I just wanted to say Farewell. You guys provided me tons of information, but I am heartbroken to say I bought a sedan yesterday( I paid thousands under invoice, needless to say a great deal). I had to cancel my order for a GLS 2WD V6 ABS+trac, so if there is anyone in the milwaukee area looking I know one is availible at Hyundai of Glendale in Pewter. They charge MSRP and make you buy a gold package for $500. They were suppose to have it in a week( it was marked "in route")
So Long and Thanks for all the great info. SF was my first choice for a vehicle but I couldn't pass a deal.
Don't feel bad about it. You hear the knock on the door and it's opportunity you damn well better open it. I'd say good for you and I hope you enjoy your new car as much as we are enjoying ours. Cheer up, I got stuck driving my wife's 4 door Eagle Vision Tsi when she got her Santa Fe LX. Odd but I feel somewhat strange driving around in that.
But hey, I ride a bike, I live in Florida, life is good! ( you do know that we bikers call automobiles "Cages" don't you? :-)
I placed an order for the lx 4wd and hopefully will have it soon. But i have been following this forum closely. Hope to contribute in the near futur later
To those fortunate who already have SFs in their garage, can you comment on the specifics of the Hyundai Warranty?...
On the "Poor Man's Lexus Site", there is mention of 'fine print' in that some of the regular maintance items MUST be performed by the Dealer to keep the warranty in effect.
Is that true? Is so, what are some of those items that are required be done at the Hyundai Dealer? Please check your Santa Fe Owners or Maintenance Guide and report back to the board.
I am curious as the Santa Fe is my first choice, but the nearest Dealer is 35+ miles away. Not convienient for normal maintenance items.
Has anyone found a wood dash that has everything (all the pieces + the side panels) that you wanted? Apparently, Hyundai has one, but with no side pieces, and it's not even available.
I have been reading through your comments for about a month now. I have really enjoyed what I have read. I have owned my Santa Fe since Oct. I have 7000 miles on it. I have not had any real problems with it at all. I adore my Santa Fe. I had a Honda CRV, I liked it but it had no power. Sometimes I thought that my CRV was not going to make it across the rode it was so slow. The other thing is I paid the same price for these two SUVand my CRV was the bottom of the line. However, now I own the Top of the Line Hyundai LX and it puts the CRV to shame. Honda has nothing on my Santa Fe. Just because its A Hyundai, people should not look down on us. I have got more more comments and looks with my Santa Fe they I ever did with my box shaped CRV. Most people think that I am driving a Lexus until they see Hyundai on the back. Most people cannot believe its a Hyundai. I am very impressed with this SUV.
Hello dinoq in Singapore (Post #2 of SF owner's photo gallery)!
Hope u read my message here!
Most of us have problem searching for the body fender, stepping bar, rear spoiler in north america. Can u let us know from which source u bought your Singapore's Santa Fe accessories from?
Do u know u probably own the best looking SF in our club so far!
Hi all. My wife and I bought our SF in Merlot (the GLS V6 w/ABS & Traction Control) just over 3 weeks ago. WE LOVE IT! We had one HELLUVA time getting one to say the least. I did all the research on the web and decided that for the money the SF was the vehicle for us. It was the first "new" car for both of us and we haven't regreted a single thing. We live in Broomfield, CO (just outside of Boulder) and decided on the 2WD instead of the 4WD. We don't off-road and the snow never really sticks around to be much of a problem. We wanted to hold out for the Pewter color, but the only GLS with the optional ABS & TC in all of Colorado was at Planet Hyundai in Golden. At first we wanted a deal, but there was no way we were going to hold-out and play hard-ball. There was one in all of Colorado and we took it. So far I have only seen one other SF on the road and it was purchased in Anaheim, CA. All four Hyundai dealers in the state say they've sold several each, but I haven't seen them.
The guys at the dealership were wonderful and made the whole process very easy. Of course they didn't have to sell us on the product. We actually went in for a test drive and there were 2 young guys haggling over the trade-in value for a 2000 Honda Prelude (why? I have NO idea). It seems they wanted the very same SF we came in to test drive. Needless to say, we said no to the test drive, made an offer and snatched the SF from right under those two. I felt bad until I drove home.
I did want to give a special "thank you" to everyone who posted to this board. Besides the research, we also took into consideration all of the comments on this message board. We made the right decision (even if I had to take a part-time job at Blockbuster for the next few months).
Sorry for the long post. Just got caught up in the excitement.
p.s. - The Merlot is a wonderful color and now we think it's better than the Pewter or Black (2nd choice).
