Used Hyundai Santa FE

What to know before buying: Hyundai Santa FE

From 1 video review, 1 forum thread and 1 press test · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Santa Fe III (DM) is a spacious seven-seat SUV with generous equipment and good value for money.[1][2]Santa Fe III (DM)
• The DM generation rides very comfortably without sacrificing handling or steering behaviour.[2]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• The third row is better suited to children; luggage space is tight with all seven seats in use but much more practical in five-seat mode.[2]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• An owner of a 2014 2.2 diesel described it as comfortable, lively and spacious, rated it 6/10 and would recommend it to a friend.[3]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

Typical faults

• Some 2012–2014 2.4 G4KE petrol engines have suffered cylinder scoring and spun bearings, although reports are not widespread.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

  2012–2014 · 2.4 G4KE petrol

• The 2012–2014 2.2 CRDi can develop turbo and EGR faults when servicing is delayed, while poor-quality fuel also raises the risk of DPF blockage.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

  2012–2014 · 2.2 CRDi D4HB

• Early DM examples can suffer an all-wheel-drive clutch failure that leaves the rear axle without drive.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

  2012–2014

• DM reversing cameras are known to show no image when reverse is selected, with replacement of the complete camera required.[2]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• DM examples have been reported with peeling paint and panoramic sunroofs that crack or shatter.[2]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• In areas with heavy rain or road salt, DM models frequently develop corrosion around the wheel arches, lower sills and floor.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

  2012–2018

Which engine and version to take

• Post-facelift 2015–2018 DM versions are preferable: the 2.4 petrol gained a revised oil pump, while the 200 hp 2.2 diesel had improved durability.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• The 2.4 petrol is described as the most practical choice for most Mexican buyers because fuel and parts are readily available.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

What to avoid

• Treat the 2012–2014 2.4 G4KE with caution because cylinder scoring and spun bearings have been documented.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• The 3.3 V6 is thirsty and develops carbon buildup requiring cleaning every 50,000–80,000 km.[1][2]Santa Fe III (DM)

What to check at the inspection

• Demand a complete service history, verify the mileage and check parts originality by VIN, as non-original components can particularly affect the electronics.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• On a 2012–2014 2.4 G4KE, test compression and investigate any signs of cylinder damage or bearing trouble.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• On a 2.2 CRDi, inspect the turbo, EGR and DPF and establish whether servicing was timely and good-quality fuel was used.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• During the test drive, confirm that all-wheel drive engages the rear axle and that the automatic transmission behaves correctly.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• Check the reversing-camera image, peeling paint, panoramic-roof cracks and wiring damage caused by rodents.[2]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)
• Inspect the wheel arches, lower sills, floor, hidden cavities and any previous anti-corrosion treatment carefully.[1]one sourceSanta Fe III (DM)

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]automotive24.center — Problemas comunes Hyundai Santa Fe III (DM) 2012–2018 · press
2. [2]ReDriven — Used Hyundai Santa Fe review - Is it the best 7-seat SUV option? · ▶ video
3. [3]auto.jautajums.lv — Hyundai Santa FE atsauksmes | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum

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