Hyundai Santa Fe - AWD Failure - What you need to know

The AWD system in my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe failed leaving me with a big problem to get sorted. Thankfully it was covered by warranty. Here's what you need to know about the problem and how to manage it.
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[@samcraies8950]

So informative thank you. I've got this problem after 10 years of completely trouble free motoring. I have kept my tyres in good condition until this current lockdown and I am a nurse so I have continued to work through the lockdown without being able to access either a service or new tyres. My rear tyres have mismatched wear now. West Auckland Hyundai have been good. Thanks for this video. Makes much more sense now.

[@calumbarnett6558]

Had this happen to our 2015 model with 90,000km on the clock last year. Suspect it happened after towing up a steep bank on loose gravel (took a couple of attempts to get up) also had 4x4 lock switched on. Car was six months out of warranty. However, Santa Fe dealership put in a goodwill application on our behalf and all was covered. Cars been like new ever since. Thanks for the great video detailing the problem.

[@woodstockpotter]

Thank you for the video; it was helpful; pretty much what I expected. I went to use the AWD and there we were without it, but, my vehicle has 350000km on it, I didn't pay much for it three years ago so it owes me nothing. Probably the coupler was going when I got the car, tire size was well matched and it has done no heavy towing as far as I can determine but it has failed. In view of the cost of a repair, the vehicle isn't worth spending a lot on and I was lucky to find another, again at a very good price and we have checked the drive, and it's tight as a new one. I'll part with the old one as a 2WD. A lesson well learned. Thanks for the information, greetings from Nova Scotia, Canada.

[@davgpol]

In the previous versions of these vehicles, the CM range, the transfer case was prone to fail if the owner hadn't ensured to make sure the tyres should all be the same size with equal wear as you mentioned. The service book also mentions this. Plus if you need to replace one tyre, and the other 3 are quite worn, you need to replace all 4 otherwise the system will engage the rear wheels on the road and just as in all part time 4wd systems something will eventually brake because the tyres won't slip to relieve the stress on the drive train take care of the tyre wear and the required tyre rotation and you shouldn't have any problems

[@flashg67]

I found out the hard way this past Sunday (2/7/2021) I’m in the Southeast US. 73,000 miles. 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0 turbo. Hyundai is going to fix it thankfully. It was the front differential like you described.

[@Hgamern]

I've got a 2008 Santa Fe, same 4wd system. Last winter the 4wd worked wonders, during the summer months I've had a control arm fail and wear out the front tires just enough that it's noticeable on the inner part of the tread. This winter I've "suddenly" got no 4wd, no warning lights, no sounds to indicate failure, it just doesn't work. Prop shaft does not turn when the car is lifted, but the rear wheels turn when the prop shaft is turned by hand... Seems to be the same issue you had. Thanks for the nice video explaining this surprisingly common fault :)

[@TheCowgirlNiamh]

Yikes! That's an expensive repair Jonathan! Glad it was covered for you! 👍

[@Badgertronix]

You and me both. Thanks Niamh!

[@thebestyoucanbepsychology9642]

Just discovered this exact problem with our 2015 Hyundai (108,000Kms; Melbourne, Australia) - 7months out of warranty!! Doh! No idea until the service centre diagnoses it and quotes $3000 for parts. Thanks for the video - nicely put together and clear! Car has been really great until now. Best of luck! Very kindly.

[@mnrvermaak1]

Did you have to pay for the repair yourself. Same thing happen to ours (located in Perth) 8months out of warranty

[@thebestyoucanbepsychology9642]

@@mnrvermaak1 The Hyundai dealer / service centre eventually covered it under warranty. We did not have to pay. We had always had the car serviced through Hyundai dealer/service centres and don't actually know when the problem occurred (i.e., inside of out of the warranty period; the previous servicing was done 12months prior to the recent diagnosis). Speaking to the Principal at the dealership was useful recognising if they are unable to address it then you have every right to go directly to Head Office. Hope that helps!? With very best of luck!

[@murrayt75]

We’ve just discovered our 2013 is only running 2WD , 125k Sydney. Just out of its extended 7yr warranty and already had the front transfer case replaced at 75k in 2019, aircon fail 3 times, electric park brake fail. We’ll be fighting all the way

[@murrayt75]

@@mnrvermaak1 how did you get on with yours?

