Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2023 Hyundai Santa FE
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is generally reliable, but potential electrical issues related to the trailer hitch call for caution. Owner complaints are sparse, focusing mostly on minor issues, making it a solid choice if inspected thoroughly.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2023 Hyundai Santa FE has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 214 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 3 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V181000 Tow Hitch Harness Fire While Parked or Driving NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Unknown or Other 61 complaints
- Power Train 45 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 37 complaints
- Electrical System 36 complaints
- Engine 35 complaints
- Service Brakes 25 complaints
Of the 214 complaints on file, 11 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 214 complaints, owners report 15 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Tow hitch short circuit
How to check: Inspect for water damage around the tow hitch.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Initial start
What to check: Electrical system and dashboard lights.
Red flag: Warning lights stay on.
- 02
City driving
What to check: Smooth shifting and acceleration.
Red flag: Jerking or unexpected noise.
- 03
Highway entry
What to check: Acceleration and engine noise.
Red flag: Lack of power or loud knocks.
- 04
Braking
What to check: Smoothness and even stopping power.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling to sides.
- 05
Parking
What to check: Ease of steering and parking brake.
Red flag: Stiff steering or weak brake.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the tow hitch recall been addressed?
- Are there any recurring electrical issues?
- What is the service history of the car?
- Have there been any accidents?
- How many previous owners has it had?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of recall repairs
- Complete service records
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Original purchase paperwork
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2023 Hyundai Santa FE at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2023 Hyundai Santa FE? 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.