2003 Hyundai Santa Fe - Consumer Discussions

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [luckyflorida]

  Written by: kizzee007 on Jun 4, 2013 9:54:55 AM

  luckyflorida; did you ever get that problems fixed? I'm having the same problem and have been told that it the ignition coils.

Anyone experience Sudden Unintended Acceleration in a Santa Fe?

• Re: Anyone experience Sudden Unintended Acceleration in a Hyundai Santa Fe? [mikepen]

  Written by: chaszee on Mar 6, 2013 3:12:26 AM

  Just had the entire computer in the car replaced after mine did the same thing. Last year they spent a week and replaced various things because the clutch kept going out, one time stranding my wife and 1-year-old in traffic. It's a 2007; my wife's 2003 crv with twice the mileage is a much more dependable vehicle.

2013 Honda CR-V Vs 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

• Re: 2013 Honda CR-V Vs 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe [cxzbnm]

  Written by: chaszee on Mar 6, 2013 3:08:33 AM

  Can't directly address 2013, but I have a 2007 Santa Fe with 40,000 miles and my wife has a 2003 CRV with 99,000, and the CRV is by far the most dependable. Santa Fe had major clutch issues a year ago and I'm going to pick it up today after dealer has had for a week and replaced the car's entire computer.

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2007+)

• Re: 2004 Rear Reflector Hyundai Santa Fe [bgrundman]

  Written by: jeepincj on Nov 11, 2012 1:20:23 PM

  just reflectors... We bought ours new in 2003 and they never lit

Hyundai Santa Fe Start Stall Idle Problems

• Re: Rough Idle on 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2wd 3.5L V6 [atreides096]

  Written by: pinky84 on Oct 21, 2012 2:41:18 PM

  have u tried the mass air flow sensor , the throttle body . the oxygen sensor on my there are 2 oxygen sensors it a 2003 4cylinder manual transmision.....take it to a shop they have to know what is wrong with it if they cant fix it sue hyundai for ur money back ....

Hyundai Santa Fe Paint

• Hyundai Paint Job Class Action Lawsuit

  Written by: daveski61 on Oct 2, 2012 5:50:27 PM

  I have a 2003 Santa Fe. Noticed the other day bubbling on the hood near the grill. Poked it and paint started to peel off. I probably could peel paint off the entire hood. I would like Hyundai to step up and cover this.

Hyundai Santa Fe Start Stall Idle Problems

• Rough Idle on 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2wd 3.5L V6

  Written by: atreides096 on Aug 17, 2012 4:57:48 PM

  Purchased a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe with 149k miles on it a couple of months ago. Work we did to it includes: * Replaced most of the filters, hoses and belts (including timing belt) * Replaced spark plugs, cables, and 2 of the 3 ignition coils * Degreased the engine After that, when not moving (such as a red light), the engine would rev up and then slow down and/or stall. ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Paint

• Re: HYUNDAI PAINT JOBS LETS DO A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT [santafeltd2011]

  Written by: cherokee515 on Jun 12, 2012 2:35:06 PM

  I WOULD LIKE TO JOIN CLASS ACTION AS MY 2003 SANTA FE HAS NOW "MOLDED WHITE" PLACES ON THE ROOF AND SOME OF OTHER PARTS OF SUV. IT ALL HAS HAPPENED IN THE LAST SIX MONTH OR SO. UP UNTIL THIS HAPPENED MY CAR LOOKED NEW. I AM SO UNHAPPY. WHAT CAN WE DO. I TOOK CAR BY DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS A BAD PAINT JOB.

Hyundai Santa Fe Start Stall Idle Problems

• '03 Santa Fe starting issues.

  Written by: mainevent on Apr 15, 2012 9:13:29 PM

  My 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe has issues starting every time you attempt to start the vehicle, the motor turns over but does not crank, you have to try at least 3 times EVERYTIME. It normally cranks on the 3rd time. I have replaced the plugs and plug wires but that had no effect. This has been an on going issues since I purchased the vehicle used about 3 years ago. It ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2007+)

• Small metallic(?) flecks blowing into passenger cabin--from A/C or ducts?

  Written by: pleaseadvise on Mar 13, 2012 7:57:35 AM

  I have a 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe, V6, 2.7L. Bought it used a year ago. All was OK until I started using the A/C a few months later--noticed very small, metallic(?) flecks in red/green/silver, only visible in sunlight. They were all over the dash panel--actually, I noticed it stuck to all the plastic inserts in the dash and armrests. Service said the plastic was a hard rubber w/ a spray-over to ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Climate Control Questions and Problems

• Climate Control Knobs

  Written by: mykeofoz on Jan 17, 2012 12:01:04 PM

  I have a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. The illuminators on the climate control knobs are not working, so I can't see the knobs when driving at night. If I want to adjust the heat or air, I have to turn my overhead light on in order to see the knobs. Has anyone else heard of this problem or know how I can fix it?

• A/C not working

  Written by: aquavishal on May 2, 2009 5:43:04 PM

  Hi All, I have 2003 Santa Fe LX with 77K miles on it, It has Automatic heatiing and cooling controls installed. From the last few days when I started A/C first time in this season, it was not blowing the cold air. I verified it for 5-7 days by turning-on /off A/C but it surely not working. I went to Hyundai dealer and had it checked for 100$. He told me ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Electrical Problems

• Climate Control Knobs

  Written by: mykeofoz on Jan 17, 2012 11:52:31 AM

  I have a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. The illuminators on the climate control knobs are not working, so I can't see the knobs when driving at night. If I want to adjust the heat or air, I have to turn my overhead light on in order to see the knobs. Has anyone else heard of this problem or know how I can fix it?

