Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL(DM) — Problems & Common Faults
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Santa Fe DM facelift from 2015 brought a revised front, LED DRLs, and updated infotainment. Mechanically largely unchanged — pre-facelift weaknesses still apply.
The G6DJ 3.8 V6 with 199 kW is the available engine — a strong naturally aspirated unit with automatic. The engine is robust, but the AWD system remains the concern: the multi-plate coupling in the transfer case wears with frequent off-road use, driveshaft splines corrode in salt regions. AWD drivetrain repairs run $2,200–5,500.
The facelift improved brakes — less disc warping than pre-FL. Front axle ball joints remain a wear item from 50,000 miles. The ABS fire recall from early DM was addressed.
Test-drive checklist: Test AWD — slow turns checking for binding. Driveshaft vibrations at 50–75 mph. Hard braking — pulsing means warped discs.
2026 market: $17,500–26,500. Few V6 examples available.
Insider pick: Example with documented AWD service history — transfer case fluid must be changed every 37,000 miles.
Generations
Engine Ratings
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Ball joints and CV boots wear prematurely Ball joints and driveshaft CV boots wear prematurely under the weight of the DM. The MOT regularly finds these faults on older examples and a new sticker is often refused. Symptoms: Clicking when steering and setting off; MOT faults on axle suspension; imprecise steering feel from 80,000 km | Medium | |
| Torn driveshaft CV boots CV joint boots tear prematurely on the Santa Fe DM due to the high vehicle weight and AWD operation. Replacement is urgently needed, as dirt and water ingress destroys the joint. Symptoms: Grease spray in wheel arch, clicking when turning, visible torn boot from 80,000 km | Low |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 27 weaknesses have been documented for the Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL (2015–2018) — 15 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Other, Gearbox.
Santa Fe (D4HA, 2012–2018) — Be Careful: Fuel in engine oil (diesel dilution), EGR valve fouling, DPF clogging. Power: 150 PS.
Santa Fe (D4HA, 2012–2018) — Be Careful: Fuel in engine oil (diesel dilution), EGR valve fouling, DPF clogging. Power: 184–185 PS.
Santa Fe (G4KJ, 2012–2018) — Be Careful: Rod Bearing Failure from Manufacturing Debris (Recall), Oil Consumption from Piston Ring Defect, Theta II Class Action — $1.3B Settlement. Power: 185–192 PS.
What to watch out for with the Hyundai Santa Fe? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Hyundai Santa Fe DM-FL? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee