Thanks hung. But isn't it dangerous to turn on the light when the car is in motion? I am not sure why it's dangerous but I was always told not to turn on the light. Any idea?
Well, we need a new vehicle for my wife and after doing much homework, decided on Santa FE GLS 4WD, V6. We're just waiting for a good deal to come around. We live in the SF Bay Area and were wondering if anyone out there had good dealer experiences they could share/recommend (both purchase and after-sale service). Also, if anyone in our area wants to share purchase price for similar trim (w/ ABS & Traction). Finally does a full time 4WD vehicle actually need limited-slip? I want to make sure she has as much maneuverability/safety as possible. thanks!
The Canadian version of the Santa Fe do not have the limited slip or traction control. I went trough last winter with lots of snow and ice without any problem (I had winter tires however)
I am sure that in your part of the world you dont need the limited slip or traction control unless you plan some extreme use.
In British Columbia, Canada, SF only has 2 choices(All V6 4WD), the 1st choice come with Air-cond., leather seats, traction Control, ABS & Tinted Glasses, the 2 choice without the above options.
MSRP for 1st Choice ---> cdn$29,900 (approx.) MSRP for 2st Choice ---> cdn$25,900 (approx.)
The difference is only cdn$5,000 , that's why the fully loaded version sell faster.
In term of resell revalue, car is a consumption products which is subjected under continue depreciation, the longer u drive/own it the more it will worth, whereas u will whether have a very expensive experience!
The following posts from a Lexus LX470 owner might help you to understand why I don't care SF resale value & try not to pay more for the famous "BRAND" name.
The Canadian SF does Not come with traction control! The price difference between the GL and GLS is $4000 Canadian. My buddy down the street has a Lexus 470. I don't think it's worth $90,000 Canadian.
I would have to agree with Squiremarc on this. He's right you know. His buudy has the 470, and I've seen them....they're really not all that and a bag of chips either.
I thought my full loaded model come with TC(The salesman told me the full load model has TC, 'cause of the smooth & good handling in the test drive, I was so careless to believe it!), but disappointing I counln't be able to find the feature in the CDN catalog from Hyundai's.
The TC is clearly printed on the XG300 catalogue as well as the Climate Control & a lot of other features...
So Thks for squiremarc to point out my mistake!
Sorry for the incorrect info!
My SF already have a very good performance on wet & snowly & slopy roads. If it come with TC....Wow!....can't imagine how is the handling!
Too bad Hyundai's treats Canadian poorer than the American (It is OK, USA is the step-father of Japan & Korean, both countries should take care of their father better!)
Map Light: There is a map light on the passenger side and driver side (overhead console). Turning on the map light from the passenger is should be okay. The light will flash just on the passenger side. I see a lot of people driving on freeway at night with light on there car now-a-day. Most of them are looking at map and reading book. Only if you turn on the map light at driver side then it is dangerous because it is reflect through the rearview mirror. I believe most old model car only have one light for both that's why it is dangerous.
SF versus LX470: Actually these both cars are in different category. The LX470 have 7-seaters while more fully options compare to the SF. LX470 is also for people who really want to go off-road more often such as the jungle, rocky mountain, etc.. However, I found that most of the owners on the LX470 does not even do any off-road stuffs. What is going on with them. Paying nearly 3 times more money compare to the SF and waste gas, money, insurance, plus they hardly use it for 7 passengers, etc... "I mean if you really do a lot of off-road and usually go more than 5 people than it is okay, but most of them don't!"
Hi Hung! How are U? Are u feeling tire in the school of SF's Adult continueous Education?
I was a little bit busy because of Mother's Day flower deliveries which drive me crazy! I've seen so many happy MOTHER faces already.
I'm not try to compare LX470 & SF, but just have a chance 2 days ago, the LX470 just parked beside my SF, I want to show people what is the most extreme different in look between a high-end big SUV & a well equipped mini SUV.
Now U understand why my shop is located in a location for a lot of rich people! There is almost "Car Show" everyday outside my & my neighbor shops. I've seen WIPER parked right in front of my shop before as well as Drew Mercedes M-class(His is also live in my area)!.
I really like the way to compromise and share the pictures in this forum. It is a good idea to show what is going on as well as making the board more excited.
I know you are not trying to compare the LX470 and Santa Fe. However, I just want to point out to people that if you never even use it why waste so much money for it. Put that type of money for the house or something else! Wouldn't you agree?
Wow! I did not know that Drew/our hosted located in your area! I heard that he said that he has passed by your place before but I did not know that he was living around the area. I thought that he was on vacation.
To understand a litle more about: TCS (Traction Control System) ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) The 4 channel/4 sensor ABS+TCS to enhance driver control in extreme conditions, like wet, muddy or snow-covered roads. The TCS activates upon detecting a sustained loss of traction, and applies corrective action until traction is fully restored.
Thanks Hung for answering my questions. I'm surprised that the Canadian SF are so much cheaper than US models. I just bought my SF a couple of days ago and the reason I bought it is b/c the car I have now is from BC. I could not get it to be registered in the US. I am plannaing to drive back to BC and sell it this summer. Hum.. maybe I should've bought my SF in Canada. It would save me at least $5000. But again, nah, I want one now
Peytonroad: You're welcome. (By the way, I typed 'value' instead of 'valve'..oh well)
fyi, I've got about 5,000 on my SF (LX,V-6, FWD) and just got 22.4 M.P.G. in mostly in-town (as in suburbs)'careful' driving. With gas prices at $1.91 & up here in So Cal.. I've been driving very un-leadfootedly lately! When it was brand new, I was getting around 19-20 in the same kind of driving and expect even better as I get more miles on it. If it's anything like my other vehicles, I should get 2-4 better highway mileage than the 26 it's rated at - hope so anyway. I think the AWD's are rated at 23 Hwy.
Also, in the L.A. Times Auto section the other day they said the SF was rated higher in Customer Satisfaction surveys than its competition - the first time for a Korean car. It was just a short blurb but maybe someone out there has more details. So that makes it the highest rated in crash protection in its class and now the best in customer satisfaction.
