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: other or unspecified
261 reports, newest first. Show all
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 22, 2025
Car started to not accelerate when pressing on gas pedal the RPMs would not raise or lower during this time it could be on a hill or on a flat surface at any type of stops whether it was a stop sign or a stoplight it didn't matter how much gas you gave the car it would not move and then it would start bouncing what I would describe as hopping the car would start jerking constantly until you released off the gas and gave it more gas until it would finally go this was happening on highways or on city streets while driving down a highway my engine made a funky sound and it turns out my engine rods blue I went to the dealership they told me my car was safe to drive I continued driving my car until it started not shifting this was 3 days after going to the dealership. I called the dealership back told them I was bringing my car to them due to the issues it was having. After several weeks the dealership told me my car needed a brand new engine and transmission due to engine rods breaking transmission went out and metal in the oil filter. Not even 6 months later my car is have the exact same issues and my dealership is not want to do anything to fix my car even with having a warranty to cover everything they fixed.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Apr 8, 2025
Excessive oil consumption which has then in turned caused my catalytic converter to go out.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Feb 4, 2025
Vehicle has shown signs of engine failure for the past two years, all indicating impending need for engine replacement in alignment with engine recall that was issued for vehicle (customer case # [XXX]). Vehicle has been seen for diagnostics related to this problem where both Hyundai in Fredericksburg as well as Springfield Virginia confirmed that the engine was failing. Both dealerships refused to service car (which was under full warranty) because they were prioritizing cars who had already experienced full engine failure. Dealership advised that they could do nothing per the manufacturer until the vehicle experienced full engine failure. They acknowledged that it was a safety risk to myself, passengers & other drivers. The engine has now completely failed, leaving me stranded on [XXX] in the cold winter months & having to pay to have the vehicle towed. It is apparent from my service history report that I took all due diligence in attempting to have Hyundai attend to the engine of this vehicle while under warranty and they flat out refused, citing multiple different reasons. I am requesting a safety inspector come to investigate both the dealerships, the service report history, and the vehicle itself. My legal team is at this point just waiting for me to be offered engine replacement (out of pocket per Hyundai) and once that transaction is complete we are fully prepared to file suit for negligence. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Jan 20, 2025
The teeth within a spool in the window regulator easily strip out leaving the window unable to be opened or closed. This has happened on three out of four windows on my vehicle.
Other or unspecified, Dec 14, 2024
The windows do not roll up or down. This will jeopardize my safety because my vehicle would prevent me from being able from escaping through the window in an emergency. Or a person that means me harm can pull down my window climb in and pull it back up and hide in my car till I return because I am unable to secure my vehile. The problem is common, we were told that hyundai tucsons often have a window issue. I origanly had one windoe with this issue and now 3 out of 4 windows can not automatically roll up or down. It has not been inspected yet. There were no indication prior that this would happen.
Exterior lighting, Air bags, Other or unspecified, Dec 12, 2024
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The airbag system, brake system, and HVAC system (air conditioning and heating) appear to have malfunctioned. A dealer confirmed that the HVAC system is defective, identifying a broken evaporator assembly and a faulty temperature door actuator. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The airbag safety light raises concerns about whether the airbags will deploy during an accident. The brake light error creates uncertainty about the reliability of the brake system. Additionally, the defective HVAC system is a significant safety hazard. The heater’s failure prevents the windshield from defogging, impairing visibility, particularly in cold or wet weather. This poses a serious risk while driving, especially in freezing temperatures. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the HVAC system defect has been confirmed by a dealer, who provided images and recommended replacing the evaporator assembly and temperature door actuator. Independent mechanics have also observed the airbag and brake light errors but were unable to identify the underlying causes. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle has been inspected by independent mechanics and one dealership but has not been evaluated by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The airbag safety light and brake light errors have been present since I acquired the vehicle. The HVAC system began failing intermittently shortly thereafter, with the issue worsening over time.These unresolved issues continue to jeopardize the safety and reliability of the vehicle
Other or unspecified, Nov 15, 2024
My windows stopped operating. Both front driver and passenger. The motor runs but I am unable to roll up or down. According to what I’ve read, I am not alone. I worry for our safety and that of my family.
Other or unspecified, Latches/locks/linkages, Nov 14, 2024
The driver's side rear door cannot be opened from either inside or outside. In researching the problem, I found evidence that the issue is commonly reported with the Model 2016 Hyundai Tucson, which I own. Many other owners have reported that their vehicles have experienced the same issue. Mechanics have also expressed curiosity about why there hasn't been a factory recall. The problem is a design issue in some model years, including the 2016 model year. Inability to access the back seats from the driver's side is an obvious safety concern.
Other or unspecified, Nov 1, 2024
I went to roll up my window and I could hear it trying to go up but the window stayed in place. With my window stuck down, there is the risk of things flying in/out of my car while driving, and in the event of rain, my car would then become damaged if water got inside. Also, with a window stuck down, anyone can get into my car. This first occurred to my front passenger window on September 8, and just happened to my drivers window today, November 1. Both times occurred when my car was not moving. The passenger window was fixed in October and was diagnosed with the regulator and motor needing to be replaced.
