2010–2012 Hyundai Santa Fe: Engine knock or failure (2.4L Theta II rod bearings)
Likely causes, ranked
- Connecting rod bearing wear (engine repaired or replaced under Hyundai coverage)$0–$0Shop
- Lifter or timing noise mistaken for rod knockShop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A knock that rises with RPM, an oil pressure light, or a sudden engine failure.
Likely causes
- Rod bearing wear. Hyundai's extended warranty covers this for 15 years or 150,000 miles, and the KSDS knock-detection software is required. Santa Fe Forums owners discuss whether a given noise is rod knock or a lifter.
Cost
Usually $0 if it qualifies.
DIY or shop?
Dealer.
Useful steps
- Check your VIN for 20V746 and for the KSDS update.
- If you hear a knock, stop and have the car towed to the dealer.
Vehicle focus: 2010–2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Safety / mechanic note
Rod bearing failure can make the engine seize at speed or start a fire. Verify with a dealer now.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 20V746000 Certain 2012 Santa Fe (and other Hyundais): connecting rod bearings may wear and cause engine failure. Details
Technical service bulletins
- Hyundai Theta II extended warranty Hyundai coverage for connecting rod bearing wear on Theta II engines (15 yrs/150,000 miles), with the KSDS software required. Details
NHTSA complaints: 116 keyword-matched complaints for Hyundai Santa Fe 2010–2012 (of 792 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.