[@SparkyBites]

Thanks Badger! Will keep this in mind to check when buying our second hand SF

[@warrenepstein1348]

saw your post about a year ago when trying to figure out what the hard clunk was when driving in reverse. bought the car used from a private owner with 95 k miles on it and it was like brand new and had it checked out and all was fine. was driving in the rain when pulling uphill when i noticed no traction and just the front wheel slipping. Put it up and exactly what you said no drive shaft spinning. was debating fixing it with a used unit for $700 us plus $900 labor and fluid but, the car has the 2.4 theta engine which burns oil so idecided to just drive it in 2wd as its not worth repairing.too bad the privious owner wasnt up front because this could have been repaired under the original owner warranty for free. only bought it as i couldnt find any cars available when my like new honda crv was rear ended and totaled by the insurance company last summer. buyer beware and thanks for the posts. will be purchasing only hondas and toyotas as they are pretty much trouble free .

[@stephen1991]

87000 miles on my 2013, so far no issues with the awd. I drive in snow every year, use good tires and have been very happy with the performance. This gives me pause, however, seems like it might be a weak spot in the system.

[@shanep4]

Great video Badger! Could it be people engaging the centre locker whilst having wheel slip, or does the car not let you do this?

[@billmilnes2963]

Thanks for that Badger, very helpful. I bought from a dealer, a 2010 IX35 2.0 L CRDI just over 6 months ago, as a tow car for our caravan. Currently under 190 K km. The towing capacity is 1600 kg and the van weighs 1450, so that should be OK. I didn't know about testing the AWD on a hoist and so the 1st chance I've had to experience the AWD was this week, towing the van up a steep gravel driveway. The AWD did not kick in, but the 4WD lock worked after a 2-3 seconds of skidding at a bit above idle speed. 1 does this seem to be the same problem, just that it has not deteriorated fully yet? 2. should it be covered under the CGA as the 3 month dealer warranty period has passed? 3. other online forums talk about the viscous coupler, is that the same thing? Thanks

[@21Piloteer]

I just bought a 2012 Santa Fe GLS AWD with 3.5L V6 and only 17,800 miles. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

[@thiagovolpi988]

Thank you for your video! I had the exactly issue with my Hyundai Santa Fe 2014 when it got 170000 km, no snow or hills only highways. The rest of transmission parts were ok like new ones. As you well said, the point here is to keep the tires and alignment in good conditions. After I exchanged the satellite box part the car is awesome again, with the 4 wheels working in the same time. No other mecanic issue with this wonderful vehicle.

[@matusholubek3328]

Hello is it possible to buy the damaged part separatly ?

[@CraigPittman-bv4zo]

What are you calling the satellite box parts exactly?

[@bosnow9221]

Hello. Great video. I have a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe sport 2.0t and today in the snow my awd warning light was coming in intermittently when slipping and fighting for grip. I can’t find much info on it. Was wondering if you would have any opinion on it. Thanks cheers

[@jimmymacharia1769]

Thanks a lot for this message, I got the same exact problem and the car is fairly new

[@Badgertronix]

Sorry to hear that

[@josephstafford9753]

Hi, we have a 2012 Santa Fe 3.5L Elite that needs a gearbox repair after we noticed reverse was not responsive as usual and jerky and then a series of quick jolts or misses driving the motorway. 105kms, tyres are different make after we got two new tyres that were different to the existing two to pass a WOF (Typer Power tech said this was ok). Also tyre size (mags) bigger than originals (as we bought like this). Could this have been the likely cause of issues we are now facing? Hyundai service centre has changed the inhibitor Switch and Transmission fluid has been changed to see if that would fix the issue but it hasn't. Thanks

[@maksimlbk7533]

Any way to weld that together? ive seen on trucks people weld rear diff Gears together with success.

[@danielpineda5596]

I own a hyundai santa fe 2010 AWD and had an issue with turning my wheel all the way to the left when the caar wouldn't move forward and stayed stuck. Then I pressed the gas and it made a loud jerk noise that lashed the car forward. I took it to a hyundai dealership in Milwaukee, WI and they reported rear diff leak in cuppler and housing unit. Everything else works well but whenever I turn the wheel is when the car doesn't accelerate forward anymore. I tried my warranty but unfortunately doesn't cover it. What is the best fix and option at this point?

