Used 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe Consumer Reviews

Not bad

Had car for over 3 years, and with a lot of interstate driving around Chicago, I am on my 4th front windshield. My front fog lights have burned out twice, replaced 1 headlight, and on my second set of tires already. Gas mileage isn't bad. Definitely better than my wife's Lexus. Added aftermarket Sirius(hate XM) and aftermarket in dash GPS/DVD. Other than usual maintenance, it gets the job done. It isn't flashy, and of course you see them everywhere now, so thats good I guess. Front of car is making sounds now, coworker said it may be struts?

Look out toyota

This car is the best kept secret in the automotive industry.Absolute impeccable quality inside and out.Its very obvious that Hyundai has done its home work and is producing a mid size suv that will compete with high end name plates in its class.I have just recently purchased my first Korean car and can not say enough abouthow happy I am with the purchase.I am very proud of this vehicle.

Great smallish SUV

Hyundai has really stepped up the offering since the current model's predecessor. In the Limited 2wd model there are many creature comforts including leather, dual temp control, pwr seats, rear DVD, front CD changer, moonroof and more. Outstanding fuel economy from an amply-powered V6. Lighting is excellent, making night driving easy and the ride is smooth. Oil changes every 7500 miles with synthetic oil as recommended by my dealer.

Second go-around...not bad..

Just bought my second Santa Fe; I traded in my 2002 GLS Model. Very pleased with how much smoother the 2007 rides and how much bigger it is in size; third row seat is a nice option. A little disappointed with the gas mileage, though; it's not anywhere near what's listed, but I'm still breaking it in. I think Hyundai makes a great product overall--never had a problem with my 2002.

Bigger and better but rides rougher

I recently purchased a used 2007 Santa Fe GLS. I'm impressed by the improvements over my 2002 Santa Fe GLS, except in one area: the ride is rougher. I can feel every little bump and pothole. I'm not happy with the Bridgestone Dueler HT 684II tires on this vehicle. They are noisier than the BFG Long Trails on my 2002, and ride rougher. Hyundai should have road tested the 2007 with these OEM tires on New England's challenging road surfaces.

This Car Has Issues!

The car looks great, but it might be overrated. I have only had my car for less than a month and I have to bring it in a second time for the engine light. The dealer keeps telling me it's not a problem, and then adds 40 miles to my car before giving it back. Towne Hyundai has a terrible service department. They pretty much told me to ignore the light unless it turns on again, and it's on again. Plus now when I drive it that smooth new car feeling is gone already. You can feel the car shifting into gear. Too bad they won't call me back to fix it.

Clutch Failure

BEWARE!!! Clutch failed at 41,000 miles, 3 years of normal use. No towing of anything. Dealer where purchased out of business, new dealer not at all helpful. Charge was $160 to eyeball, another $500 if I wanted parts removed for inspection. Cannot buy aftermarket parts. Replacement parts $1,000, throw in another $1500 if new flywheel is needed. Cannot be resurfaced, dual mass. This dealer sees no problem with a $2,500 to $4,000 charge for fix. I DO!! If thinking about stick shift of any newer Hyundai vehicle in your "FUTURE" especially if in the East Bay of northern California, best to think again.

2007 Santa Fe Ltd AWD

Overall I really enjoy my Santa Fe. I wanted a vehicle that was upscale, but not over the top, being a college student. I make regular long drives and the vehicle has very good room and comfort. I live in a big city and I have no difficulty getting around town either. The vehicle looks great, drives well, and costs much less than many other vehicles of similar features and quality.

very refined suv

a much better design then the earlier years and one of the best looking suv's on the market today.

Lemon.

My 2007 hyundai Santa Fe with 134,000 has just been deemed dangerous to drive. The frame is severely rusted. No CD player and 2 of electric door locks have not functioned since 32,000 miles. I used my life savings to purchase this vehicle and it was driven significantly less than 10,000 miles/yr. Maintenance was performed as recommended. Lots of other issues too. Matthew's Hyundai refused to do an oil change on 7/12/22 because of dangerous frame condition. Said it appeared there were no drainage holes put in frame so water just sat and rusted out frame.

Nice ride, but whats with the headlights

I don't know if its just us, but in 45,000 miles we have replaced (3) foglamps and (5) low beam headlamps ... what is the problem ? otherwise, i have no complaints ... but it is a problem that needs to be resolved by Hyundai

Please some lemon aid

My 2007 Santa Fe has 135,000 miles on it. I purchased new and have driven it less than 9000 miles per year. All maintenance as suggested was performed. I took vehicle into Matthew's Hyundai on 7/12/22 for an oil change. They refused to do it because the frame was rotted and it was dangerous to drive. Possibly because there were no signs of drain holes in frame and water just sat and rotted it out. Also my cd player and 2 windows have not functioned since 32000 miles. No warranty. At 127101 miles 4 new Toyo tires were purchased at Vision dealer. At that time Jeremy Patton Lic #4XU6 told me this vehicle should last 200,000 miles at least. Guess he was mistaken. Hyundai of America has been contacted and they gave me an unfair buy back figure of $8220.

