2016 Hyundai Tucson
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 1,620 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 21 Tucson model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 14 involved a crash and 26 involved a fire. 7 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 4, 2020
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles on September 4, 2020. On December 30, 2020, Hyundai expanded the recall population, and added certain 2016-2018 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) could corrode internally and cause an electrical short, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HECU fuse. For 2019-2021 model years, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) software will also be updated. Recall repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began November 2, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 195.
Campaign 20V543000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringNov 21, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Tucson vehicles manufactured May 19, 2015, to November 14, 2016, and 2017 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured November 28, 2015, to November 14, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result, in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected accessory trailer hitch wiring harnesses, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 13, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 153.
Campaign 16V842000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Aug 30, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016 Tucson vehicles manufactured May 20, 2015 through May 31, 2016 and equipped with a 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission. Certain driving conditions and high temperatures may cause the vehicle to not move if the accelerator pedal is pressed and released repeatedly.
Inability to move the vehicle while in traffic may increase the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the Transmission Control Module software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on October 28, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 149.
Campaign 16V628000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, hood, latchMay 24, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016 Tucson vehicles manufactured May 19, 2015 to March 14, 2016. In the affected vehicles, if the primary hood latch has been released, and the vehicle is driven, the secondary hood latch may not hold adequately secure the hood to prevent it from opening while the vehicle is in motion.
If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch cannot secure the hood, the hood may unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary hood latch, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 145.
Campaign 16V348000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, tail lightsMar 10, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016 Hyundai Tucson vehicles manufactured May 26, 2015 to January 15, 2016 and equipped with an accessory trailer hitch harness either included with the accessory trailer hitch or sold as a service part. In the affected vehicles, when the vehicle's engine is running and the brake lights are illuminated, if the turn signal is activated, the trailer turn signal lights will either turn off or remain continuously illuminated (not flash). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Failure to illuminate the trailer's turn signal lights would prevent the communication of the driver's intent, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began on May 2, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9640. Hyundai's number for this recall is 142.
Campaign 16V147000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
216 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Wheels, Service brakes, Sep 22, 2026, fire
Caliber / Breaks sticking after changing them, Car stopped in the middle of traffic after they locked up. Changed them again Brought to Hyundai dealership I was told Caliber needed changing . It was changed Caliber caught fire while driving Now Hyundai says the ABS system has to be replaced
Electrical system, Engine, Sep 9, 2026
The vehicle unexpectedly entered 'Limp Mode' due to engine tracking code P1326. The vehicle severely restricts engine power and RPMs while driving on public roads, preventing normal acceleration. This creates a severe safety hazard as the vehicle cannot safely merge into oncoming traffic, accelerate away from intersections, or maintain basic road speeds, putting me at a high risk of being rear-ended.The fault is under Hyundai Theta II Txxm. I have been given the runaround by both hyunday corporate and the local dealer.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Aug 15, 2026
This problem was observed about 1 month ago: While driving and headlights set on AUTO, during the day, and the light switch NOT on, the dashboard would indicate the lights were ON, for just a second or two, and would go off. At night with the headlights set on AUTO and the headlights ON, while driving, the headlights go OFF and ON briefly (1-3 seconds) causing a dangerous situation as visibility of road is lost. This condition was initially observed at night, after using the turn signals (left/right), but is now happening with greater frequency while driving without using turn signals. I Will schedule a visit with dealership to report/confirm problem.
Electrical system, Lane departure, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 23, 2026
All the warning lights in the day lit up. Brake, LDWS, AEB, outside air temperature won’t read and the a/c blows hot. $486 to diagnose at dealer and they state that it’s an electrical issue due to a bad vacuum pump. I can’t get an answer as to whether the vacuum pump safety campaign was completed or not. Dealer wants $1500 to replace.
Electrical system, Apr 17, 2026
Took vehicle to dealership and had it diagnosed for the electrical system faults cause all the dashboard warning lights came on. Shop said it could be bad vacuum pump.
Electrical system, Apr 8, 2026
Three power window regulators have failed on my 2016 Hyundai Tucson within a six-month period. The front driver and front passenger windows both failed first and required replacement. The rear driver-side window has now also failed and is currently stuck in the open position. When the failures occur, the window will move up slightly but then drop back down or will not stay closed, indicating a failure of the regulator mechanism rather than normal wear. The fact that multiple window regulators have failed in a short period suggests a defect or premature failure of this component. This creates a safety concern because one window is stuck open, exposing the vehicle interior to weather, reducing security, and potentially affecting driver visibility and safe operation. This appears to be a known issue with this model year, but my vehicle is not included in any recall.