At this point, I'm looking smarter (car-wise that is..) than I deserve.
Hello all! I'm thinking about buying a SaFe and have just spent a couple hours checking out the previous 400 posts! Unless I'm missing something in the earlier posts, you people really love this car! I can't recall reading so many favorable comments about a product... even the person who had to have their engine replaced seemed happy as a clam! Makes me wonder if there is some kind of hypnotic effect on the dashboard or something.
I was originally going to get a Toyota RAV4 (another very popular SUV at the moment) but I saw a SaFe on the road and it really caught my eye. Now that I've researched it out the gazoo on the internet I will definitely check it out in person.
My final decision may come down to what kind of deal I can get. The RAV4's are also in demand, but through my credit union and/or AAA I can get one for $500 over invoice. I'm going to check with my sources next week and if Hyundai can't match that kind of discount they'll probably lose me as a customer.
I know everyone raves about the long warranty, but this is actually of some concern to me: I want to buy a car that will never see the shop! I've owned Honda's and Toyota that never had to go back in for ANY defect repair.
Anyway, I'll keep checking back here and will let you know what I do. Thanks again for your feedback!
Did anyone bought a dashcover for their SaFe yet? Please post so interested parties can buy too. Just got my white LX V6 last saturday for $24,785. I still think I paid too much. So far no probs. The SaFe was advertized for $16,995 (only one at that price). You know what that means. This is in the bay area around San Francisco. For those who are waiting seems like will have a lucky break. With the slowing economy, lay offs and lagging consumer confidence result in slower car sales. Therefore competitions amongst dealers.
I have been driving my SaFe for just under two weeks now. When I got in this morning and started it up I noticed that the radio didn't come on. I pushed every button imaginable and still nothing. I didn't have time to worry about it at the time so I continued to work and when I got home this afternoon I started fiddling around checking fuses, battery connections, etc. Everything seems to be fine and yet my radio is dead. I'm planning to take it to the shop on Monday. Any advice or sympathy from similar situations would be greatly appreciated.
So, does anyone know how much longer it's going to be before Hyundai get's this feature active on their home page....? It seems like it's taken forever!
dashcover: I have 2 dashcovers; the 1st one I ordered from www.dashcover.com that make out of carpet and cover the side passenger airbag. My 2nd was from the link below and it does not cover over the passenger airbag and look very nice too. I really like it a lot. Eclipsecovers.com
Homepage: Pnw1; I am sure what you really talking about the feature in Hyundai Homepage does not work. If you find that Hyundaiusa.com is not working then try this: Hma-Motor
Radio Dead: Jarren; I believe you just have a radio dead! I just recently have it yesterday too but I am not worried. However, this problem have been found before. I am not an electrical expert but with my experience the ACC=ignition key turn power was dead. There is/are no fuse or relay for you to located to solve the problem. The only really solution to solve this problem is to replace the ECU relay in the front hood. Yes! The big relay. I am going to experience this with the dealer as soon as possible. Not sure if they open today (Saturday). I am not worry. Changing the relay will solve the problem....Hopefully I was right about the ECU relay...Get back on this later....I love to experience this problem..
You have side airbags? I noticed in all the advertisements, they mention side airbags. I have LX and it does not have them. I called HMA and they said that they were to originally equip all Santa Fe's with side bags but are not now. Same with radio. Literature states that LX has upgraded stereo system and I do not...
Side Airbags: Somehow side airbag was not really available for North America but available to nearly every other countries. Not just side airbags but also the trip computer, a/t climate control, and sun/moonroof. I am sure the Next year model in North America will have all of these options but maybe not the trip computer. However, there will be more color. Definitely I don't have side airbags because I'm in America too. There was a few test in the US with the side airbags on the Santa Fe but a few of these Santa Fe was owned by the worker of Hyundai Manufacture/dealers.
Radio/Stereo: For the Radio/Stereo; the brochure stated that the is suppose to be the H290 (combo) for the LX model however, the product was not available at the time when sell the car. So therefore they use the H210 cd player instead. However, just recently the H290 was available and some people already have it on the LX as well as you can upgrade the stereo from Hyundai dealers.
I really like the way the Santa Fe looks in black, but I prefer tan interior. I know that the green Santa Fe comes with tan interior but I have not seen any at the dealership and very few pictures on the net. If anyone has pics of their green Santa Fe I would appreciate seeing them.
had problems with my CD player at 3000 miles... getting an Er3 code and not playing any CDs. dealer said they would order a new unit and replace the old one.. two weeks later i called and it was in so i went to the dealership.
they replaced the radio and the service manager handed me the old one and said "shake it"... so i shook it... hmmm rattles quite a bit huh? he then proceeded to have a tech open the unit to expose plenty of round shiny things... pennys, nickles, dimes, quarters...
turns out that all those times we sat Jr. in the front seat while we washed the car he wasn't turning the radio up after all... he was inserting Jr sized shiny discs hoping they'd play the newest mix of sesame's theme.
the dealer was cool and didnt charge us for the new radio or service.
i went ahead and bought a Kenwood CD/MP3 player radio to replace the stock one which i will be pulling out tomorrow.
if anyone is interested in a brand new factory stock CD player... make me an offer.
Please assist with info... if anyone has installed a new stereo in thier SF... i bought the wiring harness so i dont have to splice anything but did the new radio bolt right in or was an aftermarket kit needed? also, i looked at the online service manual and wonder if pulling out the radio is as simple as removing 4 facia screws and 4 radio mount screws... is there a post or support in the rear of the factory radio that needs to be released?
CUSTOM LEATHER INTERIOR:
went to a large local custom interior shop called auto mat and got a quote for a full leather conversion (front/rear seats and door panels) for $1600 guaranteed for 3 years.
not as cheap as getting leather as an option but they didnt have any available when i bought the truck.
i am going with a two-tone look similar to the one in this picture
except the seat base color will match the darker tan color of the dash and the inserts and door panel pieces will be the soft gathered leather and match the lighter tan of the pillars and headliner. i have an appointment for late june to get it done and the car will be laid up for 2 days. can't wait!!!!
