I was installing a hidden hitch on my Brand New 08 SF (with tow package) and found out that one the holes is bigger than the others. It has threads but it is WAY bigger. The kit came with M10 bolts. I tried a M12 bolt but even that was too small! Is the weldnut gone or something? I'm guessing a warranty repair is in the works. That'll probably take a few weeks. HA!

If the hole is threaded then it must be the correct spec(?) I'd go to a Hyundai lot and check out other Santa Fes, or post a photo so other members can compare to their own vehicles.

Unfortunately we've got a dealer-installed hitch, so I can't tell you what the mounting holes look like...

I recently posted on "Install A Hitch?" as I had difficulty with the weld nut threads on the driver's side of the vehicle (08 SF). A pass with a tap to clear the threads solved my problem. The bolts should all be M10 as supplied with the hitch. The problem is that the weld nuts are inside the frame rails, and not easily accessible. As you say, a warranty repair is in order. Let us know how Hyundai handled this issue.

Here are the pics of the M10 hole and the "other" hole.




I called the Hyundai dealership and told them there was a potential defect in my car and he said, "I highly doubt that is the case!" He made me sound like I was smoking crack!
HAHA.

I WANTED TO GO JET-SKI THIS WEEKEND!

This post has been edited by dbldwn02: Sep 6 2008, 02:10 PM

According to your picture, the other hole is obviously much larger.

It actually looks as though the threaded nut is missing, but you say it is threaded? It is MORE likely that they forgot to install the nut on that side during the manufacturing process.

Just to give you another opinion, I installed my hitch without a "Hitch" (sorry, no pun intended) and all was well.

I believe you have a warranty claim.

It will be interesting to see how they manage to weld a nut above the hole. The entire rear clip will have to be removed to get to it.

Be sure to let us know the end results and do not take any bull from your service department.

David <><

They'll just thread what's in there and maybe install the hitch for you with a big nut if it's not already threaded. Most likely you or they will have to drill out the hole on the hitch frame so the bigger bolt can go through it.

This post has been edited by MButkus: Sep 7 2008, 06:34 PM

Well, I took it in today. They said it IS a defect and will have to be "repaired." But, of course the service manager wasn't in on a Monday morning so I have to take it back tomorrow. This sucks. They said once they take delivery of the vehicle it will be a few days.

I should get a loaner, right? My car is only 10 days old.

How will they get a nut up there? No matter what size the nut is, something is going to have to be cut, welded, or replaced.

YEA YEA YEA. I just finally got this fixed yesterday!!!!

OMG! It only took over 2 months! The a-hole at the service dept didn't even want to pay for gas for the 100 mile roundtrip to the body shop. He told me they were doing a service for me! I said, "No, you sold me a faulty car since it's brand new"