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
1,620 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Apr 20, 2026
I have had 3 window motors go out in the last 7 months.
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.
Other or unspecified, Apr 12, 2026
Driver side door lock actuator failure yesterday. 4/10/26 Purchased this car 8/15/25 was not told there was a problem and recall
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.
Engine, Mar 30, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. Moments later, the vehicle stalled after driving a very short distance. An independent mechanic arrived at the residence to perform an oil change and found metal shavings inside the oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
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
Seat belts, Mar 27, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while attempting to buckle the driver's side seat belt, the seat belt failed to buckle securely, and the seat belt failed to retract as designed. The contact had not attempted to pull on the seat belt and the seat belt was unable to buckle securely. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The local dealer was contacted dealer and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,361.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 25, 2026
Hyundai Tucson Sport 2016 GDI engine. I am the original owner of this truck I have taken care of this truck so much it being my first brand new purchase. No oil leaks NOTHING! When I first purchased the vehicle I noticed that it would stall when I would accelerate but did not think too much of it since it was brand new. A few years passed started to notice frequent oil changes were supposed to be made. Another few years turbocharger went out had to get it replaced. The engine consumes so much oil at first I thought it was because the turbocharger was out so when I got it fixed I thought that would fix that issue and it didn’t. I got an oil change March 2, 2026 and on March 21, 2026 I was on the highway and the truck started to shake really bad I exited the highway went straight to the oil place they said I had no oil on the dipstick I got ANOTHER oil change (expensive) and when I turned on the car to leave the car shook again and the engine light was flickering on and off and finally stayed on the dash board. Barely made it home. Got a tow truck to tow it to Hyundai dealership they told me they will not see it unless I pay the diagnostic fee of $200 and even then they think it’s the engine with everything I described to them. They said since there are no recalls on the Tucson that Hyundai will not do anything for me I would have to pay out of pocket for everything. Had to pay the tow truck again to tow it to my house ($250). My car has all the symptoms all the other cars have that they have recalled. This is a huge safety issue because i drive on the highway a lot and everyone knows a car with no oil is extremely dangerous.
Structure, Mar 24, 2026
I had ANOTHER door latch lock assembly fail on my 2016 Hyundai Tucson. There was a TSB for this issue that the dealership said expired for my vehicle three months ago. They wanted a $200 diagnostic fee for a total repair of close to $1000. They confirmed it was another door latch lock assembly, although I’m not sure how because the door would not open from the inside OR the outside. When the rear passenger side assembly failed a week ago, my kids were stuck in the back of the vehicle. This is a potentially dangerous issue that Hyundai seems to be aware of. If the front driver’s side goes at the wrong time, and I am not able to open my door, it could have disastrous consequences. I could become trapped in my car in the event of an accident, fire, etc. Hyundai needs to recall all door latch assemblies and just replace them all free of charge. It’s ridiculous that it’s a guessing game of when they might stop functioning properly and potentially trap you inside the vehicle.
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)
Other or unspecified, Mar 18, 2026
Three window regulators have failed, leaving the windows completely useless. The first occurring in heavy rain and making it impossible to close. This is an issue reported countless times online.
Engine, Mar 18, 2026
Vehicle: 2016 Hyundai Tucson Issue Category: Engine / Powertrain / Vehicle Safety Complaint: I am reporting a serious safety issue involving my 2016 Hyundai Tucson equipped with a Theta II engine. My vehicle first displayed an engine oil warning light. I immediately took the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership, where I was charged approximately $500 for an oil change and diagnostic testing. I was told there were no issues with the vehicle. Within approximately 20 miles of leaving the dealership, the vehicle suddenly entered limp mode while driving and displayed diagnostic code P1326. This created a dangerous situation as the vehicle lost power unexpectedly. I returned the vehicle to the dealership, where a software update was performed. However, within another 20–30 miles, the exact same issue occurred again, with the vehicle entering limp mode and triggering code P1326. Hyundai has now refused to repair the engine under warranty and is attempting to attribute the issue to a catalytic converter problem, despite the presence of code P1326, which is associated with engine rod bearing failure and is part of a known defect affecting these vehicles. This condition presents a significant safety risk, as the vehicle can lose power suddenly while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. I believe this issue is directly related to the known Hyundai Theta II engine defect, which has been the subject of recalls and a class action settlement. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s handling of these failures and their refusal to repair vehicles experiencing known engine defects that pose a safety risk
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 11, 2026
The transmission began slipping and hesitating within days of purchase. The vehicle intermittently fails to accelerate when pressing the gas pedal, especially when pulling into traffic or crossing intersections. This creates a serious safety risk because the vehicle does not respond when needed, leaving me exposed to oncoming traffic. The issue is intermittent and does not always trigger warning lamps or fault codes. The problem has been reproduced multiple times by me while driving under normal conditions. The selling dealer performed only a brief test drive and stated they could not duplicate the issue, but the hesitation and failure‑to‑accelerate continue to occur. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Hyundai, but the symptoms match known issues with the 2016 Tucson’s dual‑clutch transmission and TCM logic. There were no warning lights prior to the failure, and the symptoms first appeared within the first week of ownership. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Mar 10, 2026
"On [XXX], my 2016 Hyundai Tucson (VIN [XXX] ) experienced severe engine power loss and mechanical noise under load while driving uphill, creating a dangerous safety situation. This occurred 2 days after a dealer visit (February 19, 2026) where an open KSDS Service Campaign (TSB HCE22-14-E600-TL, Issue 10D021) — directly related to engine monitoring — was left incomplete. The dealer subsequently denied an engine evaluation citing mileage over 150,000, despite the open campaign having no mileage restriction and despite a prior verbal commitment to cover repairs. Multiple follow-up attempts by phone, email, and WhatsApp have been ignored." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Mar 6, 2026, fire
No check engine lights came on! The entire car caught fire and was engulfed in flames!!! Driver could have been killed!