WHEELS:
i am also thinking about swapping rims and tires this summer... definately going to go with 18" rims. what i am wondering is if anyone knows the bolt pattern and offset of the stock rims. i am starting to see more SF's in the area so i am going to have to trick mine out. haha.
There are 2 fuses that control the radio. Fuse #12 supplies power at all times to maintain memory,and antenna operation. Fuse #2 supplies power to the radio when the ignition switch is turned on. Both of the fuses are located in the fuse panel in the passenger compartment. The fuse panel is located just above the hood release lever.
You can view these circuits on web tech 2000 for the Santa Fe. When you go there click on the ETM tab and then audio. For further circuit info go to troubleshooting section.
I hope you are able to solve your problems, although I believe letting the dealer solve the problem for free is better.
To mount a new stereo in the SF, you will need the aftermarket mounting kit to attach the new stereo's metal D.I.N. bracket to the dash in the SF. Basically, all you will use is the plastic 'ring' around the D.I.N. bracket, with the mounting 'ears' that stick out to the sides.You will probably not need the spacers that can mount under the 'ears' to hold the radio farther forward from the dash.
Removing the center fascia panels from the dash isn't too bad. Remove the ashtray, then remove the two screws above the ashtray, and carefully pull the lower half of the fascia panel straight out towards you, not up or down. It will pop out towards you about 1" or so.
Then remove the two screws behind the top edge of the the lower fascia panel, which are securing the bottom of the the remaining upper half of the fascia panel.
Now here's the hard part, pulling this panel straight out towards you, not up or down. This panel is secured by three snap-in tabs on the top edge, and several along the sides, and they don't let go easily. When this panel finally pops out, chances are you are pulling so hard, that the wiring harness connectors for the 4-way flashers, fog lights, and defroster will be yanked out of their sockets. Don't panic if this happens, the sockets aren't broken, you can plug them together again.
Removing the stock radio just requires removing the four screws holding the mounting 'ears' to the dash, and unplugging the harness and antenna cable. There is no rear post used here.
Mounting the new D.I.N. bracket is a piece of cake, just replace the four screws that hold the mounting 'ears' of the ring around the D.I.N. bracket. Slide in the new radio, plug in your harness adapter and antenna cable.
Remember to connect the (blue) power antenna wire from your harness adapter to your new radio, if you want to receive any signals on A.M. There is an A.M. signal amplifier back at the antenna that will not work if it is not powered by this wire, and will kill off all but the most local A.M. reception.
Before you reattach the upper fascia panel, you will have to cut or file around the sides of the original radio opening, to clear the radios D.I.N. bracket. This isn't too bad, you can use a small file, and take your time, so you don't remove too much plastic. The standard D.I.N. opening is just a hair wider than the Hyundai (about 1/8" or so).
I just install the Factory Wood Dash parts yesterday. All went well and it looks good, maybe too good. Under certain light conditions the "plood" is too glossy, perhaps a satin finish would have looked better? I have the OEM parts for sale, if any one has a use, contact me and we will figure something out. A special thanks to Jeff Barclay who has some great info on installation on his website
thanks thor.. too bad i didnt see your post before i started out. haha.
i was really afraid or breaking something when it came to removing the top panel. i am a big guy and i was pulling pretty hard because i assumed as you confirmed that the thing was clipped in at the top.
in case anyone doesnt feel like yanking it out, you can do what i did... lift the piece enough to get to the 4 screws for the box under the radio.
with those out, you can remove the 4 screws holding the radio and slide the radio out under the panel. simple.
it turns out i didnt need a kit (except for the wiring harness. i unscrewed the factory tabs from the old radio, filed down the tabs and bolted them right to the new Kenwood MP8017. Once the radio and wiring harness kit was soldered and shrink wrapped, I plugged everything up and screwed the radio right in... worked like a charm.
one thing to note is that the harness kit, Metra #70-7301 for the harness and #99-7309 for the kit (which again, I didnt use) available at these stores has 2 wires for illumination. According to web tech 2000, these wires are for illumination power and illumination ground (dimmer).
on the after market radio there is only 1 wire called dimmer grounding. I just capped off these 3 wires since the radio illumination gets power from the power wire and it seems the way the stock radio works is that the illumination is on its own circuit (hence the 2 wires + and -. Everything works great (the radio as a dimming feature anyway plus i never adjust the dash lights anyway...
wish i had a camera for step by step. maybe when i install the amp or CD changer (under the front seat)
This thing has a flip up video monitor radio in the dash and video monitors in the headrests. Personally I think they should have used a Blue Slate colored one because I am not to fond of the silver Santa Fe. Just my opinion. Would look better Sandstone with dark and light tan leather. haha.
I live in LA area and I don't like to breath the air from outside. I would like the air to be circulating instead. However, whenever I turn on the fan or start the car, the button controlling air vent would show that the air is coming from outside. Is this normal? How come it won't leave the setting along but change the air from circulating to venting from outside? Any suggestions?
you know .. i think there is some type of filtration system on the santa fe... maybe someone can verify this for me.
i know it was an option on the ford escape and i think i remember it being standard on the santa fe.
maybe there is some type of after market air filtration system you can have installed. i am sure you arent the only one who doesn't want to breathe LA air.
try coming to NYC and driving through Staten Island. my wife (who is from long Beach, CA) could not believe the smell.
To Johnnylofi and Thank to Irchome: The fuses check> I have pulled all the fuses out from yesterday and I did not see anything wrong with the fuses suddenly I just got into this Internet a few minutes ago and read Irchome message about the other fuse. I went back out to the car and pull out the D/Clock/ETacs Audio fuse (10A). Yes! This was the ACC/ignition power radio for the digital clock, radio, and alarm, and the door light. Yes! When I pulled out the fuse the burning was not in the middle but right at the corner of the side which I have to inspect very carefully in the light in order to see there was a tiny cut. Finally took the side spare 10A replace it and everything came back to normal. Thank to this Forum that I don't have to drive my car to the dealer tomorrow. Thank Irchome. I have checked but needed to check carefully. Usually the fuse cut in the middle but not mine that's why I have hard time. I knew it would be the Audio-O/side MRR or the D/Clock-Etacs Audio. To everyone if have radio problem then check these 2 fuses but very carefully too.
