I would think that refusing to fix the problem because a non-factory oil
filter was used is illegal. Sure, there are better filters than others out
there, but they all do the basic job (assuming they fit your vehicle).
So short of the oil draining out of the engine because the shop screwed
something up when you had your oil changed, this is a warranty repair, big
time!!!

Kevin

Absolutely stand by having the dealer tell you specifically what caused the
failure.  I have heard of cases of oil filters not allowing enough oil to
the engine, but have not seen any.  The only way I can see that this
wouldn't be a warranty issue is if there were some problem with the filter
or oil or installation at the lube place.

Has the dealership told you exactly what is wrong with the vehicle?  I am
very curious because my mom's 3 month old Santa Fe (3147 miles) engine
just blew and it's been at the dealership for a month now.  It happened 2
weeks and 285 miles after her first oil change.  Hyundai won't honor her
warranty though because she went to an independent garage and there's an
"aftermarket" filter on the vehicle. Please let me know what they say is
wrong with the vehicle.
Thanks

I need your advice!  My sister bought a 2004 Santa Fe last week and
after driving it for one week, the engine seized.  They *think* they
know the cause, but they are not sure.  The dealership tells her all
they can do is replace the engine, then they want to keep it on the
lot for a few weeks to monitor it to make sure there are no more
problems.

My sister is livid.  She bought a new car and traded in an older one
that was no longer reliable.  She thought a brand new car ensured
reliability (I guess not the case!), now she will be stuck with a
lemon.

She is attempting to get the dealership to replace the vehicle (or do
a trade at her loss, since she does not want the lemon).  She called
Hyundai Canada to see what their policy is, and they said they do not
'replace' vehicles, only fix them.  I guess they do not have any kind
of policy that if you own the vehicle for a certain time frame and an
obvious manufacturer/assembly problem causes a problem, you get a
replacement car.

What kind of rights does my sister have in this case?  If they refuse
a trade/replacement vehicle, can she take them or Hyundai Canada to
court and sue to get a new car?

Thanks!
Paula