Most Hyundai Santa Fe models use a standard 12-volt lead-acid battery for starting and electrical systems. If you drive a Santa Fe Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid, there is also a high-voltage traction battery for the electric motor, while the 12V battery remains the auxiliary supply.
Battery types by Santa Fe variant
The following breakdown covers the main battery configurations you’ll encounter across common Santa Fe versions sold in recent years. Note that exact specs can vary by model year and market.
- Gasoline/Diesel Santa Fe (non-hybrid): A traditional 12-volt auxiliary battery, typically maintenance-free lead-acid. Capacity varies by market and trim but is designed to reliably start the engine and run electronics.
- Santa Fe Hybrid: Features a 12-volt auxiliary battery (often AGM) to power electronics and control systems, plus a high-voltage traction battery pack (lithium-ion polymer) that drives the electric motor.
- Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Similar to the Hybrid for the 12-volt system, with a larger high-voltage lithium-ion polymer battery pack for extended EV driving, and the 12V battery supporting vehicle electronics.
In short, your Santa Fe's battery setup depends on the variant: ICE models use a standard 12V lead-acid battery; hybrids pair a 12V auxiliary (often AGM) with a high-voltage lithium-ion traction pack; PHEVs use a similar 12V system plus a larger traction pack for EV range. Always check your owner's manual or Hyundai's specs for the exact part numbers and capacity for your year and market.
Choosing and replacing the 12V battery
When replacing the 12-volt battery, consider the following factors to ensure compatibility with your vehicle's electrical systems and starting features.
- Variant and year: Confirm whether you own an ICE Santa Fe, Hybrid, or PHEV to determine the correct 12V battery type and mounting.
- Battery type: For hybrids and PHEVs, an AGM 12V battery is often recommended due to higher load handling and charging profiles.
- Capacity and size: Match the cold-cranking amps (CCA), reserve capacity (RC), and physical fit to the Hyundai specification for your trim.
- Terminal orientation and polarity: Ensure the correct negative/positive terminal layout and cable routing.
- Warranty and maintenance: Check Hyundai's warranty terms and whether the battery is maintenance-free.
Having the right 12V replacement ensures reliable starting, proper operation of the stop-start system (if equipped), and compatibility with onboard electronics and infotainment.
Summary
Hyundai Santa Fe battery configurations vary by variant. ICE models use a standard 12V lead-acid battery, hybrids add a 12V auxiliary (often AGM) and a high-voltage lithium-ion traction battery, and PHEVs incorporate a larger high-voltage pack alongside the 12V system. Always confirm specs for your model year and market in the owner's manual or with a Hyundai dealer.
What type of battery does a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe take?
The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport typically uses a lead-acid or absorbed glass mat-style battery depending on options and electrical load; our technicians confirm the exact specification for each vehicle.
What type of battery does Hyundai use?
lithium-ion batteries
Hyundai uses advanced lithium-ion batteries across its EV range, striking the perfect balance between performance and efficiency.
What kind of battery does a Hyundai Santa Fe have?
DieHard Platinum AGM – Battery : H6 Group Size, 760 CCA, 950 CA, 120 Minute Reserve Capacity (Part No. H6-AGM)
What type of battery does a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe take?
DieHard Platinum AGM – Battery : H7 Group Size, 850 CCA, 1000 CA, 140 Minute Reserve Capacity (Part No. H7-AGM)