Here's Everything I LOVE & HATE About My New Hyundai Santa Cruz After Owning It For Almost a Year!

( www.alltfl.com/) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! After missing other important milestones by being out of town, Nathan finally shares how his Hyundai Santa Cruz ownership experience has been after 10 months and 11,000 miles. Here are the high and low points!
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#hyundai #truck #review

[@tylerhatfield2351]

I don’t know if anyone mentioned this already but as for the tailgate height adjustment with the tailgate cables, instead of looping them over the latch bar, all you have to do is unclip the cable and re-clip it on the bottom bolt of the latch bar plate, that way it makes it perfectly level with the wheel wells inside the bed for boards. I hauled over 1,200 lbs of drywall all at once doing that with my Santa Cruz and it worked wonderfully! 👍

[@norsefalconer]

Exactly! To others not familiar, this is shown in the owners manual. It's purposefully designed to put the tailgate level with the upper lft & rt forward "shelves" to facilitate hauling 4x8 sheet goods.

[@Dusdaddy]

Good update. A realistic look at living with it for 11k miles. It seems to be much more utilitarian than I assumed. You are definitely using it as a truck.

[@brenthenninger3866]

My full size truck is perfect 10percent of the time. My Jeep TJ is perfect 10 percent of the time. My Santacruz is perfect 80 percent of the time.

[@scottlowell493]

Same here. I can't justify a fullsize any more. I don't need that much towing or hauling capacity. Not to mention the prices are in the stratosphere. I can't have a jeep as a daily driver. Too noisy and steering is vague.

[@jimharrison3552]

I own a 2021 Santa Fe with the 2.5 turbo, last week I took a 180 mile trip to the coast with a lot of mountain climbing and stop and go traffic on the coast highway, I averaged 27 mph, as far as the duel clutch, it shifts quickly, and most of the time the shifts are unnoticeable.

[@shockracer]

It makes you wonder if Hyundai is intentionally delaying the trailer harness because they know they have transmission issues so this pushes people closer to out of warranty breakdowns.

[@kylebatzer353]

That's a long time to push that out on under hyundai's long warranty. That's said I had my hitch replaced and had no such warning given to me. Granted I haven't towed with it yet but if there was still a problem they should have said something and did not.

[@Cavemol5823]

7 months and counting ?? That’s ridiculous . Ford maverick once again stands alone as the only competent compact truck in the market

[@michaelwagner3952]

⁠@@Cavemol5823I typically prefer and own Ford’s, but there’s been several recalls on the Maverick. I’m not sure Ford is much better handling issues or providing support over time.. I recommend reading about their DCT transmission and lack of support for owners.

[@Cavemol5823]

@@michaelwagner3952 they’ve had recall on airbag . Which was solved and the hybrid recall which as been solved . Not being able to tow for 7m and counting isn’t fair comparison. They still haven’t figured it out …

[@michaelwagner3952]

@@Cavemol5823 I would be quite angry not being able to tow for 7 months. I don’t tow often, but out of principal, it’s definitely an issue. The Maverick has a class action lawsuit for hybrids catching fire. The Ford DCT clutches would fail every 20-40k miles in the Focus and Ford only repaired them under warranty. Never properly fixed or addressed the issue. I owned a 5spd Focus without issues, but Ford has definitely soured its reputation/reliability by not owning up to the issues.

[@ShadowBend]

Great update. I recently counselled my sister to get the non-turbo version. She ended up with the SEL and "adventure" pack. Pretty impressed with all of its features.

[@LafemmebearMusic]

Why’d you tell her to get the slow one? Just curious? Is it something about turbos?

[@ShadowBend]

​@@LafemmebearMusic For a "non car person" like her the non-turbo has less to go wrong, somewhat less intensive maintenance in terms of oil changes, and it avoids the DCT. If the turbo version had a standard or proven transmission it would have been worth some of the possible turbo headaches. Not to mention the turbo comes at quite a premium price.