Hyundai Santa Fe Start Stall Idle Problems

• Re: Hyundai Santa Fe hard starting, rough idle [psykoconnell]

  Written by: psykoconnell on Nov 15, 2011 8:53:50 PM

  I found a light at the end of a tunnel (another forum). FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR. It's vacuum operated so when the diaphram starts leaking, it's three problems together....incorrect fuel pressure monitoring, vacuum leak, and pulling unmetered fuel directly into the intake manifold and causing the car to run rich (which would also be like the car is choking out because of too much fuel). Best part is, fuel pressure regulator is ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Re: Multiple Electrical problem w/ 2004 Santa Fe [randys42]

  Written by: joblack on Apr 25, 2011 5:19:03 AM

  I have been having numerous electrical problems with my 2003 Santa Fe GLS for a while now. My clock does not work, nor does my power sunroof or the thing that shows the date. I have also had numerous problems with the engine, but now it seems to be ok and YES, I always kept up w/my oil changes and used Hyundai filters!

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 Santa Fe died while driving [bunkyroo]

  Written by: dbqfan on Aug 24, 2011 12:31:05 PM

  My Hyundai is the absolute worst vehicle that I have purchased in my 50 years of driving. Hyundai finds a way to weasel out of warranty work and the crooked dealer is just as bad. They want to sell not service warranty work. I have a campaign going to inform anyone I see and tell them about my defective Santa Fe and the **** warranty service from Hyundai and the dealer. ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2007+)

• Hyundai's are Reliable

  Written by: srz948 on Aug 4, 2011 5:47:05 AM

  Sounds like it's the Throttle Position Sensor. I had the same problem as many people did on my 2008 Santa Fe Limited AWD. While I did get stuck and had to have it flat bedded to the dealer, it is the only problem I've had in 3 years and 40k miles This is my third Hyundai. I purchased a new 2000 Tiburon for my son in college. He then passed it ... Read More

2002 Hyundai Santa Fe Speedometer problem

• Re: Hundai Santa Fe Speedometer problem fixed! [topcat1701d]

  Written by: verno1 on Mar 13, 2011 12:07:09 PM

  topcat: If it looks exactly like the one you pulled out, then it is probably the right one. Does it look like the one on this web page, the second one from the top? And costs $32.90? http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=p4684.m570.l1313&_nkw=Hyundai+2003+vehic- le+speed+sensor&_sacat=See-All-Categories And say it is a Santa Fe Vehicle Speed Sensor Sonata Sedona Kia Amanti? If so it is the VSS that you need. " Didn't know yours was a 4WD, so they ... Read More

• Re: Hundai Santa Fe Speedometer problem fixed! [dreber1]

  Written by: topcat1701d on Mar 9, 2011 11:31:31 AM

  I have a 2003 Santa Fe and the speedometer quit, Just lays on 0. I took it to the Hyundai dealership and they told me the speedometer cluster was bad and I replaced it at some cost. Well the speedometer still doesn't work. What else is left,, the Vehicle speed sensor? I can't find a shop that sells the VSS. I can buy the input sensor and the output sensor. But ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• Re: 2010 banging & transmission problem in Houston [z71bill]

  Written by: 12346932 on Jul 24, 2010 6:20:48 PM

  The banging problem you describe sounds like a previous problem I experienced.. Also the messages I have been reading on this site lately, concerning tranny problems & not being able to get help from hyundai warranty, are correct. The attitude (or policy) by hyundai ( in today's world )is to put a "spin" on any tranny warranty problems, to get out of a repair under the warranty. To make a long ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Climate Control Questions and Problems

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [zonarunner]

  Written by: ecard71 on Jul 21, 2010 4:29:15 PM

  Hi dancemom1, Did you ever get the correct diagnosis and fix for this problem? I've had my whole a/c dyed, flushed, serviced, but since they can't "duplicate" the problem, I'm still stuck with it. Spent a lot of money for a problem that hasn't been fixed.

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Re: hyundai santa fe 2.0td 2003 [liviu49]

  Written by: v11lestat on Jul 17, 2010 2:48:49 PM

  If I understand what you wrote correctly, to me it sounds as though you have a broken timing belt.

• hyundai santa fe 2.0td 2003

  Written by: liviu49 on Jul 17, 2010 1:32:47 PM

  my car cut off ,no overheating,no oil in to coolant.i open the head and the gasket looks ok.the top of pistons are a bit damage and their are on the same line????/

Hyundai Santa Fe Real World MPG

• Kia Sorento

  Written by: mtnman1 on Jul 8, 2010 11:39:55 AM

  I am only adding this to this thread because I believe the Santa Fe V6 is the same engine used in the Kia. I have a 2011 Sorento EX V6 Fwd with just over 1000 miles on it in which about 360 of those miles were put on this past weekend on a trip from Columbus to Pittsburgh and back. I started tracking our driving on the tank prior to our ... Read More

2011 Hyundai Santa Fe

• Re: Santa Fe and Sorento [oscar_gata]

