2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport's engine is stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to effectively identify the root cause. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's computer system. Next, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, as any malfunction here can significantly impact engine performance. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, to ensure they are functioning correctly. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any obstructions or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture essential for optimal engine operation. Don't overlook the battery and charging system; a weak battery or faulty charging can also lead to stalling. Lastly, check for vacuum leaks in the hoses and lines, as these can create imbalances in engine performance. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the stalling issue in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; failing components such as ignition coils or spark plugs can prevent the engine from firing properly. Airflow issues, often caused by a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor or throttle position sensor, can also create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, resulting in stalling. Furthermore, electrical problems, including faulty sensors or wiring issues, can interrupt the engine's operation. Lastly, vacuum leaks can lead to an improper air-fuel mixture, exacerbating stalling issues. By understanding these potential problems, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the root causes of engine stalling in their vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Engine stalling can occur without warning, creating a significant safety hazard as it may lead to a sudden loss of control while driving. This unpredictability not only endangers the driver and passengers but also poses risks to other road users. Moreover, neglecting this issue can exacerbate the problem, potentially causing further damage to critical components of the vehicle, which could result in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize that timely intervention through regular maintenance and immediate attention to stalling symptoms can enhance the vehicle's longevity and performance. Therefore, addressing engine stalling issues promptly is essential not only for safety but also for maintaining the overall reliability of your Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.

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