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2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: Comfortable & Upscale Midsize SUV With Some Minor Problems

Rating: 4.44
Based on 38 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size crossover SUV, part of the Santa Fe's third generation. Key trims include the SE, Limited, and Sport (available with two rows). Its popularity stems from its spacious interior, generous features for the price, and comfortable ride. Expect a pricing range of around $25,000 to $35,000 when new. It offers a good blend of practicality and value, making it a popular choice for families.
The Good

The 2016 Santa Fe offers a comfortable ride and a stylish design that appeals to emotional buyers. Practically, it boasts good value for money, a spacious interior, and decent fuel efficiency. Its reliable performance and comprehensive warranty provide peace of mind, making it a smart and sensible choice.

The Bad

Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, particularly rough shifting. The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. Also, inspect for potential issues with the infotainment system. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Be sure to check service records for regular maintenance.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L Inline-4 (Santa Fe Sport): Approximately 190 horsepower
    • 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 (Santa Fe Sport): Approximately 265 horsepower
    • 3.3L V6 (Santa Fe): Approximately 290 horsepower
  • Horsepower: Ranging from 190 to 290 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy (MPG):
    • 2.4L I4: Around 20 city / 27 highway
    • 2.0L Turbo I4: Around 20 city / 27 highway
    • 3.3L V6: Around 18 city / 25 highway
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.4L I4: Approximately 9 seconds
    • 2.0L Turbo I4: Approximately 7.5 seconds
    • 3.3L V6: Approximately 7 seconds
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Santa Fe Sport: Up to 2,000 lbs
    • Santa Fe: Up to 5,000 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SE: Standard features include alloy wheels, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
    • Limited (Santa Fe Sport): Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and blind-spot monitoring.
    • Limited (Santa Fe): Includes the features of the Santa Fe Sport Limited plus third-row seating, keyless entry and ignition, and rear parking sensors.
    • Ultimate (Santa Fe): Top-of-the-line, featuring premium audio, panoramic sunroof, navigation, and advanced safety features.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2016
Make Hyundai
Model Santa Fe
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine T-GDI Theta II
Engine Size 2L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe include issues with the automatic transmission, specifically rough or delayed shifting. Some owners have also reported problems with the electrical system, including the infotainment system and sensors. Engine issues, while less common, have also been reported, including potential oil leaks or premature wear. Recalls for the 2016 Santa Fe have included concerns related to the anti-lock braking system (ABS) module, which could potentially cause a fire.

Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the durability of the transmission and the potential for engine problems as the vehicle ages. It's crucial to check the vehicle's maintenance history and look for any signs of transmission or engine issues before purchasing a used model. Some earlier model years of the Santa Fe (prior to 2016) had documented engine failure issues, so ensuring the 2016 model has been well-maintained is essential. Rust can also be a long-term concern, especially in areas where road salt is used during the winter. Regular washing and undercoating can help mitigate this risk.

How long will the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe last?

With proper maintenance, a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 10-15 years of service. Good maintenance habits, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, and timely repairs, are crucial. Long-term durability can be affected by the transmission, which can develop shifting issues. Engine wear is also a factor, although less common with regular oil changes. Rust can be a weakness, especially in colder climates, impacting the vehicle's longevity. Overall, regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of the 2016 Santa Fe.
Positive Owner Reviews
Jenny Showes
Thought I had a wonderful car until the engine died with no warning lights at all. Told by dealership that 112,000 mile 2016 3.3L V6 engine is damaged and needs to be replaced but is not one of the 7+ million on recall. Same "knock of death" issue as engines on recall although car was well maintained at dealership. Still no warning lights on car and they want over $9,000 to put a new engine in. Hyundai/Kia seems to be hiding a bigger issue as many different engines are all having the same exact issue with rod bearings breaking.
SantaFeMAGA
Agree with the other reviewers. Great car all around. Best bang for your buck. Until my wife's car I was not familiar with Hyundai. She has a 2015 sonata sport and it was so dependable and nicely equipped that I was sold on the brand when my wife's car hit 130k and she never did anything to it except brakes, new tires, and oil changes.. not to mention that one is still going strong today as well. So anyway... Bought the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe limited ultimate awd used a year ago with 50k miles on it for similar reasons others seem to have bought one. Dependability, comparable or better features than competitors in its class, not bad on gas mpg, tons of cargo space, great tow capacity, pano sunroof, heated and cooling seats, standard plug in trunk, second row captains seats that recline and move forward and back oh not to mention are heated, heated steering wheel, great v6 power house, privacy shades in second row, nice touch screen, awesome 10 speaker audio system with subwoofer, high intensity headlights, oh and a limited slip rear locking differential that is on vehicles like the new genesis suv or my ram 1500, both are around $50kish new with those options. The only thing I wish it had which my one year older 2015 ram 1500 Laramie longhorn has is front sensors for parking and led lit side door storage areas but that truck was $10-15k more brand new than the Santa Fe was new... So moral of the story, pretty impressive Hyundai.
Ed
Have had this Santa Fe ultra limited for 2 years it has all the options available in 2016. This SUV has been on several trips gas mileage is about what EPA quotes we love this rig
Negative Owner Reviews
MefiSt08
The car was okay. The only problem it doesn't givin low oil warning signs at all. You Will end up buying new engine. Very shifty