Welcome to the family! I think you did the right thing and if the Merlot is your colour than so be it. I liked it myself really and I don't think that any of the colours offered by Hyundai are bad at all. My least fav is the blue. Odd but I don't know why as that is most peoples favorite colour. Enjoy your new car and tell us about it from time to time. The good the bad and the ugly as that's how we learn. So far there haven't been any bad's or ugly's really. Take it as a good sign.
You must have wanted that pretty badly to take a second job. Did you trade in anything? No need to reply to that I'm just curious as I've found that you tend to get better deals without a trade. At least with Hyundai. Then again if your trade is "newer" you might make out but I'm still trying to figure that out.
For those who do a lot of internet surfing, if U know more Santa Fe's owner group on-line please let us know!
I don't have to much time to surf, I only stick to Edmunds.com since January, but I do think there should have more SF owner group somewhere on the internet. If U know please also let them know our existence so all of the owners can share experience.
I have driven My Santa Fe LX for 3000 miles and average 22 in suburban driving and 27 miles to gallon on the highway.
You did not state how many gallons or liters you used. The Santa Fe has a fuel vapor capture valve that shuts you off immediately if you are filling the tank very fast, and you will only fill the tank a little over 3/4 full. Try filling the tank slowly from 1/2 to full and you will see that you get a lot more gallons in the tank. Then check the next fill up using the same procedure and see how many gallons you used then divide this number into the miles driven.
I assume you haven't heard of www.hyundai-owners.com yet? Go to that web site, click on message boards, and you'll see posts from owners of Hyundais - mostly Santa Fe's by the way. I always read this one (edmunds) & that one - they're both interesting and full of helpful info.
richard4: No trade. But we plan on trading a 1992 Mazda MX3 with 57,000 towards the El antra. After driving the SC I feel reeeally unsafe in the Mazda when I have to drive it.
I read about the alignment problem with some Hyundai's and called my dealer to tell them that it's also happening to our F. At first they weren't sure if they could cover the fix without charging me. I told them about this web site and that just about everyone has had a positive review of the SC but there was some mention with this problem on a lot of Hyundai's. They called me back and asked me to bring it in so they could correct it at no charge. Nice of them since I mentioned we would probably be repeat costumers within 4-6 months from buying the SF.
No trade in does seem to make a large difference dosen't it? Well if you are going from a large sedan to a small suv type it seems to anyway. But if you have a sporty type vehicle they do seem to offer you a little more leeway. Maybe it's the price of gas and cleaning up the trade to re sell it? I really don't know as this is the first time I've bought a new vehicle and didn't trade in my old one. It's a 94 with 34,000 miles on it.Do I want it? Nope! but I got it nevertheless.
Oh yes! The spell check feature is real beaut isn't it? Have a blast driving around in your MANTA BE if you can find one anywhere.
Well everyone, I thought this day would never get here. But I am an official owner of the new Santa Fe! I got it in my fav color (black), in the trim level I wanted (GL), and with the package I wanted (sports utility). Now I pretty much have the GLS minus the V6 engine, which isn't really even necessary down here in sunny Florida! (West Palm to be exact). So I saved a whole bundle there. I was a little disappointed in the price (they had it marked up almost $2000, because the car was hot! I knew they weren't lying-- everytime I passed by the dealer, the Santa Fe's would be there a max of 3 days. So, I grabbed this one while I could. I am also very happy with the service so far. I went to add the fog lights in the front (since the GL doesn't have them) and they are charging me $200 for parts AND installation! Is this a good price? I thought so, and I hope this is how much most parts will run! Well anyways, I plan on hooking this thing up! I am a 22 year old college student, and so far it seems that mostly older adults are buying these things, but I want to be the first in my area to have a classy hooked up Santa Fe. Anyone have any ideas?
Congratulations on your purchase! I know you're gonna love your SF.
In case it helps I also bought a pewter 5 speed GL [about 2 weeks ago] and can't get enough of it. I'm in NJ and although here many folks seek 4wd in all reality you can probably do without it unless your a serious off-roader, IMHO. I've driven through ice and high snow many times with 2wd front and rear drives without a problem [although I might add the cars I drive are 4/5 speed manuals].
I also had the dealer install the fog lights, mud guards and rear deflector. The cost for the lights, if I recall was about 120.00. They wanted 200.00 to install all items I mentioned but ended up paying nothing for installation of all items since I had to wait a bit for the vehicle when I showed up to pick it up [not bad, another 200.00 savings].
