Oil
- Viscosity
- 5W-20
- Oil type
- Conventional
- Capacity (with filter)
- 4.5 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 4 qt
OEM notes: API SN
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe takes 5W-20 Conventional with a total capacity of 4.5 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 17mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 35 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Hyundai 26300-35503, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 4 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
Data last verified: April 30, 2026
Oil
5W-20
Conventional
Buy on Amazon →
Capacity
4.5 qt
with filter
Drain plug
17 mm
35 Nm torque
Filter
26300-35503
Hyundai (OEM)
Buy on Amazon →
OEM spec: API SN
Quick DIY Tips for the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
- Torque your drain plug to 35 Nm (26 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Hyundai 26300-35503) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 5W-20 Conventional as specified by Hyundai — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
Filter options
Drain bolt & hardware
- Socket size
- 17 mm
- Thread size
- M14x1.5
- Torque spec
- 35 Nm
- Gasket type
- Crush washer
Notes: 1st gen SM (2.4L/2.7L)
Fluid specifications
Transmission Fluid
Buy →- Type
- SP-IV
- Capacity
- 3.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Brake Fluid
Buy →- DOT type
- DOT 3
- Change interval
- 45,000 mi
Coolant
Buy →- Type
- Long Life
- Color
- Green
- Capacity
- 6.5 qt
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Power Steering Fluid
Buy →- Type
- PSF-4
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.044
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 47
- CCA
- 550
Tires
- Size
- 245/60R18
- Front pressure
- 33 PSI
- Rear pressure
- 33 PSI
Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter
Brake Pads
Wiper Blades
Maintenance schedule
Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.
Towing & Payload
Max Towing Capacity
3,500 lbs
Max Payload
1,050 lbs
Curb Weight
3,800 lbs
GVWR
5,000 lbs
Max Tongue Weight
350 lbs
Hitch Class
II
Source: manufacturer
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$30,000
Private Party Value
$2,565 – $2,835
Dealer Retail Value
$2,970 – $3,375
Trade-In Value
$2,295 – $2,565
Depreciation
91%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Safety recalls4
Technical Service Bulletins53
Torque specifications
- lug nut
- 80 ft-lbs / 108.5 Nm
- spark plug
- 18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm
14mm thread, aluminum head
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.
Shop Parts for the Hyundai Santa Fe
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe on Amazon.
Tools & supplies
Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide →How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide →Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide →Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
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