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: engine
429 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Jan 12, 2026
Numerous issues with this vehicle. Now, when having oil change, told by the hyundai service center that it is using excessive oil and may need a new engine. In researching this problem, have discovered hyundai has had several problems with excessive oil consumption in their many of their hyundai vehicles, including the 2016 Tuscan
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jan 7, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that after coming to a complete stop, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle went into LIMP Mode. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several dealers. The contact was informed that the unknown hoses and the dipstick melted inside due to the engine overheating. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the catalytic converter had been replaced three times since the first failure. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was adding engine oil every two weeks. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The failure was a recurring failure, and the contact drove the vehicle intermittently due to the safety concerns. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Engine, Jan 5, 2026
While driving under normal conditions, my engine experienced a sudden and catastrophic failure. The check-engine light illuminated, the vehicle began shaking violently, and I was forced to pull over immediately due to safety concerns. There was no prior warning and no oil pressure or oil warning light activated at any time before or during the failure. After stopping safely, I checked the oil level and found it lower than expected. I added oil as a precaution, but the condition did not improve and the vehicle became inoperable and required towing. The engine assembly remains intact and available for inspection upon request. This failure posed a serious safety risk, as the loss of engine function occurred without warning while the vehicle was in motion, creating the risk of stalling or loss of control. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Hyundai dealership. Hyundai Motor America denied warranty and goodwill assistance, citing mileage and alleged insufficient maintenance documentation, despite the vehicle being within the 10-year powertrain period and despite the nature of the failure. Routine maintenance was performed throughout ownership; however, some historical service records are unavailable due to the age of the vehicle and changes in service locations over time. Multiple facilities no longer retain records from that period. Notably, no oil warning indicators never activated, which raises concern regarding the failure mechanism. Hyundai has acknowledged widespread engine issues in this engine family involving oil consumption, bearing failure, and sudden engine seizure. The symptoms and progression of this failure closely align with those known defect patterns. This complaint is submitted to document a sudden engine failure presenting a clear safety concern and to assist in identifying potential defect trends. This car has undergone previous engine repair, AC condenser and entire turbo by their service department previously 2022 & 2024 respectively.
Power train, Engine, Jan 2, 2026
Car died/lost power while driving in traffic 11/28/25. Good Samaritan was kind enough to push me off the road out of traffic. Car was towed to Hyundai dealer that day, then 12/1 told engine failure, required engine replacement. Class action lawsuit settlement for engine replacement, but denied by Hyundai because of "neglect", since I am not able to locate all of the service records that they request. Known faulty rotating assembly, and Hyundai has implemented concerted practice of denying warranty coverage for failed engine. Now having to pay almost $8K to replace with new engine, but concern that new engine will have same issue. (multiple posts about this). There was high potential for significant traffic collision, injury due to sudden, catastrophic engine failure. Traumatic experience.
Power train, Engine, Dec 17, 2025
While driving on the highway at normal speed, the vehicle suddenly lost power and shut off without warning. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the loss of power. I was able to safely pull over, but the engine would not restart at that time and the vehicle required towing. The sudden engine shutdown occurred in active traffic and created a safety risk due to loss of propulsion. The vehicle later restarted, but I brought it to an authorized Hyundai dealership for inspection. The dealership diagnosed internal engine damage, including piston ring failure and cylinder wall scoring, and advised that the engine would need to be replaced. Since the incident, the vehicle has shown intermittent oil pressure warning lights and reduced performance. The issue has been confirmed by a dealer inspection. The vehicle is currently not considered reliable or safe for regular driving.
Engine, Dec 14, 2025
My motor has a knocking/tapping noise that is obnoxiously loud. My oil level is always changed on time every 3k miles. I have 146,257 miles on my vehicle. I was informed from my mechanic shop that many of the 1.6L motors have issues. I have never had an engine noise then boom its knocking. I was informed not to drive my car to further damage the vehicle. I do not drive it but now am stuck in a loan for a vehicle I cannot drive. I had zero warning for this matter.