Air filtration: Not sure about the air filtration system on the Santa Fe but at HDKautosport.com sell air purifier for the car. I think the air purifier is much healthier and I did not really need it in San Francisco but I do have a big air purifier in my room.
Wood Dash: I am still waiting for my 30 pieces wood dash from EDASHKIT.com and also the 4 customized pieces such as the surround the passenger airbag, trim top center light, trim rear trunk light, and the trim on the door handle. Expected within 2 weeks!
My A/V Stereo/System: I have just finished installed the 2 headrest screens and the DVD player on the other night. So now I have Head-Unit with A/T close 7" screen, Turner Unit control VCD changer-TV-Aux1, Aux2, 8 Video CD changer, DVD player on AUX1, 2 screen on the headrest on AUX1, and the 3 ways speakers on the front and rear. All change! I think I have the nearly best A/V system in my Santa Fe now. Yes! I did it all by myself.
I don't know whether US-spec. SaFe comes with the cabin air filter, but you certainly can install one. You need to remove the glove box and the support panel behind it to gain access to the blower housing where you slide the air filter into the slot in the middle.
Just saw this on the Edmunds site. The JD Powers study puts Hyundai almost at bottom of the list for quality - beating only Kia, Suzuki and Daewoo (and much worse than both Mazda and Ford, I might add). I'm sure this will stir up some discussions with our Sante Fe listeners out there.
Don't be foolish Chytraeus.... What's there to "Read it and Weep" about? Maybe you FAILED to understand and comprehend the content of the article you posted. I notice you took pride coming in here and comparing Hyundai to Ford, Daewoo and Mazda... HA! Please read the following link(s), which will undoubtedly refute your theory and posting.
Hyundai in general, is top notch in quality and in customer service. Oh, you need some proof? Please, allow me to give you some proof. Here's some light reading for you to do as well. It's all here. Pick a story ANY story, and YOU read it and WEEP! You'll see, the document(s), links, speak for themselves. You will see and acknowledge that the following article(s) will refute your lame link.
I thank you though for sharing with us your "valuable" insight and your current "up to date" knoweldge of Hyundai motor trends, customer quality satisfaction here with us. From the link I posted here refuting your link, we have nothing to "weep" about, but only to sing praise. :-)
I am not sure about that Quality Report because we are talking about the Santa Fe here! Not sure if that report reflect only on the Santa Fe or on every cars from each manufacture. They put Honda CRV for Mini SUV category which I think it was kind of way off.
Try to compare the RAV4 versus CRV in this Edmund/Townhall the RAV4 is more satisfy. Try to compare the CRV with the Forester in this Edmund/Townhall the Forester over power the CRV. Remember one things! They never even compare the CRV versus the Santa Fe.
While Hyundai Santa Fe rated top compact SUV vehicle Satisfaction: News Update
To readers in the Hyundai forum, the RU Sharp comments were directed towards me because of posts made in other fourms where the triscape folks took me to task for questioning the quality of the triscape. It was an interesting and sometimes heated discussion which (unfortunately) was all deleated from the fourms by the HOST at the time (who in my opinion overstepped her authority and erased perfectly legitimate discussions)
Anyway, The triscapes folks really dislike me and so they came here looking to get a reaction from me. So here it is:
I am amused by Triscape owners who now have no basis from which to argue saftey superiority as they once tried to do. So now they will use a survey published a year ago which means the actual data is closer to 2 years old, to promote (of all things) quality! Quality and the Triscape... hmmmmmmm those two things really have not gone together very well so far in the production and release of the triscape.
Let us just wait and look at objective quality measurments from the actual autos in question before we become too smug. Otherwise you will wind up looking completely foolish like your triscape friends Bobmazda and ptmccain who told us all months ago how safe the triscape was and how it would crush the Sante fe in the ratings. Well we haven't heard from either of them since the real results came out, have we.
I do recognize that Hyundai has had quality issues and they have made strides to improve those issues.
Keyless Entry: Almost every new model car now a day has keyless entry but you need to buy a little higher model. There are 3 available trims on the Santa Fe, which are GL, GLS, and LX. On the GLS and LX, model most likely going to have the Keyless Entry Remote+Alarm.
A/T Climate Control: Somehow, the high model of the Santa Fe from most of the other countries was available but North America was NOT. Therefore, I think the Santa Fe will be available with the A/T climate control by next year model (2002).
That's a good question: I think what basically each manufacture built their car and target in a certain group. I believe Hyundai Santa Fe was targeting in the Small/Mini-SUV group. However, I really pretty much compare the Santa Fe with the RX300 and the Highlander because they both have the similarity of 4/AWD system. However, I think the Santa Fe was better off on having the 4/AWD,ABS+Traction Control. I believe the RX300 and Highlander only have 4/AWD with ABS. I think the RX300/Highlander FWD have Traction Control plus VSC but not on 4/AWD.
For those who have who have installed the Wood dash on the Santa Fe, which Company seems to have the most complete kit? I've searched around and it seems like Edashkit.com has the most pieces. But is it the most complete kit that covers the most area of the vehicle. Edashkit.com's Website don't seem to have a secure website when ordering and I can't seem to find a phone number for them.
Has anyone installed a mobile video and if so which kind? The Overhead in front of the rear view mirror or the head rest kind. Exactly where did they put the Video player?
I drove by a Hyundai dealer today and out front I spotted a silver Sante Fe with a darker lower body color... dark gray or black. I thought Sante Fe's were all one solid color. Was I seeing things or just mistaken about the two tone color option?
Two tone color: There is only 2 tones color available in the USA. I have not seen a single tone in the USA yet! Most people would buy the 2 tones instead of the single tone.
Javaswing: The 2002 model won't be available until October. "Good thing comes to those who waited"! If you are willing to wait for more time then you will get the best. Probably the Copper Orange color and maybe with side airbags, a/t climate control, and sunroof.