  Written by: mtnman1 on Jun 24, 2010 1:31:27 PM

  CR stated that Santa Fe's Fit & Finish had slipped. The Sorento is not recommended for only one reason and one reason only. It is too new according to CR. You better hope it's recommended because starting 2012 both cars will be the same vehicle and are essentially the same now with the same drive train. I also don't know what you are looking at when you state the Sorento is ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• jerking problem

  Written by: 12346932 on Apr 28, 2010 9:15:53 PM

  I have a 2003, hyundai santa fe, 4cyl, 2.7, front wheel drive. I have a slight "jerk", as I apply the gas, goinging from park to drive. The vehicle starts to move and a second or so later, "jerks" then continues to proceed fine. A number of service advisers, could not find a reason, for this problem (computer not giving any codes) I had one service provider, say it is a ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [luckyflorida]

  Written by: troy31 on Apr 1, 2010 10:25:12 PM

  checked your tire condition,wheel balacing and allgnment

Hyundai Santa Fe Recalls.

• 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Lurches

  Written by: steve301 on Mar 19, 2010 10:58:58 AM

  I have had this happen more times then I can count and it is usually while sitting at a light, I think it is the ESC system moving up to align it self and it does scare you when it happens.

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Re: Lower control arm [v11lestat]

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 11, 2010 10:04:12 PM

  update: since your reply to me back in 05/2009, I have contacted hyundai direct and dealerships (when performing maintanence) and they all kept saying my vehicle (2003 santa fe) was not involved, due to mafacture date. Well last month I received a recall notice from hyundai, to address this matter. Luckily, they said there was no problem with my vehicle & they dod an under coating. I really don't do much ... Read More

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter [12346932]

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 11, 2010 8:54:05 PM

  update: hyundai replied that the cabin air filter was not a required item in the hyundai, so it is not warrented. You must buy& pay regular price at a dealer. If you don't install it yourself, the dealer will charge labor.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [robshemi]

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 4, 2010 9:47:32 PM

  I had same problem, on my 2003 santa fe, back in july, 2006. Was repaired by hyundai dealer, as a warranty item, under tsb 04-40-007

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter [steve_]

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 3, 2010 8:57:51 PM

  I found out that the cabin air filter, was never installed at the factory, for santa fes, up to & including the 2004 ( tsb 03-97-003 ) (they also say, it is not a warranty issue, that it is a maintenance issue ) I believe it should be addressed as part of the vehicle purchase ( I bought it new ) I have e-mailed hyundai customer satisfaction, for an explanation.

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter [12346932]

  Written by: Stever@Edmunds on Feb 3, 2010 8:35:13 PM

  Good. So ... what did you find out?

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter [steve_]

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 3, 2010 8:29:27 PM

  Steve, thank you for the reply to my msg. In msg 1784, on this site, there was mention of how to change the cabin air filter, in the 2004 santa fe, but I couldn't find any info on the 2003. You suggestion to the hyundai tech site, was perfect. the site gave me everything, I wanted to know.

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter [12346932]

  Written by: Stever@Edmunds on Feb 3, 2010 2:57:44 PM

  I don't see anything in the Edmunds Maintenance Guide about replacing a cabin air filter for either the '03 or '04. Maybe it's a trim specific option? You could sign up at the Hyundai tech site; the info should be in there.

• 2003 hyundai santa fe cabin filter

  Written by: 12346932 on Feb 3, 2010 12:20:04 PM

  Steve or Tidester, can you advise me as to whether or not there is a cabin filter in the 2003 santa fe? and if so, is the same process as changing it in the 2004

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2007+)

• Gas pump shuts off before tank is full

  Written by: roxye on Oct 21, 2009 1:20:32 PM

  I have a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. The gas pump at any gas station shuts off repeatedly while fueling. This is a recent problem, but it is getting worse. I have to hold the gas pump handle throughout the entire fueling process, and even doing that, it takes forever to fill up. The gas pump acts as though the tank is full. Is there a solution to this problem?

Hyundai Santa Fe Electrical Problems

• Re: 2003 santa fe electrical problems [2003santafe]

  Written by: carebear13 on Aug 10, 2009 6:06:18 AM

  I also have a 2003 Sante Fe. Bought it brand new in 2002. In 2004, two years later, I started having issues when it rained. When I go through puddles, my steering wheel locks up and the battery and break lights come on. For anywhere from 10 to 30 seconds, I am not able to steer, can only go straight and it's now starting to make a bad squealing sound when ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• hyundai santa fe 2003 fwd

  Written by: rectech on Jul 17, 2009 5:41:44 PM

  Emission check revealed a code referring to the torque converter. My mechanic friend says it indicates the transmission is not shifting to overdrive. Can anyone tell me if this is true and what causes the shift to overdrive? Hydrolic pressure and or electronic controlled valve?

