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.
Structure, Latches/locks/linkages, Feb 11, 2022
The drivers side door almost never opens on the first try, I usually have to pull the handle twice. Recently the passenger side back door will not open from the inside or outside, despite being unlocked. This is a huge safety concern if I were in an accident and could not open this door. I have seen DOZENS of other reports of people having this same issue and a recall should be issued immediately to fix this potential life threatening and dangerous issue.
Structure, Feb 10, 2022
I've had this used hyundai for 6 months, had to replace drivers door panel ( windows not going up and down) Stopped working. Now drivers back door window will not go up or down. Right side back door will not open anymore. On utube people by the 18k are complaining about these same issues. What next? It's like the body is falling apart.
Engine, Feb 10, 2022
#1 - The door handles on all doors have started taking several pulls on the handle to open. The left passenger side is no longer able to be opened from the inside of the car. This moved to all doors and it takes numerous tries on the other 3 doors from the inside or outside to be able to get the doors opened. #2 - We bought this car used from the original owner with 99k miles on it. We know the owner personally and they did regular maintenance on the engine. After 6 months of owning and putting on 3000 miles on the vehicle the engine has blown. When we bought the car we changed all the fluids and did an initial oil flush and put in synthetic oil and did another oil change before the 3000 mile mark, again with synthetic oil. The check engine light came on while driving and oil light started flickering and the engine also started knocking. We had the vehicle towed to a mechanic and they said to contact Hyundai as they've had several blown engines that came through their shop and that Hyundai was doing a massive recall. Towed the car to Hyundai and they took 3 weeks to look at the car and said that due to poor maintenance the engine blew and they could replace the engine for $13k and this engine wasn't covered in the extended warranty. They took a video of the oil chamber and it had sledge and said no coverage due to poor maintenance and our VIN also wasn't on the recall list. After doing research it looks like several others are having issues with oil problems, sludge and blown engines.
Steering, Feb 9, 2022
The traction control system keeps randomly kicking on while driving.
Engine, Feb 8, 2022
Engine failed and had to be replaced.
Engine, Feb 8, 2022
We purchased a 2016 Hyundai Tuscon in July 2020 from Key Hyundai Milford Ct. We have become aware of serious engine problems with the vehicle such as, severe oil consumption, sudden stalling and loss of power at traffic stops, loud continuous rattling from the engine compartment. We took the vehicle to a mechanic her in Pittsburgh where we now live and were told that there appears to be a serious problem with connecting rods and that we may end up having to replace the engine at our own expense. We have had this vehicle for only 3,00 miles and one and a half years, we were never notified of the engine issues. We were assured that the vehicle had been well maintained and was in perfect condition. We are writing to see if this its under the CT Lemon Law and/or if there specific remedies that we can pursue. We tried contacting the dealership but we received absolutely no assistance and washed their hands of any responsibility. Thank you in advance for any assistance that you can provide, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Engine, Feb 8, 2022
Engine failure at approximately 80,000 miles. No oil observed in engine, dipstick smelled of burnt plastic, no grit or sludge observed on dipstick or exterior of engine, no smell of burnt oil or blue smoke from tailpipe. Audible engine slap, no check engine lights were illuminated in dash, oil light flickers on for less than 3 seconds after engine turned over. Mechanic identified engine failure and also noted there was no oil in the engine, recommended we call Hyundai corporate office. Engine near seizure, as a result, if engine seizes, this could potentially bring the vehicle to an abrupt stop at highway speeds and can result in a catastrophic accident or engine fire. Engine still under warranty, dealership attempting to say engine failure caused by "sludge issue", but no proof of engine sludge found upon inspection. Oil change records provided to dealership upon request. Hyundai corporate was called, given the run-around.
Engine, Feb 5, 2022
I purchased the car in June 2021and took the car back within the month due to the driver door having issues locking and unlocking. Today on 2/5/22 as i was driving my car on the express way my engine light,battery light and oil light came on and my car began to shake. As i got off the express way my car cut off in the middle of traffic while i had 2 kids in the car in the city of Houston…. In October i was told that i was having oil consumption issues and was having to take my car back every 1,000 miles. And then was told that’ll it’ll be $900 to get a decombustion cleaning. I am unsure of why my car has stopped today. I’ll be back to let y’all know.
Suspension, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electrical system, Feb 3, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the starter had failed and needed to be replaced. The starter was replaced. The independent mechanic also informed the contact that the brake pedal needed to be replaced, and the rear trailing arm was corroded and could fracture while driving. There were no warning lights illuminated. The independent mechanic stated that the suspension front spring and coil spring could damage the tire overtime. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 37,861.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 3, 2022
3 safety concerns with the vehicle- 1) - the front passenger side door will not open from time to time when unlocked- you need to crank on the out side and inside handle at times to get the door to open. This is a concern if I were to ever get into an accident. The locking mechanism has had to be repaired on both rear doors for the same issue- potentially keeping a passenger from exiting the vehicle in the case of an emergency. 2) the car jerks when accelerating from a complete stop every single time you drive - and you have to put your foot way down (like slamming down) on the gas pedal in order to get up to the right speed… (I have never had to do this in the other 4 vehicles we own - only in the Hyundai) 3) oil consumption concern. The car is using way too much oil then it should. I change the oil every 5000 miles and it is going into Hyundai 2/4/2022 in West Allis, WI for an oil change - (and to get the passenger door fixed) I had to add oil on 2/2/2022 because the oil level warning light came on - and it was almost empty. I’ll be requesting an oil consumption test. This should be covered by Hyundai due to this being a safety concern with the engine. This has been the worst vehicle e have ever owned. I have 3 daughters that drive this vehicle and it scares me thinking that if one were to ever get into an accident that they or one of their friends would be seriously injured - for either A- not being able to get out of the vehicle or B- the engine starting on fire due to the oil consumption problem.
