NHTSA Complaint #11704253 — 2017 HYUNDAI SANTA FE

# **NHTSA Complaint Answers** ### **1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?** The **engine** failed due to **sudden and extreme oil consumption** that resulted in the engine being completely dry of oil despite regular maintenance. This caused internal damage including **CVVT (Continuous Variable Valve Timing) system failure**, bearing damage, and a complete engine seizure. Yes, the failed engine is fully available for inspection upon request. The vehicle is currently located at Dick Smith Hyundai in Greenville, South Carolina, where the dealership diagnosed the failure and recommended a full engine long block replacement. ### **2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?** The engine failure occurred **suddenly and without warning**, causing the vehicle to lose power while operating. The loss of engine function created the risk of: * sudden deceleration in traffic, * inability to accelerate or maneuver, * potential rear-end collision, * complete engine stall in unsafe conditions. The vehicle had **no oil warning light** prior to the failure, meaning I had no indication that the engine was at risk until the failure occurred. ### **3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?** Yes. The engine failure was confirmed by: • **Schwab’s Automotive** in Fayetteville, NC – determined the engine suffered catastrophic internal damage and was not repairable. • **Dick Smith Hyundai** dealership – confirmed **high oil consumption and CVVT damage**, and recommended a full **engine long block replacement** (estimate: $8,160.60). The problem has been fully verified by both an independent mechanic and an authorized Hyundai dealership. ## **4.Yes.The vehicle was formally inspected by Hyundai Motor America through the dealership’s diagnostic report. Hyundai reviewed the case (Case #XXX) after receiving the dealership findings.The engine remains intact avai. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF IN