BAGS (4)
- TIRES (3)
- VISIBILITY (3)
- FUEL SYSTEM (3)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)
- HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
- SEAT BELTS (2)
- WHEELS (1)
- SEATS (1)
- TRAILER HITCHES (1)
- LANE DEPARTURE (1)
Recall Overview
14
recalls on record
The 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE has 14 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
19.4
per 10k soldSegment avg: 13.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
11
Fires
1
Injuries
2
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2022 Hyundai Santa-FE Recall Details
14 recalls have been issued for the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Santa Fe HEV, Elantra, Elantra HEV and 2022 Elantra N and Santa Fe PHEV vehicles. Due to a damaged printed circuit board, the rearview camera image may fail to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2025. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 271.
TRAILER HITCHES
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Hyundai dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence
A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-633.
POWER TRAIN
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
Consequence
Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 236.
2022 Hyundai Santa-FE NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.5%
Safety Technologies
HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 14.7%
Safety Technologies
PHEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Hyundai Santa-FE Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$515
vs $573 avg for midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect for fuel injector misfires and check engine light
- Test transmission for hesitation or failure to accelerate
- Check horn functionality and inspect for water damage
- Verify windshield for cracks or stress fractures
- Test power steering for sudden loss of assist
- Check for software updates related to transmission and safety systems
- Inspect service brakes for unexpected braking or pedal issues
Check Any 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2022 Santa-FE in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Hyundai Santa-FE with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2022 Hyundai Santa-FE Common Problems by Component
223 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
63 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe frequently report issues with the powertrain, particularly involving transmission malfunctions and acceleration problems. Common symptoms include hesitation or failure to accelerate, unexpected disengagement of the transmission, and instances where the vehicle remains stationary despite the engine revving. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with some cases starting as early as 23,000 miles. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of near-collisions due to sudden loss of power and three complaints involving crashes. Potential buyers should be aware of these transmission issues, as they may impact vehicle reliability and safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
33 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe frequently report issues with the vehicle's horn, with many describing repeated failures and replacements due to water intrusion corroding electrical contacts. Complaints indicate this problem often arises around or before 60,000 miles, and multiple replacements are documented within a few years of ownership. Another reported issue involves the Idle Start Stop (ISS) system, which in some cases causes the vehicle to shut off unexpectedly, creating potential safety risks, particularly when the vehicle is in motion. Additionally, some owners mention problems with the sunroof unexpectedly shattering and the backup camera intermittently failing. These issues, particularly the horn failure and ISS malfunction, pose safety implications, as they can hinder the driver's ability to alert others or maintain control in traffic situations.
ENGINE
28 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe's engine, particularly involving cylinder misfires and fuel injector failures. Symptoms commonly include loss of power, rough idling, stalling, and check engine lights, often accompanied by error codes such as P0300, P0301, and P0302. These problems are noted at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 850 miles and others around 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple owners describe losing power on highways or in traffic, which could potentially lead to crashes. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, as they may affect the vehicle's reliability and safety.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (27 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
27 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe commonly report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving unresponsive accelerators and stalling, often accompanied by warning messages like "Check hybrid system." Several complaints highlight problems with the engine control harness and melted fuse boxes, leading to blower motor failures and a burning smell. Additionally, there are multiple reports of the horn failing and the Smart Key system malfunctioning, which can result in occupants being locked inside the vehicle. Safety implications are significant, with one incident involving a spontaneous interior fire and others involving loss of control while driving. These issues often occur within the first few years of ownership, with some vehicles having less than 10,000 miles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (12 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
12 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe frequently report issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly involving fuel injector failures and unexpected acceleration. Symptoms commonly described include the vehicle shaking, bucking, loss of power, and sudden deceleration, often accompanied by warning lights such as the check engine light. These issues typically arise within the first 5,000 to 13,000 miles of use, with some owners experiencing multiple occurrences. Safety implications include the potential for loss of control on highways, raising the risk of rear-end collisions. Additionally, problems with the smart cruise control system, such as unexpected disengagement and failure to slow down, are noted, which can impact driver safety.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (9 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
9 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe frequently report issues with the fuel injectors, including repeated failures and misfires, often leading to a loss of power and rough running. Complaints commonly describe symptoms such as the inability to accelerate properly, engine hesitation, and the check engine light illuminating. These issues are often reported at mileage under 60,000, with some owners experiencing multiple injector replacements within a short period. Safety implications are notable, as several owners mention sudden power loss while driving, which could be dangerous during highway maneuvers. Additionally, some owners of hybrid models report inaccurate fuel range readings, causing anxiety about fuel levels during long trips.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (9 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the forward collision avoidance system in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe, particularly involving unexpected activation of automatic emergency braking. Complaints frequently mention the system engaging without apparent reason, often while driving on highways, which can lead to sudden deceleration and potential rear-end collisions. Several reports describe incidents occurring at various speeds, with some noting the problem within weeks of ownership. Two complaints involve crashes, one due to a perceived failure of the sensors and another related to cold weather affecting sensor functionality. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, as unexpected braking and loss of control are common themes.
STEERING (7 complaints)
STEERING
7 complaintsOwners report several steering-related issues with the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe, primarily involving power steering failure. Complaints frequently mention the sudden loss of steering assist, often accompanied by error messages related to lane-keeping assist and blind spot detection systems. This issue tends to occur without prior warning and is sometimes resolved temporarily by restarting the vehicle. The problems are noted at varying mileages, with one case occurring around 17,500 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple owners describe difficulty controlling the vehicle, with some incidents nearly leading to collisions. Additionally, alignment issues are reported, with one owner experiencing severe tire wear and instability in wet conditions. These patterns suggest potential safety concerns for buyers considering this model.
SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe's service brakes, with several complaints highlighting phantom emergency braking at highway speeds and brake pedal failure. Symptoms include unexpected, uncommanded braking events and the brake pedal depressing to the floor, leading to loss of braking control. Two complaints involve crashes, one at a red light and another due to involuntary braking and acceleration. These issues are noted at varying mileages, with one owner experiencing rotor heat spots and shaking at 7,000 miles, which recurred by 16,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of accidents and potential loss of vehicle control, suggesting a need for caution when considering this model.
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe report several airbag-related issues, with complaints frequently mentioning non-deployment during crashes and malfunctioning sensors. In two incidents involving collisions, airbags either failed to deploy or deployed improperly, with one case resulting in injuries. Symptoms described include an airbag sensor light indicating deactivation, and in one instance, the passenger airbag turning off when a cushion is used. These issues are reported at various timelines, including as soon as three months after purchase. The safety implications are significant, with crashes and injuries associated with these airbag failures, making it a crucial consideration for potential buyers.
When Do 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Hyundai Santa-FE Years
Best Hyundai Santa-FE Years to Buy
The best Hyundai Santa-FE year is 2025 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (73/100) and 2023 (70/100).
Hyundai Santa-FE Years to Avoid
The worst Hyundai Santa-FE year is 2018 with a score of 63/100, primarily due to engine (205) issues.
See full Hyundai Santa-FE years-to-avoid analysis →Hyundai Santa-FE Reliability Score Trend
Hyundai Santa-FE reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 69/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 75/100 | Good |
Hyundai Santa-FE Reliability Compared to Other Years
2022 Hyundai Santa-FE Reliability by Powertrain
The 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE is available with 3 powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 165 | 5 | 8 | 5 out of 5 |
| HEV | 34 | 4 | 2 | 5 out of 5 |
| PHEV | 24 | 5 | 2 | N/T |
| Total | 223 | 14 | 12 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE?
How many recalls does the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE have?
Is the 2022 Hyundai Santa-FE expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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