Hyundai Santa Fe Paint

• Re: Poor Paint [saskicat]

  Written by: hyundaigirl3 on Jul 7, 2009 12:45:14 PM

  I have a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe in the white. The paint job on it is BRUTAL! All around the windshield there are tiny little pin holes and they are rusting. Anywhere a rock has hit the car, it is rusting! The paint is peeling off the roof rack and off the front bumper. Then on the back passenger door, up by the window, the paint bubbled and split and that ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Basic Maintenance Questions

• Re: I have a 2003 hyundai santa fe and a have a question? [jrock2009]

  Written by: stush on May 28, 2009 5:02:38 PM

  I can see that a set of wires could cost the $62 bucks, but 6 plugs for $ 80, that's just highway robbery. Look in the owners manual, it tells you what kind to use, 1 choice is Champion, at least that is whats listed in my 02 manual. 1 Champion plug is about $1.50. That's $9 bucks for 6 plugs. I don't think a platinum plug is more than $4 ... Read More

• I have a 2003 hyundai santa fe and a have a question?

  Written by: jrock2009 on May 27, 2009 3:10:20 PM

  My engine light came on and the engine was acting funny I took it to the dealership. $400.00 dollars later they removed and replaced 6 spark plugs $79.14 and 1 set of $61.81plug wires. 3 hours of labor at 80.00 bucks an hour. I feel like they should have given me a full tune up or something any thoughts. Is that much labor needed for that job? Do you think I ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Re: Lower control arm [v11lestat]

  Written by: 12346932 on May 22, 2009 6:19:44 PM

  thanks for your help. I have a 2003 santa fe. I was in touch with hyundai america, about a month ago. They said my vehicle was not involved, due to the manufacturer date. when i went for my oil change, in april, the dealership refused to look at any possible problems, without a charge, as there was no recall for my vehicle, relating I should wait, to see if a recall ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

• reply to Maibach Post #2926

  Written by: wjaner on Apr 16, 2009 2:26:07 PM

  First, I compliment you on your good comprehensive composition. It made me want to reply. I too took delivery of a 2008 Santa Fe in Nov 2008. Hyundai's marketing strategy needs some refining. I bought the GLS with the standard Transmission as I ocassionaly tow the vehicle behind a motor home. Hyundai haphazardly distributes the Santa Fe with the manual tranny on a low volumn basis and the dealers cannot order ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [pelican19]

  Written by: robshemi on Mar 21, 2009 2:53:20 PM

  I mentioned this crank sensor to the Hyundai dealer and he said the sensor is only on the 4 cyclinder Santa Fe's. I didn't know there was a 4 cyclinder.

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Sante Fe purchase

  Written by: bobmc3 on Jan 12, 2009 7:39:45 AM

  I thought I might add this info that may not be known concerning buying a 2008 model. Hyundai is offering a $1,500 rebate on all 2008 models. The stipulation is that you must be a current owner of a Santa Fe. Good news to anyone wishing to up-grade! This runs through Feb. 1, so will need to move soon. Also, I read that they are enticing new 2009 models with leasing ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• How to fix a non-functioning display and how to fold rear seat cushion

  Written by: lostsamurai on Jan 2, 2009 10:16:54 AM

  I have a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe that I recently purchased from a used car dealership. When I bought it I knew that the radio works fine but the display doesn't show anything. Does anyone know how to fix this or what might be causing it? (I suspect a loose wire but I don't know how to check it) Also, does anyone know how to flip the rear seat cushion to ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Broken Crank Sensor

• Re: 2001 Sensor Crank Broken [wvowner]

  Written by: novnog on Dec 14, 2008 12:18:05 PM

  Did you ever get any satisfaction from Hyundai? I have the same problem. 2003 Santa Fe 2.4L with 65,000 miles. Crankshaft angle sensor broke, and pieces caused timing belt to jam and snap.

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Limited AWD with Touring/NAV Pkg [slateblue]

  Written by: player4 on Dec 5, 2008 6:24:35 PM

  Oh yea i have no doubts about Hyundai quality, my sister bought a brand new 2003 Accent GL 3-Door Hatchback and its been a great little car, its got close to 75K miles now and only problem has been brake pads which is normal. Other than that the car has been great and fuel economy is outstanding. If an 03 Hyundai Accent is that good, and thats considered when Hyundai wasnt ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Timing Belt

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe timing belt [steve_]

  Written by: espo35 on Aug 20, 2008 5:52:33 PM

  All Hyundai engines are interference engines. Your timing belt breaks- valves hit pistons. Mucho dinero.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [pelican19]

  Written by: luckyflorida on Jul 17, 2008 11:40:55 PM

  Thanks Anthony. Your the second reply mentiong this sensor & it was a factory recall for an earlier year Santa Fe in Canada, so we're going to have it replaced. The good part is that the car is still runng great (so far), since it seems to jerk on average every 1,000 miles. The bad part is that it would have real easy to do when we had the timg belt ... Read More

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [luckyflorida]

  Written by: pelican19 on Jul 16, 2008 7:34:49 PM

  We had the exact same problem with our 2003. Did it twice in one day at 65 on the NJ Turnpike. Took it to the dealer and they could not find the problem. Way too scary for us. Someone put it in my head it could be the transfer case since the 2003 is All time 4WD. Turned it in for the 2007 Limited AWD. Since then the second owner started ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Timing Belt

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe timing belt [tanned2000]

  Written by: Stever@Edmunds on Jul 8, 2008 5:40:34 PM

  Anyone?

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe timing belt [steve_]

  Written by: tanned2000 on Jul 8, 2008 8:44:12 AM

  How do I tell if the engine is an interference opne or not?

