Hyundai Owners Report Engine Explosions in Their SUVs Before Reaching 80,000 Miles | Carscoops

      Certain Hyundai models reportedly have connecting rods that can create holes in the engine block.

      Hyundai is facing a class action lawsuit over alleged engine issues in the Santa Fe.

      Owners claim that the 3.3-liter Lambda II GDI engine failed before reaching 80,000 miles.

      Following a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation, Hyundai has extended warranties to 15 years or 150,000 miles.

      The owners of a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe SE have filed a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer, asserting that the 3.3-liter Lambda II GDI V6 engine in their SUV is defective and at risk of catastrophic failure.

      This is the latest development in a series of issues reportedly associated with this engine, which is also found in several Kia models and was previously investigated by the NHTSA.

      The lawsuit, brought forth by Jason and Allison Burns, originates from their purchase of a used Santa Fe SE in May 2019, which had 17,350 miles at the time. Almost five years later, in April 2024, their SUV allegedly stalled and lost power while reaching 79,966 miles.

      An inspection revealed that a hole had formed in the engine block, likely due to a connecting rod that had come loose inside the engine.

      In the same year, Hyundai extended the limited mileage warranty on 2014–2019 Santa Fe models to 15 years or 150,000 miles after the NHTSA's investigation.

      The Burns took their disabled Santa Fe to a nearby dealership, which, according to the lawsuit, declined to repair or replace the engine at no charge. They claim they were unaware of the extended warranty until January of this year.

      Unfortunately for them, and after several months of discussions with the local Hyundai dealership, the couple ultimately agreed to sell their damaged Santa Fe back for a small fraction of its worth and instead purchase a new vehicle from the same dealer for around $30,000.

      Did Hyundai Know?

      The lawsuit claims that Hyundai has been aware of issues with the 3.3-liter engine for some time, including reports of seizing and total failures similar to what the Burns experienced.

      The class action asserts that many customer complaints have been made directly to Hyundai and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, while various other lawsuits have also been filed regarding this issue.

      The complaint alleges that Hyundai engaged in misleading advertising and violated multiple consumer protection laws, including the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act. The Burns accuse the company of unfair and fraudulent business practices, alongside breaches of both express and implied warranties.

      They are seeking damages and a court order requiring Hyundai to recall all affected engines.