[@hnajee]

Excellent vid n educational. Hyundai SF has this problem all over

[@rayvelez3736]

Tks. Well Done. our 2009 Santa Fe, AWD coupling failed of course, right after warrantee expired. Now we are at 148K with good tires never towed anything and we have the thumping again, sounds like we are getting hit in the back. Thoughts? Thanks again

[@bexdowney]

I have a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, 59,000km. Description of issue: Road tested and confirmed noise. Took sample of rear diff oil and found to be very contaminated with metal fragments. Also removed the RHF drive shaft and found corrosion inside the transfer case and shaft. Excessive movement in differential to transfer case. Is this the same issue? We have been to the OFT / looked at Consumer Guarantees.

[@solomonamatagi6749]

hello i have a santa fe 2001 4WD V6 right hand drive, i got a problem with it. the gear are not shifting. and on the dashboard when i put the gear to drive or (D) it shows (D and gear 3) at the same time. Do you have any help?

[@wlsjoh013]

Had a transmission front seal leak on my 2012 - got it repaired. Took the Santa for a test drive of 4X4 and noticed no power to back wheels. Given that the prop shaft does not spin when diff is locked - I suspect its the same issue as you had here. Also, given that the transmission has JUST been put back together, I'm loathed to have them dismantle it again, and was wondering if it isn't a better idea to leave this alone until my next transmission service in four years' time (it'll give me time to save up for parts and labour). Do you know if I am subjecting my car to further damage by not addressing this immediately? The fact that you said you've been driving around with this issue unaware for some time suggests that this issue wont cause further damage to the car. Thanks for your great vids - I've learnt so much from them!

[@pholland6643]

do you know where the breathers are on the transmition and diff are?

[@grantbroad6149]

Thanks for Video, yes I currently have this issue and suspect it is the transfer case unfortunately I don't have $4K plus for a repair, and this morning the nut dropped off the shaft on the Turbo and then shattered the impeller $1K for a second hand turbo plus labour etc... Our Santa Fe is a 2013 has now done 247,000 kms

[@GreenIz510]

I have a 2015 Santa Fe. 100k + Miles. Recently had an engine problem that required it to be removed. After the engine was removed, this issue was discovered with these gears worn out. I am having difficulty finding the parts. B7t if I were to put it back together as is. Will my main issue be no rear wheel drive? Will the front wheel drive still be ok? Chances are that is how it has been driving for a while now anyways. How can I check for warranty coverage?

[@richardstamper5630]

Do you know if a 2010 Santa Fe 2.2 diesel manual can be driven with the propshaft removed, the central 4 wheel drive shaft?

[@iainurquhart4133]

2015 model, mine had same problem back in mid 2020 and had it replaced as you did with a “good will” contribution from dealer. Now the AWD “Lock” suddenly engaged and no light indicator on the dash. Can’t get it to disengage so had to get it towed to North Harbour Hyundai. Awaiting their diagnosis now :(

[@elliotsims9236]

We purchased our 2015 with perfect dealer service history and at 63k we have been told that the transmission needs a full replacement. Have you experienced this with any of your work vehicles? we are also worried about this issue!

[@anthonywalker2904]

What are those 2 bits called as I need to order them for my 2014 Santa Fe please thanks

[@fiskusmati]

Today it happened to me. 2015 Santa Fe 2.2 diesel 78000 km Drive shaft not turning when front wheels are. Drive shaft can be turned by hand when the car is stationary on the ground. I will disassemble it to make sure, but it looks exacly like the problem you had. Did anyone found a better replacement for the OEM diff carrier? Aliexpress?

[@murrayt75]

I’ve got a 2013 model which has just lost AWD, no warning 120k on the clock. It’s Out of warranty now too, eek!! We’ve already had the transfer case replaced in 2019 after a failure and now this. It’s my wife’s daily driver, never been off-road. Had the aircon fail 3 times, electric park brake fail once. Eats tyres and we’ve always made sure they’ve been rotated by a 3rd party company because our dealer service said they don’t rotate the tyres during a service. Absolute lemon of a car but when it works it’s a real nice drive

[@osamahalzubairi8607]

Hello I have exactly like this problem but my car is Tucson not santa, when I press the diff lock button it shows in car engine screen that is turned on but there is no action form the car just the front tires rotates and the rear tires does not move, what can I do?

[@AM2208]

My Hyundai Tucson 2011 has a different problem, while on hoist the one side rear and front driver side spin but non of passenger side spin. What’s your opinion?

[@erdeesh]

I'm sure it's been asked before but please can anyone tell me what type of oil is used to refill/ change the old one in the 4wd actuator?

