By Justin The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe may exhibit liftgate issues, such as intermittent operation or failure to open, often due to a faulty actuator, liftgate struts, or electrical problems. Symptoms include the liftgate not staying open, abrupt stopping, or non-responsiveness. To fix, check the smart liftgate settings, replace struts with a helper and basic tools, or consult a professional for actuator replacement. Regular maintenance and using quality parts can prevent recurrence.
Symptoms
- Intermittent Functionality: The liftgate may fail to open or close consistently. In some cases, it operates correctly only a fraction of the time, with frequent failures.
- Smart Liftgate Malfunction: The smart liftgate feature may stop working, even though it still has power and responds to button commands. This issue might be due to settings not being correctly configured in the vehicle’s system.
- Abrupt Operation: There are reports of the liftgate opening partially and then abruptly stopping and closing, which indicates a potential issue with the liftgate’s mechanics or sensors.
- Latch Actuator Failure: The liftgate may appear to close but then pops open again, suggesting a problem with the latch actuator that needs replacement.
- Electrical/Chip Issues: General electrical or chip malfunctions could also affect the liftgate’s operation, though specific details on the affected components are not always clear.
Potential Causes
- Faulty Liftgate Actuator: The actuator, which helps to open and close the liftgate, may be failing and could eventually need replacement.
- Power Liftgate Support Strut Issue: The power liftgate support strut may malfunction, particularly in colder temperatures, affecting the liftgate’s ability to open and close properly.
- Electrical or Sensor Issues: Problems with the liftgate’s electrical system or sensors can lead to intermittent functionality or failure to operate the liftgate.
- Smart Liftgate Software Settings: The smart liftgate feature may not be enabled in the vehicle’s system settings, which can prevent it from operating as intended.
- Mechanical Wear or Damage: General wear or damage to the liftgate’s mechanical components can cause operational issues.
- Manual Intervention with Power Shocks: Manually closing a power liftgate can potentially damage the power shocks, leading to costly replacements.
- Latch Mechanism Problems: A partially closed liftgate that does not draw down tight could indicate a problem with the latch mechanism.
How to Diagnose 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Liftgate Problems
Diagnosing liftgate problems in a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe involves a systematic approach to identify the root cause of the malfunction. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1.Check the Smart Liftgate Settings:
- Ensure the smart liftgate feature is enabled in the vehicle’s system settings. This can be done through the main screen setup under the vehicle settings, where you can find and activate the smart liftgate option.
2.Observe the Liftgate’s Behavior:
- Pay attention to how the liftgate operates. If it beeps but does not open, or if it opens partially and then closes, these symptoms can help pinpoint the issue.
3.Inspect the Liftgate Actuator and Support Struts:
- A faulty liftgate actuator or malfunctioning support struts can cause the liftgate to not open or close properly. In colder temperatures, the support struts may not function as intended.
4.Test the Liftgate Switch:
- If the liftgate does not respond to the switch on the liftgate or the key fob, the switch itself could be defective.
5. Check for Electrical Issues:
- Electrical problems, such as a drained battery or a blown fuse, can affect the liftgate’s operation. Look for any signs of electrical issues that could be impacting the liftgate’s functionality.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises:
- If the liftgate makes strange noises or beeps without opening, this could indicate a problem with the liftgate pulldown motor or other mechanical components.
7. Manual Operation Check:
- If the liftgate is not a power liftgate, try to open it manually. If it doesn’t open, the issue could be with the locking mechanism or the manual liftgate button.
8. Consult a Professional:
- If the above steps do not lead to a clear diagnosis, or if you are not comfortable performing these checks, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic. They can provide a more detailed diagnosis and have the tools to test the electrical system and components.
How to Fix 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Liftgate Problems- Step by step
To fix the liftgate problems in a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Check Smart Liftgate Settings
- Ensure the smart liftgate feature is activated. Go to the vehicle settings on the dashboard, navigate to the door settings, and ensure the smart liftgate option is checked. This is a common issue where the feature might be deactivated.
Step 2: Manual Height Adjustment
- Manually adjust the liftgate to your preferred height if it is not opening fully or stopping prematurely. Hold the liftgate button until you hear two beeps, indicating the height has been set.
Step 3: Inspect and Test the Liftgate Actuator
- If the liftgate is not locking properly or pops open after closing, the actuator might be failing. Access the liftgate trim and inspect the actuator for any signs of damage or wear. Consider replacing the actuator if it appears faulty.
Step 4: Check for Mechanical Obstructions
- Ensure there are no physical obstructions in the liftgate’s path. Check the alignment and cleanliness of the liftgate tracks and surrounding areas.
Step 5: Reset the Liftgate
- If the liftgate behaves erratically, try a reset. Disconnect the battery for a minute, reconnect it, and then use the liftgate’s manual override to open and close it a few times to reset the system.