[@Black-Villain]

@@LafemmebearMusic No DCT is a big plus. IMHO DCTs only make sense in purpose built sports cars, they're a terrible idea in daily drivers. Owners don't know what they are or how they operate and just assume it's a regular automatic, they're going to use them in traffic, low speed parking maneuvers, etc and they're just not great in a lot of scenarios tbh. I test drove a demo unit DCT Santa Cruz back when they first started hitting dealers, and after a "spirited" test drive, I was able to get a transmission overtemp warning and some clutch smell when I got back to the dealership

[@sandromartinez-ch3ji]

@@Black-Villainm😊

[@lockandloadlikehell]

Turbos are expensive to repair when they break. And they're less reliable. ​@LafemmebearMusic

[@erickisel8668]

@TFLnow: My wife and I looked at both the Santa Cruz and the Maverick. The Santa Cruz has more amenities at the same price point but we felt the rear seat in the Maverick offered more leg room as well as the bed offering more cargo space. We had to sacrifice about 200 lbs of payload and 1k lbs of towing but felt the Maverick XLT FX4 with 4K tow was better for us. We only have 719 miles on the odometer and the MPG is only 21.2 and I was hoping for 24ish in mixed driving. Maybe after break in period. Keep up the good work Nathan and the TFL crew….

[@hubpaq]

the Maverick is a real truck the Cruz is a joke

[@DiaperGranny11]

@@hubpaq😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Cody_Codi_Code]

Great review, Nathan. I’m a little jealous of your Santa Cruz. I’ve had 2 Hyundais and eagerly awaited the release of the Santa Cruz. I had to pass due to the small backseat. I have 2 young children I didn’t want to cram back there for the next 10 years. Hopefully your local dealership goes through an update soon. The Des Moines shop was just renovated. Seems they added an express lane for routine maintenance things.

[@richardkusimenkah]

Lovely review. I absolutely love this vehicle. My personal gripe about the santa cruz is how crappy the 115v outlet is in the back. That thing is essentially useless and was used as a sales tactic to make the bed seem more functional.

[@housersc2697]

Very true.

[@FSAPOJake]

Yeah, it should have had a much higher wattage. 1000w+, like a regular household power outlet. The current wattage is basically just good for device chargers and small thermoelectric coolers.

[@norsefalconer]

Yes. Would much rather just had another 12V cig jack.

[@richardkusimenkah]

@@FSAPOJake exactly

[@richardkusimenkah]

@@norsefalconer agreed

[@MichaelStaden]

I bought one in May and love it! Thank you for the update so I kinda have an idea what to expect.

[@user-eb9ft8hf5j]

Hi Nathan, I have a 2022 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy with the towing package. It only came with a 4 pin wiring harness. I went to Kia and purchased the Telluride 7 pin wiring harness ($160 CDN) and installed it myself. Pretty easy, plug n play. Mounting the 7 pin plug receiver I needed to be a little more creative. I'm towing a 2017 Jayco Jay Feather X17Z hybrid camper. It weighs in at about 3400 lbs loaded, I use a Curt weight distribution hitch and I've had no problems over the last two years. I also received the recall notification for the 4 pin wiring harness.

[@tiayawliuce3859]

I have the 23' SEL Activity Package FWD, digital dash. I hit 8000 within 4 months, i commute pretty far for work. 5 days a week, sometimes 6. Average around 27 mpg. Only thing I can say is there is definitely lag between 2nd and 3rd gear, but isn't always so noticeable. I have the jack in my brunk cause i put subs under my seat. But I do feel the annoyance of scheduling out a month for service. I'm due for an oil change and the recommended mark is 8000, I should've tried to schedule earlier but I could only secure an appointment for a month later. Lesson learned. So I'll probably be turning it in when it hits 9000+. Other than that, I love the car. My first car which also my first driven is an '01 Chevy Silverado, I wanted a truck but didnt wanna pay out the a** so I got this one...even though it is considered a crossover. I'm not really a long term owner but I don't regret my decision. There are gripes but that comes with everything in my opinion. People love to look at my car, i even get dudes who slow down on the highway roll down their window and look. Its cool. Wanted to lift but decided not to, soon I'll be putting new shoes on her and thinking about taking your word for those Trail Terrains. Thanks for the review. Shout to the Cruzers out there. Its a car, its a truck, but I really dont give a f***. Much love.

[@mikeherber8358]

I always yous the shift paddled better milage

[@martyortiz6169]

I have the 2023 Santa Cruz and really like it. I’ve had so many compliments on my vehicle. The main question is does it ride like a car or a truck ? I think, a little bit of both.😊

[@wilmarbarrick3194]

7 MONTHS and they still haven't fixed the trailer harness?! Jesus H. That's a lawsuit in my book. I mean you paid for a vehicle with tow capabilities in order to tow. It's not like you get to skip the bank payments, right? Hyundai needs to make this right. You should've got the Ridgeline.