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims offer features like a larger touchscreen, navigation, and premium audio systems.

Available driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance safety and driver convenience. The infotainment system supports smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on some trims.

Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional features such as blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert provide added protection.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are generally positive, with the Santa Fe often receiving good scores for overall safety. However, it's essential to check specific ratings for the 2016 model year on their respective websites. The availability of advanced safety features varies by trim level, so consider this when selecting a used model.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Twilight Black
Sparkling Silver
Platinum Graphite
Regal Red Pearl
Midnight Blue
Frost White Pearl
Interior Colors
Saddle Brown
Gray
Black

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe had an MSRP ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on mileage, condition, and location. Depreciation is average for its class. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and whether it has desirable features like all-wheel drive and advanced safety technology. Lower mileage and a clean title will command higher prices. Color also plays a small role in resale value, with neutral colors often being more desirable.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Cost of Ownership

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe generally offers reasonable ownership costs. Insurance rates are typically average for a mid-size SUV. Fuel economy is decent, but not exceptional. Routine maintenance is relatively affordable, but repairs can be pricier, especially for transmission or engine issues. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits and the vehicle's overall condition. While not the most economical in its class, it's not excessively costly to own, making it a balanced option for budget-conscious buyers.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 17.4 gallons
City Mileage 20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 27 miles/gallon

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Pole Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Recalls & Defects

Seat Belts:front:warning Light/Devices
Recall date 2016-03-10
Recall no. 16v145000
Source NHTSA
Summary Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Santa FE Vehicles Manufactured September 1, 2015 TO February 12, 2016. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Wires IN THE Front Seat Belt Buckle Harnesses MAY BE Damaged BY THE Seat's Height Adjuster Mechanism, Resulting IN A Failure TO Provide AN Audible Warning When Front Seat Occupants DO NOT Fasten Their Seat Belts. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF THE Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence Without A Warning TO Remind THE Front Seat Occupants That Their Seat Belts ARE NOT Buckled, They MAY Forget TO Buckle Their Seat Belt, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy Hyundai Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and Reroute THE Wires IN THE Front Seat Belt Buckle Harnesses TO Their Proper Locations, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 27, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Hyundai Customer Service AT 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's Number FOR This Recall IS 141.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Recall date 2017-06-05
Recall no. 17v358000
Source NHTSA
Summary Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 Santa FE and Santa FE Sport Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Secondary Hood Latch Actuating Cable MAY Corrode and Bind, Causing THE Secondary Hood Latch TO Remain IN THE Unlatched Position When THE Hood IS Closed.
Consequence IF THE Hood IS NOT Securely Closed or THE Primary Latch IS Inadvertently Released and THE Secondary Latch IS NOT Engaged, THE Hood Could Unexpectedly Open While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Hyundai Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Secondary Latch Cable, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 4, 2017. Owner's MAY Contact Hyundai Customer Service AT 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's Number FOR THE Recall IS 163.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date 2022-02-03
Recall no. 22v056000
Source NHTSA
Summary Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2018 Santa FE, 2017-2018 Santa FE Sport, 2019 Santa FE XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson Vehicles. THE Anti-lock Brake System (Abs) Module Could Malfunction and Cause AN Electrical Short, Which Could Result IN AN Engine Compartment Fire.
Consequence AN Engine Compartment Fire While Parked or Driving CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised TO Park Outside and Away From Structures Until THE Recall Repair IS Complete. Dealers Will Replace THE ABS Multi-Fuse, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed MAY 31, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Hyundai Customer Service AT 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's Number FOR This Recall IS 218.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Insurance