As far as the buying crowd here, those I've seen shopping for them appear to be in their 30/40's range and a few 20's. In fact, just going through the NJ Turnpike this weekend the toll booth collector held me up a bit to talk about the SF he just bought a few days before [he was about 24].
Apparently they're a hot item here too although I've actually seen only 3 on the road. They move fast off the dealer lots. One dealer told me many of his SF clients were out of state as far as Chicago were they're in high demand but not available, especially the gls/lx 4wd versions. Last week the dealer I bought from received a pewter gls v6/4wd and would not accept anything less than 3K over MSRP [that's about 4K profit over invoice].
As far as add-ons check out this web site: www.hdkautosport.com
I'm taking delivery of my new Santa Fe on Saturday. It's about 2 1/2-3 hour drive on a freeway, from where I live. I've read somewhere that one shouldn't drive a brand new car at the same speed. I've also read not to drive it above 55 mph at first. Any validity to that?
Your owners' manual gives specific instructions. I've followed the same rules for breaking in many new cars with 100% success. Many car companies state no special break-in needed then follow with these instructions or similar. For first 2-3000 miles, never exceed 55-60 mph. Don't maintain the same speed for more than 20-25 min. Vary speeds below 55-60mph as much as possible. Drop speed to below 40mph at least every 20-25 minutes when on the highway. All this helps to seat valves in new engine. Other tips are don't let car idle for more than few minutes after starting up (more than a few minutes of idling or warming up is unnecessary and can hurt the engine. Full oil flow is not realized at idling, only when on the road). Don't make any oil change before Hyundai's recommended first interval (for harsh conditions) since sometimes special break-in oils are used by the manufacturer in new engines (true for Honda, unsure about Hyundai). Thereafter, change oil every 3-3500 miles with stop-and-go city driving or other considered harsh conditions. If you want to switch to Mobil 1 or synthetic oil, do so after 7500 miles. Synthetics are so slick that many times they are not recommended by manufacturer for the break in/valve seating period. After 7500 miles, most mechanics and mfg. agree valves are fully seated, and synthetic oil may provide benefits (less freq. oil changes and less breakdown/viscosity change over time or in harsh conditions which helps your engine survive). Hope this helps and best of luck in your new Sante Fe!
I wonder how realistic this is. Or rather, what attitude adjustment I would have to make for the first couple of months... I drive between 40 minutes to one and a half hour one way * 2 on the freeway every day. No one here drives less than 65-75, except in rush hour. That would mean that I either can't take freeways, or have to get off every 25 minutes, which will make my trips to work so much looooonger. mm... Any thoughts on that?
You're quite welcome! If traffic steadily moves 65-75mph, for the first 2-3000miles, I'd probably stay in the slow lane at about 60mph. If you run into heavy traffic or stop and go slowdowns, you will probably be slowing down anyway below 40mph (which is bad for getting to work but good for break-in!). What I've done on a new vehicles on long trips with no "natural" slowdowns is this: every 20-25 minutes, when there is no one behind me, I just take my foot off the accelerator until the car slows to 35-39, then accelerate at a moderate rate back up to 55-60mph. I don't think you should overly worry about any of this, just vary your speeds on the highway as much as possible in the first 2-3000 miles, don't exceed 60mph, and treat the car gently in terms of acceleration, braking, and handling. A little extra care in the first 2-3000 miles will pay off for you in a big way down the road (when you are cruisin' to work at 75mph!) Good luck!
Here is billtung again! - the guy using SF for flower delivery every day (Running 9000km in 4 1/2 months).
I make money from driving it, I begin driving above 100km most of the time after 3000km, sometimes reach 150km in the highway, & sometime stayed at 120-130km for almost 1/2 hr. I changed oil at Hyundai's recommend milage (6000km) using Synthetic oil, my engine so far is more & more smoother day after day, I don't treat it gentle like there is an egg between the foot & the accelerator, whereas I stepped on the pedal deeper than I drove my Safari Van (reaching 2k - 3K revolution when start from stop.) That is the reason I always matched or faster than other car(even V8) when start running in traffic light. Come on it is a V6 engine not a 4 cylinders, u don't have to drive so gentle, treats it like a truck! V6 is built to accept more powerful job & give us more smooth driving experience. Will anyone drive a mustang or corvette gently at low speed? I know I may have chance ruin my engine. But I don't worry at least within this 5 years & 100k km warranty period, because Hyundai's will gave me another engine. I'm trying to use up 100,000 km in this 5 years period to make as much money as possible to buy my next SF.
