DPF blockage and failed regenerations
DPF or engine warning light, repeated fan running after shutdown, poor fuel economy, reduced power, or limp mode after town use.
Should I buy a 2012–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Diesel Manual?
Considering a 2012–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Diesel Manual? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.
At a glance
We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.
This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.
Enter your registration to see the ownership outlook for the exact car you're considering.
Or enter the vehicle manually
Common Hyundai Santa Fe (2012–2018) problems
Timing chain rattle or jump risk
Metallic rattle on cold start, rough running, poor starting, engine light, or in severe cases sudden non-starting.
CV boot splits and wheel bearing wear
Grease thrown around the inner wheel area, clicking on full lock, or a humming noise that rises with speed and changes slightly in bends.
Hyundai Santa Fe buying questions
Is a 2012–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe worth buying?
It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2012–2018 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Diesel Manual, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.
What common problems affect the Hyundai Santa Fe (2012–2018)?
The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.
What should I check before buying a Hyundai Santa Fe?
Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.
A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.
The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.
Or enter the vehicle manually