[@cormaro13]

Well he did buy a hyundai 😂, with someone that reviews car so often he sure choose the worst brand to buy lol They already have lawsuits 😂 , back date on engine replacements and warranty work , but it's sad he lost his truck

[@LafemmebearMusic]

@@cormaro13in YOUR opinion friend, it is not shared but the person who is an expert in reviewing cars as a automotive journalist. Maybe listen to that person 😅?

[@cormaro13]

@LafemmebearMusic listen to that person, I just told u if the amount of lawsuits , engine replacements on back order doesn't say enough idk what does Just cause he's a expert doesn't mean he can chose wisely 🤣 he just review them

[@minxlabrada]

Really dig my 23' HPD Ridgeline. The electronic e-Diff in sand-mode is a lot of fun on dirt roads.

[@palebeachbum]

@@cormaro13 For the money, the alternative is the Ford Maverick and those things have a list of shitty quality issues. The Sante Cruz is so far proving to be much better quality overall.

[@edgein3299]

I recently got the 2.5 T with the tonneau cover, bed fence and roof rack options. Interesting point you brought up about the roof rack and the bad mileage, because I’ve noticed that. But since I bought it used I didn’t have much choice in the matter. But I got a good deal on it since the original buyer had buyer’s remorse and sold it after one year. I put aftermarket leather seats in since it had the uncomfortable cloth seats, and I’m satisfied with it. The only negative thing about it was that it took me about a month to find the oil life indicator. On the older models it was very intuitive, but on the later models they decided to hide it. Watched many KZbin videos and every one seemed to be different and didn’t answer my question. WTF? I finally found it on my own after messing with the display for an hour, but it was anything but easy to find. Manual was useless and didn’t even mention much about oil. To me, that is the most important part about owning a car. It is the lifeblood of the engine and yet you will not find an oil temperature gauge or an oil pressure gauge anywhere. Has all kinds of other useless gadgets, but not the most important one. I guess I’ll know when I have an oil problem is when the engine seizes.

[@Cloud30000]

Glad to hear the Trail Terrains performed well for you; I have been debating going with them on a half ton for year-round use including New England winters instead of All-Terrains since I drove on-road 99% of the time and only need the ice and snow performance that standard highway tires lack.

[@robertyoung8289]

Bring on the Toyota Stout!! ❤

[@paulira7407]

My local Costco had a black model on display outside yesterday and I noticed that many people were checking it out. Throughout the years, I’ve never seen any other vehicle garner that much attention as this particular model at Costco. I think most people were curious as to which manufacturer produced the vehicle. Also, because it’s Costco, I think people were curious as to the price of the vehicle because most people don’t every take a second look at a BMW or Volvo because most assume that those vehicles are priced at $60K and above.

[@Offshore1977]

That’s a great option for people who need a pickup but want the comfort of an CUV. Unless you do serious towing or off roading, you can’t go wrong with this.

[@cwstreeper]

I wanted to thank you for all the frank and honest, quality reviews you and the TFL team have put out on the Hyundai Santa Cruz. After a great deal of research, and watching all your videos, I pulled the trigger and purchased a 2024 Santa Cruz Limited today. (And I'm one of those crazy guys that downsized from a 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel.)

[@gpilsitz1783]

Use dilution (50/50) of fabric softener and water to clean the plastic. Eliminates static cling. Used to use on carpets in a call center to reduce dust.

[@mdwallace]

Black plastic interior. For the turbo the recall that stealth downgrades the voltage to the DCT oil pump that also cuts responsiveness and nerfs gas milage. Towing 4 pin got bit by the same poor solder error as the DCT pumps. Poor circuit caused the 4pin harness to fail from the inside out even tho it's waterproof. The 7 pin from the Kia palisade will work fine.

[@pflanagan1]

Ive had my '23 Limited since April and have not had any complaints. I'm at about 7900 miles now. I drove it from Fort Worth to North Carolina and back and the thing basically drives itself using LKA and the adaptive cruise control. I did have the same issue as you with trying to schedule regular service where it took a good month to get in to the dealer.

[@jerryscogins3119]

I picked mine up I love it getting 34.8 m.p.g. so far and head turner

[@EagleAnnouncer]

I concur. I've had my 23 Santa Cruz SEL for 11 months. It has 10,600 miles over a variety of conditions in the Northern New England area, the least of which is highway and turnpike driving. Vehicle is averaging about 31.2 MPG and that goes through a New England winter. On two separate occasions I have averaged almost 36 mi per gallon over a full tank of gas. I have felt they underestimated the mileage on this vehicle from square one.