[@disturbator]

Hello i have santa fe 2009. Do you know is it a limited slip diferential or no? Im confused about oil replacment. LS oil or regular gear oil ?

[@hnuggets6638]

I have a question I have a 2010 Hyundai santa fe limited edition awd 3.5l v6 and the viscose coupler is f**ked on it what happened if u still drive it

[@lifeofmattmel]

2013 13500k mine did the same thing. Haven’t had it fixed yet. 2wd is good for now. Full service history.

[@davidbeames6062]

My 2013 Santa Fe has just been diagnosed with this problem but it still drives the rear wheels at this stage. There is a loud clang/clunk as I reverse up my steep driveway. It has done 180K and its previous owner was a rural person who had probably done a lot of towing and I do my share of towing too. Dealer has quote $6500 to repair. It should be better than this; there must be some sort of misalignment to cause this level of wear!

[@JakeTheoBike]

Great video and very helpful. We've got a 2012 Santa Fe 224k has been very reliable until now. We use it to shuttle kids up and down the ski hill roads in NZ and handled it with ease over the last 5 years or so. Last week The car lost traction on a section of road that it would normally be a problem and the 4wd light started flashing. looks like we might be up for a new diff? CVs are up for replacement too.

[@ethanstock6022]

I have 2011 with the same problem noticed slipping one day and the Awd light flashed just wondering if you found out what it was so I know where to start looking

[@PandoraPX4B]

2007 Santa Fe with AWD indicator flashing and ESC off since January 2022. No error codes on scanner have not taken to dealership for inspection.

[@seeul8rwaynekerr]

I've got my old beater version of this car with this self same issue. I'm half tempted to weld this joint together.

[@TheEnufzed]

Hi great video thank you. How can I lock my 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe into AWD and how do I release it back to two wheel drive. I assumed it did that automatically. Regards Geoff from Oz

[@broddos1]

Also this exact problem with 2015 Santa Fe Highlander 107,000 Kms Sunshine Coast. Over 3 years out of warranty. No towing ever but recently had the 2nd of 2 punctures a year apart on the Bruce Highway and needed to drive one Km on a flat tyre on both occasions to exit the freeway. Could this have caused the splines on the transfer shaft to shear off? Been quoted $6.5K to repair. Would I be better to just leave the rear wheels disconnected and operate the vehicle as a front wheel drive only from now on?

[@chriskosti1806]

2017 Grand Santa Fe (German), 200HP Diesel. AWD was still working, but driving fast on twisty roads (right corners), the car was shaking. Diagnose from Hyundai-Dealer, defective Differential. Whole drivetrain was replaced (warranty / 58000km). No Trailer or heavy loads. 4 matching Wintertires, Not old and equal on Profil depth

[@Badgertronix]

That sucks and just goes to show how weak the drivetrain is

[@donnademko6352]

Hi.. I'm concerned as I had to tow my 2010 hyundai sante fe. I forgot to tell the Tow Operator it was all wheel drive. He towed it about a half a mile to a mile, before asking...??? I feel HE should have known, as an Operator....‽‽‽ Seems ok right now. Should I be worried??? And what would I need to look out for to know if it had, indeed, been ruined. Been driving it for a few months, now, after tow. Not really noticing anything abnormal at this time...

[@edwardmason8805]

Anybody know If this was rectified 2016 2017 when there was a face-lift?

[@timeversole467]

Thanks man,that's my problem now!

[@tdi1505]

Thanks for your advice 😎

[@Badgertronix]

Hope it helps someone out

[@user-ok4kg5fk1v]

I have a 2015 Hydundai x35 (has done 160K) and during a service they discovered I the AWD wasn't working (Front Dif Drive Splines stripped. I couldn't tell any difference when driving it, I've had it since 2015. My question is could I just get the oil drained and replaced (to remove any metal bits) and just drive it as a 2 WD? I don't really want to spend $3K on what is probably a $10K car now.

[@eugenejoubert9808]

Bought a 2015 Kia Sorento in December 2019. With just over a month left on the warranty, transfer case went. I had a feeling something was up. Had the dreaded clunk sound (feels like I actually hit a brick wall when it happens) when reversing, not every time though for some time before it went belly up. Also at times when taking a corner from a standing start, I'd get the dreaded rumble feeling and sound from the rear of the car. Long story short: I dodged a bullet. The repairs were roughly half of what I had paid for the car to begin with. Luckily covered under warranty, a month before it was out of warranty. Transfer case, coupling and rear diff replaced. Rebuilt gearbox (or so I understood), as well as new side shaft (again what I understood). The dealer that did the job was fantastic. The master tech that did the actual work, was absolutely excellent. Likely to sell it now though, as this scared the crap out of me. Looking for a Paj or Paj sport now.