You might hate me treating my engine like this! But remember my case is different compare to other SF owners whose own SF for private use. My SF is willing to become a testing machine for a little bit ruth handing, I will post whatever happen to my SF in the 5 years/100,000km warranty period.
I picked up my SF Lx 4wd w/ ABS & TC in pewter yesterday evening. I waited 3 moths for it and it was completely worth it. I wouldn't have done it without the help of Hugh the regional manager here in the mid west. I'm in chicago and I'm very excited. But I just realized once I saw how good the car looks that not having a garage is going to be a problem. I would hate to see that beautifull shine fade away
Got my new car on Saturday. I had the paperwork mostly signed ahead of time on a Sandstone that I wanted, LX with ABS. The Internet salesman I made the deal with wasn't there, which I thought wasn't really cool at all, but left all the paperwork with someone. When I was taking possession, I noticed that the Santa Fe had 40 miles on it. From everything I read and from what my mechanic told me - it shouldn't have had more than 10-20. Silly as it may be I didn't like the fact it had 40 m on it AND didn't like that I wasn't disclosed. They said "all our other cars have the same mileage." I asked the guy to show me some "other cars," and every car we looked at had only 8 or 6 or 10 miles om it. So I decided to switch. The funny part is this - when I was originally looking for a Santa Fe - I would tell every dealership I called, that I'd consider any color except for Green. When I was picking a substitute for the Sandstone with 40 m. on it Saturday - it was raining and very overcast. The salesman had only two ABSs. He showed me another sandstone and then this very nice color car. Again, it was overcast. I asked, "Is it blue?" The guy said it was blue. I said I'd take it. They had to redo all the paperwork and install the cross rails, which took a couple of hours. The weather cleared up by then and suddenly I saw that my new New blue car was GREEN! LOL.
It actually grew on me very quickly, it seems to change color depending on the light, so I'm happy.
Now, driving back from San Diego to LA, I did, as pro212 suggested: 55-65mph for 20 minutes, and then about 40mph for a while. There were no side roads, so I had to stay on the freeway. I can tell you that pulling hair and extracting your own teeth must be easier. It was soooo tedious, not to mention - a little scary. But I would put my emergency lights on and slow down in the slow lane. The cars were honking, giving me a finger, but like a good Santa Fe soldier, I persevered.
After a couple of hours of this slow torture I see red lights flashing behind me. It's nighttime by now, so all I can see is the flashing red lights. I figured: it must be an ambulance, I am already in the slow lane with my emergency lights on - he will pass me. But the lazy ambulance driver kept behind me, and then even stupidly turned on his sirens. Well, the stupid ambulance driver turned out to be a cop....
He cited me for driving too slow and said that in the old times engines were indeed made like that, but since a lot of people were getting rear-ended, the manufacturers make them now, so you CAN drive at normal freeway speeds, as long as you alternate slightly. So now I am ticketed and confused in my new blue, oops, green Santa Fe.
Pro212, I just want to make sure that you don't take my "breaking-in report" as criticism of your advice. I only thought that it was an amusing story to share.
Thanks sofsof, but not at all did I take the report as criticism, I really felt sorry for you getting a ticket first ride out!! I left the clarification for other owners trying to break-in carefully::no need to slow down/alter speed for more than a few moments, especially on the freeway. Wishing you lots of luck with your new Santa Fe! Congrats.
Help! I need to decide on rear deflector accessory tonight in an internet order. Who has one? Does it increase wind noise at speed? Do you have to drill into the tailgate to attach? Does it look good on the car? Please respond quickly, thanks!
Why do people have to worry about the accessories are from dealer or aftermarket? There is no need to care of if the accessories are belong to the dealer or aftermarket. Most often if you install the products from the dealer they are actually aftermarket anyway. However, there is contract for dealer to sell particular certain items only. Such as rear deflector, cargo organizer, and maybe some more. Dealer have been approved to sell these items separately authorized by Hyundai Manufacture. Basically those items are aftermarket anyway but can be authorized to install from dealer. Yes! There are some items manufacture strictly from Hyundai manufacture but mostly are not. "Notice that the dealers can install most of the requested items for your car but very costly because of labor". Sometime they overcharge for accessories as well and just be careful. Some dealer sell cheap and some expensive.
The Edmunds.com Drivers' Opinion Panel has just launched. This initiative will further establish Edmunds.com as the voice of the consumer by becoming a key source for automotive market research. Through this initiative Edmunds.com will send traffic to the Opinion Panel promotion and registration area. Members of the panel will participate in key market research studies for Automotive OEMs and related companies on-line as opposed to more traditional market research methods.