[@dag681]

Have 37,000 miles on my normally aspirated SC. It is one of the best all around vehicles I’ve ever had. And I’ve had full sized to mid sized pickups, vans suvs sedans etc. Was thinking of going back to a Toyota Stout - but then when I think of rust issues, not so much.

[@tac79phoenix]

I'm really looking to see what your thoughts are on it's off-road capability compared to the DCT/turbo model. I remember you guys being so excited to compare this one to the DCT saying that you believe the non turbo has the better set-up for off-road. I know it's not going to be a TRX or anything but that comparison between sub models would be very valuable

[@37Bandito]

I have 30k on mine and still love everything about. 2022 SEL in Sage Grey as well. I had two Ford Focus in the past and absolutely refused another DCT.

[@marshallhetchler4830]

Totally agree about the transmission between 2nd and 3rd gear Rev thing. I have a 2022 activity SEL model 15 months now.

[@travisp11]

I've seen some cleaning hacks videos where you can use a pumice stone to scrape dog hair off of carpet. I have a dog that sheds quite a bit so I only vacuum once a month because it is a losing battle in my 2020 Hyundai Kona. The carpet rivals cheap Wal Mart grade speaker box carpet.

[@Bill1993YT]

As far as I am aware. That recall is only on the harness they removed and the aftermarket ones are just fine. So if you get an aftermarket plug n' play one from Curt, you should be able to plug it in and tow. As they have the same recall for the Santa Fe, so I didn't option my Hybrid with the hitch and trailer wiring and just installed an aftermarket hitch and wiring harness.

[@homeorganizingoptions4525]

that makes sense ..except...then you have the issue of transmission warranty coverage if anything goes wrong...or am I incorrect on that? That was the first thing they asked me is what I've been towing with my vehicle as soon as I started reporting issues....2022 hyundai santa cruz ongoing nightmare ..... I need a product defect attorney asap!!! Suggestions!

[@Bill1993YT]

@@homeorganizingoptions4525 so long as you’re not towing outside the specified limitations of the vehicle. They have no way to deny your warranty. They could only deny the warranty if they can prove the brake light adapter harness caused your transmission issues per US consumer protection laws. Which there’s no way that would cause the transmission to have issues. Hyundai has been having lots of teething issues with their Dual Clutch automatic transmissions and I wouldn’t let a dealership bully you out of your warranty if you’re within the rated limits of your vehicle.

[@Bill1993YT]

@@homeorganizingoptions4525 i.e they can’t deny your warranty for using an aftermarket trailer harness tail light adapter if you’re having transmission issues. Their question about what you’re towing is them looking for a reason to put blame on the transmission failure on you for towing something outside the limitations of your vehicle. So long as you know you were within those limits. They have no reason to deny your warranty

[@allenb9530]

Nathan - Get TuxMats, I have them in my Palisade and Taos. They completely cover all carpet and are semi permanent, not need to remove them to clean. I live in the northeast and they hold up great to the salt, mud and snow. I’m OCD about keeping my cars clean and I’ve tried all the other popular custom floor liners, TuxMat are by far the best.

[@freddufresne2702]

Nice to see you back Nathan. It’s been a while since I see you at TFL 😊

[@icare7151]

Great review. There maybe an electrical discharge / short somewhere causing static electricity build up that attracts dust, hair etc. Usually manufacturers use special polymers, fibers and surface textures that help prevent the static cling affect and go to great lengths to make sure there entire electrical system is isolated and well grounded from any positive or negative energy source that promotes static discharge onto the interior surfaces. If there is a cabin air filter, consider upgrading to a electric static air filter.

[@JenniferMBell-tt9dl]

Suggestions..... My 2022 SC turned off at 45 mph in torrential rain...2 fuel injectors replaced...I slid through 2 lanes of traffic with no steering, power or brakes...came to a stop on the side of the road. I've taken it in several times same symptoms and they "couldn't duplicate ". No warning lights or anything-complete engine failure and was told it caused no ther damage. I saw white smoke under hood and later under tailpipe. I am pissed. This makes 3 times I almost wrecked. I just got it back after they had it 7 weeks. Oh, and my seat heater in both front seats had bad wiring assembly so they replaced those. I have whip lash and a concussion from this last event so I am not ok with just going home like nothing happened.