[@eugenejoubert9808]

Last note, was told that the parts that were put in are better/upgraded parts and should last. I'm not going to take any chances thought.

[@Badgertronix]

Glad it had a good outcome for you. You're right though, hard to have confidence in the system even with upgraded parts.

[@mohamedsaeed7325]

Does this issue cause gear oil leake?

[@mercanerie98]

2014 Santa Fe Sport. Only the front passenger wheel is engaging. Neither the front driver or both rear wheels engage.

[@adam8642]

my 2011 has this now. was hoping to get used bits of a damaged vehicle to replace it as it needs a clutch slave cylinder as well.

[@gpetheri]

OK, so the actual faulty area is the shaft that connects the transfer case to the actual gearbox output..... mine has gone and I was going to order a new transfer case, but not after seeing this..

[@avagraham5785]

I purchased my 2013 Highlander as 2nd owner, 5 mths later front diff transfer case gone with $7000 for repair , it had had every scheduled service always at Hyundai 106000 kms, this is a severe manufactures defect! Hyundai have offered to pay half for the parts only $3000, I am now taking the dealership I brought it from (not Hyundai)to VCAT for the rest of the repair!

[@Ems980]

What was the outcome?

[@dianetc0217]

Just had 2016 Santa Fe Turbo Sport coupler replaced. 81,000+ miles on it, always had matching tires. Baffled on why this happened.

[@user-sq2hn5es3q]

Great video. I have a 2017 santa fe diesel 2,2 (115,000ks) , Took it in for a service and they came back with a report saying the diff coupling needed replacing as leaking oil. Does the coupling actually contain oil, if so and leaking cant the leak be sorted and oil refilled. If its not leaking from the coupling could it be the diff. They produced a lovely photo and yes there is evidence of oil leaking . shame I cant upload it. Its an expensive exercise so any comments or feedback appreciated. Thanks

[@adrenalinesession4237]

I want my 2002 santa fe to be Fwd can I remove something?

[@michaelkameta7248]

how much for parts only ???

[@dccfy3155]

Thank you for the explanation! Could you provide the part numbers for the precise parts you had replaced? We have an automatic 2015 Santa Fe with the same diagnosis. I’m having problems tracking down the parts however. Thanks again for your expertise.

[@GreenIz510]

Yes!!! Specific part numbers would be greatly appreciated. Please? Thank you in advance.

[@vladimirtroanski7322]

Yes pleeease. Please state the part numbers of the parts needed. It would be greatly appreciated.

[@glenmclellan495]

I brought 2013 my14 santa fe elite 3 weeks ago, notice clunk noise just once every time when reversing up slight hill, took back to place i brought it, and needs new diff, so im wondering if is the same problem, like to put on hoist to see if all wheels turning before take it to get fixed, and then after they fix as well.

[@Badgertronix]

The diffs or viscous couplings also fail

[@teamaudilouis2915]

It happened to mines. I had no warning ⚠️. However, when I took it to the dealer they notice oil settled in the splash guard under the engine. What I noticed was when I put the truck in reverse it took time to catch the gear then kick in reverse.

[@wyattoneable]

If I had a Santa Fe I'd watch this twice. :)

[@Badgertronix]

Absolutely! Thanks buddy

[@leaper06]

I have a 2013 SF Sport (Canada) that just rolled over 200000KM and had it in the dealer service as I had an engine light go from being on to flash. Dealer service said it was related to the engine recall issue and replaced it under warranty--my shop quoted me an estimate of $5K for a rebuilt engine, so I was glad not be out of pocket money. Whilst in, I was informed I need a new transmission I had to ask what the symptom was and was told AWD is not working on only 2WD--which sounds like the problem you identified in the video. I don't know how long this was the case but the quote for replacing a transmission given the age of the car is disappointing ($4.5K). I'm getting rid of it for a new SUV that is not Hyundai/Kia.

[@Blue-moon12]

That ia crappy. My wife just bought a 2016 Santa Fe Sport. This has me worried now. Did you trade yours in?

[@leaper06]

@@Blue-moon12 Yes I got rid of the 2013 Santa Fe and ended up with a 2020 Honda CRV Sport and am very happy with it.

