So my wife got a 2023 Santa Fe Calligraphy with the 2.5T engine, AWD, and DCT, and while it’s an amazing car with great power, the DCT is driving me crazy.
The main issue is stopping smoothly and creeping forward—whenever I try to ease into a stop, it feels like the clutch engages and makes the car lurch forward. Same thing when trying to inch forward; it constantly jerks as the clutch catches and releases. Parking in a tight garage is a nightmare because of this, and it feels like I’m grinding the clutch.
On the highway, no issues at all—it’s just the stop-and-go situations. Has anyone else had the same experience with this DCT? I honestly feel car sick sometimes from the jerking. Love everything else about the car, but this part is killing it for me.
I had similar issues with my 2020 Kona. Periodically, I’d take it to the dealership to reset the clutch to ‘learning mode.’ They also recommended driving in sport mode in parking lots or garages, not creeping forward in stop-and-go. Hope that helps!
DCTs are designed for quicker shifts and more efficient power delivery. For smoother operation, you’ll want to treat it more like a manual transmission—gently modulate the accelerator. The 2025 Santa Fe is supposed to improve this issue, but it’s really about getting used to the way DCTs work.
I’ve got a 2022 model and had the transmission replaced at 18k miles. Now, after city driving, it’s starting to act up again, feeling rough around 28k miles.
You’re not alone! I love the car but absolutely hate the DCT lurching and moving when my foot’s off the brake. Driving in NYC traffic is exhausting. I miss my old Santa Fe, which was way smoother.
Vinnie said:
You’re not alone! I love the car but absolutely hate the DCT lurching and moving when my foot’s off the brake. Driving in NYC traffic is exhausting. I miss my old Santa Fe, which was way smoother.
Glad to know I’m not the only one. Thanks for sharing!