Engine, Dec 6, 2025
Vehicle is showing KSDS-related engine warning behavior and the Hyundai dealership performed a diagnostic scan. The service manager told me, “I don’t recommend you driving it,” due to a potential engine safety issue. However, Hyundai Motor America’s National Consumer Affairs team is refusing to authorize towing or a loaner/rental until after a full diagnosis is completed. The dealership cannot complete the diagnosis unless the vehicle stays on-site, but I am unable to safely leave it because Hyundai is refusing transportation assistance and I was told not to drive it. This forces me to drive a vehicle they identified as unsafe in order to complete the required inspection. This involves KSDS/engine failure risk, which has been associated with stalling, loss of power, and possible fire hazards. Being advised not to drive while being denied towing or transportation creates a serious safety concern for myself and my children. I am requesting NHTSA document this incident because Hyundai is creating a safety hazard by refusing support for a vehicle they identified as unsafe to operate.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Nov 21, 2025
Part(s) Affected: Engine / Engine Control / Stall / Loss of Power Summary: My 2016 Hyundai Tucson (VIN: [XXX] ) has an active P1326 – Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) code, which indicates rod bearing wear and imminent engine failure. The vehicle experiences: •loss of power •inability to accelerate •engine hesitation •risk of stalling while driving These are serious safety risks. This issue is part of the Hyundai/Kia engine defect settlement XXX), yet Hyundai refuses to provide towing or address the safety risk despite the P1326 code being a known precursor to engine seizure. The vehicle is currently unsafe to drive, and Hyundai Customer Care has refused to escalate my case according to settlement requirements. This is a safety hazard that can cause engine seizure and sudden loss of power while driving. Details: •Hyundai Case #: XXX •Engine settlement code P1326 confirmed •Hyundai refusing proper support •Vehicle should not be driven NHTSA intervention is needed due to Hyundai’s failure to address a known safety defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Nov 20, 2025
Engine failure at 67k, Hyundai denied warranty
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle stalled, and there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to Auto Zone, and a scanner was used to diagnose the vehicle. And it was determined that the catalytic converter had failed. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with oil intrusion into the catalytic converter. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil, and an abnormal sound was coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled again. The contact was adding seven quarts of oil for every 3,000 miles driven. In addition, the catalytic converter failed to function as intended. No warning light was illuminated. The contact was concerned that the engine could fail. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine, Nov 13, 2025
Brought vehicle in on 07/10/25 to dealership with very low oil, it was determined vehicle was burning oil and combustion cleaning was recommended. Hyundai Corp. denied claim due to 2nd owner. We are not 2nd owner had to transfer title upon my father's death, vehicle owned by family. Hyundai then approved claim and combustion cleaning was done. We were then told by dealership to bring in vehicle every 1000 to check oil. On 2nd 1000 check it was determined to be burning oil and needed engine replacement. Hyundai Corp. denied claim this time stating gross maintenance neglect from 01/2018-06/2019 period but only 3084 miles were put on between oil change. This was not brought up during combustion denial. Also Hyundai stating out of warranty which expired 08/24/25 but issues started in 07/2025. I have asked Hyundai Case Manager to provide written proof in owner's manual where it shows we did not maintain vehicle in accordance to manual.
Engine, Nov 7, 2025
My 2016 Hyundai Tucson has a severe engine defect that causes excessive oil consumption and poses a safety risk while driving. It constantly throws the P1326 engine issue, which is the knock sensor.The issue is not due to any misuse or neglect on my part. The vehicle consumes approximately one quart of oil per week, and I have been advised by two different Hyundai dealerships not to invest any money into repairs because the engine should be replaced under Hyundai’s extended engine warranty (15 years/150,000 miles).Despite multiple attempts to get the issue resolved over the past year, Hyundai continues to deny the engine replacement, leaving me with no resolution and forcing me to drive an unsafe vehicle.The engine burns an excessive amount of oil and needs frequent refilling to prevent damage.The vehicle has stalled and runs rough at times, creating a safety concern.Both Hyundai dealerships I’ve visited confirmed that this is a known issue and advised me not to spend money on repairs since the engine qualifies for replacement under the extended warranty.Hyundai corporate continues to deny coverage and has not repaired or replaced the engine despite the clear warranty terms.The issue has persisted for nearly a year, and the vehicle continues to deteriorate.I believe this defect poses a serious safety hazard because the engine can fail without warning while driving. The excessive oil consumption also increases the risk of engine seizure, stalling, or fire. I am currently forced to operate the vehicle in unsafe conditions due to Hyundai’s inaction. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this ongoing engine defect and Hyundai’s repeated denial of warranty coverage for affected Tucson models. Owners should not be forced to drive unsafe vehicles or pay for repairs that should be covered under Hyundai’s extended
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
Engine, Nov 1, 2025
Engine ran out of oil with no indication on instrument panel that it was happening. Engine now knocks and needs replacing. My independent service center has determined a failure. It is available for inspection.
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
Power train, Engine, Oct 16, 2025
My Tucson has been using an absurd amount of oil for the past 30,000 plus miles i had it in the shop for repairs for the exhaust/ turbo leaking due to broken stud bolt that finally was covered under warranty. But did nothing for the burning of oil. No oil leaks. It used a quart for every 500 miles. Now no warranty left i have a cylinder #1 misfire and have replaced sparkplug and will not come out of limp mode. Within a mile of driving the plug is oil fouled and goes back into limp mode. Probably will get no help from Hyundai to rebuild/ replacement of the motor.
