NHTSA Complaint #11635201 — 2017 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

While driving my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, I heard a knocking sound coming from the engine. Shortly afterward, the vehicle began moving jerkingly forward, and the oil, engine, and battery warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. The vehicle then shut off completely in the middle of a busy street. I attempted to restart it, but while the engine made a starting sound, it immediately shut back down. The electrical system remained functional (lights and radio), but the vehicle would not restart. Due to the failure, I had to exit the vehicle and physically push it to the side of the road in cold, rainy conditions with reduced visibility, creating a risk of being struck by oncoming traffic. Strangers who assisted in moving the vehicle also placed themselves at risk. A certified mechanic has since confirmed that the engine has locked up and identified this as a known issue with Hyundai engines. Prior to this incident, the only warning sign was the oil light briefly flashing while driving on an uneven road surface. At the time, I was on my way to have an oil change within the manufacturer-recommended time frame and assumed the light indicated routine maintenance was needed.