Bchin: HA! HA! Seem like you are the similar guy like me. Used to love Toyota but then Hyundai now. Anyway, here is your answer!
Wood Dash Kit: Yes! Edashkit.com have the most pieces to cover over the Santa Fe. Send an email to support@edashkit.com and have them reply back to your questions.
Mobile Video: I am in the process of shooting pictures and post it in my website. You will be able to see my mobile system in my website by this Friday. My website. What do I have? 1. A/V turner made by Hyundai 2. A/V 8 discs Video CD Changer also made by Hyundai 3. A/V Head Unit (7" wide screen a/t close&open, EQ, DSP, with mode select TV, Changer, AUX1, AUX2, and AM/FM. This head unit also made by Hyundai. 4. Audiovox in dash DVD Player (connect to AUX1) 5. Audiovox headrest screens with wireless earphones (Connect both/2 screens to AUX1) ***I still have the AUX2 available for VCR or another DVD/CD player****Yes! I install all of these features options by myself.
Suggestion: Use the headrest is better because the Santa Fe is not like the Expedition or other big mobile vehicle. Therefore if you use the drop down screen hanging from the ceiling then it is dangerous for the driver to drive because it will block the rearview mirror.
Just bought SaFe on May 5th, top of the line, leather seats, upgraded radio, V6 etc. To my dismay, I just discovered that my SUV do not have an engine splash guard. I am wondering if I am the only one with out it. Please post if you had same experience and how you acquired one. I checked closer and there are holes to bolt the engine splash guard.
On Saturday I purchased my Black GLS 4WD and have two questions...
1. Does the alarm automatically set itself when exiting the car? Or do I have to push one of the buttons on the remote? (I beleive I pushed the "unlock" button and it set the alarm.)
2. Has anybody had problems with the odometer going to fast? It seemed to be a little high so today while going to work I used the highway mile markers, which read 18 miles. My Santa Fe trip odometer read 18.4 miles. Anybody else notice this?
Engine Splash Guard: I am not sure exactly where the engine splash guard suppose to go! Not sure if you refer to the Vehicle Skid Plate?
Alarm: There should be the "Arm"=Alarm on and "Disarm"=unlock button on the Alarm fob. You have to push the "Arm" to turn on the alarm and lock the car and you have to press the "Disarm" to turn off the alarm and unlock the car. Yes! You have to press on it. However, sometime I put the key and alarm fob in my pocket the key push on one of the alarm fob button. So be careful and watch-off! Basically stay away from the car at long distance and then put the key in the pocket.
Odometer: Those are just estimated mile only! Even on every car there won't be a perfect read on the odometer too because the tires inflate and deflate can cause the rotation to go faster or slower. For example on hot day the tires will increase more psi and on cold day the tire decrease in psi.
I just installed my front hood deflector I got from Tisher Hyundai and when I close it; it does latch but it leaves a small gap between the hood and the other body parts. It could close the thickness of the rubber clips (perhaps 1/8 inch) Is this normal with all of you that have installed it?
Yes! It should leave a little gap. I have a little gap on mine too. People can not tell if there was a gap. Important thing is that the hood can close.
Comments
thanks!
I am sure that in your part of the world you dont need the limited slip or traction control unless you plan some extreme use.
MSRP for 1st Choice ---> cdn$29,900 (approx.)
MSRP for 2st Choice ---> cdn$25,900 (approx.)
The difference is only cdn$5,000 , that's why the fully loaded version sell faster.
In term of resell revalue, car is a consumption products which is subjected under continue depreciation, the longer u drive/own it the more it will worth, whereas u will whether have a very expensive experience!
The following posts from a Lexus LX470 owner might help you to understand why I don't care SF resale value & try not to pay more for the famous "BRAND" name.
mava "Lexus LX470" Jul 4, 2000 5:41am
scongro "Lexus LX470" Jul 8, 2000 12:10am
"That is a USD$8000 or more loss in about 1 year!"
Good luck to your search!
-Bill
The TC is clearly printed on the XG300 catalogue as well as the Climate Control & a lot of other features...
So Thks for squiremarc to point out my mistake!
Sorry for the incorrect info!
My SF already have a very good performance on wet & snowly & slopy roads. If it come with TC....Wow!....can't imagine how is the handling!
Too bad Hyundai's treats Canadian poorer than the American (It is OK, USA is the step-father of Japan & Korean, both countries should take care of their father better!)
There is a map light on the passenger side and driver side (overhead console). Turning on the map light from the passenger is should be okay. The light will flash just on the passenger side. I see a lot of people driving on freeway at night with light on there car now-a-day. Most of them are looking at map and reading book. Only if you turn on the map light at driver side then it is dangerous because it is reflect through the rearview mirror. I believe most old model car only have one light for both that's why it is dangerous.
SF versus LX470:
Actually these both cars are in different category. The LX470 have 7-seaters while more fully options compare to the SF. LX470 is also for people who really want to go off-road more often such as the jungle, rocky mountain, etc.. However, I found that most of the owners on the LX470 does not even do any off-road stuffs. What is going on with them. Paying nearly 3 times more money compare to the SF and waste gas, money, insurance, plus they hardly use it for 7 passengers, etc... "I mean if you really do a lot of off-road and usually go more than 5 people than it is okay, but most of them don't!"
I was a little bit busy because of Mother's Day flower deliveries which drive me crazy! I've seen so many happy MOTHER faces already.
I'm not try to compare LX470 & SF, but just have a chance 2 days ago, the LX470 just parked beside my SF, I want to show people what is the most extreme different in look between a high-end big SUV & a well equipped mini SUV.
Now U understand why my shop is located in a location for a lot of rich people! There is almost "Car Show" everyday outside my & my neighbor shops. I've seen WIPER parked right in front of my shop before as well as Drew Mercedes M-class(His is also live in my area)!.
I know you are not trying to compare the LX470 and Santa Fe. However, I just want to point out to people that if you never even use it why waste so much money for it. Put that type of money for the house or something else! Wouldn't you agree?