Works Well

So far, we are pleased with the vehicle. The car isn't particularly powerful or sporty handling, but it drives well enough to be competitive. It is gas thirsty for such a small engine. The car does have an excellent array of safety features and the new interior design is attractive. Interior space is very good, and, at 6'4", I appreciate the headroom and center console positioning.

Catalytic Converter Gone Already?

I was first impressed, but quickly disappointed. After owning the vehicle for 2 weeks, the rear right tail light had built up condensation. Then the check engine light came on and found out that the Catalytic converter was bad....how can that be? I do not even have 8 thousand miles on the vehicle and I am dumping it. Oh yeah...one more thing...the stupid visor on the passengers side fell completely off...just hanging by a few wires.

Not comfortable to drive

I cannot get comfortable in the driver's seat. I love everything about it except driving it! Have had to replace tires too soon because of an alignment problem. Noticed the new tires wearing and checked the alignment and it was out just a tiny bit, don't know why my tires are wearing on the inside. There is a clunking noise under the front. I feel like something is going to fall off. I'm thinking of trading it for a Forester. It has 65k miles on it and hasn't given me any real problems and it was great in the snow. Average 22 mpg, maybe 25 on interstate. I hate climbing in this vehicle. I just cannot get the seat adjusted to fit the steering wheel comfortably. It has great brakes and radio.

Fuel mpg

This model vehicle is not getting the mileage I was told I would get. At 3000 miles I called the dealer and told him I was getting 19.1 hwy mile per gallon. She told me I would have to have about 6000 to get the miles that was on the sticker. At 6000 miles i called her and she told me it would get better after 8000 mile. I knew something was not right. I took it to the dealer and had a diagnostic check and everything was within the parramimeters of the manufactorers specs. I now have 11000 miles on the car and I am getting 19.8 hwy. My sticker said 19 city and 25 hwy. A dealer in Ohio said I would not get any better. I would not reccomend this car for fuel mileage the 2008sticker 17 and 23

Great Car!

We bought our Santa Fe because we needed more room for a new baby. We like the built-in storage in the back and the fold down rear seats. Wish it had more storage space for toys, diaper bag, etc. but overall a great car! The only time it's been back to the dealership has been for oil changes. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone because it has a lot of standard features you can't get from similar SUVs unless you pay a lot more.

Huge Advance

My driving and ownership experience are really excellent. I am the owner of Santa Fe 2000 and next year I am planning to buy new Santa Fe 2007. I have already tried it and I can only say "HUGE ADVANCE!"

transmission failure at 9 years

transmission failed less than 10 year. Had to replace it for $3500. It has 130k mileage now, with a market value slightly higher than the cost. Hunydai custom service does not care.

the truth

Worth the wait

It was very hard to get the Santa Fe optioned as I wanted,I waited 8 months for one as close as poss.Now that I have been driving it almost a year I can say it was worth the wait.Its a fast truck that drives very well and has a controlled ride.The interior is black leather with graphite metallic exterior..Way cool.I have every option but the 3rd row.I looked at Honda,Toyota,Infiniti,Mazda and a few of the over priced premium brands,only to find a vehicle with far to many short comings.Even at 35,000.00 it had way more than they offered...and I saved thousands.I would buy it again only this time with Black int/ Black ext.Its a great truck.

My favorite car so far

I have been watching the 2007 Santa Fe much of this year and have been impressed with the reviews, with Hyudai's company performance, and with the assembly plant in Alabama. After seeing one live and driving it, I was sold. My criteria for a vehicle was safety, comfort and quiet, looks, and lastly fun to drive (in that order). The Santa Fe satisfies all of these quite nicely. Our other vehicle is a Lexus RX350, and the SF holds it's own against it. The ride is smooth and it is extrememly quiet. Power is more than adequate for my needs. The fit and finish are great. The third row seats are much roomier and more comfortable that I had envisioned. They are super easy to get in and out of too.

Surprised

My wife and I were looking for an suv that was still good on gas. It was an easy search thanks to the other consumers on this site. We looked at the pilot, tribeca and highlander. I was scepical about purchasing a hyundai but was very surprised at how this car drove. I call it a car because thats exactly how it drove. Living in massachusetts the rodes are bumpy due to the winters and this car makes the potholes almost nonexistant.

very satisfied

I test drove or looked at other small SUVs. I purchased the Santa Fe Limited. The 3.3 liter engine is the best choice as appose to the 2.7 liter engine. My mechanic told me that the smaller engine is just a hiped up four cylinder engine. Even though the gas mileage suffers some what. The added power was worth it to me. I love driving this truck. it handles like a car and rides smoothly. After two plus years,the firm ride has loosened up a bit. I've driven it from New York to Soutn Carolina, to Montauk Point and Orient Point from Western Nassua. Also four trips to Maryland. The Santa Fe had good manners at highway speeds. It did not drift like others have reported. I love everything.