• Re: 2003 hyundai santa fe timing belt [tanned2000]

  Written by: Stever@Edmunds on Jul 7, 2008 7:10:51 PM

  The Edmunds Maintenance Guide says it should be replaced at 60,000 miles. If your engine is an interference one, then you are risking catastrophic engine damage if it breaks on you. If it's not an interference engine then the biggest risk is getting stranded somewhere or losing power on an interstate, which wouldn't be much fun. An owner should be able to pipe in and say what kind of engine is ... Read More

• 2003 hyundai santa fe timing belt

  Written by: tanned2000 on Jul 7, 2008 4:06:54 PM

  I have a 2003 with 80,000 miles on it and have not replaced the timing belt. The engine runs great. Am I in trouble if I don't replace it soon?

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has occasional JERK during normal driving

• Re: Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg [luckyflorida]

  Written by: tidester on Jul 5, 2008 11:47:44 AM

  That could be anything from a faulty gas pump to a problem with the crankshaft sensor. You should have all of your electronic controls checked. tidester, host SUVs and Smart Shopper

• Why? 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 has has occassional JERK during normal drivg

  Written by: luckyflorida on Jul 5, 2008 11:15:04 AM

  Hi, Recently purchased a 2003 Santa Fe 2.7 V6, Auto, 59,000 miles, One Owner, Garaged & immediately (the next day), used it on a 2500 mile roundtrip. After driving 300 - 400 miles on the interstate, the car jerked once at 70 mph & then was fine for the rest of the 1,250 miles. On the return part, we just drove about 30 miles (of the 1,250 miles), the car jerked ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• delay in transmission shift

  Written by: bobmc3 on May 14, 2008 9:59:18 AM

  I have a 2003 Santa Fe (automatic 7.6 V6) with 42,500 miles which we love. We purchased used from Hyundai dealer and also bought the extended warranty. This car has always hesitated when going from reverse gear to forward gear. We have learned not to press on the Accellerator for about 4-5 seconds unless we want to experience a jolt when it finally engages. The dealer told us this was normal ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Timing Belt

• Re: 03' Santa Fe Timing Belt [tjg00]

  Written by: cadmonkey on May 8, 2008 9:38:31 AM

  I have a 2002 SF, I bought mine used in 2003 (16k) from an individual. Hyundai confirmed there was a 5yr/60k warranty. I had my timing belt changed at 60K as specified in the manual. I had a independent garage change it - at half the cost of a Hyundai dealer. I've had no problems with my SF, it's now got 85k on it. It has the 4cyl-5sp power train - ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Hyundai Santa Fe Ignition coil problem

  Written by: afy on Apr 14, 2008 8:33:57 AM

  Hello All, I have a Hyundai Santa Fe 2003 , 34200 miles only and right now within five years of purchase. IT had a check engine light ON and used to give some starting problems and stall at traffic lights, making unusual sound. I took it to a Goodyear shop for diagonistics and they said that one of the ignition coil is gone bad and a spark plug. But the estimate ... Read More

2002 Hyundai Santa Fe Speedometer problem

• Re: 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe Speedometer problem [dreber1]

  Written by: tjg00 on Apr 12, 2008 11:55:32 AM

  I bought a used 2003 Santa Fe with 59000 miles in December and I am having the same problem. Please let me know what the outcome is.

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2006 and earlier)

• Clutch Burn out

  Written by: baj9407 on Mar 23, 2008 12:05:24 AM

  Hi all, I just had my 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe towed home due to clutch burn out. After reviewing the postings, it's unbelievable that Hyundai has so many problems with the clutch on the Santa Fe. I currently have 48K miles and in all the years I have driven manual transmissions, I never had a clutch to burn out. I would think this is a manufacture defect . I drove a ... Read More

• Re: Hyundai Santa Fe Clutch Problem [targettuning]

  Written by: perelson on Mar 2, 2008 1:14:31 PM

  My 2003 Santa Fe with 46,000 miles has a badly slipping clutch. I could not locate the TSB you refer to in your 7/11/06 post. Does anyone have any information about this TSB? Anyone have information about how to get Hyundai to pay for the clutch repair? If Hyundai won't pay for the clutch repair, is it better to get the repair done at an independent clutch specialty shop than at ... Read More

• Re: Hyundai Santa Fe Clutch Problem [targettuning]

  Written by: perelson on Mar 2, 2008 1:10:25 PM

  The clutch is slipping badly on my my 2003 Sata Fe with 5 speed manual transmission. The vehicle has 46,000 miles. Is there a way to get Hyundai to cover this repair? Is this normal wear & tear? It seems to me the clutch shoulkd last for more than 46,000 miles. If it is not covered by warranty, is it better to get the clutch repair done at a clutch specialty ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Proverbial Little Old Lady Deal

  Written by: tedex on Jan 30, 2008 3:58:26 PM

  I was in the market for a '06 or '07 Hyundai sedan in the 10k - 12k range. My trusty 'ol '95 Eagle Talon had blown a sparkplug, and with 177k on it, seemed as good a time as any to start looking. I got a rental '07 Rio to drive while the Talon was being repaired, and the Rio seemed a bit better than I had expected. Not a bad ... Read More

Before My Santa Fe I Drove a ___?