Bought my Black Obsidian Santa Fe LX 2WD with Option Pkg. 13 (ABS, Traction Control, Heated Seats and Chromic Rear View Mirror) plus Mats and Roof Rack Cross Rails. Factory MSRP $22,084. Dealer MSRP $23,076 that includes Diamond Tech ?, Pin Stripes, Door Edge Guards and Wheel Mouldings. Paid $21,814. Only $270 off Factory MSRP and $1,262 off Dealer MSRP, but they gave me $750 more for my trade-in than any other dealer offered (Infinity, Toyota, Honda, and Pontiac). Not the best deal in the world, but seemed fair for a hard to find SUV. Have 1,050 miles so far and no problems. Love the ride, the lack of noise, and the many compliments that I get from others.
Hi all! After reading the message board, I can barely wait until I get my new Santa Fe. I ordered my vehicle last Monday and put a deposit down on it. They told me it could be in any time now. I am getting the Santa Fe of my dreams: GLS-V6 4WD ABS/TCS in Nordic White. I live in Michigan but will be getting it in Ohio since I could not locate it in my state. I will continue to read the message board and look forward to experiencing all the great things I have been reading about regarding the Santa Fe.
I have one question though...If this vehicle is so hot (and almost everyone of them is "pre-sold" in Michigan) then why in the world have I not seen ONE single Santa Fe on the road in Michigan?
LAST NIGHT MY SANYA A WAS BROKEN INTO THEY BROKE PAS ANGER SIDE WINDOW WENT TO DEALER THIS MORNING TO SEE ABOUT A NEW WINDOW DEALER STOCK ONLY THEY SAY THEY CANT HAVE ONE FOR THREE WKS.WHAT A RIP
I'm the proud new owner of a manta be in Settle, Black, DX and loaded. Three months for deliver and 1K over MSRP. So far the only thing I have noticed is the wind noise in the gasket in the drivers side, and the little design issues that everyone is noticing. I'll have them look it when I take it in for plates, but, I'm a happy camper so far....
Well everybody, I hit the 10,000 mark and the only problem so far is the cd player would stop playing after 2 hours of constant use. Other than that everything is perfect. No problems with the engine/trans/anyTHING!!!
Hallo everybody, I am nikay - new member of your club!
My NEW Santa Fe (ocean blue) arrived five days ago and I was very pleased to discover this group... So far, I am more than satisfied with the car. It was actually my wife who insisted on buying a SUV (I was not very enthusiastic about is - until recently I owned Mazda 323F). BUT NOW I LOVE MY SANTA FE!!!
Hi Nikay, nice to hear from you! So, the SaFe has arrived in Zagreb too (what does NL UNK mean, BTW?)! When did you order your SaFe and how long did you have to wait? I live in the Netherlands and am already waiting since early January! My SaFe will not arrive before July, so I have to wait a lot longer still!
Got my GSL 2WD today and LOVE IT !! I've been an auto mechanic for 30 years and this car impresses me. Well made NOT what I expected. Some advise SHOP AROUND !! Went to Rick Case in Ft. Lauderdale, they must have thought I just fell off the turnup truck. They wouldn't go under $3000 over MSRP !! Since the crash test I think dealer are taking advantage. Got mine at William Lehman Hyundai, and they were great, FAIR price, little over MSRP but mine also had ABS brakes. If you would like the name of my salesman Email me. Buy one you won't be sorry.
After reading and researching for months, I was trying to choose between the Escape and Santa Fe. Then last week the Independent Crash Test results swayed me. Mine is Crystal Blue, man I thought the Pewter was nice till I saw this color! WOW! The Hyundai web site color chart just doesn't do this color justice. It is the GLS 4WD V6. They were just taking the plastic off the seats and prepping it when I made my offer. On the lot 3 hours! Got it $500 under MSRP. Based on the popularity, I think I did OK. I just love the styling! Thanks everyone for the education as I lurked here and read everything doing my "homework" on this buy!
Stopped by an Autozone parts store today looking for a license plate frame and the guys all came out asking what the heck it was! Very few in the Pensacola FL area yet. Have only seen two others.
My dealer had my Santa Fe ready in only two weeks! I think it was pure luck, because it was just the right model (GLS, 4WD) and the blue color that I wanted - I was told that some guy ordered it but gave up later. I have only seen one SF until now in Zagreb (I did not like the color - I think it was "orange"). So I still feel very special and unique driving around. The dealer offered to pre-install the stereo device (Kenwood CD player) but I did not like the design. So I am still driving "mute"! I hope to find a CD player that is also MP3 compatible (I like the Alpine or Clarion CD-MP3 player design, but I think they don,t sell them yet? Have any ideas??? Oh, I don t know what NL stands for, but UNK was mine mistake, it should be CRO (or HRV) for Croatia...I hope I ve made the correction OK!