Power train, Electrical system, Mar 28, 2026
All dash warning lights are on and dash lights have a intermittent bright light surge. Hard to shut off engine and have to disconnect battery for electric power to shut off. Very noticeable hesitation in acceleration starting to drive
Steering, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 23, 2026
I am writing regarding the diagnosis provided for my vehicle [XXX] . I was informed today that the engine failure is being attributed to a "water hose failure" rather than the engine defects covered under the active safety recall/settlement regarding Connecting Rod Bearing failure. As there were no coolant leaks before or after the vehicle was towed to your dealership. I am formally requesting a re-evaluation and more detailed evidence. Given the known history of these engines seizing, I need to ensure this diagnosis is absolutely correct and not a symptom of the internal defect. I request the following information be provided immediately: 1. Evidence of Overheating: Did the vehicle store any specific "overheating" codes in the ECU prior to the engine shutting off? 2. Oil Pan Inspection: Has the oil pan been removed to inspect for metal shavings or debris? If the connecting rod bearings failed (the recall issue), there will likely be metallic debris in the oil, regardless of the condition of the water hose. 3. Bearing Clearance Test (BCT): Was the mandated Bearing Clearance Test performed? If not, I request that this be done, or that a teardown be performed to inspect the rod bearings specifically. 4. Causal Link: Can you provide evidence that the water hose failed causing the engine to seize, rather than the engine seizing causing a pressure spike that damaged the cooling system? I have no transportation to work and school. They would not honor a loaner. This has happened since Decemeber of 2025. I await your written response with the requested photos and technical data. My case # with Hyundai Consumer Affairs # XXX Please provide: All relevant photographs Freeze-frame and ECU data Technician diagnostic notes Results of oil pan inspection and/or BCT (if performed) Any physical evidence supporting the stated cause of failure I request this information be sent in writing at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your attention to INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Engine, Jan 10, 2026
My 2016 Hyundai Tucson experienced engine failure consistent with known Hyundai engine defects. After reporting multiple battery outages, rapid oil consumption, and limited acceleration ability, outstanding warranties were checked and updated. However, the issues persisted, and the engine failed suddenly while I was driving. Hyundai denied warranty coverage without proof of the issues being unrelated to the warranty. This presents a serious safety hazard due to unexpected engine failure.
Electrical system, Engine, Nov 6, 2025
car often does not accelerate when hitting the gas. Was turning onto highway from a stop car did not accelerate causing other vehicle to swerve to avoid hitting me as my car would not move. Couple seconds later it moved
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 27, 2025, fire
As I was driving I was stopped & told my car was on fire. I immediately stopped & hopped out & less than 30 seconds later half of the hood caught heat/fire & flew into the windshield breaking it. At least half The car is burnt to ashes
Electrical system, Engine, Oct 5, 2025
While driving, on multiple occasions all warning lights will come on and the car will start to lose power. The headlights constantly go off and come back on randomly. Turn the blinker on and the rear window wipers intermittently come on. The vehicle has been towed to the dealership so many times and we either get “can’t duplicate” or needs oil change, which had just been done. Now we are being told that we need a second engine replacement. Unfortunately this time it will not be covered by warranty. We have reached out to Hyundaii Motors 3 times and the BBB Auto but they stand behind it not qualifying for the Lemon Law. Hyundai should have some obligation as all these issues are “known issues” just not recalls.The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is not a safe vehicle.
