Common Issues in Hyundai New Santro: Causes and Solutions

The Hyundai New Santro re-entered the Indian market in 2018 with hopes of replicating the original Santro’s success. Although it excels in terms of design, features, and practicality, some Santro owners have identified a few persistent issues with the car. Here, we break down the most common problems reported by Hyundai New Santro owners, along with their causes and possible solutions.

Common Issues Faced by Hyundai New Santro Owners

The common problems with the Hyundai New Santro include issues with AMT transmission, Rattling noises, unresponsive brake pedal, electrical issues, lack of space, and more.

AMT Gear Shifting Failure

Some owners of the Santro AMT variant have experienced issues where the car refuses to shift from Reverse (R) to Drive (D) mode, leaving them stranded unexpectedly.

Probable Cause

• Gear position sensor malfunction
• Fault in AMT control unit
• Software or calibration glitch

How to Identify the Issue

• The gear remains stuck in Neutral even after multiple attempts
• No response from the gear selector despite functioning electronics

Professional Assistance

• Get the AMT system software updated
• Request a full AMT control unit inspection
• If under warranty, consider requesting component replacement, if any

Sudden Power Loss and Electrical Failure

A few Hyundai New Santro owners reported experiencing a sudden shutdown in mid-traffic, where all electrical systems shut down momentarily before reviving.

Probable Cause

• Battery terminal connection issue
• Software reboot in the car's ECU
• Intermittent wiring or fuse fault

How to Identify the Issue

• Complete blackout of lights, infotainment, and ignition
• The car restarts on its own after a few minutes

Professional Assistance

• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or looseness
• Scan the ECU and check for software updates or errors
• Check for possible fuse box or wiring faults

Lack of Engine Power

Many owners feel the New Santro's 1.1-litre engine is underpowered, particularly during overtaking or on inclines when the car is fully loaded.

Probable Cause

• Engine output not balanced with the car's weight
• Limited low-end torque

How to Identify the Issue

• Sluggish acceleration
• High revs without a matching pickup

DIY Solutions

• Avoid carrying excessive weight in the car
• Use lower gears during uphill drives

Professional Assistance

• ECU tuning or throttle calibration (in select cases)
• Ensure the engine is well-maintained and the air filters are clean

Brake Pedal Response Delay

Hyundai New Santro owners have complained about delayed braking response, particularly in sudden-stop situations.

Probable Cause

• Soft or spongy brake pedal feel
• Possible issues with the ABS sensor
• Low brake fluid level

How to Identify the Issue

• Sluggish brake response
• Increased stopping distance
• The pedal needs to be pressed harder than usual

Professional Assistance

• Get the brake fluid replaced or topped up
• Request a brake pad inspection
• Opt for ABS sensor inspection

Suspension Comfort and Rear Seat Bounciness

The suspension system of the New Santro is adequate for city use. However, the rear suspension often bounces over potholes or speed bumps, leading to an uncomfortable riding experience.

Probable Cause

• Soft rear suspension setup
• Lack of damping support for rear seats
• Fault in the dampers due to ageing

How to Identify the Issue

• Rear seat occupants feel more vertical movement on uneven roads
• Noise or squeaks from the rear suspension

DIY Solutions

• Avoid overspeeding on rough roads
• Maintain correct tyre pressure

Professional Assistance

• Check for faults in the dampers
• Get the suspension bushes and mounts inspected
• Replace with improved dampers if available

Ergonomic Issues for Tall Drivers

The Hyundai New Santeo does not come equipped with adjustable steering and has a fixed seat height, which can cause discomfort for both tall and short drivers.

Probable Cause

• Fixed steering and seat design
• Compact cabin space not optimised for taller owners

How to Identify the Issue

• Knees brushing against the steering column
• Poor rearward visibility due to seat height
• Uncomfortable driving position

Solutions

• Use seat cushion wedges for a slight height lift for short drivers
• Adjust the seat track position to create more legroom for tall drivers

Rattling Noise in New Santro

Multiple owners of the New Santro have reported rattling noise through the dashboard and other interior panels. The issue is particularly pronounced, especially after prolonged use or driving over rough terrain.

Probable Cause

• Loose dashboard fittings
• Light-quality interior plastics

How to Identify the Issue

• Rattling noise from the glovebox or door panels
• Persistent vibrations during driving

DIY Solutions

• Use foam tape or anti-rattle padding in the glovebox and door areas

Professional Assistance

• Get the dashboard and trims tightened during servicing

Infotainment or Audio Limitations

The Hyundai New Santro is a small hatchback and was priced aggressively. Hence, most of its variants feature a basic sound system that lacks depth and clarity, particularly at higher volumes.

Probable Cause

• Factory settings are not tuned optimally

How to Identify the Issue

• Rear speakers feel underpowered
• Low bass output and unbalanced sound

DIY Solutions

• Use equaliser settings to balance sound across all speakers

Professional Assistance

• Upgrade to aftermarket speakers for improved quality
• Request a firmware update for infotainment if available

Limited Boot Space in CNG Variant

The CNG variant of the Hyundai New Santro has compromised boot space due to the placement of the CNG tank.

Probable Cause

• The CNG cylinder takes up most of the luggage area

How to Identify the Issue

• Very limited space for luggage in CNG-equipped New Santro

Solutions

• Install overhead roof carriers for frequent, long trips

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Hyundai Santro Owners

• Follow Hyundai’s recommended service schedule for optimal performance
• Regularly check battery terminals and connections
• Schedule ECU and AMT software updates during services
• Opt for regular car scanning through professional tools and equipment
• Keep tyre pressure at recommended levels to support the suspension
• Include brakes and suspension inspection during every scheduled service
• Clean air filters and throttle body periodically for better engine response

Conclusion

The Hyundai New Santro is a practical city car with a strong brand legacy, but it's not without its challenges. As a proud owner, you should be aware of these common issues and must maintain regular service schedules to enjoy a smoother and more reliable ownership experience. For persistent concerns, always consult an authorised Hyundai service centre or a fully equipped modern car garage, such as FourDoor, for proper diagnosis and repairs.

FAQs

Q. Why does my New Santro make unusual noises when driving?

The primary source of noise in the Hyundai New Santro is loose dashboard fittings, glovebox, or door panels, especially while driving over rough or broken roads.

Q. How can I maintain the Hyundai New Santro to prevent common issues?

Prevent suspension problems in the Hyundai New Santro by following these tips:

• Follow Hyundai’s service schedules
• Get the ECU and AMT system scanned for issues
• Drive slowly over broken or rough roads
• Get the air filter and throttle body cleaned if signs of problems arise
• Inspect suspension mounts, bushings, ball joints and dampers

Q. What are the best service intervals to prevent issues with the New Santro?

The recommended service interval for the Hyundai New Santro is 1 year or 10,000 km, whichever comes first.

Q. What common issues should I check before buying a used Hyundai New Santro?

The common issues to check before buying a used Hyundai New Santro are:

• AMT gear shifting issue
• Status of electrical power loss and electrical failure
• Unresponsive brake pedal
• Cabin rattling noise