Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Hyundai Santa FE Sport
The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has faced several recalls, notably related to the ABS module potentially causing engine fires and issues with side airbags and coil springs. With 324 owner complaints, primarily about the engine, evidence suggests caution, especially regarding safety components. However, the complaint data is limited, emphasizing the need for a thorough inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Hyundai Santa FE Sport has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 324 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V810000 ABS Unit May Cause Engine Compartment Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V056000 ABS Unit May Cause Engine Compartment Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V801000 Inflator Component may Detach During Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V577000 Front Coil Springs may Fracture and Puncture Tire NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 199 complaints
- Unknown or Other 38 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 36 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 33 complaints
- Electrical System 21 complaints
- Power Train 18 complaints
Of the 324 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 8 a fire; across all 324 complaints, owners report 7 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
High number of complaints
How to check: Check for unusual noises and smooth idling.
ABS module can cause fires
How to check: Verify recall work completion via VIN check.
Front coil springs can fracture
How to check: Examine coil springs for visible damage or wear.
Side airbags may malfunction
How to check: Ensure airbags have been checked per recall records.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine noises indicating issues.
Red flag: Loud ticking or knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness.
Red flag: Grinding or delayed stopping
- 04
City driving
What to check: Feel for transmission smoothness and shifts.
Red flag: Rough or jerky gear changes
- 05
High-speed cruise
What to check: Monitor stability and steering responsiveness.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling to one side
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check engine power and acceleration.
Red flag: Lack of power or hesitation
- 07
Deceleration
What to check: Observe braking system effectiveness.
Red flag: Soft brake pedal or noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ABS recall been completed?
- Are there any unresolved issues?
- When was the last oil change?
- Have you experienced engine problems?
- Are maintenance records available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Hyundai Santa FE Sport at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Hyundai Santa FE Sport? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.