[@palebeachbum]

Informative update. Thanks for doing this. The Sante Fe and Maverick have been on my radar. I'm not a truck kind of guy, but I do need a light-duty truck for my business needs, mainly hauling cargo in the bed. I never tow. I currently drive a 2007 GMC Canyon regular cab with a 6ft bed. I find the 6ft bed too small at times, so I'm realizing these two trucklets don't have enough cargo capacity for me with their dinky beds. It really sucks because they are much more practical as a daily driver. Much better gas mileage, which I appreciate. Aside from the 6ft bed that I need, midsize trucks are overkill for me and a waste of my money. I don't need something body-on-frame with off-road capability and more towing prowess. I'd also prefer the FWD of these trucklets too for better traction. My Canyon struggles with traction on our constantly wet Florida roads.

[@reserva120]

This is stupid and makes zero sense - aside from the millennial age type whining .. both the Tacoma & Frontier have 6 foot beds .. and can handle your thought traction in wet Florida ( the Handel the PNW just fine .. so stupid

[@palebeachbum]

@@reserva120 RWD trucks with their light rear ends absolutely suck in slippery conditions. FWD is superior. RWD is better in a truck application over FWD only when the rear is weighed down with cargo. The Tacoma and Frontier are more expensive vehicles when comparably equipped over the Maverick and Frontier. Those trucks also guzzle gas in comparison, which is stupid if you don't need a "real" truck. I would be fine with a lighter duty Maverick or Sante Fe if it weren't for the dinky beds.

[@artsmart8759]

SEL with Adventure package here. Love it, with one MAJOR exception - and I haven’t seen one review that mentions it - the halogen headlights are absolutely awful. Worst of any vehicle I have owned in over 50 years. Took me several tries to successfully substitute LED bulbs (no fun). It made enough difference that I at least don’t feel it’s dangerous to drive at night. Hyundai should be ashamed! Especially at this price point.

[@jefft7085]

I love my 22 SEL. But I do wish bed was separated from the cab like most trucks. With this design there is no way to have a tonneau that reliability keeps water out. So if I take it camping with a chance of rain, pillows and personal items end up in the cabin.

[@dvader3263]

Purchase a silicone gasket waterproof storage container to hold your pillow and blanket in the bed? Any sealed plastic container works, as the bed only leaks around the perimeter on most tonneau covers.

[@trevorhart5576]

Andre's armpit hair.😂😂

[@shannonboone3640]

I have the Ford Maverick hybrid. Absolutely love these little trucks. Great for the average person. I also put BFG Trail Terrain TA tires on my Maverick, Great tire, looks so much better than the stock tires.

[@mikejones762]

gloss black around the screen is an easy fix. xpel sells a precut film in matte. i have it on mine and is a life saver

[@Schuisadrummist]

My 2022 SEL Premium had a leak that was flooding the back seat footwell with a half gallon of water every time it rained. The dealership never figured out the source, so Hyundai bought it back 5 months later, and now I've got a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. 🤷🏻‍♂️ I loved the Santa Cruz, but the dealerships were useless. The warranty doesn't do anything for you if the dealerships can't or won't do the work. Glad yours is holding up a little bit better, at least.

[@travelinman482]

TFLnow All I got from this video was Nathan bitching about a dirty car (pet hair, windows left down) and plastic trim pieces exposed to the Sun's UV rays. Here's a suggestion, don't put your hairy friends in your car (cabin). Andre included. 😅 The wiring harness issue is something that Nathan needs to talk to his local dealer about at least twice a month. He also bitch about a drop in 3 MPGs while driving with a loaded roof rack. A 3 MPG loss is nothing new to the off-road...overlanding community. I've seen averages around 5-6 MPGs and more (V8 equipped vehicles w/ racks & gear). If he's concerned about MPG loss, remove those All-Terrain tires and install Highway tires for better fuel efficiency.

[@jibosnjak9840]

I’m in Alberta, so I see daily the only thing that people haul in half tons is the short-kings themselves. The Santa Cruz is one of the very few interesting trucks out there, good on you.

[@user-om6pr4yt1l]

Off-road Test?! I have yet to see someone do a review of the naturally aspirated 2.5l awd.

[@xs8372]

I have a 22 and about 21k miles on it. So far I had one issue where a sensor wasn’t working. The dealership was garbage when it came to customer service and getting it fixed in a timely manner and they would not give me a loaner or a rental even tho they had the car for several days. Their excuse was that they had not enough of them. Never had such thing happen with other brands

[@paige2732]

You can get a bed extender if you need to make the bed longer.

[@peterfessier9780]

I think a plug-in hybrid Santa Cruz would a big seller, especially if they could build it in the US to get the tax credit.

[@stephenj4937]

The catch is that all Hyundai plug-in hybrids are made in South Korea; not only would it not get the tax credit, but it would also be hit with the chicken tax on imported trucks.