Wow! I did not know that Drew/our hosted located in your area! I heard that he said that he has passed by your place before but I did not know that he was living around the area. I thought that he was on vacation.
To understand a litle more about:
TCS (Traction Control System)
ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)
The 4 channel/4 sensor ABS+TCS to enhance driver control in extreme conditions, like wet, muddy or snow-covered roads. The TCS activates upon detecting a sustained loss of traction, and applies corrective action until traction is fully restored.
I'm surprised that the Canadian SF are so much cheaper than US models. I just bought my SF a couple of days ago and the reason I bought it is b/c the car I have now is from BC. I could not get it to be registered in the US. I am plannaing to drive back to BC and sell it this summer. Hum.. maybe I should've bought my SF in Canada. It would save me at least $5000. But again, nah, I want one now
fyi, I've got about 5,000 on my SF (LX,V-6, FWD) and just got 22.4 M.P.G. in mostly in-town (as in suburbs)'careful' driving. With gas prices at $1.91 & up here in So Cal.. I've been driving very un-leadfootedly lately! When it was brand new, I was getting around 19-20 in the same kind of driving and expect even better as I get more miles on it.
If it's anything like my other vehicles, I should get 2-4 better highway mileage than the 26 it's rated at - hope so anyway. I think the AWD's are rated at 23 Hwy.
Also, in the L.A. Times Auto section the other day they said the SF was rated higher in Customer Satisfaction surveys than its competition - the first time for a Korean car. It was just a short blurb but maybe someone out there has more details. So that makes it the highest rated in crash protection in its class and now the best in customer satisfaction.
At this point, I'm looking smarter (car-wise that is..) than I deserve.
I was originally going to get a Toyota RAV4 (another very popular SUV at the moment) but I saw a SaFe on the road and it really caught my eye. Now that I've researched it out the gazoo on the internet I will definitely check it out in person.
My final decision may come down to what kind of deal I can get. The RAV4's are also in demand, but through my credit union and/or AAA I can get one for $500 over invoice. I'm going to check with my sources next week and if Hyundai can't match that kind of discount they'll probably lose me as a customer.
I know everyone raves about the long warranty, but this is actually of some concern to me: I want to buy a car that will never see the shop! I've owned Honda's and Toyota that never had to go back in for ANY defect repair.
Anyway, I'll keep checking back here and will let you know what I do. Thanks again for your feedback!
The SaFe was advertized for $16,995 (only one at that price). You know what that means. This is in the bay area around San Francisco. For those who are waiting seems like will have a lucky break. With the slowing economy, lay offs and lagging consumer confidence result in slower car sales. Therefore competitions amongst dealers.
I have 2 dashcovers; the 1st one I ordered from www.dashcover.com that make out of carpet and cover the side passenger airbag. My 2nd was from the link below and it does not cover over the passenger airbag and look very nice too. I really like it a lot. Eclipsecovers.com
Homepage:
Pnw1; I am sure what you really talking about the feature in Hyundai Homepage does not work. If you find that Hyundaiusa.com is not working then try this: Hma-Motor
Radio Dead:
Jarren; I believe you just have a radio dead! I just recently have it yesterday too but I am not worried. However, this problem have been found before. I am not an electrical expert but with my experience the ACC=ignition key turn power was
dead. There is/are no fuse or relay for you to located to solve the problem. The only really solution to solve this problem is to replace the ECU relay in the front hood. Yes! The big relay. I am going to experience this with the dealer as soon as possible. Not sure if they open today (Saturday). I am not worry. Changing the relay will solve the problem....Hopefully I was right about the ECU relay...Get back on this later....I love to experience this problem..
Somehow side airbag was not really available for North America but available to nearly every other countries. Not just side airbags but also the trip computer, a/t climate control, and sun/moonroof. I am sure the Next year model in North America will have all of these options but maybe not the trip computer. However, there will be more color. Definitely I don't have side airbags because I'm in America too. There was a few test in the US with the side airbags on the Santa Fe but a few of these Santa Fe was owned by the worker of Hyundai Manufacture/dealers.
Radio/Stereo:
For the Radio/Stereo; the brochure stated that the is suppose to be the H290 (combo) for the LX model however, the product was not available at the time when sell the car. So therefore they use the H210 cd player instead. However, just recently the H290 was available and some people already have it on the LX as well as you can upgrade the stereo from Hyundai dealers.
had problems with my CD player at 3000 miles... getting an Er3 code and not playing any CDs. dealer said they would order a new unit and replace the old one.. two weeks later i called and it was in so i went to the dealership.
they replaced the radio and the service manager handed me the old one and said "shake it"... so i shook it... hmmm rattles quite a bit huh? he then proceeded to have a tech open the unit to expose plenty of round shiny things... pennys, nickles, dimes, quarters...
turns out that all those times we sat Jr. in the front seat while we washed the car he wasn't turning the radio up after all... he was inserting Jr sized shiny discs hoping they'd play the newest mix of sesame's theme.
the dealer was cool and didnt charge us for the new radio or service.
i went ahead and bought a Kenwood CD/MP3 player radio to replace the stock one which i will be pulling out tomorrow.
if anyone is interested in a brand new factory stock CD player... make me an offer.
Please assist with info... if anyone has installed a new stereo in thier SF... i bought the wiring harness so i dont have to splice anything but did the new radio bolt right in or was an aftermarket kit needed? also, i looked at the online service manual and wonder if pulling out the radio is as simple as removing 4 facia screws and 4 radio mount screws... is there a post or support in the rear of the factory radio that needs to be released?
CUSTOM LEATHER INTERIOR:
went to a large local custom interior shop called auto mat and got a quote for a full leather conversion (front/rear seats and door panels) for $1600 guaranteed for 3 years.
not as cheap as getting leather as an option but they didnt have any available when i bought the truck.
i am going with a two-tone look similar to the one in this picture
custom leather santa fe
except the seat base color will match the darker tan color of the dash and the inserts and door panel pieces will be the soft gathered leather and match the lighter tan of the pillars and headliner. i have an appointment for late june to get it done and the car will be laid up for 2 days. can't wait!!!!
