Run the VIN before anything else: almost every 2010-2021 Tucson is in an ABS fire recall, an engine warranty extension, or both. The 2.4 GDI in 2014-2015 and 2018-2019 models carries a lifetime short-block warranty, and the 2.0 Nu GDI in 2014-2021 models carries a 15-year or 150,000-mile extension.
The Tucson is Hyundai's compact SUV and one of the most common used crossovers in Palm Beach County, partly because it was priced well below a CR-V or RAV4 and partly because the first owner got a long powertrain warranty. On the used market the price advantage is still there. The catch is that each model year sits under a different mix of engine settlements and recalls.
RepairPal rates the Tucson 4.0 out of 5 and 5th of 26 compact SUVs, with average repair and maintenance costs of about $426 a year, 0.3 unscheduled shop visits a year and a 10 percent chance that a repair is severe. Day to day it is a cheap SUV to run. The expensive exceptions are engine bearing failure and the ABS module, and both are usually free if the paperwork is right.
Engines changed often. Port-injected 2.0 and 2.4 fours ran through 2013, direct-injection 2.0 and 2.4 GDI engines arrived for 2014, a 1.6 turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox was sold from 2016 to 2018, and the current generation uses a 2.5-liter four or a 1.6 turbo hybrid.
Hyundai Tucson generations
Fourth generation
2022-present (NX4)Built in Montgomery, Alabama for the US. EPA rates the 2.5 FWD at 28-29 mpg combined and the Hybrid at 35-38 mpg depending on year. Outside the engine settlements. Recalls so far include headlight software on early 2022s, a power steering circuit board on 2024 models, and a park-outside tow hitch harness campaign.
Third generation
2016-2021 (TL)Revealed in 2015 for 2016. The 2019 facelift dropped the turbo and the dual-clutch gearbox. Every year of this generation is in ABS fire recall 20V-543, and the 2.0 GDI is covered by the Engine II extension.
Second generation
2010-2015 (LM)Sold in GL, GLS and Limited trims. The 2014 update brought the direct-injection engines. This generation is split across both engine settlements and two separate ABS fire recalls.
Known Hyundai Tucson problems by year
Theta II 2.4 GDI connecting rod bearing wear
Machining debris can starve the rod bearings of oil. It starts as a faint knock at idle, then a louder knock under acceleration, then low oil pressure and possibly a seized engine. These years are in the 2019 Theta II settlement, which gives original and later owners lifetime coverage of short-block repairs, provided the free knock sensor software is installed. Only certain 2019s built before the software went into production qualify.
Guide: What is that knocking noise coming from my engine?Engine II: 2.4 MPI and 2.0 Nu GDI bearing wear
Hyundai's 2023 dealer bulletin extends coverage for rod bearing damage on these engines to 15 years or 150,000 miles from first delivery, for any owner except dealers, rental fleets and salvage titles. Warning signs include code P1326, a knocking noise or a no-start. The knock sensor campaign is generally required. A separate recall, 21V-727, covers certain 2017 Tucsons whose rod bearings may wear early.
Guide: Check engine light on but the car drives fine: what does it mean?ABS module short circuit and engine bay fire
Brake fluid or moisture inside the ABS control unit can corrode the circuit board and short it, sometimes with the car parked and off. All three recalls tell owners to park outside until repaired. Warning signs are an ABS light, a burning smell or smoke from the engine bay.
Guide: ABS light on: is it safe to drive, and what causes it?Dual-clutch hesitation on the 1.6 turbo
The 7-speed EcoShift gearbox can hesitate from a stop, and in high temperatures with repeated on-off throttle a 2016 might not move at all, which is what recall 16V-628 fixed with transmission software. Some cars still judder at very low speed. A dealer can check for later software updates and clutch inspection bulletins.
Guide: Why does my car shift hard or late?Oil pan leak on 2011-2013 models
Recall 19V-063 addresses an oil pan that may leak. Left alone, the oil level drops and the engine can be damaged. Any 2011-2013 with oil spots under the front should be checked for this recall before paying for a reseal.
Guide: Oil leaking under my car: where is it coming from?Easy theft on turn-key models
Tucsons with a metal key instead of push-button start lack an immobilizer. Hyundai's free software makes the car refuse to start after you lock it with the fob and lengthens the alarm. Cars that cannot take it get a steering wheel lock.
Notable recalls
- 20V-543 (2016-2021 Tucson): The ABS hydraulic control unit can corrode internally and short, possibly starting an engine compartment fire. About 652,000 vehicles. Dealers replace the ABS unit fuse, and 2019-2021 models also get a stability control software update. Park outside until the repair is done.
- 22V-056 (2014-2015 Tucson (plus 2016-2018 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport)): The ABS module could malfunction and short, which could cause an engine compartment fire. Park outside until repaired.
- 23V-651 (2010-2013 Tucson (plus many 2010-2015 Hyundai models)): The ABS module may leak brake fluid internally and short, with a fire risk while parked or driving. One of Hyundai's largest recalls at about 1.65 million vehicles; park outside.
- 21V-727 (2017 Tucson (and 2017 Sonata Hybrid)): Connecting rod bearings may wear prematurely, damaging the engine, with a risk of stall or fire. Dealers inspect and replace the engine if needed.
- 16V-628 (2016 Tucson with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission): In certain conditions and high temperatures, pressing and releasing the accelerator repeatedly could leave the vehicle unable to move. Dealers update the transmission control software.
- 25V-893 (2022-2024 Tucson with the optional Mobis tow hitch harness): Water can enter the hitch wiring control module, causing trailer light failure or a short circuit and fire risk. Park outside until repaired.
