Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM) (2018–2025) (2018 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe (internal code TM) was launched in 2018, succeeding the DM model. It positioned itself as the brand's premium family SUV, offering up to seven seats, enhanced comfort, and a rich technological endowment. Its design evolved towards more modernity and robustness, with a distinctive lighting signature. A significant facelift occurred in late 2020 (sometimes referred to as TM PE for Product Enhancement), bringing significant aesthetic changes (front fascia, rear lights), a revised interior with a new center console and a larger touchscreen, as well as the introduction of new hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and an update to existing diesel engines. Overall, the Santa Fe IV is a reliable and well-built vehicle, offering excellent value for money on t

✅ Strengths

Suspension comfort and sound insulation
Generous interior space and modularity (7 seats)
Very comprehensive standard equipment, especially after the facelift
Improved build and finish quality
Long manufacturer's warranty (5 years in Europe)
Efficient and economical diesel engines (2.2 CRDi)

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption for naturally aspirated petrol engines
Sensitive AdBlue and DPF systems on diesels if used improperly
Valve carbon buildup on GDi engines (direct injection)
DCT automatic gearbox (post-facelift) requiring rigorous maintenance
Pre-facelift infotainment less intuitive than competitors
Some hard plastics in the lower parts of the cabin

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai Santa Fe IV is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped family SUV. Its overall reliability is good, provided rigorous maintenance is followed, especially for diesel engines and DCT gearboxes. For diesels (2.0 and 2.2 CRDi): Prioritize models with a history of long journeys and meticulous maintenance of the AdBlue system and DPF. The post-facelift 2.2 CRDi with the 8-speed DCT gearbox is particularly recommendable for its driving pleasure and economy, but gearbox oil changes are imperative. For GDi petrols: Be vigilant about maintenance and plan for decarbonization if the vehicle has high mileage or a history of short journeys. T-GDi versions are more powerful and generally reliable. For hybrids/PHEVs: These are modern and very relevant choices for city and daily commutes, offering excellent fuel economy. The reliability of the hybrid system is good, backed by the Hyundai warranty. Overall, the Santa Fe IV represents a safe bet on the used car market, offering a high level of performance for a controlled budget. A thoughtful and well-verified purchase will guarantee many years of satisfaction.

Common issues

Encrassement/Dysfonctionnement du FAP (Filtre à Particules Diesel) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 2 500 €

Effectuer régulièrement des trajets longs pour la régénération du FAP.

Dysfonctionnement de la vanne EGR (Recirculation des Gaz d'Échappement) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Vérifier et nettoyer préventivement la vanne EGR pour éviter l'encrassement.

Problèmes du système AdBlue (SCR) High

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km

💶 600 – 1 500 €

Utiliser un AdBlue de qualité et éviter de rouler avec un réservoir vide.

Défaillance de capteurs moteur ou électroniques divers Low

🔧 40 000 – 100 000 km

💶 200 – 600 €

Ne pas ignorer les voyants moteur et effectuer des diagnostics réguliers.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Timing chain	£850 – 1 700
Complete brakes	£350 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.