What To Know
- When it comes to reliable midsize SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular choices on the market.
- The 2023 Highlander received a predicted reliability score of 4 out of 5, while the Santa Fe received a score of 3 out of 5.
- Based on the data and analysis presented, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge over the Hyundai Santa Fe in terms of reliability.
When it comes to reliable midsize SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular choices on the market. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, comfortable rides, and a wide range of features. But when it comes to reliability, which one comes out on top? This comprehensive guide will delve into the Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander reliability battle, examining data from various sources to determine which SUV reigns supreme.
Reliability Ratings
Numerous organizations evaluate and rate vehicle reliability based on factors such as owner satisfaction, maintenance costs, and frequency of repairs. Here’s how the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander compare:
- J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study: The Toyota Highlander has consistently ranked higher than the Hyundai Santa Fe in recent years. In the 2023 study, the Highlander scored 81 out of 100, while the Santa Fe received a score of 73.
- Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports has also given the Toyota Highlander higher reliability ratings than the Hyundai Santa Fe. The 2023 Highlander received a predicted reliability score of 4 out of 5, while the Santa Fe received a score of 3 out of 5.
- AutoReliability.com: This website compiles data from various sources to create an overall reliability score. The Toyota Highlander has a higher score than the Hyundai Santa Fe, with a 4.0 out of 5 rating compared to the Santa Fe’s 3.5 out of 5.
Common Problems
Based on owner reviews and repair data, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander have different sets of common problems.
Hyundai Santa Fe:
- Electrical issues (e.g., battery drain, faulty wiring)
- Transmission problems (e.g., slipping gears, delayed shifting)
- Engine knocking or ticking
Toyota Highlander:
- Fuel pump failures
- Brake actuator problems
- Water pump leaks
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs are an important factor to consider when evaluating reliability. Here’s a comparison of estimated maintenance costs for the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander:
- 5-year maintenance cost (according to RepairPal):
- Hyundai Santa Fe: $1,065
- Toyota Highlander: $1,110
- 10-year maintenance cost (according to RepairPal):
- Hyundai Santa Fe: $2,118
- Toyota Highlander: $2,379
Warranty
Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander come with comprehensive warranties that cover most major components:
- Hyundai Santa Fe: 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Toyota Highlander: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
Owner Reviews
Owner reviews can provide valuable insights into the real-world reliability of vehicles. Here’s a summary of owner reviews for the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander:
Hyundai Santa Fe:
- Owners praise the Santa Fe’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price.
- Some owners report experiencing electrical issues and transmission problems.
Toyota Highlander:
- Owners appreciate the Highlander’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value.
- Some owners have encountered issues with the fuel pump and brake actuator.
Final Verdict
Based on the data and analysis presented, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge over the Hyundai Santa Fe in terms of reliability. The Highlander has consistently received higher reliability ratings from various organizations, has fewer reported common problems, and has a slightly longer powertrain warranty.
However, it’s important to note that both the Santa Fe and Highlander are reliable vehicles overall. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Santa Fe or the Toyota Highlander?
Based on reliability ratings and data, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge over the Hyundai Santa Fe.
2. What are the most common problems with the Hyundai Santa Fe?
Electrical issues, transmission problems, and engine knocking or ticking are common problems reported by Santa Fe owners.
3. What are the most common problems with the Toyota Highlander?
Fuel pump failures, brake actuator problems, and water pump leaks are common issues reported by Highlander owners.
4. Which vehicle has lower maintenance costs, the Santa Fe or the Highlander?
The Hyundai Santa Fe has slightly lower estimated maintenance costs than the Toyota Highlander.
5. Which vehicle has a longer warranty, the Santa Fe or the Highlander?
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a longer powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles) than the Toyota Highlander (5 years/60,000 miles).