Recall repairs are free at any franchised Hyundai dealer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, since this list is not complete.
Maintenance that matters
| Every 3,750-5,000 miles or 6 months | Oil and filter on the severe schedule, which fits most Boca driving. Keep every receipt with date, mileage and oil grade. Engine claims under both settlements can be denied for neglect, and you will be asked for records. |
| Every 7,500 miles | Tire rotation and brake inspection. On 2010-2021 Tucsons, check that the ABS light is off and there is no burning smell, and confirm the ABS recall status once a year. |
| Every 15,000 miles or yearly | Cabin air filter, more often in humid summers if the A/C smells musty. |
| 30,000 miles | Engine air filter. On 1.6T dual-clutch models, ask a dealer whether any transmission software update or inspection bulletin applies. |
| 60,000-105,000 miles | Spark plugs (earlier on the 1.6 turbo), coolant per the manual, and automatic transmission fluid if you drive in heavy stop-and-go. |
Confirm against your owner's manual or maintenance minder for your exact year and engine.
Typical Hyundai Tucson repair costs
| Job | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic oil change | $65-$110 | |
| Knock sensor software, ABS recall, anti-theft software | free | Hyundai dealer only. |
| A/C compressor replacement | $950-$1,250 | RepairPal national estimate $919-$1,013 before tax; local labor rates run higher. |
| Front brake pads | $390-$480 | RepairPal lists $387-$446 nationally; add rotors for $200-$350 more. |
| Replacement engine outside coverage | $4,500-$8,000 | Used engine at the low end, remanufactured at the high end. |
| Dual-clutch assembly, 1.6T, out of warranty | $2,000-$3,500 | |
| 12-volt battery | $170-$280 |
Typical South Florida ranges for parts and labor, for budgeting only. Your quote depends on the vehicle and the shop.
Buying a used Hyundai Tucson
- Best used value: a 2019-2021 Tucson with the ABS recall 20V-543 done and service records. The turbo and dual-clutch were gone, and both available engines have extended rod bearing coverage: the 2.0 under the 15-year Engine II extension, and certain early 2019 2.4s under the lifetime warranty.
- A 2022 or newer avoids the old engine families entirely. Check that the early ICU headlight software recall and any tow hitch harness recall are closed.
- Approach 2016-2018 1.6T models cautiously and drive one in hot stop-and-go traffic before you buy. The 2.0 GDI versions of the same years are the safer choice.
- On any 2010-2015, ask for proof of the knock sensor update and the ABS recall, check for oil leaks under the engine, and walk away if the engine knocks. The settlement protects the next owner only if a dealer can confirm the claim.
The Florida factor
The ABS recalls on 2010-2021 Tucsons say to park outside until the fix is done, which is exactly the opposite of what Boca owners do when a hurricane watch goes up and everyone pulls into a condo garage. Check the recall status in May, not in the 48 hours before a storm, when dealer service lanes are full.
Recall 16V-628 names high temperatures as part of the condition that could leave a 2016 dual-clutch Tucson unable to move. An August afternoon inching along Glades Road toward I-95 is exactly that condition. If you own one, confirm the software update is on record and avoid riding the throttle in heavy traffic.
Turn-key Tucsons are still common theft targets in the Town Center garages and beach lots along A1A. Lock with the fob every time so the upgraded alarm and ignition block arm, and keep a steering wheel lock in the cargo area.
Repair shops near Boca Raton
- Boca Auto Fix4301 Oak Circle, Boca Raton, FL, 33431
- Element, Pickup trucks and trailer repair3120D Northwest 16th Terrace, Pompano Beach, FL, 33064
- Europen Auto Service CentreParkland, FL
- Ferrari of Boca Raton6403 W Rogers Cir, Boca Raton, FL, 33487
- FirestonePompano Beach, FL
- Firestone1259 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL, 33432
Hyundai Tucson FAQ
Which Hyundai Tucson years have engine problems?
Rod bearing failures are documented on the 2.4 GDI in 2014-2015 and 2018-2019 models, on the 2.0 Nu GDI in 2014-2021 models and on the 2.4 MPI in 2010-2013 models. All of these are covered by Hyundai settlement warranties if the knock sensor software is installed and the car has service records.
Does the lifetime engine warranty transfer to me as a second owner?
Yes. The Theta II settlement's lifetime short-block coverage applies to original and subsequent owners of eligible 2.4 GDI Tucsons. The 15-year or 150,000-mile Engine II extension also covers later owners, but not salvage-title cars or vehicles owned by dealers.
Is the 2016 Tucson dual-clutch transmission reliable?
It is the weakest part of that generation. Recall 16V-628 fixed a condition where the car could fail to move in heat, but some owners still report low-speed judder. A 2.0 GDI Tucson with the conventional automatic is the safer used buy.
How do I know which engine my Tucson has?
Any Hyundai dealer or free VIN decoder will tell you. The under-hood emissions label and the engine cover also show the displacement: 2.0, 2.4 or 1.6 turbo.
Guides for Hyundai Tucson owners
More for Hyundai owners: Hyundai owner's guide
- Hyundai dealer bulletin via NHTSA: Engine II settlement applicable vehicles
- National Oil and Lube News: Hyundai and Kia Theta II engine settlement
- NHTSA recall 20V-543: Tucson ABS fire risk
- NHTSA recall 16V-628: 2016 Tucson dual clutch transmission
- RepairPal: Hyundai Tucson reliability
General information, not a diagnosis. A car problem can have causes a guide cannot see, so have anything safety-related inspected in person. Read our editorial policy.