Great vehicle

23,000 flawless miles! Well almost. It's only been back to the dealer once after about 2000 miles to reset the check engine light. It hasn't come back on since. Also, the auto climate control got stuck on 68 degree outdoor temp and they fixed that. There's a TSB on it. Since that time all I've done is change the oil. I also pull a 3000 lb small travel trailer with it occasionally. Pulls it great. Very stable. MPG with trailer is 10-13. MPG without trailer= city 17-18 / Hwy 22-25. The best mpg I ever got was a long trip locked on cruise on a fairly flat road going 65 to 72 mph max. It averaged 25.6. On the trip back I went 75-80 and it got 23.5.

Mileage Concerns

I have read a lot about different owners obtaining either normal or low mileage with the SF. My vehicle (2.7L- 4sp auto)is rated for 24/20. If driven carefully, coasting, no jackrabbits, moderate 50 mph speeds, I have obtained 30 mpg on long trips. My normal is around 22 mpg. So much depends on your driving style. For those with low mileage, get the lead out of your shoes.

Power steering pump

We had to replace our power steering pump at about 10,000 miles. because of a winding noise coming from it at start up. at 11,000 the noise had returned. Other than that vehicle is very comfortable. and responsive. I really love the new body style.

I love it

Although I only recently purchased this vechile I absolutley LOVE IT!!!! I have no cmplaints what so ever. I went from an 05 elantra to the Santa Fe and I just cant get enough of it. Its very eye catching inside and out. Once I saw it I knew it had to be mine.

Service

This vehicle has been a joy to drive. I still have not Had any of the problems written about by others. I have not had any interior light problems either.  This could be because I purchased vehicle at the end of May 2007.  Earlier models in the year may not have had all of the interior map/dome lights and automatic switches installed at time of purchase.  I learned from past experience to purchase a new vehicle as late in model year as possible.  This way manufacture, would have gotten feed back on your particular model/make. For example; if you purchased your Santa Fe Limited 3.3 liter engine in september of 2006, interior lights may not have come on when doors were opened. Later on yes.

NC Coast

I am leasing this vehicle and may buy it at lease-end. I have had no problems with it at all and no squeaks as some have complained of. I consistently get close to 18 MPG in the city and 22-25 on the highway. The Santa Fe feels very secure and with most SUVs, you get a nice commanding view of the road. The 2.7 engine can be a little sluggish - I'd rather have the 3.3 engine.

POOR MILEAGE

not as quiet as i thought it would be,but acceptable. ride is kind of choppy. very poor fuel mileage, overall about 16-17 mpg, around 17-18 mpg on hwy using cruise control. trip computer only estimates fuel mileage at time of reading, not actual overall mileage. my opinion is spend the extra money & buy the honda.

Nice car

I really like it. Doing a lot of driving, find this car almost exactly what I need. Despite this is the basic model it has enough for every day extensive driving (sometimes 1000 Km a day). Extra hidden storage in the trunk is amazing! What was a nice surprise for me it ‘s a gas consumption! According to specifications vehicle with manual transmission consumes more gas then automatic. This is NOT TRUE! Manual is very economical and not just has more power, but takes LESS gas. I found the WORSE city driving (heavy traffic and ac constant use) 11L/100Km and 7.5L/100Km on Highway. Excellent on ice and snow and it is not an AWD. This the only SUV of this size and price range which is availa

It's A Dream!

I LOVE this car! The build quality is amazing, it is beautiful, and it is fun to drive. And that new car smell is sooo sweet. I am amazed at the well-thought out design details. It seems like this design group thought of everything. It is really worthy of your consideration.

Excellent Value

We tested a lot of medium SUV's, and we finally chose this car for it's style and value. The road noise is pleasantly quiet for a car of this type. The thermometer and compass (both standard equipment) were big pluses. We strongly recommend the larger (3.3L) V6 engine for its better acceleration and handling. The Santa Fe has been a joy to drive. It feels more like a car than a SUV. Our gas mileage has been 20.5 mpg in combined city/hwy driving.

A real DAH vehicle

After owning 15 new domestic vehicles I purchased this DAH. Bad mistake. No interior lights when door is open. Several blind spots Poor fuel mileage not close to sticker Wiper blakes freeze in the wells ice builds up and wipers fall off road noise so loud I am not able to play radio. I called customer service several times and was given a file number and name to call. every time I called I was given a new contact person (5 times) Dealer said the reason for poor fuel mileage was that i was not using the right oil. I had them cahange the oil and could not see any change.

