How to Inspect the Drivetrain in a Hyundai Santa Fe
The 10-year/100,000 mile drivetrain warranty on the Hyundai Santa Fe is 5 years longer than the basic warranty, and it covers the important parts that make the SUV move. The engine, transmission, axles and wheels all make up the drivetrain. To stay on the safe side, you should inspect the drivetrain thoroughly once a year or every 15,000 miles.
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Instructions
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Test drive your Hyundai Santa Fe, listening closely for any unusual noises. Clicking or clunking when you're cruising at a low speed, clicks when you turn or clunks when you round a corner are all sounds that could indicate trouble with the drivetrain. If you experience any shaking, rattling, drift or pull while driving, you may have damage to the steering or suspension.
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Park the Hyundai Santa Fe after driving for about 15 to 20 minutes to get it at normal operating temperature. Leave the SUV running to check the transmission fluid, and then turn it off to check the oil.
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Wipe of the metal transmission fluid dipstick, which is on the driver's side of the engine compartment. Put it back into the opening and pull it back out to get a reading. Then, check the metal oil dipstick, which is on the front of the engine block. Add more fluid if either are low.
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Inspect the car's drivetrain visually. Lift it on a hoist and look for any signs of breakage or wear on the axles that connect the driveshaft to the wheels. Look for seepage of fluids from the joints or seals.
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Pay attention for dry rot or cracking in any of the hard plastics that make up the boot covering of the axles. Don't forget to check the CV-joints and on four-wheel drive models, the transfer case.
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Check all the hoses and clamps on the air and oil filters and coming out of the engine, because the warranty doesn't cover them and it could create bigger problems, if they're allowed to break.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep records of your oil and transmission fluid changes, so you stay on a schedule. This can also help when you decide to sell the SUV.
