2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport engine problems
42 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport — 62% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed that there was coolant in the engine and that the knock sensor…”
filed Sep 8, 2026
“The engine (2016 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0L/2.4L Theta II GDI engine) suffered a catastrophic internal mechanical failure, specifically related to the known connecting rod bearing defect. The vehicle is currently un-driveable and is located at Serra Hyundai in Trussville, AL. The vehicle and its failed…”
filed Jul 1, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine problems in other Santa FE Sport years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Santa FE Sport | 196 | 61% |
| 2017 Santa FE Sport | 202 | 58% |
| 2015 Santa FE Sport | 41 | 50% |
| 2014 Santa FE Sport | 92 | 57% |
| 2013 Santa FE Sport | 108 | 55% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Hyundai Santa FE Sport
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.