[@blind898]

Hey Badger, thanks for the video. Mind tossing me some thoughts on an issue i have. I own a 2012 Santa Fe AWD 2.4l. When switching from D to R back to D and such, there is an aggressive thump that can be heard. When going under the vehicle you can pretty much pin point it to the transfer case. I have already replaced all 4 motor / trans mounts before hand. Also when accelerating there is a almost reliable thump from the front of the car as i accelerate. There is no slipping or RPM loss when the thumps occur. I am aware of the TSB 12-DS-002 and will be changing those out soon. I don't believe that has much to do with the thump when shifting from D to R to D. Any input would but highly appreciated. I was considering changing the Transfer-case fluid before taking it to a shop. Hoping to avoid paying an arm and leg if im able to replace a gear or seal in the transfer case.

[@isarayyanmd]

Solenoid?

[@videoworks7731]

Excellent video only a Kiwi could give a subjective explanation. A lot of Auckland cars end up in Turners Christchurch

[@GrahamWhiteman73]

2013 Sante Fe 80,000KM EXACT same issue.. Limited towing, tyres always rotated and replaced at same time cost more than 4k to repairer at dealer.

[@jespermarstrand3932]

Thank you for the overview! Have just been told by Hyundai my transfer case has failed and the spline on the drive shaft possibly stripped. I have not seen any photos yet and we have had no sign of leakage. Always serviced with Hyundai Melville (AU) since new. They mixed up their service schedule this year and missed the 96month service. Looking in the records no sign of transfer case fluid checks or replacement to date. Milage is 107k in km. Car always driven light, never off-road nor towing anything. Hugely disappointing but hope Hyundai Australia will come to the table given low milage, loyalty and service bungle. Any suggestions most welcome.

[@Badgertronix]

That sucks, but all too common. Hope you get something positive from Hyundai

[@mikethomson8528]

Mine actually cracked the differential carrier in three places that you have in your clip.One part dislodged when examining it.I have approached my local NZ agent.Possibly some assistance $$ from Hyundai . Carrier splines not worn but transfer case spline was.

[@mikethomson8528]

Mine is a 2015 DM 2.2 by the way

[@negociosbigg8190]

I have one those 2013 Santa fe sport with the same problem and I have a cuestión. this is inside that transmition or transfer case?

[@Badgertronix]

Transmission and transfer case

[@Mr.M1STER]

That is a huge flaw. I'm glad that it was under warranty for you.

[@Badgertronix]

Thanks. Me too!

[@jagknullarsmurfen]

how old is your santa fe? A friend of mine has one, Hyndai dealer in sweden says they never heard about the problem.

[@Badgertronix]

2013-2016 seem to be the affected years. Just look at the comments with people who've had the problem...

[@mrsturner2007]

Argh! We have just found this issue with the 2013 model we purchased 6 months ago. We are in NZ too and wondering if Hyundai will repair?? Was yours outside the warranty period?

[@Badgertronix]

Sorry to hear that. I doubt Hyundai would be interested given it's an 8 year old vehicle. If you bought from a dealer then you should be able to claim under the Consumer Guarantees Act. I bought a warranty when I bought the car used which paid out no problem. If you're in Christchurch I recommend Aceomatic to do the repair.

[@Cocobolomasine]

Does anyone know part number of this?

[@BackCountryWrenching]

that's crazy that those splines stripped out, good thing for warranty

[@Badgertronix]

I'm glad it was too. 22 hours labour at a transmission specialist is probably the equivalent of 6 months in my shed if I had to fix it myself 🤣

[@chrisbealing2694]

I have a 2010 Kia Sorento with 205,000km on it. We had the same thing happen to us. The only indication something was wrong was when the car was in reverse occasionally it would make a loud clunk. Went to tow the caravan up over a kerb one day and it started skidding. Its in the shop right now getting the transmission reconditioned and the transfer case replaced. The agent said 9-10k to fix, however I am getting it for roughly 5k from my mechanic. I will be switching cars as soon as I can to get something better for towing. It's a shame really as they drive so nicely and towing is a breeze.

[@Badgertronix]

Yeah it sucks. Nice cars, but not built to last

[@startube2788]

@@Badgertronix why not built to last? his car's got 200k km, that's something. And your car only has two parts with some shaved teeth, that's not the end of the world. Other manufacturers also have problems. You need to understand that many parts of a car are sourced from different companies.