Santa Fe Rocks

The 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe is well made vehicle. We have had the SUV for over 2 years, we have experienced absolutely no problem. We would definitely buy another Hyundai.

A lot of value in a sharp package.

A sharp design: bold yet flowing exterior combined with nice quality touches inside as well. Cruises on highway with little engine effort or noise. Feels stable and sure footed with standard electronic stability control and traction control. Only downside I find are that seats are a bit firm to my liking.

One year of ownership

We've owned the Santa Fe for just over a year. We have had ZERO issues. Very happy overall with this vehicle. I was a little concerned when we bought the vehicle, as we had always owned Toyotas/Hondas. If you're contemplating a Santa Fe, I would highly recommend this vehicle.

great change

i had a 2005 santa fe and traded it in on the new 2007 limited 4x4 and wow! what a change i abosolutly love it.what a refreshing new look inside and out.

Proud &Happy Hundai Owner

Fun to drive, plenty of power while delivering 23-26 mpg on highway. Wet road traction is outstanding with the AWD. Rear seating has adequate foot room even with front seats all the way back.

Road Noise

Have had what I would call excessive road noise especially at highway speed. This problem continues even after wheel alignment check, which was negative and tire rotation. Bridgetone tires may be the culprit. A very minor issue is the front license plate screw holes are just part of the plastic grill area and now have stripped which will probably create a loose front license plate.

A Luxury Hyundai? Who Knew?

I've been a minivan driver for 10 years, but this year upgraded to my first "luxury" car. I've always been ambivalent about cars -- just get me to and from and I'm happy. But I love this car! It rides like an absolute dream. Most recently I had a used 2001 Odyssey that I have to say, I hated. It was never that comfortable and I had a devil of a time figuring out the panel. My husband had an Elantra I took over but wanted something bigger for kids, groceries, etc. and got the 7 seater. This car is total luxury, great ride, beautiful. I admit, I haven't taken it on the highway yet, but I think it'll make any trip more enjoyable.

Never Go To Anything Else

I love this suv it's 3000 less than a rav4 and is 2500 less than a crv I got into a minor accident with a parked truck and my Santa Fe only got $1253.11cdn worth of damage. And the truck got $5000.00. That tells you something! I've only had one problem and that is the battery in Canadian winters is useless [go to Costco and get a cheap battery it's better than this one]

Pleasantly Surprised by the Santa Fe

We initially overlooked the SF, mainly due to the old stigma of Hyundai. We looked at The Toyota's RAV4 and Highlander, the Honda CRV, the Ford Edge and the Mitsubishi Outlander. All had their good and bad qualities. I did the research and decided to take another look at the SF. I'm glad we did. The SF excelled in appearence, safety features, warranty & price. It was easily $3-5,000 less than the other models, loaded. Hyundai really did their homework, it's like they took the best attributes of all of the vehicles we tested and put them in one package. Their attention to detail on the interior is noticible. Granted, it's not perfect, but for the price, it's an exceptional value.

2007 Santa Fe

I enjoy my 2007 Santa Fe alot better than my 2003 Jeep Liberty. The design of all the interior storage was a huge selling point for me. I also like the look of the interior, it is so much nicer than the Liberty. I agree with one of the other people about some more goodies being added to this model.

Our little Osage

We have found that our Santa Fe performance to this point has been excellent. We have made a couple of road trips and it is very comfortable. I am over six foot tall and had problems getting in or out of the Honda CR-7 and the Toyota Rav-4, that is one reason we selected the Santa Fe. Another reason we selected it is for the safety and warranty it provides. .

great deal

I used to own a Hyundai Santa Fe 2002 GL and I was very pleased with it, with the exception of the low power. I just change it into the new Santa Fe 2007 and big improvement in design and performance ! The torque is very good, the noise of the engine at the cabin is very low, even at 90 miles per hour. The third row of seats is excellent for kids. Interior design could have a more unique style, looks kind of cheap but it is acceptable. Need to improve the sound quality of the car stereo. Overall, very good , keep it up!!

Great Vehicle!!!

Great car. Never thought I'd ever own a Hyundai but they have come a long way.

Great SUV

I love my new 07 Santa Fe handles great. Very smooth ride and enough room inside for me and my family

Great Value - minor issues

Love the size, styling, and extra features like visor extenders, telescoping steering wheel, reclinging rear seats and four power outlets that are unexpected on base models. 24 MPG on first tank of gas in mixed city- highway driving (gentle driver). Smooth engine and transmission, adequate power in 2.7 liter. Have heard the 2.7 gets much better mileage than 3.3.