[@caliwish7585]

Hyundai is building a new plant with battery capacity in Georgia due to open in 2025

[@stephenj4937]

@@caliwish7585 it that for PHEVs or just full fledged EVs?

[@caliwish7585]

@@stephenj4937 idk

[@arkanaloth2617]

I was considering a santa cruz but after some looking at what I use a car for I really came down to I just don't need a truck, even a small one.. but it's a nice one to be sure.

[@lwarrengrubb8841]

From what I know about the plastic that these car companies use, is that scrub the plastic good with a sponged up SOS pad and lightly scribe the plastic along with soap and water. Again very lightly. That takes the deep dirt and road trash off the top layer of the plastic.

[@mcciaccio]

I live down in Elizabeth and have a long dirt driveway thats uphill. I have been thinking about getting this same model. How has it done in basic snow? I seldom go up to the mountains or out in a snowstorm. I would like something like this that can do a little of everything so I can sell my car and my F150 and just have my Duramax for heavy towing and something like the Santa Cruz for everything else. I really wish the Santa Cruz could get 30mpg! I drive about 500 miles a week. Thanks!

[@nategoldin1982]

I have the same trim and color. Like the car. But already replaced a heater box. Dealership literally tore apart the front panel. Was worried about assembling all back. But looks like they did ok. And yes - the dust on the front dashboard is all the time. I keep a towel inside and wipe it out literally every day Have already 15k after 8 months of ownership

[@brucevodka]

You're a very good presenter.

[@norsefalconer]

I did the jack under seat relocate "mod." Works great. Just do it, and free up that nice storage space taken up mostly by the ridiculous foam insert.

[@jasonbrassard5572]

Why not put jack in the bed storage bin?

[@norsefalconer]

​@@jasonbrassard5572It's always accessable under the front seat, even if there's stuff, and/or passengers in the back seat. That's not true if it's under the back seat (factory location), or in the bed "trunk."

[@erikpetrie637]

My uncle has a '24 XRT and he loves it. However, it had that dreaded issue with the transmission where it wouldn't shift into any gears. The fastest the car would go was 30 mph. He couldn't even get up a hill as he said it felt like it was struggling,even under full throttle nothing was happening. He shut the car off for a minute or so then started it back up and then it ran just fine. As for getting the car into service, he called Hyundai several times and they never returned the call. Hyundai needs to get their shit together with their service departments. Especially with this transmission recall. A lot of people have had this same issue and had Hyundai offered a regular automatic instead of this DCT crap, they wouldn't have this problem

[@TomMJH]

Thank you for this update!

[@user-ec3os8oo4b]

I love my Santa Cruz, the warranty is wonderful....the trouble is getting Hyundai dealership to get you in so you can get your vehicle fixed. They kept my Santa Cruz for 2 months to replace a rear wheel sensor. When I got it back, there was a thumping in the rear end, I was told to take it immediately to make sure the wheels were tightened back up properly, and they were. The mechanic found the spring had not been replaced properly and was cocked off to one side causing the thump. I called Hyundai back and was told I would have to bring it back in and leave it and would be given a loner car. Now, nobody calls me back and I have left many messages. This is at the Red McCombs Hyundai Northwest in San Antonio. Good luck if you need warranty work. PS. I have about 13,000 miles on it and it runs like a champ and I love everything about this vehicle EXCEPT their ability to honor their warranty.

[@CookingMike]

really like the functionality of the size , hoping Toyota brings back stout or Subaru with the Baja. I live Lakewood, and woild be super nice to have a bed for my bike , reach thw trail heads but easy to parallel park in the city.

[@erickwong8094]

Curt 56466 is the part number for a 7 pin trailer harness. Problem solved. I have a Curt Hitch and used the 5800 Easy Mount to pretty up the rear end connection. Also have a Putco Blade installed with their 529004 Quick Connect harness from behind so trailer connection maintained while having better visibility for those behind me AND full reverse lights without splicing of wires.

[@ThisGuyRides]

It's easy to install Curt hitch yourself, and the trailer wiring is plug and play.

[@icare7151]

Try taking a new microfiber cloth wipe-down and then clean the dash surfaces real well. Then vacuum all the textile surfaces ie carpet, seats etc. Then take “Bounce Free” (free of dye and perfumes) dryer sheets and rub on the surfaces. This may help elevate some of the static clinging.