• Re: For ALL the ones I've LOVED B4.... [mpuzach]

  Written by: grandillusion on Oct 10, 2007 8:17:59 PM

  Wow, I am truly amazed at some of you! I thought I was a car-o-holic! Anyway, here goes… 1973 Mercury Montego MX – 351W (my first car and a real screamer… the 120mph speedometer was insufficient, to say the least) 1976 Ford Mustang II Ghia – 302 (I built the motor on this one… another sleeper) 1979 Ford Thunderbird – 302 (the car I courted my wife in… memories for a ... Read More

• Re: For ALL the ones I've LOVED B4.... [somedai1]

  Written by: mpuzach on Oct 8, 2007 6:12:30 PM

  Here's my list, all bought new, 3 special-ordered: 1st car ever was a brand new 1973 Pontiac Grand Am. I bought it off the showroom floor and loved it. It had a 455 V8, dual exhaust, genuine "African Crossfire Mahogany" wood trim, full instrumentation with real numbers on the gauges, A/C, AM/FM stereo. I was fresh out of college making the big bucks ($150/week). Life was grand. Traded the Grand Am ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Basic Maintenance Questions

• Coolant system engine drain plug

  Written by: wjaner on Nov 6, 2006 12:54:01 PM

  I would love to get a reply from one of you maintainance engineers out there in Hyundai land. I have a 2003 santa fe 4 cylinder. I desire to change the radiator coolant. I have the factory maintainance manual but it does not show an engine drain plug for the coolant. The coolant capacity is two gallons total. When I drain the radiator only one gallon will drain out. I found ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Very Happy Camper

  Written by: markka on Sep 4, 2007 1:54:02 PM

  Thought I would share what I ended up with on our 07 Santa Fe Limited FWD W/O sunroof, which we purchased August 30th from Weisner Hyundai in Conroe, TX. MSRP was roughly 27,150 including destination charge, mats, cargo tray etc. Sorry, I don't have the exact figure in front of me. Got them to roughly 1500 under invoice, 24,000 even. Had the 1000 rebate, 500 rebate to finance, and another 400 ... Read More

Before My Santa Fe I Drove a ___?

• My Car Story

  Written by: sduff68 on Sep 2, 2007 7:53:07 PM

  1971 Superbeetle- 1st car, was purchased by my mom right after high school and I paid her back with my first job. I drove it for 5 years. You can’t really say anything bad about an original beetle. The are probably the perfect first car. Affordable, cheap to fix, and they get good gas mileage with the right engine. 1980 Honda Prelude-drove it for about 2 years. It was the old ... Read More

Honda CR-V vs Hyundai Santa Fe

• Re: Why not [mpuzach]

  Written by: stevedebi on Aug 30, 2007 2:01:20 PM

  "The only thing it gives up to the CR-V IMO is the lack of an available navigation system." And about 20% less MPG (23 highway vs. 27 highway). I had a 2003 CR-V, which would actually produce around 30 MPG at 65 MPH (pure highway), and that was with only a 4 speed and AWD. The current CR-V has a 5 speed and is available with FWD in the higher trim ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

• Toung in cheek answer to (Smith 1)

  Written by: wjaner on Aug 14, 2007 6:56:32 PM

  Yes indeed! You will confidently get to the airport and back in the company of four golfers. Furthermore none of them will suffer from whiplash due to excessive accelleration. Thank the Lord for this trait because the Santa Fe is a sensible family sport vehicle and was not intended for blazing speed. Now if we could only make the average sensible driver realize that we only need one half of the ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission issue

  Written by: windeguy on Aug 8, 2007 9:51:52 AM

  I have a 2003 Santa Fe with a 4 cylinder engine and 4 speed automatic transmission. At about 30,000 miles, it went into safe mode (2nd gear) several times during a trip in the mountains. It was like being rear-ended each time it happened. Then, the problem disappeared. A few hundred miles later, the timing belt prematurely failed and we had to rebuild the engine. It ran fine for a few ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Extended Warranty [mpuzach]

  Written by: mmsf14 on Jul 22, 2007 11:59:49 AM

  I purchased a Santa Fe Limited this weekend also. On my previous Santa Fe I purchased the 10 yr/100k bumper to bumper warranty directly from Hyundai and loved the service. I ran out the 60k warranty in 3 years and had no problem getting warranty service at any Hyundai dealership afterwards. I did not have to get authorization or anything, just brought the car in. And the $0 deductible (standard) allowed ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

• sparcap

  Written by: wjaner on Jul 15, 2007 1:40:30 PM

  My experience with Hyundai goes back to 1999 and I still own (four) Hyundais. My current ride is 2003 Santa Fe with the 138 HP 4 cyl with standard transmission. My bumper to bumper warr is about to expire and would like to buy a 2007 Santa Fe GLS. The current Santa Fe with the standard transmission is shipped from Korea. If somebody out there has a 5 speed standard tranny ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Santa Fe GLS [harry28]

  Written by: canespirates on Jul 10, 2007 11:39:10 AM

  I just purchased today a similar car today from Happy Valley Hyundai in Winchester VA. I purchased a used 2003 for my daughter last year from them with an excellent buying experience and a similar experience today. I highly recommend them. You can do much better pricing than what you just posted.