Power train, Mar 2, 2026
My car had a KSDS knock sensor detection system campaign 966 installed in 2022 specifically to active if having rod bearing wear. Towed my car to Hyundai under the TXXM warranty and they said my bearing clearance was ok and i need new lifters and timing chain cost for repair $2900. I have asked for the full rod bearing wear test report and they will not provide it. They have had my vehicle for 20 days now and I am out of work on disability. Hyundai service center is generally expected to provide you with a report following a rod bearing wear test (often referred to as a Bearing Clearance Test or by a related service campaign, such as T6G or TSB 21-EM-004H). Here is what you can expect regarding reports and documentation: Documentation of Results: The dealership should provide a copy of the results, specifically noting if the bearing clearance passes or fails. Proof of Inspection: If the test is performed under a recall or Service Campaign (e.g., Campaign 966, 982, or T6G), they are required to document the inspection, which you can request for your records. Evidence of Damage: If the test results in a failed diagnosis, technicians often take photos of the engine internals, such as metal flakes in the oil pan or excessive wear, which are used to support the warranty claim. If the Test Passes: If your vehicle passes, ask the technician to print a copy of the results. If the Test Fails: A formal diagnosis of rod bearing failure, confirmed by this test, is required for engine replacement under the extended 15-year/150,000-mile warranty. Hyundai - Recalls +3 This is a safety issue without the full rod bearing report to consumer. Thank you for upstanding, [XXX] cell - [XXX] email - [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Feb 17, 2026
Excessive oil consumption caused engine failure on December 17, 2025. My truck stopped and I was stranded on Highway I55 South for 4 hours. Hyundai and the Extended warranty has denied fixing my truck. It is still at [XXX] Hyundai as of today. Hyundai’s failure to properly diagnose or repair this issue when it was first reported under warranty has caused financial burden, diminished vehicle value, loss of use and inconvenience, and emotional distress and stress. This is a legitimate safety concern. I am demanding resolution of an ongoing excessive oil consumption defect in my 2016 Hyundai vehicle. This defect began while the vehicle was under warranty and has continued despite proper maintenance and compliance with Hyundai’s service requirements. I expect Hyundai to honor its legal and contractual obligations without further delay. Please contact [XXX] [XXX] Hyundai) @ [XXX] for details regarding repairs, oil consumption tests, etc. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Feb 14, 2026
The engine, specifically cylinder # 3, has had a catastrophic failure at 114,000 miles. Engine repair shops and engine experts have determined the only fix is a complete engine replacement. Cost estimates are $8500 for a new engine + labor estimated at $2000. Scrap value is estimated at $1000 - $1500 The dealer from whom we bought the car in late 2015 said it is out of warranty. This is unacceptable. Please, please issue a recall on the engine of this vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection if requested. Failure was catastrophic Problem has been confirmed by engine experts The car is not drivable to a manufacturing facility The engine has not been inspected by police nor our insurance company There we no warning lamps or messages Symptoms include shuddering at initial acceleration beginning at 75,000 miles Dealer said there was no problem and recommended and performed a transmission fluid change
Structure, Feb 4, 2026
Window regulator and motor have failed due to plastic gears stripping out. I have replaced my two front windows in 2024 at $1063 a window. This week I had both rear windows fail allowing the windows to drop down unexpectedly. I was able to manually pull the windows up and tape them. I was supposed to receive a call from Hyundai twice this week about getting these covered under a recall since all four has failed, but they have failed to contact me.