Step 6: Replace Faulty Components
- If specific components like the liftgate “pistons” or support struts are failing, consider replacing them. This might require professional help if the components are integrated with the vehicle’s electrical system.
Step 7: Professional Diagnostic
- If the above steps do not resolve the issue, or if you are unsure about performing them yourself, consult a professional. A Hyundai dealer or a qualified mechanic can provide a comprehensive diagnostic and ensure all electronic systems are functioning correctly.
Step 8: Regular Maintenance
- Regularly check and maintain the liftgate mechanism to prevent future issues. This includes cleaning the mechanical parts and checking the electronic settings periodically.
Repairing 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Liftgate Problems: DIY or Professional Help?
The decision to repair 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe liftgate problems with DIY or professional help depends on the specific issue, the individual’s comfort and skill level with car repairs, and the availability of the necessary tools and parts.
DIY Approach:
- Simple Adjustments and Settings: For issues related to the smart liftgate settings not being activated or the liftgate height needing adjustment, a DIY approach is feasible. Instructions for activating the smart liftgate and adjusting the liftgate height are straightforward and can be handled without professional help.
- Replacing Parts: If the problem is identified as a faulty actuator or lift support, and the individual is comfortable with basic car maintenance tasks, these parts can be replaced at home.
Professional Help:
- Complex Electrical Issues: If the liftgate problems are due to more complex electrical issues or if the diagnostics are unclear, professional help is recommended. A professional can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and ensure that all components are functioning correctly.
- Installation of Aftermarket Systems: For installing aftermarket liftgate systems or when modifications to the vehicle’s wiring or structure are required, professional installation is advisable to ensure safety and functionality.
- Recurring or Intermittent Issues: If the liftgate problems are intermittent or recurring, it might indicate a deeper underlying issue that could be best resolved by a professional who can perform detailed diagnostics and repairs.
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Liftgate Problems Repairing Cost
The cost of repairing liftgate problems in a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe can vary depending on the specific issue and whether the repair is done as a DIY project or by a professional.
- Replacement of Liftgate Struts: If the issue is related to faulty liftgate struts, the cost for original Hyundai struts is approximately $70-$80 each. Depending on whether one or both struts need replacement, this cost can double.
- Professional Diagnosis and Repair: For more complex issues, such as the liftgate not opening and only beeping, professional diagnosis and repair might be necessary. While specific costs for these services aren’t detailed in the sources, typical labor costs for vehicle repairs can range from $75 to $150 per hour depending on the location and the dealership or repair shop.
- Aftermarket Support Options: If considering aftermarket parts, such as replacement lift supports for a Hyundai Elantra that might be compatible with the Santa Fe, costs can be lower. For example, a set of Tuff Support rear hatch lift supports costs significantly less and might offer a budget-friendly alternative.
Preventing Future 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Liftgate Problems
To prevent future liftgate problems in the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, consider implementing the following strategies:
Regular Maintenance and Inspection:
- Conduct regular checks and maintenance on the liftgate components, especially the liftgate support struts, which are known to malfunction, particularly in colder temperatures. Regular inspections can help identify early signs of wear or failure.
Use High-Quality Replacement Parts:
- When replacement is necessary, opt for high-quality parts to ensure longevity and proper functionality. For instance, consider using reputable brands for lift supports like StrongArm, which offers liftgate support replacements.
Adjust Settings as Needed:
- Familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s settings related to the liftgate, such as the smart liftgate settings, and ensure they are correctly configured. This can prevent issues related to software or settings misconfiguration.
Preventive Replacements:
- Proactively replace parts that are known to fail over time, such as the liftgate pulldown motor or the liftgate latch actuator, before they malfunction. This approach can help avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Professional Diagnostics:
- If you experience intermittent issues or are unsure about the cause of a problem, consider getting a professional diagnostic. This can help accurately identify issues that may not be apparent during a routine check.
Educate on Proper Usage:
- Ensure that all users of the vehicle are aware of the proper operation of the liftgate to avoid misuse or accidental damage. For example, manually forcing a power liftgate can damage the mechanism.
Address Recalls Promptly:
- Stay informed about any recalls affecting your vehicle model and address them promptly. Recalls may cover issues related to the liftgate and can prevent future problems.
Can I drive my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe with Liftgate Problems?
Yes, you can drive your 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe with liftgate problems, as long as the issues do not affect the vehicle’s safety or security. For example, if the liftgate is not securely latching and there’s a risk of it opening while driving, it would be unsafe to operate the vehicle. However, if the liftgate problem is related to the smart liftgate feature not working properly but the liftgate still closes and latches securely, then it should not impact the drivability of the vehicle. Always ensure that the liftgate is securely closed before driving to prevent potential hazards.