Hyundai Santa Fe Basic Maintenance Questions

• Re: Santa Fe Hiccupps [rwolf]

  Written by: nomoresantafe on Dec 5, 2005 10:39:14 PM

  rwolf, you are the very first person we have encountered that has had the same safety issue as we have had with a 2003 santa fe. to make a very long, bureaucratic story short, we tried numerous times at the dealer, with a hyundai factory rep at the dealer, with hyundai of america and with the maryland attorney general's office to rectify the issue to no avail: they could never replicate ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Climate Control Questions and Problems

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [zonarunner]

  Written by: somedai1 on Jun 1, 2007 7:51:31 AM

  if it only gets hot at idle or stop - it may be a problem with the fan - does this car have 2 cooling fans?

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [dancemom1]

  Written by: zonarunner on Jun 1, 2007 7:37:46 AM

  I have 2002 Sante Fe with the exact same issue. If I stop or idle the AC blows hot. Then a couple of miles down the road it works again. I have already taken it in and was told a hose was leaking. This was replaced and the problem is still happening. I have not made any headway on this but I will let you know if I do.

Hyundai Santa Fe New Owners

• Smiling all the time

  Written by: hppd432 on May 16, 2007 7:54:40 PM

  Recent owner of 2007 Santa Fe and love it would be an understatement! It's Silver Blue in color and an SE with the V6. I test drove other SUV's as well as trucks and learned as much as I could before going to a dealer. Went back to Bob King Hyundai in Winston Salem,NC and purchased my new ride where I had purchased my first Hyundai in 2003. After just telling ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance and Repair (2007+)

• Re: Slight Throttle Surge when idling in 2007 Santa Fe SE [pelican19]

  Written by: lzerfing on Apr 3, 2007 7:28:28 AM

  anthony Have you heard anymore from your service manager friend about this issue? I am very anxious to find out if Hyundai is finally acknowledging a problem because last year, they never did and now that this 2005 one is having the same problem, I would like to have it fixed and not have to take it back 4 times for the same problem like I did with the 2003 model. ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Problems

• Re: Transmission capacity [rivrav]

  Written by: pelican19 on Mar 26, 2007 5:34:18 PM

  You did not specify manual or automatic so I gave you both out of the shop manuals. Let me know if this helps. Applies to: Santa Fe 2001-2003 and XG 300 2001 GROUP Transaxle/Transmission Automatic Transaxle System LUBRICATIONS Items Specified lubricant Quantity Transaxle fluid lit. (U.S. qts., Imp,qts.) GENUINE DIAMOND ATF SP-II M 8.5 (8.9,7.5) Transfer case oil SHELL SPIRAX AX (SAE 80W/90, API GL-5) 0.8L Inner Hollow shaft KLUBER MICROLUBE ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Just bought my 07 SE

  Written by: gstern94 on Feb 15, 2007 8:05:11 AM

  I've following the board for quite a while and it has proved inavaluable. Ok, here is the deal I got: 07 Santa Fe SE / no options w/ XM / Natural Khaki 22,285 OTD This includes the 1K rebate and the $500 loyalty rebate I used Apple Valley Hyundai in Winchester, VA and they were terific. They beat the best advertised price (Fitzmall) in my are by $200 and searched around ... Read More

Honda CR-V vs Hyundai Santa Fe

• Re: CRV and Santa Fe resale values [LDegrelle]

  Written by: pelican19 on Feb 23, 2007 11:47:26 PM

  The Hyundai Dealer gave you that price? I traded in my 2003 Santa Fe GLS 2.7 with 37000 miles to get the 07 Limited and the Hyundai dealer gave me 11,500.00.

Small AWD SUVs Comparison

• Re: Hey! The CR-V won too [piast]

  Written by: carfreak8 on Dec 8, 2006 6:28:39 PM

  but not to many people I now like the new body on CRV OK, why are sales up so much. In the first month of availability, the CR-V had almost 20,000 sales (~95% increase), when they want to sell only 60,000 in the whole year. As for the comment about being designed for women, that is the freely expressed by Honda target buyer and that is how it has always been. ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Real World MPG

• Re: Real world mileage Hyundai Santa Fe 2007 [sfmama]

  Written by: pelican19 on Dec 6, 2006 7:28:48 PM

  NYC numbers: In stop and go I am getting 15/19 on my 07 3.3 AWD Limited. I just took a 400+ mile trip and I got 23 on the highway. Not bad considering I never fell below 65mph on average. The Santa is an awesome SUV for the money. This is my third one. The only major issue was on my 2003. My transfer case started to hum. Taking no chances ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

• Re: Sante Fe- Dependable? [sirvagabond]

  Written by: blackexv6 on Dec 2, 2006 4:21:10 AM

  I may buy a Hyundai (Santa Fe?) for my next new car. Quite frankly Honda and Toyota aren't living up to the bulletproof reputation they earned in the 80's & early 90's. I've owned 3 Hondas in the past 5 years & two had major mechanical failures before 100k miles. - 2003 Accord (transmission at 40k, blown rear struts, bad tie rod ends, numerous creaks) traded in 2006. - 2000 Odyssey ... Read More

• Re: Sante Fe- Dependable? [jburd]

  Written by: pelican19 on Nov 30, 2006 6:24:30 PM

  I traded in my 2003 Santa Fe GLS 2.7 4WD for my new ride, the 2007 3.3l Santa Fe Limited AWD in July and have never looked back. I had a few issues with my 2003 but ALL were corrected by my dealer within 48 hours. Most of the horror stories come from dealers who just plain stink. Find me any car with no issues and I will buy ten of ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe Climate Control Questions and Problems

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [dancemom1]