WHEELS:
i am also thinking about swapping rims and tires this summer... definately going to go with 18" rims. what i am wondering is if anyone knows the bolt pattern and offset of the stock rims. i am starting to see more SF's in the area so i am going to have to trick mine out. haha.
You can view these circuits on web tech 2000 for the Santa Fe. When you go there click on the ETM tab and then audio. For further circuit info go to troubleshooting section.
I hope you are able to solve your problems, although I believe letting the dealer solve the problem for free is better.
Removing the center fascia panels from the dash isn't too bad. Remove the ashtray, then remove the two screws above the ashtray, and carefully pull the lower half of the fascia panel straight out towards you, not up or down. It will pop out towards you about 1" or so.
Then remove the two screws behind the top edge of the the lower fascia panel, which are securing the bottom of the the remaining upper half of the fascia panel.
Now here's the hard part, pulling this panel straight out towards you, not up or down. This panel is secured by three snap-in tabs on the top edge, and several along the sides, and they don't let go easily. When this panel finally pops out, chances are you are pulling so hard, that the wiring harness connectors for the 4-way flashers, fog lights, and defroster will be yanked out of their sockets. Don't panic if this happens, the sockets aren't broken, you can plug them together again.
Removing the stock radio just requires removing the four screws holding the mounting 'ears' to the dash, and unplugging the harness and antenna cable. There is no rear post used here.
Mounting the new D.I.N. bracket is a piece of cake, just replace the four screws that hold the mounting 'ears' of the ring around the D.I.N. bracket. Slide in the new radio, plug in your harness adapter and antenna cable.
Remember to connect the (blue) power antenna wire from your harness adapter to your new radio, if you want to receive any signals on A.M. There is an A.M. signal amplifier back at the antenna that will not work if it is not powered by this wire, and will kill off all but the most local A.M. reception.
Before you reattach the upper fascia panel, you will have to cut or file around the sides of the original radio opening, to clear the radios D.I.N. bracket. This isn't too bad, you can use a small file, and take your time, so you don't remove too much plastic. The standard D.I.N. opening is just a hair wider than the Hyundai (about 1/8" or so).
Good Luck!
I have the OEM parts for sale, if any one has a use, contact me and we will figure something out.
A special thanks to Jeff Barclay who has some great info on installation on his website
i was really afraid or breaking something when it came to removing the top panel. i am a big guy and i was pulling pretty hard because i assumed as you confirmed that the thing was clipped in at the top.
in case anyone doesnt feel like yanking it out, you can do what i did... lift the piece enough to get to the 4 screws for the box under the radio.
with those out, you can remove the 4 screws holding the radio and slide the radio out under the panel. simple.
it turns out i didnt need a kit (except for the wiring harness. i unscrewed the factory tabs from the old radio, filed down the tabs and bolted them right to the new Kenwood MP8017. Once the radio and wiring harness kit was soldered and shrink wrapped, I plugged everything up and screwed the radio right in... worked like a charm.
one thing to note is that the harness kit, Metra #70-7301 for the harness and #99-7309 for the kit (which again, I didnt use) available at these stores has 2 wires for illumination. According to web tech 2000, these wires are for illumination power and illumination ground (dimmer).
on the after market radio there is only 1 wire called dimmer grounding. I just capped off these 3 wires since the radio illumination gets power from the power wire and it seems the way the stock radio works is that the illumination is on its own circuit (hence the 2 wires + and -. Everything works great (the radio as a dimming feature anyway plus i never adjust the dash lights anyway...
wish i had a camera for step by step. maybe when i install the amp or CD changer (under the front seat)
I added another picture or two on my site of this tricked out Santa Fe from Scosche Car audio.
This thing has a flip up video monitor radio in the dash and video monitors in the headrests. Personally I think they should have used a Blue Slate colored one because I am not to fond of the silver Santa Fe. Just my opinion. Would look better Sandstone with dark and light tan leather. haha.
Nice rims on this thing.
Later,
Keith
i know it was an option on the ford escape and i think i remember it being standard on the santa fe.
maybe there is some type of after market air filtration system you can have installed. i am sure you arent the only one who doesn't want to breathe LA air.
try coming to NYC and driving through Staten Island. my wife (who is from long Beach, CA) could not believe the smell.
keith
The fuses check> I have pulled all the fuses out from yesterday and I did not see anything wrong with the fuses suddenly I just got into this Internet a few minutes ago and read Irchome message about the other fuse. I went back out to the car and pull out the D/Clock/ETacs Audio fuse (10A). Yes! This was the ACC/ignition power radio for the digital clock, radio, and alarm, and the door light. Yes! When I pulled out the fuse the burning was not in the middle but right at the corner of the side which I have to inspect very carefully in the light in order to see there was a tiny cut. Finally took the side spare 10A replace it and everything came back to normal. Thank to this Forum that I don't have to drive my car to the dealer tomorrow. Thank Irchome. I have checked but needed to check carefully. Usually the fuse cut in the middle but not mine that's why I have hard time. I knew it would be the Audio-O/side MRR or the D/Clock-Etacs Audio. To everyone if have radio problem then check these 2 fuses but very carefully too.
Air filtration:
Not sure about the air filtration system on the Santa Fe but at HDKautosport.com sell air purifier for the car. I think the air purifier is much healthier and I did not really need it in San Francisco but I do have a big air purifier in my room.
Wood Dash:
I am still waiting for my 30 pieces wood dash from EDASHKIT.com and also the 4 customized pieces such as the surround the passenger airbag, trim top center light, trim rear trunk light, and the trim on the door handle. Expected within 2 weeks!