[@Badgertronix]

Poor engineering and poor quality 🤷‍♂️ other vehicles do have problems, this is the achilles heel of this age Santa Fe

[@kevindelporte2990]

Would it prevend damage If i take off the driveshaft so i only drive 2x4?

[@gerard4449]

What's the benefit?

[@alexr.duarte3670]

Would be this the same problem in Tucson? I have a Tucson with no rear wheels working, but it shows in the cluster the "4WD problem" light

[@Badgertronix]

More likely the rear coupling. A blown centre diff doesn't tend to turn the trouble light on

[@alexr.duarte3670]

@@Badgertronix got it! Thanks 👍🏽👍🏽

[@urbannpa]

How many mile on the vehicle and how often did you use the 4 wheel drive?

[@Badgertronix]

230,000kms when it failed. It's on demand AWD so kicks in when it's required.

[@sasunmontu]

Has anyone come up with an improved part.

[@davidjones8680]

My brother has had two Santa Fe, he had exactly the same problem with both of them. He lives at the top of a big hill, and as soon as it snowed the problem soon showed up. He also had problems with the dual mass flywheel in both of them too, both falling to pieces at around 30 to 40k. He now has the equivalent Mitsubishi, and he went auto too. It's now done almost 100k with NO issues at all.

[@Badgertronix]

The rest of the car has been fine, but this AWD problem seems to be their Achilles heel. There weren't too many choices for 7 seat SUVs in the price range I was looking so we went with this. Has been great otherwise.

[@davidjones8680]

@@Badgertronix Yes, apart from the clutch and AWD the rest of the car was bullet proof. To be fair, the clutch problem was quite possibly to do with my bro's left foot... It tended to be mostly at the top or the bottom when he was driving.

[@jessejames96]

​@@Badgertronix Hello my friend. I have a question about a 2012 Sorento I towed with only the rear wheels on the ground and after a few miles the rear wheels locked up. Wondering what area I should investigate as being damaged. PTU, rear coupler or transaxle? Thanks so much 🙄🤯

[@davesager7292]

Yup! My 2014 Hyundia Tucson

[@Caleb-lbj]

I have a IX35 2015 off road wheels driving on sand I push Diff Lock and only my Front wheel worked

[@forresg500]

how is new sante fe awd system , is it ok as far as you know? or is cars till so new

[@Badgertronix]

Haven't heard of any problems yet

[@forresg500]

@@Badgertronix ok thanks

[@rogermatthews182]

Discovered that I had a complete failure of the transfer box at about 90,000km. Thankfully Hyundai covered the parts bill - $8,000. Always had matched tyres, no heavy towing and limited off-road driving.

[@jespermarstrand3932]

Hi Roger, what was the age of your car at the time of failure and in which country. Sounds like the situation I’m in.

[@rogermatthews182]

@@jespermarstrand3932 I have a late 2012 model 2.2 Turbo diesel registered in 2013. I picked up the fault in 2017, however I suspect that the fault may have existed since new as I was the only driver of the car and I would certainly have noticed if the transfer box gears had stripped while I was driving.

[@db5351]

We bought a 2013 Santa Fe new. Always serviced at Hyundai. Had the same problem at 50,000km in 2017. Checked under the car after a service, and found the prop shaft could be turned by hand. Repaired under warranty. Strangely I had never used 4WD. Never knew it wasn't working until I checked and hand turned the prop shaft. It must have destroyed the splines by just turning the prop shaft itself!!

[@Badgertronix]

The AWD isn't switchable so you would have been using it until it broke. Lucky you were still under warranty!

[@db5351]

Yes, the 4WD is switchable. There is a button on the dash to engage it. When not engaged, the system runs 2WD (front wheels) only, until the system detects the front wheels losing traction, which then automatically engages the rear clutch pack on the rear diff to give some limited (about 50%) torque to the rear wheels. 4WD only operates below 40 kmh. All the above info came from Hyundai Tech when I queried why the splines failed. They offered "manufacturing fault".

[@mooauto2388]

I was willing to buy a 2015 one with a diesel manual but now I think I might pass

[@juanmondragon8412]

In my Santa fe 2007 4wd wont work, push the 4wd, it is show on the panel like is on but no traction on 4 wheels just the 2 in front, look like this is electronic can you show how to fix it ?

[@jordanocepeda8433]

The exact same thing is happening to me with my 2017 Santa fe Sport AWD. Did you get to a conclusion and repaired it?

[@TommyG11814]

How many miles on it and did you ever change the fluids.