[@coralgwyn-williams9933]

I love everything about mine only wish there was a way to step up on the fold down part of the truck bed (not the side step)

[@TheOriginalBumper]

I have a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe with I believe the same or very similar transmission . 8 speed non twin clutch . I had that same weird 2nd to 3rd gear problem it eventually started to have bad shutter . I now have 250,000 miles on my Hyundai and the shutter is pretty bad but still drives and it still runs very well on highway

[@joeb2588]

Heres the real reason im looking at this truck. All trucks right now are having serious reliability issues, except maybe the Tacoma and Ridgeline. However, they are more money and this Hyundai has a better warranty. Ford is having engine issues in the 150. GM, pushrod and the cylinder deactivation is a nightmare. Ram, dont know where to begin, and the new Tundra, sadly was designed here and not Japan, so theyre having some early issues. Now, i have a Hyundai Elantra with 124k on it. Other than a wheel bearing and regular maintenance this car has been outstanding. The most reliable trouble free car ive ever owned, so i would buy another hyundai in a second. But im not youre typical car owner. I check my fluids between oil changes, clean and take care of my car so its been good to me.

[@natalielibby]

Thanks for this review. I didn't realize how small the backseat is. Probably a bit too small for two growing boys I assume?

[@WW-wf8tu]

Idk Nathan. You say in the beginning there is shifting issues between 2nd and 3rd gear. Then at the end you claim there is no problem with the transmission. Just because the company has not issued any recalls,(for that on your trim)does not mean it is working perfectly. Or with in established accepted tolerances. I find that sort of thing on a NEW vehicle, intolerable. And I understand not everyone is as fussy about major components not working properly as I am. And they are willing to put up with things until complete failures. But for me, I would have brought it back and asked for my money back. On used/as is. Hell no. It is on me if I buy something that is faulty and I accept it. Best of luck. Hope it never gets worse.(does anything get better?)Especially when out of warranty.

[@OldThomMerton]

I understand about the weird tranny shifts. My Toyota has the older 6speed Auto . . . and at times it searches between 3rd and 4rd, often trying to downshift when in city traffic. No issue, otherwise fine, just annoying. Too much coffee, Nathan . . . Nice rig. Glad you are showing it's utility.

[@colinwood8376]

I’m having the same issue with my 2023 modeling, wonky between 2nd and 3rd.

[@wrench8149]

My local Kia dealer is just as bad. Oil changes are always a month out. Have to plan ahead on making the appt and guess when you think you’ll be due. Lol

[@GettingthruLife]

Andre's arm pit hair...so funny!

[@mr.2cents.846]

You should gave gotten the 2010 Sport Trac Adrenalin with V8 and navigation package. That would cost a fraction and tows minimum 5000 lbs. And looks soooo cool. 😎

[@ryanrogers2990]

I have been waiting for this

[@caliwish7585]

I guy in the Santa Cruz forum claims that using scotch guard on a microfiber towel really cuts down on the dust attraction to the piano black plastic.

[@nickclashez]

Put 30k on my SEL Fwd with zero issues

[@robertpulliam9973]

My Toyota Camry hybrid’s center display has the same type of black plastic that is a dust magnet also.

[@micperez819]

I thought these were ugly. If you lift it and give it a better grill it looks a lot better. There doesn’t seem to be any other aftermarket grills available though

[@Razorsedgeartwork]

Just a note here, you have an SE not an SEL. The SE is the entry level model, fewer options and actual gauges in the dash. SEL is full screen in the dash, no physical gauges.

[@darrellnewbury5051]

Wrong, the SE and SEL have guages unless your SEL has the activity Package. I just purchased a 2024 SEL and it also has the regular guages. Activities package and upper level models have the digital dash and larger info screen.

[@chrisfoster27]

Weird. My 2014 Santa Fe had a lag between 2nd and 3rd gear. Hyundai told me nothing was wrong. I went to a Transmission shop and they flushed and replaced the fluid and it helped but didn't completely fix it. (it was worse in winter than Summer) I'm guessing it is a common problem with Hyundai's transmission.

[@chief1960]

Love my truck and get lots of big trucks slowing down and getting thum up from drivers. I have had eleven new Hyundai"s and for the price a hell of a deal.

[@afcgeo882]

Get it with the pull cover on the bed and it’s basically a CUV sedan with a really large trunk.

[@MsSSnow]

Mine is a 2022 with same miles. My tow harness was recalled, but they keep telling me they don't have the replacement.