  Written by: sanibel on Sep 22, 2006 3:09:09 PM

  Sounds similar to my problem, but not the same. Each time, the problem started with cooling to be insufficient, maybe on the way home from work. The next morning would not be bad because I leave home about 6 AM and the outside air was relatively cool. But, if I drove for lunch, or on the way home, cooling stopped altogether. Sorry, I don't know what to suggest. Don't stop trying ... Read More

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [sanibel]

  Written by: dancemom1 on Sep 22, 2006 1:34:19 PM

  My 2001 cools when I'm on the road but it blows warm air when I stop in traffic. It goes to cool again when I resume highway driving. It has been to 2 dealers and they cannot find a problem. My warrantee is about to run out. Any suggestions

• Re: 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT. [sanibel]

  Written by: tidester on Sep 21, 2006 4:14:15 PM

  I recommend turning off your CAPS LOCK. People tend to ignore messages typed in ALL CAPS. tidester, host

• 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING-CONT.

  Written by: sanibel on Sep 21, 2006 2:56:40 PM

  ON FRIDAY, 9/25 MY 2003 SANTA FE IS HEADED TO THE DEALER FOR THE 5TH TIME FOR THE A/C! ON THE 4TH VISIT, THEY REPLACED A HOSE ASSEMBLY. YESTERDAY IT COOLED OFF, BUT NOT AS COLD AS IT SHOULD BE, ONLY AFTER I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY. BEFORE THAT, IN CITY TRAFFIC, IT WAS BARELY EVEN COOL. I'M FRUSTRATED, AND EVEN THO I LEFT A MESSAGE FOR THE SERVICE MANAGER EARLY ... Read More

• 2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE AIR CONDITIONING

  Written by: sanibel on Sep 8, 2006 2:25:37 PM

  ON MONDAY, 9/11, I WILL BE TAKING MY 2003 SANTA FE TO THE DEALER FOR THE 4TH TIME IN 2 1/2 MONTHS WITH AIR PROBLEMS. THE FIRST 2 TIMES, THE EVAPORATOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE LAST TIME IT WAS A LEAK DUE TO THE "o" RING IN SOME VALVE. ANYONE ELSE HAVING ON-GOING PROBLEMS WITH THE AIR CONDITIONING?

Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

• Re. Santa Fe experiences(continued) Sparcap54

  Written by: wjaner on Aug 28, 2006 10:44:04 PM

  I am trying to keep the BS to a minimum. Noticed some postings re a trailer hitch for the 07 Santa Fe. (Etrailer.com) shows a 3500 lb hidden hitch for $127.95. Half hour installation time with 6 bolts, no drilling or welding. The light wiring harness is available from Wall mart for less than $20.00. Very nice hitch, I put one on my 2003 Santa Fe. Also there has been some ... Read More

• Re; Santa fe Experiences continued-Sparcap 54

  Written by: wjaner on Aug 27, 2006 7:39:05 PM

  I have religiously kept detailed logs on all of my Hyundai Santa Fe experiences. On 5 May 2006 I was driving my 2003 Santa Fe on the Freeway in So Ca in the far right lane in very light traffic. I was traveling at exactly 55 mph (on cruise control). It was 12:00 midnight. I saw the headlights of a vehicle to my left coming towards me. Since it was perpendicular ... Read More

• Re Santa Fe experiences Continued-Sparcap54

  Written by: wjaner on Aug 27, 2006 5:50:14 PM

  This is follow-up to my prior about 2003 Sta Fe fuel consumption. From the get go I experienced 30.5 miles per gallon with 90% freeway and 10% city driving. The window price equipment sticker shows 20 mpg city and 27 Highway. The worst milage I got was 27 mpg pulling a small utility trailer with total weight of 1100 lbs mostly city driving. I use Mobile 1 which is synthetic oil ... Read More

• More Hyundai experience-Sparcap54

  Written by: wjaner on Aug 27, 2006 4:44:28 PM

  This being a 2007 Santa Fe forum I hope you all don't chastize me for sticking in the 1999 Elantra. My wife was very impressed and disappointed with the elantra because she could not drive it because of the manual transmission. We stopped in a Hyundai Dealer and looked at the 2002 Santa fe. After climbing into and driving the Santa Fe my wife asked if I would agree to her ... Read More

• Reality check for the 2007 Santa Fe

  Written by: vegito1971 on Aug 6, 2006 8:17:51 PM

  I have been following this thread for a while now and am quite disappointed on a few points. The 2007 Santa Fe is a feature-packed SUV and a great stride for Hyundai. However I do not understand all the negative views toward the previous body (2001-2006). I owned a 2002 Santa Fe GLS AWD for 4 years and experienced only a minor issue with brake noise from my left front caliper. ... Read More

Hyundai Santa Fe vs Toyota RAV4 vs Mazda CX-7 vs Ford Edge

• Compared 07 Santa Fe and Bought CX7

  Written by: philbo on Jul 16, 2006 7:26:15 AM

  My last 2 purchases were Hyundai's, including a 2005 Santa Fe. Went to trade in my 2003 Tiburon on the 07 Santa Fe, and didn't like the offer I got. Was driving by the Mazda dealer, saw the new CX7. Took it for a test drive and drove it home. This is much more sporty to drive than the Santa Fe, and better, Mazda beat the trade in offer on my ... Read More