My A/V Stereo/System:
I have just finished installed the 2 headrest screens and the DVD player on the other night. So now I have Head-Unit with A/T close 7" screen, Turner Unit control VCD changer-TV-Aux1, Aux2, 8 Video CD changer, DVD player on AUX1, 2 screen on the headrest on AUX1, and the 3 ways speakers on the front and rear. All change! I think I have the nearly best A/V system in my Santa Fe now. Yes! I did it all by myself.
http://www.autonews.com/html/main/stories/power15.htm
Hyundai in general, is top notch in quality and in customer service. Oh, you need some proof? Please, allow me to give you some proof. Here's some light reading for you to do as well. It's all here. Pick a story ANY story, and YOU read it and WEEP! You'll see, the document(s), links, speak for themselves. You will see and acknowledge that the following article(s) will refute your lame link.
http://www.prnewswire.com/gh/cnoc/comp/424987.html
or click here http://www.santafeforum.com
I thank you though for sharing with us your "valuable" insight and your current "up to date" knoweldge of Hyundai motor trends, customer quality satisfaction here with us. From the link I posted here refuting your link, we have nothing to "weep" about, but only to sing praise. :-)
Ciao!
Try to compare the RAV4 versus CRV in this Edmund/Townhall the RAV4 is more satisfy. Try to compare the CRV with the Forester in this Edmund/Townhall the Forester over power the CRV. Remember one things! They never even compare the CRV versus the Santa Fe.
While Hyundai Santa Fe rated top compact SUV vehicle Satisfaction:
News Update
"The study was based on responses from 47,000 consumers who owned 2000-model vehicles for at least 90 days."
the SF is a 2001 model so it has no impact on the survey, wait next year and see the difference.
2. I'm confused about the "automatic climate (temperature) option"... is this available now? If you have it, how does it work?
Thanks!
Anyway, The triscapes folks really dislike me and so they came here looking to get a reaction from me. So here it is:
I am amused by Triscape owners who now have no basis from which to argue saftey superiority as they once tried to do. So now they will use a survey published a year ago which means the actual data is closer to 2 years old, to promote (of all things) quality! Quality and the Triscape... hmmmmmmm those two things really have not gone together very well so far in the production and release of the triscape.
Let us just wait and look at objective quality measurments from the actual autos in question before we become too smug. Otherwise you will wind up looking completely foolish like your triscape friends Bobmazda and ptmccain who told us all months ago how safe the triscape was and how it would crush the Sante fe in the ratings. Well we haven't heard from either of them since the real results came out, have we.
I do recognize that Hyundai has had quality issues and they have made strides to improve those issues.
liz
Almost every new model car now a day has keyless entry but you need to buy a little higher model. There are 3 available trims on the Santa Fe, which are GL, GLS, and LX. On the GLS and LX, model most likely going to have the Keyless Entry Remote+Alarm.
A/T Climate Control:
Somehow, the high model of the Santa Fe from most of the other countries was available but North America was NOT. Therefore, I think the Santa Fe will be available with the A/T climate control by next year model (2002).
I think what basically each manufacture built their car and target in a certain group. I believe Hyundai Santa Fe was targeting in the Small/Mini-SUV group. However, I really pretty much compare the Santa Fe with the RX300 and the Highlander because they both have the similarity of 4/AWD system. However, I think the Santa Fe was better off on having the 4/AWD,ABS+Traction Control. I believe the RX300 and Highlander only have 4/AWD with ABS. I think the RX300/Highlander FWD have Traction Control plus VSC but not on 4/AWD.
Aug. Wonder if the 2002 model would be available
then. Will it come with side air bags?
thanks
Has anyone installed a mobile video and if so which kind? The Overhead in front of the rear view mirror or the head rest kind. Exactly where did they put the Video player?
Thanks for the info!
Bill
There is only 2 tones color available in the USA. I have not seen a single tone in the USA yet! Most people would buy the 2 tones instead of the single tone.
Javaswing:
The 2002 model won't be available until October. "Good thing comes to those who waited"! If you are willing to wait for more time then you will get the best. Probably the Copper Orange color and maybe with side airbags, a/t climate control, and sunroof.
Bchin:
HA! HA! Seem like you are the similar guy like me. Used to love Toyota but then Hyundai now. Anyway, here is your answer!
Wood Dash Kit:
Yes! Edashkit.com have the most pieces to cover over the Santa Fe. Send an email to support@edashkit.com and have them reply back to your questions.
Mobile Video:
I am in the process of shooting pictures and post it in my website. You will be able to see my mobile system in my website by this Friday. My website. What do I have?
1. A/V turner made by Hyundai
2. A/V 8 discs Video CD Changer also made by Hyundai
3. A/V Head Unit (7" wide screen a/t close&open, EQ, DSP, with mode select TV, Changer, AUX1, AUX2, and AM/FM. This head unit also made by Hyundai.
4. Audiovox in dash DVD Player (connect to AUX1)
5. Audiovox headrest screens with wireless earphones (Connect both/2 screens to AUX1)
***I still have the AUX2 available for VCR or another DVD/CD player****Yes! I install all of these features options by myself.
Suggestion: Use the headrest is better because the Santa Fe is not like the Expedition or other big mobile vehicle. Therefore if you use the drop down screen hanging from the ceiling then it is dangerous for the driver to drive because it will block the rearview mirror.
1. Does the alarm automatically set itself when exiting the car? Or do I have to push one of the buttons on the remote? (I beleive I pushed the "unlock" button and it set the alarm.)
2. Has anybody had problems with the odometer going to fast? It seemed to be a little high so today while going to work I used the highway mile markers, which read 18 miles. My Santa Fe trip odometer read 18.4 miles. Anybody else notice this?
Thanks,
Ken
I am not sure exactly where the engine splash guard suppose to go! Not sure if you refer to the Vehicle Skid Plate?
Alarm:
There should be the "Arm"=Alarm on and "Disarm"=unlock button on the Alarm fob. You have to push the "Arm" to turn on the alarm and lock the car and you have to press the "Disarm" to turn off the alarm and unlock the car. Yes! You have to press on it. However, sometime I put the key and alarm fob in my pocket the key push on one of the alarm fob button. So be careful and watch-off! Basically stay away from the car at long distance and then put the key in the pocket.
Odometer:
Those are just estimated mile only! Even on every car there won't be a perfect read on the odometer too because the tires inflate and deflate can cause the rotation to go faster or slower. For example on hot day the tires will increase more psi and on cold day the tire decrease in psi.