Insurance for a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder. In terms of price, the Santa Fe often offers better value than the Highlander and Pilot, providing similar features for less. Performance-wise, the V6 engine is comparable, but the base engine can feel underpowered compared to some rivals. Reliability is generally good, but the Highlander and Pilot have a slight edge in long-term reliability ratings.

Feature-wise, the Santa Fe is competitive, offering a range of tech and safety features. However, some competitors may have more advanced driver-assistance systems available. The Ford Explorer offers a sportier driving experience, while the Pathfinder focuses on comfort.

Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Highlander for its reliability and resale value, the Honda Pilot for its spacious interior and family-friendly features, and the Mazda CX-5 (if two rows are sufficient) for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. For buyers prioritizing value and a comprehensive warranty, the Santa Fe is a solid choice, but those seeking ultimate reliability may lean towards the Toyota or Honda.

Ranks #881 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
881 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe a Good Wagon?

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is ideal for families seeking a comfortable, well-equipped, and reasonably priced mid-size SUV. It's worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, if you prioritize value and don't require the absolute best performance or reliability ratings in its class. Opting for the V6 engine is recommended for better performance. A thorough inspection and review of maintenance records are crucial before purchasing a used model. Check for any signs of transmission issues or rust. Higher trims offer more features, but even the base model provides a good level of equipment. If ultimate reliability is your top priority, consider a Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot instead.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Owner Reviews

4.44
Consumer Rating, Based on 38 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Karyn on December 14, 2023

Advice on what I could do

My engine is officially blown. Paid $3000 for a head gasket and a little over a month later the engine has seized. I still owe 8k and no one is able to help unless I put another 10k into it. Even if that's the case whose to say it won't happen again. Im so tired of this car can anyone give me advice?

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Becka on July 18, 2023

Deceived!!

I bought my Santa Fe in 2021 with 87,000 miles. I absolutely loved it! Gas mileage was fair and it was great for our family with 4 kids. I had the oil changed on time and checked it between changes and had no knowledge of the issues with Hyundai and Kia engines. I had never even seen a warning light on. In May 2023,with 108,000 miles, I was on a highway going about 60 mph with one of my children when I realized something was wrong. I looked down and every light was lit on the dash and the car had completely shut off! I was in the fast lane so I put on my signal to try and get off the road. I had no power steering and just a little regular steering but I was able to get over and then realized I had no brakes! Thank God, I was near a business and was able to drift into a parking lot until I stopped. That was it! DONE! I had it towed to a dealer but within an hour on Google, I knew my engine had blown, with NO warning, just like millions of other Kias and Hyundais! Unfortunately, I had the 3.3l V6 engine which has yet to be recalled, and because I wasn't the original owner, the warranty was only until 60,000 miles. It will be $10,000 to repair and 99% of the engines that are used to replace the blown ones, fail too, some with only a few miles on them. They never corrected the problem with all of their engines and are still making them the same way. I'm a 62 year old widow raising 4 of my grandchildren and it's going to ruin me financially. It's sad because it seems to be women with children who are the victims of these companies.