Other or unspecified, Oct 26, 2024
Left driver side window conked out, does not go up or down.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Oct 19, 2024
3 of my window motors do not work and my windows now will not roll up or down.
Other or unspecified, Oct 11, 2024
Driver side door window stopped working. Not able to close or operate window. Hyundai dealer diagnostic found window regulator inoperable/needs replacement. Two (2) local Hyundai dealers have ordered the regulator and are still waiting for part. Dealer one not able to get regulator after 18 days; Dealer two hoping part will be in after 10 days of ordering.
Other or unspecified, Oct 7, 2024
This is the 2nd window regulator that I’m aware of this car is failing. 3 months ago before buying the car from the dealer they replace the rear passenger side regulator because the window won’t roll down or up. Now 2 weeks ago the front passenger side window stop working and I’m afraid that is the same situation as so many people compliant about this issue on forums and videos online. Also I used to have a 2010 hyundai Tucson and have a problem with the rear passenger door not opening because the latch mechanism and the actuator. Now this 2016 Hyundai Tucson under this VIN number is experiencing the same problem due to a faulty design and cheap plastic products. This car has only over 61000 and can’t believe it have this many issues in the short amount of time. Definitely Hyundai needs to make a recall campaign for this components considering they’re key elements to an egress means of the car on emergency situation. Please help us so many owners to get a response for these issues. Thank you very much.
Other or unspecified, Oct 3, 2024
Left rear door lock will not Release when exterior or interior latch handle Is pulled to open door
Other or unspecified, Oct 3, 2024
Right front window motor runs but window does not go up or down
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Oct 3, 2024
My backup, my reverse is not working after 30 minutes the car is running.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 26, 2024
I had my top engine block (not sure why not a full engine replacement) replaced under warranty June 2023. Shortly after the fix my AC unit stopped working. Once I got my AC unit fixed, about 1.5 months after my engine was not performing. My car would not turn over and when it did, it was in limp mode and would not run properly. I had it towed to dealership who could not find the issue until after they took out of the bay and went to move it, it wouldn't start. They replaced the crankshaft positioning sensor and it wasn't covered under the extended warranty. The top engine block only has 10k warranty which is fast approaching. Took car home and when accelerated past 60 car shakes and when i brake car shakes. Now car cabin smells of gas. All cars with KM are having multiple issues. Dealership not calling back regarding gas issue and has not responded to if they touched my tires. Local Mechanic said all my wheels were unbalanced.
Other or unspecified, Sep 23, 2024
The vehicle hesitates sometimes starting from stop/idle and sometimes even when the gas paddle is completely pressed it doesn’t proceed and stalls in middle of road or red light and may take more attempts to get it to move further. I read online that there was a safety recall on this same model in 2016 for this exact same problem but I never received recall on my vehicle from Hyundai.
Other or unspecified, Sep 13, 2024
The window regular failed is to weak don't last long Have replaced all 4 and replacing the back one again
Other or unspecified, Sep 10, 2024
Rear doors not opening regardless of door latch being engaged from the inside or outside handles. Due to being unable to open the rear doors, safety of rear passengers in non-emergency and emergency situations is significantly compromised. A formal recall has not been issued, yet in doing a quick internet search, this issue has been prevalent for years, which is very concerning.
Other or unspecified, Sep 4, 2024
The car door handles are failing to work properly. Initially (June 2024), the passenger side front door required the handle to be pumped twice before it would open. The door would open correctly from the inside only. That problem was corrected. Now (Aug 2024), the driver side rear door handle has failed and the door cannot be opened from the outside or inside. The precise nature of that issue will be determined tomorrow. In June, I was told by the service advisor at Jenkins Hyundai of Ocala [Florida] that Hyundai is aware of an issue with the functioning of door handles (i.e., the actuator) and has extended the warranty from five to ten years for this issue. I my judgment, this is a major safety issue if a door cannot be opened.
Other or unspecified, Aug 30, 2024
Front passenger regulator went out. 1 month later rear passenger and driver rear regulator went out. Currently only have 1 potenworking window with a child under the age of 18 that riders in this vehicle a primary vehicle. Extremely unsafe if there was an emergecy.. Seeing others online having same issue.
Other or unspecified, Aug 5, 2024
• temperature regulator stopped working •couldn’t use A/C in very hot months, couldn’t use heat in very cold months putting risk of freezing and overheating • independent service •No •No
Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 23, 2024
At certain times my car doesn’t want to start. Like when there were carburetors in cars way back in the day, I literally have to pump the gas to make it start. And then once it does, it’s very hesitant to go on the road like it has no power. And then another time my car totally just shut down in the middle of traffic and would barely go, like it had no speed ability. This happens often my car is not under warranty. And it is not included in the recall with some kind of fuel pump situation. I had a mechanic look at it. He seems to think it’s something to do with the fuel pump. But unfortunately, I cannot afford the cost of repairing that, and he didn’t seem quite certain as well.
Seat belts, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 19, 2024
Passenger door lock-right rear door will not unlock from outside or inside