[@77gnomes]

Common problem. Front Tranafer in 2014 blew at 45km under warranty. 110km the 4wd Coupler blew and warranty was denied. I have driven the car for another 50,000kms as a feont wheel drive. I have taken Hyundai to VCAT and they have capitulated 2 weeks befpre the hearing and will now replace the coupler under Warranty. If you get denied take them to Court. They know this is a problem and will try to avoid it. Call them out. It is a Disgrace.

[@murrayt75]

Good to hear Darren, our 2013 had the front transfer replaced at 75k due to a thud when engaging reverse, now at 125k something has failed again and now we only have 2WD. Out of its warranty and going back in for diagnostics shortly, will be fighting all the way. $50k Aus we paid new and it’s just my wife’s daily driver, shouldn’t expect these issues.

[@77gnomes]

@@murrayt75 good luck. Please confirm with Hyundai what year your front transfer was replaced. I can confirm that min was replaced in 2017, it blew again 3 months ago and i went to my local mechanic. They suggested i try fr warranty via Hyundai! I thought they were kidding but i tried my luck. i called Hyundai dealer and had to have the car towed to the dealership to assess the failure. within a day they advised that the Warranty on the replacement part from 2017 still applied while the vehicle was 2 years out of factory warranty! Hyundai honoured the warranty for the part that failed and paid all costs bar the Tow. I was happy. Car had just clicked over 200,000kms. I traded the car in as soon as i had it back for a Nissan.

[@murrayt75]

@@77gnomes turns out it was the rear diff carrier , it’s broken, now waiting on Hyundai Australia to respond to mine and the dealerships request for them to come to the party. The coupler also needs replacing also as there’s a bulletin for its replacement should the rear diff need replacing. Fun times, 1 week down with zero response.

[@gerard4449]

In my opinion there's no doubt they know about it as it's a global problem on all Hyundai / Kia model with the 6 spd auto AWD, and possibly manuals suffer the same. It's a design flaw and no part of this is addressed by the manufacturers servicing schedules.

[@tw1stedkingz501]

Just going through this process now Dealer told me it is gonna cost 13 grand to repair this broken drive line

[@robertlane3513]

My Niece in Halifax Nova Scotia Canada has one and her 4-4 failed which she did not know untill it snowed and she went to get out of her driveway. and hers is a 2017. and i think that is just sickining

[@sergiojaramillo8448]

Just wondering since kia and Hyundai are the same if this problem also apply to sorentos

[@Badgertronix]

Not sure sorry.

[@GraveUypo]

it does

[@evangoodhue4109]

Found out this problem but I got stuck on the beach I thought it was care covered by consumer guarantee and I repeat it without a problem

[@pologti98]

I own a 2014 santa fe and its been nothing but trouble for the past 4 years. I don’t understand how car websites keep mentioning it as a reliable vehicle. I agree its good value for options they provide, but reliability is garbage.

[@TheFelltimber]

i initially thought not too much of the video warning as a small number of most brands have horror stories...which is rare and bad luck but after reading the comments i might steer clear of the Sante Fe....it reviews very well and I imagine its a great car otherwise.

[@Badgertronix]

Great car otherwise but does seem to be dogged by this problem. I wouldn't have made the video if it was a one off...

[@amykurdi8690]

I have a 2014 been a great car to I got this problem. I noticed the problem at 90k could have happened earlier on. I have 22” tyres on mine and they said that could caused the problem. My warranty ran out so I been quoted 6k for the job.

[@Badgertronix]

That sucks

[@darrens5731]

I was thinking of buying a new Santa Fe soon as I can’t see myself doing any serious 4wding. Do you think I should steer clear and get a Pajero Sport or MUX instead? Thanks in advance

[@davgpol]

they are completely different vehicles to the santa fe. Depending on your use requirements as to whether or not you want a proper 4wd vs an AWD

[@GraveUypo]

i got a santa fe last week and i already regret it. it's too fragile. should've gotten a chevy trailblazer instead :\

[@Badgertronix]

Most manufacturers make the cheap bits like CVs expendable so your transmission doesn't explode. Not Hyundai 🤦‍♂️

[@davgpol]

@@GraveUypo they are completely different vehicles. Read your owners manual and follow all the requirements regarding ensuring that all the tyres are equally worn and it's unlikely you'll have any problems

[@Badgertronix]

It doesn't seem to matter. Rotating the tyres just seems to delay the inevitable.