Engine, Oct 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power and was unable to accelerate above 35 MPH, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the engine knock sensor and catalytic converter. The contact was informed that the vehicle was consuming an abnormal amount of engine oil. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was provided with Goodwill assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Engine, Oct 6, 2025
I bought this car with 85,000 miles on it and at 94,000 miles i began hearing a knocking sound in the engine, even with completing the first two oil change intervals within my ownership. no check engine light or warning signs came on, even with the knock sensor update. the engines performance declined immensly, acting as if it was going to seize, and burning through 1qt oil/500 miles with no leaks. i had to continuously buy oil to keep the oil tank full, as no dealerships near me had any availability for 3 months from the time i called, to the time i got into an appointment. i took the vehicle to the dealership to have the engine replaced under class action warranty. the dealership took 4 months to replace the engine, the first 2 denying approval until it was inevitably approved. during those 2 months i was not provided with a loaner car, and due to my age i was unable to rent a car. i still had to continue to pay a car payment and insurance on a car that was undriveable. hyundai cooperate would go 5/14 days at a time without contacting me, even with me calling everyday to try and get an update. there was not any clarity, communication, or updates on the process. once my engine was replaced my catalytic converter had clogged due to the pervious oil burning issue prior to the engine replacement. hyundai told me the engine and exhaust system have nothing to do with each other, and the only thing they could do was have me replace the part with an oem part (a 5k replacement) and we could “file for reimbursement” but there’s no guarantee i would be reimbursed. i have been put out of thousands of dollars and the ability to drive my car for 6+ months due to hyundais negligence of this known issue. i can not get out of my loan as i owe on it more than the car is worth so i am stuck with a car i don’t feel safe in, and has continuous issues that compromise safety. this company needs to be seriously looked into and held accountable.
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.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Sep 29, 2025
Engine or transmission The vehicle has stalled randomly multiple times on the freeway, business roads and intersections, not accelerating and burning through oil Dealership says they cannot figure out or replicate the issue No check engine light or warning of any kind given
Engine, Sep 26, 2025
Dear NHTSA, I am submitting this complaint to report a recurring issue with oil consumption in my Hyundai vehicle, which I understand is a known problem affecting this particular engine type and model. I am the original owner and have been a loyal Hyundai customer for many years. I have followed all recommended maintenance, including regular oil changes. Despite this, my vehicle has developed excessive oil consumption that has not been resolved through standard service procedures. The dealership has contacted Hyundai for approval to perform a combustion chamber cleaning, but based on my research and feedback from other owners, this procedure does not effectively address the root cause of the issue. My concern is that this problem may be indicative of a broader mechanical defect that could impact engine performance and safety. My 10-year warranty is nearing expiration, and I am worried that delays in resolving this issue may result in the loss of warranty coverage for necessary repairs. I believe this issue warrants further investigation, as it appears to be affecting multiple vehicles with the same engine configuration. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this matter and consider whether a broader safety investigation is warranted. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Sep 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.
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
Steering, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Sep 10, 2025
I leased a 2016 hyundai tucson from Metcalf Auto Plaza [XXX]. Every week since then i have had to return the car for repairs. It got to a point where Neil suggested he can trade it for another but each and every vehicle i test drove to replace my car was NOT ready to be on the road but according to them every car had just got out the shop. Instead of trying to have issues resolved the mechanics decide to make "jokes" as if your pain and suffering is a joke. Since i did not want a trade in and wanted my car fixed instead Neil tried to tell me that this was my final offer which i declined because why not just fix my car? I went to talk to Neil in person September 9, 2025 about getting my car fixed and the frustrations i am having because having to return the car weekly and i havent had it for a month is outrageous. [XXX] i was driving the hyundai on the highway with my children in the car and the electricity to the car completely cut off but came right back on, i got off the highway and the car did it again and this time the wheel locked up and i almost wrecked the car. I called metcalf and the only thing they could tell me was they can tow my car to metcalf but me and my children had to find our own means of transportation. Every time i called to have my car serviced and told them about what i would hear and feel they could NEVER make the car "do it again". I am beyond frustrated, upset and terrified because i have been telling them about smoking coming from the engine, rattling noise etc. My kids lives were put in danger and the only thing they could say was "i apologize and we can tow the car to the shop". Did not care if we had transportation and have never offered to give us any after continously getting stranded in the car. Now the car is towed to their shop once again and the car wouldnt even turn over for me to get it out of the middle of the street. I was blocking traffic and had to have the police block INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)