Electrical system, Sep 29, 2025
Front passenger door will not open using the key fob. It has to be opened from the inside door handle. If there was an accident the door would not be able to open from the outside. This is a serious safety issue. There have been numerous issues with this problem. Hyundai should recall these vehicles for this safety issue
Electrical system, Engine, Sep 13, 2025
For about a year I have had issues with my car not accelerating in stop and go traffic. I push the gas pedal and it moves a little then will not go for about 20 seconds. Sometimes the engine will flutter. I have taken it to Hyundai and was told no diagnostic codes show and they can't find anything wrong despite bringing the reports from my auto shop of these things occuring. My car is going in yet again this week because this issue continues to get worse and I have almost caused several accidents in traffic due to not being able to drive. There is a recall however Hyundai says my car is not in the recall despite the same issues the recall is for. I have all routine service done when needed and have taken care of this vehicle but I feel like Hyundai should step up because this is very dangerous not only for myself but other commuters as well.The Hyundai dealership literally said they just have the sign on their building they don't support these issues
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Aug 14, 2025
i bought the car used, i took it in for diagnostics on my transmission. they claimed i needed a new one, not claiming i need a new clutch. my car’s model and year match the DCT recall problems. but not the vin. when my car was in the heat or accelerating it had the same issues listed. i believe this is a manufacturing issue.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Aug 14, 2025, fire
My catalytic converter caught on fire a couple months back then I hit a code for the knock sensor replaced it and it started to act up again I can’t go over 49 burning oil took it to Hyundai now they are saying my engine is going out and I’m still panting carmart got the car
Electrical system, Lane departure, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 11, 2025
While driving I noticed my ABS, Traction Control, AEB, and a couple of other lights came on. Upon restarting my car it was still there but the lights went away on their own after a few minutes of driving. They have been periodically turning and and off as I've driven the past couple of days. I went to the local mechanic shop who performed a diagnostic and found it to be a faulty left rear wheel speed sensor. When researching online, I've come across many people with the same make, model, and year as my car that have experienced this issue.
Power train, Electrical system, Feb 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the transmission started slipping while accelerating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V628000 (Power Train, Electrical System). The contact called an independent mechanic who provided a printout of a recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
Electrical system, Feb 13, 2025
The front passenger window regulator failed in Jan 2025. Before the complete fail, the power window was becoming sluggish when lowered/raised. I just paid $1,000 to have the dealer repair. I have seen dozens of online items regarding the identical issue. I consider it a safety issue because of easy entry to the vehicle interior and contents, including inclement weather that can damage interior electrical components
Electrical system, Jan 17, 2025
The front passenger and rear window regulators failed within 1 month of each other without any warning or symptoms. After inspection, it was identified that the plastic window regulator was completely shattered within the door. There was no damage to my vehicle that could have caused this. With the window regulator not working, my windows were not able to be opened or closed. The front window regulator actually got stuck in a down position. After some additional research online, I found several others who have had the same issues with the window regulators on their 2016 Hyundai Tucsons. This is a safety hazard because if I were ever be in an accident or a place where I need to exit through my windows and they are unable to go up and down for a safe exit. I have spent over $1600 in repairs to fix an issue that is clearly a defective part in the windows.
Electrical system, Structure, Jan 6, 2025
Rear passenger door won’t open from inside or outside. Safety concern
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 25, 2024
There is a lot of oil consumption, and the turbo is shot. It sits in the back of the engine, which is not collecting air.
Electrical system, Nov 22, 2024
I’m the original owner of a 2016 Hyundai Tucson with 72,000 miles. I’ve recently encountered an issue where the front passenger side window is stuck down and won’t move. I’ve had it diagnosed at the dealership and found that this seems to be a common issue with this model year, related to the window regulator. I understand my vehicle is slightly out of the 5-year/60,000-mile warranty, however; this issue has made my car vulnerable to weather damage and theft, and it’s affecting my ability to use it safely. I’ve always maintained my vehicle according to Hyundai’s recommendations, and I believe this failure is premature for a part like this.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Nov 15, 2024
Three weeks ago my dash board lit up like an orange Christmas Tree, with "ABS failure" warnings. I found the Hyundai recall notice in our car file. It said that when the dash warnings appeared, the danger of an engine fire was imminent and that should contact the Dealer that I bought the car from (Hyundai Motors- Naples, Florida-USA). I did so. personally. An appt. was scheduled. This morning (Fri. 11/15/24)upon arrival, a pleasant young woman informed me that Hyundai sent out lots of notices like this, but they didn't apply to my vehicle. I showed her the recall notice with my car's Vin number printed on it. She went back to her boss who told her "We fixed that for him three years ago," Now, I am not certain of anything, but I NEVER brought the car in for an ABS system fix three years ago. I didn't know that I even had an "ABS" system until three weeks back, when the dash board lit up. Politely, I asked the young woman to bring my car back out, as we were done. She offered to make another appointment to "look" at the dash indicators." I said" No, we are done." So, now what do I do? Is the car safe to drive or not? I own and operate an older Hyundai Santa Fe as well. I would be appreciative of your advice. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. The Tucson is a good car. I just don't want it to blow up on me. [XXX] , Florida-USA INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Visibility/wiper, Nov 11, 2024
Front passenger door won’t open Defroster/heat won’t work on drivers side