Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has multiple recalls affecting safety features, including seat belts and airbags, and issues with electrical and engine systems. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect for electrical problems, engine performance, and recall repairs to ensure the reliability and safety of the vehicle.
Known issues to inspect
Seat belt anchors may detach
How to check: Inspect seat belts for secure attachment.
Rearview camera malfunction
How to check: Check if the camera displays properly.
Side curtain airbags not deploying
How to check: Ensure airbags are properly installed.
Frequent electrical system faults
How to check: Test all electrical components for faults.
Engine-related complaints
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or misfires.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual noises from the engine.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check the dashboard for any warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent dashboard warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor powertrain responsiveness and smooth shifts.
Red flag: Hesitation or rough shifts
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable acceleration without engine strain.
Red flag: Engine sputtering or power loss
- 05
Parking
What to check: Check rearview camera for clear display clarity.
Red flag: Camera not displaying image
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Any known electrical issues?
- Has the engine shown any problems?
- Are there complete service records?
- Have the airbags ever deployed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records and repairs
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/16/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.