HYUNDAI SANTA FE (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,527 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
1,527
Avg Mileage
121,485 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HYUNDAI brand average of 83%.
At 16 years old, 72% of HYUNDAI SANTA FEs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,527 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 121,485 miles.
How does the 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE has 121,485 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 61%. The 2008 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
HYUNDAI SANTA FE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 89% | 1,002 | 29,234 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 1,279 | 35,189 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 2,285 | 43,694 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 3,459 | 52,064 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 4,595 | 61,527 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 7,907 | 67,815 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 5,704 | 76,900 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 4,992 | 88,159 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 2,963 | 95,138 mi |
| 2012 | 74% | 6,090 | 103,389 mi |
| 2011 | 72% | 6,616 | 113,847 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 6,348 | 118,050 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 1,368 | 112,515 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 1,527 | 121,485 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 2,446 | 126,098 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 2,452 | 115,781 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 1,436 | 122,489 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 1,054 | 119,124 mi |
| 2003 | 68% | 620 | 117,994 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 254 | 114,308 mi |
| 2001 | 61% | 138 | 99,758 mi |
Checking a specific HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
The 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE is a family car with a 2188cc diesel engine. 1,527 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 121,485 miles at 16 years old, HYUNDAI SANTA FE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE Fuel Costs
The 2188cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
HYUNDAI SANTA FE Reliability Trend
Newer HYUNDAI SANTA FEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
At 16 years old, the HYUNDAI SANTA FE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+2%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+5%) from 87,733 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (same) from 45,025 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2010) 69% pass rate (-3%) from 31,633 tests