Power train, Engine, Feb 3, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated, and there was a ticking sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where a mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with a knock sensor failure. The knock sensor was replaced. The mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle was included in Manufacturer Campaign: CS966 for the transmission control module (TCM). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who confirmed that the vehicle was included and the software update was performed. After the vehicle was repaired, the check engine warning light was no longer illuminated; however, approximately 30 minutes later, the vehicle failed to exceed 35 MPH, and the check engine warning light started flashing. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the software update caused the vehicle to enter LIMP Mode to protect the engine. The dealer informed the contact to drive the vehicle for 30 days or a total of 500 -1000 miles, and if the vehicle continued to enter LIMP Mode or failed to operate as needed, to return the vehicle for the engine to be replaced. There were no additional repairs performed. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
Engine, Jan 27, 2026
I have diligently maintained the vehicle with all scheduled services performed at the Rick Case Hyundai dealership. My maintenance records show a documented history of proper oil changes and other essential services. These records confirm that the vehicle was regularly serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The diagnostic report from the dealership indicates bad piston and heat marks, but there is no evidence to suggest this was caused by a lack of proper maintenance.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jan 19, 2026
I am filing this complaint regarding my 2016 Hyundai Tucson due to excessive oil consumption. The vehicle burns oil at an abnormal rate, requiring me to add approximately one quart of engine oil every one to two weeks, even though the vehicle is driven very infrequently. This condition poses a serious safety risk because the engine could run low or completely out of oil while the vehicle is in operation, potentially causing sudden engine failure. This vehicle is used to transport my family, including children, which puts their safety at risk. I have taken the vehicle to Hyundai dealerships multiple times for full ispection , but no defect, warning, or solution was ever identified or communicated to me. There have been no warning lights or messages on the dashboard to alert me of low oil levels or engine problems, increasing the risk of failure without warning. The problem is ongoing and repeatable, and the vehicle and engine are available for inspection upon request.
Engine, Jan 15, 2026
There is a major problem with certain year Hyundai vehicles from 2016-2021 with the engine burning oil and clogging up the exhaust. My moms vehicle has been at dealership for evaluation and combustion cleaning multiple times and the problem still continues. There has been times where she is driving car and it starts to bog down and loose power which is a safety issue especially if on highway. The vehicle is burning oil, occasionally have to add oil. The engine light does come on at times. The car has been at dealership for recommended oil consumption test at every 1000 miles and has not passed. Combustion cleaning done each time and sent on way. Called and made complaint with Hyundai corporate and and got no where. The tech department at Hyundai factory gave dealership recommendations to do which were completed and still having same issue. The factory was only willing to cover 70% off the cost of new catalytic convertor and my mom to be responsible for remaining balance. Hyundai claimed that the convertor was out of warranty 8 years/80,000 miles even though this has been going on for past 2 years. This is not a problem caused by consumer but an issue with factory. Hyundai not living up to there 10 year/100,000 mile warranty as they advertise. There are facebook groups with people having same problems as we are with dealership not really doing anything other than combustion cleaning as advised by factory and corporate not doing anything either. I believe this is a major safety/defect issue with engines in these Hyundai Vehicles . What happens when someone is on the highway and the vehicle bogs down and another vehicle comes from behind and slams into you?
Engine, Jan 15, 2026
The car has been diagnosed with internal engine failure by both an independent service center and a dealership service center. The issue was described as a rod timing issue causing knocking, leading to failure of the engine. A light was not on for a majority of the issue but did start flashing before car became completely undrivable. The car was sold to me with this issue and has been driven for nearly 3 years with a power loss issue that was dismissed as turbo lag or other issues. Driving a car with this issue that does not alert with a check engine light is a major threat to driver and passenger safety as it can result in engine seizure and vehicle fires. The engine issues began at the least before 58,000 miles, with total failure occuring at roughly 96,000 miles. Hyundai is known for this issue, particularly in turbo model engines. Only once during ownership of the car did the check engine light come on prior to engine failure. When checked, it was described as a catalytic converter issue. The service center also did an oil change on the car, and the light went off. The check engine light did not come on again for more than a year. The check engine light did not come on until after the issue was diagnosed by the independent service center it was taken to in January 2026.
Engine, Jan 14, 2026
On my husband's way home from work he explained to me that the car had a "hiccup" and then an engine light blinked on, then it died at an intersection. He was pretty close to home so he got it started again and drove it home. He replaced spark plugs and coil packs and it still had a misfire. We took it to an auto repair shop where they did a scan and told us it had a dead hole in cylinder 2 and that it needs a full engine replacement. The car also had an oil change just before Thanksgiving. My husband checks oil regularly and added a quart a month before the oil change and it seems to consume more oil then it should.