Picked my Pewter 4x4 AWD LX on May 1 - my folks flew in last night and my mom wants one! My dad test drove the XG300 and would love one of those. These Hyundai's are a real find! I did all my "homework" at this site and many others - thanks for helping me finalize my choice for a SaFe - I love it! liz
Comments
So Long and Thanks for all the great info. SF was my first choice for a vehicle but I couldn't pass a deal.
Kim
Don't feel bad about it. You hear the knock on the door and it's opportunity you damn well better open it. I'd say good for you and I hope you enjoy your new car as much as we are enjoying ours.
Cheer up, I got stuck driving my wife's 4 door Eagle Vision Tsi when she got her Santa Fe LX.
Odd but I feel somewhat strange driving around in that.
But hey, I ride a bike, I live in Florida, life is good!
( you do know that we bikers call automobiles "Cages" don't you? :-)
Enjoy!
Richard.
Tuesdays: 4-5pmPT/7-8pmET
-or-
Thursdays: 5-6pmPT/8-9pmET, 6-7pmPT/9-10ET, 7-8pmPT/10-11pmET (This last time would be kind of late for East coast, but is available if you want it.)
The first scheduled chat would be March 6 or 8.
Let me know what time works for you!
KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs
later
On the "Poor Man's Lexus Site", there is mention of 'fine print' in that some of the regular maintance items MUST be performed by the Dealer to keep the warranty in effect.
Is that true? Is so, what are some of those items that are required be done at the Hyundai Dealer? Please check your Santa Fe Owners or Maintenance Guide and report back to the board.
I am curious as the Santa Fe is my first choice, but the nearest Dealer is 35+ miles away. Not convienient for normal maintenance items.
My thanks in advance
Hope u read my message here!
Most of us have problem searching for the body fender, stepping bar, rear spoiler in north america. Can u let us know from which source u bought your Singapore's Santa Fe accessories from?
Do u know u probably own the best looking SF in our club so far!
BBBBB-IIIIII-GGGGGGG Thanks!
PS. How many SF likes yours in Singapore?
The guys at the dealership were wonderful and made the whole process very easy. Of course they didn't have to sell us on the product. We actually went in for a test drive and there were 2 young guys haggling over the trade-in value for a 2000 Honda Prelude (why? I have NO idea). It seems they wanted the very same SF we came in to test drive. Needless to say, we said no to the test drive, made an offer and snatched the SF from right under those two. I felt bad until I drove home.
I did want to give a special "thank you" to everyone who posted to this board. Besides the research, we also took into consideration all of the comments on this message board. We made the right decision (even if I had to take a part-time job at Blockbuster for the next few months).
Sorry for the long post. Just got caught up in the excitement.
p.s. - The Merlot is a wonderful color and now we think it's better than the Pewter or Black (2nd choice).
I think you did the right thing and if the Merlot is your colour than so be it. I liked it myself really and I don't think that any of the colours offered by Hyundai are bad at all. My least fav is the blue. Odd but I don't know why as that is most peoples favorite colour.
Enjoy your new car and tell us about it from time to time. The good the bad and the ugly as that's how we learn. So far there haven't been any bad's or ugly's really. Take it as a good sign.
You must have wanted that pretty badly to take a second job. Did you trade in anything? No need to reply to that I'm just curious as I've found that you tend to get better deals without a trade. At least with Hyundai. Then again if your trade is "newer" you might make out but I'm still trying to figure that out.
Cheers,
Richard
I don't have to much time to surf, I only stick to Edmunds.com since January, but I do think there should have more SF owner group somewhere on the internet. If U know please also let them know our existence so all of the owners can share experience.
W/ Big thks!
You did not state how many gallons or liters you used. The Santa Fe has a fuel vapor capture valve that shuts you off immediately if you are filling the tank very fast, and you will only fill the tank a little over 3/4 full. Try filling the tank slowly from 1/2 to full and you will see that you get a lot more gallons in the tank. Then check the next fill up using the same procedure and see how many gallons you used then divide this number into the miles driven.
I hope this helps.
After driving the SC I feel reeeally unsafe in the Mazda when I have to drive it.
