
The common issues with the fourth-generation Santa Fe are: there is a noticeable delay in the transmission downshifting. The functions of the transmission are: 1. to change the transmission ratio to meet the traction needs under different driving conditions; 2. to enable reverse driving; 3. to interrupt power transmission to the drive wheels when the engine starts, idles, the car shifts gears, or needs to stop for power output. Taking the fourth-generation Santa Fe 2020 380TGDi automatic two-wheel drive GL Elite version as an example, its length, width, and height are 4930 mm, 1910 mm, and 1720 mm respectively, the wheelbase is 2865 mm, the curb weight is 1775 kg, and the body structure is a 5-door 6-seat SUV.

My fourth-generation Santa Fe has been running for over three years now, and honestly, some common issues are quite noticeable. The infotainment system is a persistent headache—the touchscreen frequently freezes or crashes, making it impossible to enjoy music while driving. The engine shakes a bit during cold starts, and the mechanic said it’s due to carbon buildup in the fuel injection system, which triggers the fault light. The suspension noise is also annoying, creaking over speed bumps. Friends’ cars have similar issues, all caused by leaking shock absorbers. The tires wear out quickly, so regular pressure checks are a must. I recommend a full scan at the dealership and keeping the cabin air filter clean to avoid further problems.

As a young car owner, the most frustrating part about driving the 4th-generation Santa Fe is the tech issues. The large infotainment screen often freezes, connection with the phone is intermittent, and the navigation has significant delays. The dual-clutch transmission jerks noticeably in city traffic, feeling like being nudged suddenly. There's also engine starting difficulty, possibly due to ignition system failure. Occasional rattling noises from the interior door panels affect the mood during long drives. I recommend thoroughly testing these points during test drives and regularly updating system software to minimize problems.

I prioritize driving safety, but this car has common issues like engine stalling, especially when braking at traffic lights, which is quite alarming. Brake squealing is also frequent, and if the brake pads wear out quickly, it can be dangerous. Electronic system crashes are distracting, such as unresponsive AC buttons affecting comfort. Regular checks on brake fluid and coolant can help mitigate these risks.

From an enthusiast's perspective, the 4th-gen Santa Fe's engine is prone to carbon buildup with noticeable power loss. The shock absorbers frequently leak oil and produce abnormal noises, especially on bumpy roads. Some versions also report rear door lock jamming issues, with mechanical failures being common. It's recommended to inspect the chassis every six months, address belt aging problems, and use premium engine oil to prolong service life.

Maintaining the Santa Fe is crucial. I change the engine oil every 5,000 kilometers to avoid common issues like engine shaking or warning lights. Among the common problems, infotainment system crashes are frequent, which can be resolved by updating the firmware. Aging door seals can lead to water leakage, and early replacement can save money. Regular checks of the and wiring at professional shops are recommended to prevent further electronic failures.


