2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Pricing and Specs

I definitely agree that 60,000km is pathetically short for the lifespan of a modern transmission. And if, indeed, the transmission has failed or is showing dramatic wear in that distance, I’d be asking Hyundai to help out with the cost of repairs. Even though the vehicle is out of warranty (by only about a year it would seem) the low kilometres and full factory service history might give Hyundai cause to come to the party on a pro rata basis.

Meantime, don’t hit the panic button yet. The fault could be a much simpler one than you might be imagining and could be something quick and easy to fix. The problem could be as simple as low transmission-fluid level. If the quoted cost to examine the transmission is putting you off, try an independent transmission specialist who should be more than familiar with this unit.

Rattles of all sorts are commonly reported in the Santa Fe. For the dealer to dismiss it as common is laziness. Call Hyundai's customer service on 1800 186 306 and report it to them.

There is also a petrol-engined Santa Fe. The crossover point for getting the money back on diesel power is about 30,000km a year.