I read about the alignment problem with some Hyundai's and called my dealer to tell them that it's also happening to our F. At first they weren't sure if they could cover the fix without charging me. I told them about this web site and that just about everyone has had a positive review of the SC but there was some mention with this problem on a lot of Hyundai's. They called me back and asked me to bring it in so they could correct it at no charge. Nice of them since I mentioned we would probably be repeat costumers within 4-6 months from buying the SF.
But if you have a sporty type vehicle they do seem to offer you a little more leeway. Maybe it's the price of gas and cleaning up the trade to re sell it? I really don't know as this is the first time I've bought a new vehicle and didn't trade in my old one. It's a 94 with 34,000 miles on it.Do I want it? Nope! but I got it nevertheless.
Oh yes! The spell check feature is real beaut isn't it? Have a blast driving around in your MANTA BE if you can find one anywhere.
Thanks for the reply.
Richard.
I am also very happy with the service so far. I went to add the fog lights in the front (since the GL doesn't have them) and they are charging me $200 for parts AND installation! Is this a good price? I thought so, and I hope this is how much most parts will run! Well anyways, I plan on hooking this thing up! I am a 22 year old college student, and so far it seems that mostly older adults are buying these things, but I want to be the first in my area to have a classy hooked up Santa Fe. Anyone have any ideas?
In case it helps I also bought a pewter 5 speed GL [about 2 weeks ago] and can't get enough of it. I'm in NJ and although here many folks seek 4wd in all reality you can probably do without it unless your a serious off-roader, IMHO. I've driven through ice and high snow many times with 2wd front and rear drives without a problem [although I might add the cars I drive are 4/5 speed manuals].
I also had the dealer install the fog lights, mud guards and rear deflector. The cost for the lights, if I recall was about 120.00. They wanted 200.00 to install all items I mentioned but ended up paying nothing for installation of all items since I had to wait a bit for the vehicle when I showed up to pick it up [not bad, another 200.00 savings].
As far as the buying crowd here, those I've seen shopping for them appear to be in their 30/40's range and a few 20's. In fact, just going through the NJ Turnpike this weekend the toll booth collector held me up a bit to talk about the SF he just bought a few days before [he was about 24].
Apparently they're a hot item here too although I've actually seen only 3 on the road. They move fast off the dealer lots. One dealer told me many of his SF clients were out of state as far as Chicago were they're in high demand but not available, especially the gls/lx 4wd versions. Last week the dealer I bought from received a pewter gls v6/4wd and would not accept anything less than 3K over MSRP [that's about 4K profit over invoice].
As far as add-ons check out this web site:
www.hdkautosport.com
Good Luck!
Any validity to that?
I wonder how realistic this is. Or rather, what attitude adjustment I would have to make for the first couple of months...
I drive between 40 minutes to one and a half hour one way * 2 on the freeway every day.
No one here drives less than 65-75, except in rush hour. That would mean that I either can't take freeways, or have to get off every 25 minutes, which will make my trips to work so much looooonger. mm...
Any thoughts on that?
I make money from driving it, I begin driving above 100km most of the time after 3000km, sometimes reach 150km in the highway, & sometime stayed at 120-130km for almost 1/2 hr. I changed oil at Hyundai's recommend milage (6000km) using Synthetic oil, my engine so far is more & more smoother day after day, I don't treat it gentle like there is an egg between the foot & the accelerator, whereas I stepped on the pedal deeper than I drove my Safari Van (reaching 2k - 3K revolution when start from stop.) That is the reason I always matched or faster than other car(even V8) when start running in traffic light.
Come on it is a V6 engine not a 4 cylinders, u don't have to drive so gentle, treats it like a truck! V6 is built to accept more powerful job & give us more smooth driving experience. Will anyone drive a mustang or corvette gently at low speed?
I know I may have chance ruin my engine. But I don't worry at least within this 5 years & 100k km warranty period, because Hyundai's will gave me another engine. I'm trying to use up 100,000 km in this 5 years period to make as much money as possible to buy my next SF.
You might hate me treating my engine like this! But remember my case is different compare to other SF owners whose own SF for private use.
My SF is willing to become a testing machine for a little bit ruth handing, I will post whatever happen to my SF in the 5 years/100,000km warranty period.
Pls Staytone!
- Bill
I wouldn't have done it without the help of Hugh the regional manager here in the mid west.
I'm in chicago and I'm very excited.
But I just realized once I saw how good the car looks that not having a garage is going to be a problem. I would hate to see that beautifull shine fade away
Silly as it may be I didn't like the fact it had 40 m on it AND didn't like that I wasn't disclosed. They said "all our other cars have the same mileage." I asked the guy to show me some "other cars," and every car we looked at had only 8 or 6 or 10 miles om it. So I decided to switch.