[@markcoopers1930]

Good to see people actually using their vehicle

[@HOLLAifYouFEARme]

03:41 and it was at this point it knew, i like this guy and i’ll listen to the rest 😂

[@SuperQuantum69]

nice short review. Is this the AWD or FWD SEL model? if it is the FWD, how does it drive in winter with snow? Wish you could've mention more the back seats. Looks like a very short space back there in between front and back seat!

[@paige2732]

Hyundai is replacing tons of dual clutch transmissions. They stop shifting all together. The wet clutches start leaking.

[@abhi4ify]

Hello Nathan .. great update .. just one question .. do you miss adding the activity pkg?

[@user-zs8vf2lv3g]

What is your Hyundai recommendation for oil change intervals?

[@hvwally6050]

First off I love TFL videos! You failed to mention that the 5000 pound towing also requires the trailer to have it's own brakes? Also since this is a requirement... that Hyundai likely does not have an available trailer brake controller either. Without the brake controller uneducated drivers will be trailering above 1650 pounds at great risk! Keep up the fight to get this wiring harness "issue" addressed. This item may stop me from considering the Santa Cruz if they have not resolved this on 2024 model years. What about tailgate removal? Watched you guys drop one trying to get one off on the early model years. And you are truck guys. Of course I'm referring to Electric trailer brakes.

[@takwu0]

really wish hyundai canada would offer the non turbo, esp if cheaper. And a manual trans would be dream come true lol

[@fernandosuarez5815]

In other words ! Your happy with the Santa Cruz !!! I have a 2022 and have over 22000 ! And love mine !!! Mind you I traded my 14 tundra for it !

[@kylearmitage9323]

Yeah, given Hyundai’s track record with their engines you really should not be missing any of your service dates, and also having owned a Hyundai I know that their service center is always booked. Might have something to do with them always needing to be fixed.

[@zxtenn]

Hi Nathan, i have a 2023 Tuscon SEL AWD with the convenience package and looking at a 2024 Santa Cruz SEL, i DONT see the button to disable the stupid stop/start feature, my Tuscon has it and i always use it.

[@poppyneese1811]

I think it’s a good looking lil truck, I’d probably get the Maverick due to the more conservative looks, as I get older the better these small trucks sound, getting stuff in and out the of bed. I’m short legged and round so getting up in my as from factory 4WD F150 is a chore and I hear the same crap, that ain’t a truck with that lil turbo V6 and not being F250 or 2500 that ain’t a truck, well it fits my needs. Nathan you got me hooked on these lil 2.7 Ecoboost, just traded my 17 in on a 23 and I can now hear a lil Turbo noise, they did away with the plastic engine cover and I think that may be why or the guy that put em on at the Kansas City plant let mine slide.

[@Trapper4265]

The Santa Cruz is an impressive vehicle, but I can't get past the looks of it. In my subjective opinion, it doesn't have that truck like vibe. I gravitate to more of a boxy look, but to each his own. 😊

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

That's what gravitate me. It doesn't look or feel like a truck. I'm not a truck person, but it's persuasive in the eyes of not feeling too utilitarian but has utilitarian capabilities. But different strokes for different folks!

[@Trapper4265]

@jraheemjefcoat429 I've met others like yourself who really appreciate its non-truck like appeal. I do feel it's a better product than the Ford Maverick.

[@ThisGuyRides]

@@Trapper4265 It is better. I had a 2022 XLT hybrid that I sold for profit and got 2024 Santa Cruz SEL AWD. Since I WFH, the MPG is not a big deal to me, and the Cruz is better overall.

[@shadetree6705]

Thank you for the update.

[@Bearbok]

Thanks for the update

[@summersands8105]

I lost my car once. Called the police and everything because I thought someone stole it from the store parking lot. Five minutes into talking with the police, I leaned on a car and realized it was the care I drove. I drove my dad's car that day instead of mine. Aaaahhhhh...blond roots, what can I say? lol The police officer had a good sense of humor and laughed quite a bit.

[@justme294]

I'm not a fan of the dark zone in the driver side light or how low they sit. The lights feel more like fog lights. Also, the radio update sucks.

[@robertanderson350]

Any way to sleep in the back seat area or bed via tent attachment?.

[@blairjamieson9228]

Hate. Unfortunately Hyundai service is terrible. I've been waiting 5 months for them to fix the AWD that keeps turning off in mine. Horrible. Not worth it. I'll never even think about getting another Hyundai.

[@lazaroambrosio5646]

Do you think someone who is 6,4 can fit in the car?

[@cdnstiggy]

In Canada we only get the turbo and awd. They start at 44000.

[@RayanMADAO]

44k Canadian or American