AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $5,000–$12,000
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe shows frequent recalls related to critical systems such as the power train, fuel system, and safety features. These concerns, combined with a significant number of complaints, suggest reliability challenges that may affect ownership satisfaction.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| power train | 20,000–40,000 miles | $1,500–$3,000 | very common |
| fuel system | 30,000–50,000 miles | $300–$800 | common |
| electrical system | 40,000–60,000 miles | $200–$600 | common |
| windshield | 10,000–30,000 miles | $400–$1,000 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 7,500 miles
- Tire rotation every 7,500 miles
- Replace brake fluid every 30,000 miles
- Replace air filter every 15,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs every 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Unusual transmission noises
- Fuel odor in engine bay
- Erratic dashboard electrical issues
- Windshield detachment
- Camera display failures
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/17/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.