The funny part is this - when I was originally looking for a Santa Fe - I would tell every dealership I called, that I'd consider any color except for Green. When I was picking a substitute for the Sandstone with 40 m. on it Saturday - it was raining and very overcast. The salesman had only two ABSs. He showed me another sandstone and then this very nice color car. Again, it was overcast. I asked, "Is it blue?" The guy said it was blue. I said I'd take it. They had to redo all the paperwork and install the cross rails, which took a couple of hours. The weather cleared up by then and suddenly I saw that my new New blue car was GREEN! LOL.
It actually grew on me very quickly, it seems to change color depending on the light, so I'm happy.
Now, driving back from San Diego to LA, I did, as pro212 suggested: 55-65mph for 20 minutes, and then about 40mph for a while. There were no side roads, so I had to stay on the freeway.
I can tell you that pulling hair and extracting your own teeth must be easier. It was soooo tedious, not to mention - a little scary. But I would put my emergency lights on and slow down in the slow lane. The cars were honking, giving me a finger, but like a good Santa Fe soldier, I persevered.
After a couple of hours of this slow torture I see red lights flashing behind me. It's nighttime by now, so all I can see is the flashing red lights. I figured: it must be an ambulance, I am already in the slow lane with my emergency lights on - he will pass me. But the lazy ambulance driver kept behind me, and then even stupidly turned on his sirens. Well, the stupid ambulance driver turned out to be a cop....
He cited me for driving too slow and said that in the old times engines were indeed made like that, but since a lot of people were getting rear-ended, the manufacturers make them now, so you CAN drive at normal freeway speeds, as long as you alternate slightly.
So now I am ticketed and confused in my new blue, oops, green Santa Fe.
I just want to make sure that you don't take my "breaking-in report" as criticism of your advice. I only thought that it was an amusing story to share.
Yes I got the rear deflector when I purchased the vehicle.
It has to be drilled into the rear hatch.
I had the dealer install it. I suggest you do the same, in case of any screw-ups.
No it does not create/add wind noise.
It looks very good. No...it looks damn good!
I have a pewter SF.
Now charge [it]!
Is the rear deflector a dealer accessory? Or an after market product? Have any pics?
Go to your dealer [parts dept] and pick up an accessory brochure.
You mind find a spot on the web with it shown as well. I can't think of any sites off the top.
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KarenS
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Owner's Clubs
I have one question though...If this vehicle is so hot (and almost everyone of them is "pre-sold" in Michigan) then why in the world have I not seen ONE single Santa Fe on the road in Michigan?
KarenS
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Owner's Clubs
www.geocities.com/adamjrae
Adam Owner of a 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe 4WD with over 10,000 miles on it and loving it!!!
adamjrae@austin.rr.com
www.geocities.com/adamjrae
Hope u enjoy this good value SUV & see who is the winner to reach 100,000 miles finish line(under US warrenty)!
-Bill
My NEW Santa Fe (ocean blue) arrived five days ago and I was very pleased to discover this group...
So far, I am more than satisfied with the car.
It was actually my wife who insisted on buying a SUV (I was not very enthusiastic about is - until recently I owned Mazda 323F).
BUT NOW I LOVE MY SANTA FE!!!
I've been an auto mechanic for 30 years and this car impresses me. Well made NOT what I expected.
Some advise SHOP AROUND !!
Went to Rick Case in Ft. Lauderdale, they must have thought I just fell off the turnup truck. They wouldn't go under $3000 over MSRP !! Since the crash test I think dealer are taking advantage.
Got mine at William Lehman Hyundai, and they were great, FAIR price, little over MSRP but mine also had ABS brakes. If you would like the name of my salesman Email me. Buy one you won't be sorry.
Stopped by an Autozone parts store today looking for a license plate frame and the guys all came out asking what the heck it was! Very few in the Pensacola FL area yet. Have only seen two others.
Art
Welcome to all the new Santa Fe owners!
KarenS
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Owner's Clubs
I have only seen one SF until now in Zagreb (I did not like the color - I think it was "orange"). So I still feel very special and unique driving around.
The dealer offered to pre-install the stereo device (Kenwood CD player) but I did not like the design. So I am still driving "mute"! I hope to find a CD player that is also MP3 compatible (I like the Alpine or Clarion CD-MP3 player design, but I think they don,t sell them yet? Have any ideas???
Oh, I don t know what NL stands for, but UNK was mine mistake, it should be CRO (or HRV) for Croatia...I hope I ve made the correction OK!
liz