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Loretta on May 16, 2022

FEELING VERY FRUSTRATED

We bought our 2016 Santa Fe sport in 2019, and since the day we took it for a test drive, we should have left it there and walked away. The day we went to take for a test drive, the salesman had to get it boosted. Then once it was boosted, we took it for a test drive, half the dash lights didn't work, the side mirrors would go up and down for no reason. The salesman was good, he convinced us to buy it and promised to change the battery and when they did it seemed to work better, so we bought it. Shortly after getting it home, the hatchback would randomly open whether you hit the button or not or even in the car or not. The heated drivers side seat stopped working, as soon as you turned it on, a few seconds later it start blinking and shut off. Then after a couple more weeks, the SUV would continuously turn over, but after a few mins or a few tries it would eventually start. And that took them pretty close to a year to figure out what was wrong. Then after they fixed all those problems, the car finally as it should until my heated seat stopped working again this past winter, and the mirrors still move up to the sky and then point to the ground when your trying to back up, very annoying. Then on May 4th my car once again left me stranded on the side of the road with the engine light blinking and no power to drive. So I once again called Hyundai dealership and told them what had happened. They told me to call RSA (road side assistance) and have it towed to the dealership. Which we did and has been there since then, and have left a few messages for the mechanic to call me back so I know what is going on. I have yet to hear from her, but my husband literally stopped in to the dealership and they said that the engine is gone and they will put in a new one, but that's the part is in Toronto and should be here on the Island on Friday past and should be ready by Monday (today) at the latest and am still waiting for a call back to see what is going on. But the part that annoys me the most, is that they will not give me a courtesy car to get back and forth to work, because they say they have none available…. So needless to say I have missed a week and some off work because I have no vehicle….. my husband works on the road, all over the Island, and is gone most days very early and not home till late… FEELING VERY FRUSTRATED!!!

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Jenny Showes on March 16, 2022

DEAD engine!!

Thought I had a wonderful car until the engine died with no warning lights at all. Told by dealership that 112,000 mile 2016 3.3L V6 engine is damaged and needs to be replaced but is not one of the 7+ million on recall. Same "knock of death" issue as engines on recall although car was well maintained at dealership. Still no warning lights on car and they want over $9,000 to put a new engine in. Hyundai/Kia seems to be hiding a bigger issue as many different engines are all having the same exact issue with rod bearings breaking.

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Gary J on June 16, 2021

can not be depened on problems with engine

Engine se up was Seized up was replaced by manufacture 10000 miles put on replacement an now going through problem and catching xxxx fro m them to fix the problem.

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SantaFeMAGA on March 24, 2021

2016 Limited Ultimate Santa Fe

Agree with the other reviewers. Great car all around. Best bang for your buck. Until my wife's car I was not familiar with Hyundai. She has a 2015 sonata sport and it was so dependable and nicely equipped that I was sold on the brand when my wife's car hit 130k and she never did anything to it except brakes, new tires, and oil changes.. not to mention that one is still going strong today as well. So anyway... Bought the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe limited ultimate awd used a year ago with 50k miles on it for similar reasons others seem to have bought one. Dependability, comparable or better features than competitors in its class, not bad on gas mpg, tons of cargo space, great tow capacity, pano sunroof, heated and cooling seats, standard plug in trunk, second row captains seats that recline and move forward and back oh not to mention are heated, heated steering wheel, great v6 power house, privacy shades in second row, nice touch screen, awesome 10 speaker audio system with subwoofer, high intensity headlights, oh and a limited slip rear locking differential that is on vehicles like the new genesis suv or my ram 1500, both are around $50kish new with those options. The only thing I wish it had which my one year older 2015 ram 1500 Laramie longhorn has is front sensors for parking and led lit side door storage areas but that truck was $10-15k more brand new than the Santa Fe was new... So moral of the story, pretty impressive Hyundai.

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Ed on February 12, 2021

Very reliable and easy to drive

Have had this Santa Fe ultra limited for 2 years it has all the options available in 2016. This SUV has been on several trips gas mileage is about what EPA quotes we love this rig

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James on January 15, 2021

Handles fantastic.

It is a great vehicle. It's spacious, comfortable and fun to drive. It is easy to park and has a great navigation system. I highly recommend it.

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JamesF on June 11, 2020

Sporty and fun to drive

It has all the bells and whistles we wanted and more! Its sporty and rides and handles great. The gas mileage is as advertised. We're very pleased with it.

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53 WILLYS on March 17, 2020

GREAT VALUE, BUT THE TRES ARE THE WORST.

I own 2 Santa Fe sports both have Continental tires and they are the worst tire I have ever used. Other then that it's a great car.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.