Power train, Electrical system, Feb 2, 2022
The car vibrates, shakes, when stopped; hesitates, shakes, vibrates on accelerating from stopping, in traffic at stoplights. Incident becomes unsafe in traffic, etc. Reported to Dealer (Horne Hyundai, Mesa, AZ, 85120) and took car in for troubleshooting, diagnostics, or repair(s); twice, 1 st on Jan. 19, 2022, Dealer duplicated the same problem; Dealer technician performed 7 Type Judder Test, Vehicle Failed. Performed Transmission (TCU) update, Vehicle Passed, performed test drive, vehicle passed. Dealer acknowledged the same issue with vehicle; however reported to customer that it passed the Judder Test. Vehicle released to customer, no further testing or logic improvement. Customer drove vehicle home and incident occured again, less than 24 hrs from Dealer troubleshooting the incident. Customer returned vehicle to Dealer on Jan. 31, 2022; with the same issue; vibrating, hesitating, when stopping, and accelerating at stop lights, etc. Safety Issue in traffic. Dealer acknowledged the same issue again. Dealer technician again performed 7 Type Judder test. Judder detected. Performed Dual Clutch Transmission Detection and TCU Software updates, proceeded to test for Judder, Vehicle Passed. Returned vehicle to customer. Customer conferred with Dealer Service Manager about the vehicle issues, and was unable to resolve any further testing or next logical repair issues. Dealer suggested the customer contact the Manufacturer for further issues; unable to satisfy customer complaints of this issue and documented issues with previous recall of 41,000 Hyundai Tucson DCT issues and problems. Dealer could not reconcile with customer on why this VIN number was not included in the recall #149 for Hyundai Tucson vehicles; suggesting we report to NHTSA for the safety issue. This DCT issue is recurring with recurring "reprogramming by the Dealer(s) never really repairing anything, just software updates. Invoices 358494 (2) Horne Hyundai, Apache Junction, AZ 85120
Engine, Feb 2, 2022
1. January 7, 2022 my vehicle began to lose engine power, as I began to try and find a place to pull over safely, the car stalled. It would not immediately start again for several hours. It had to be pushed out of the way. The engine failed due to wear of connecting rod bearings with no previous indication of engine issues. 2. Due to the sudden stall and having to push the vehicle to a safe location, myself and passengers could have easily been hit by another vehicle. 3. A dealership has confirmed the failed rod bearings. 4. The vehicle's engine has been inspected and photos taken by the dealership and submitted to Hyundai corporate. 5. It was not until the car stalled that the oil light illuminated. When I started the car back up several hours later, all lights were gone and no error codes were present. There was no previous warning lights before this incident.
Visibility/wiper, Jan 29, 2022
Back windshield shattered spontaneously upon closing driver door
Power train, Jan 24, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that soon after purchasing the vehicle, the vehicle would stall upon depression of the accelerator pedal as the RPM's would loudly rev. The contact took the vehicle back to the independent used auto shop where the vehicle was purchased and was informed that they would not service the transmission or offer any additional assistance. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V628000 (Power Train, Electrical System) which he linked to the failure. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact called a local dealer and made an appointment for service. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
Engine, Jan 23, 2022
The engine has Rod Bearing failure. The engine is a Gamma GDI 1.6 L engine- the same engine that was recalled from the Veloster, for this problem but the Tuscon was not included in the recall. Hyundai has stated they recalled the Gamma GDI 1.6 L due to metal shavings being left in the engine during production that overtime created wear on the rod bearings leading to failure and engine failure. (Which is exactly what is wrong with my vehicle) Hyundai has said they will not fix my engine, and that it is out of warranty. It has been inspected by 2 local mechanics who have confirmed the diagnosis, I have called Hyundai corporate and the local Hyundai dealerships who have provided no help and requested $250 to even look at my vehicle. The oil light came on right before the engine started knocking and it was taken directly to a mechanic. I purchased this vehicle 1 year ago from a reputable used car dealership who will not help me either, the vehicle is now out of warranty, and I still owe $17,000 on the loan. A new engine is $10,000. Hyundai needs to step up and fix this issue.
Engine, Jan 21, 2022
Failed intake valve/compression valve. It is currently at the dealer I bought it from. I was driving in traffic and it had no power at all. I was almost rear ended several times trying to coast off the road. The dealer took the engine apart and put it back together 3 times and informed me that it will need a new motor. There were no warnings at all before this happened. The dealer nor Hyundia has tried to work with me on the cost. The purchase price was $14,000 and they want to charge $8000 for a new motor. I am still paying for the SUV that isnt running.
Visibility, Jan 20, 2022
All of the window regulators have gone out now 3 within a few months, don't know how there isn't a recall yet. Seems there is a lot of complaints in forums. All within 3 months definitely sounds sus. Most think it's due to the plastic wheel the regulator spins on. The heat melts it over time. I only have 49,000 miles on the car at this time. They want 2,300 to fix it.'
Engine, Jan 19, 2022
The contact's son owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the dealer replaced the spark plugs; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then towed to Wiesner Hyundai (1645 Interstate 45 N, Conroe, TX 77304) and diagnosed with engine failure, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer. The failure mileage was 107,727.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jan 13, 2022
This same oil leak issue has been addressed at least 6 times and is worse than its ever been. 1-16-20 9-12-20 1-8-21 1-22-21 5-17-21 9-10-21 The Oil pan was replaced on 09-10-21 at 109,331 miles. At around 2,000 mile after this service noticed oil spots again in my driveway, it seems to be leaking in the same spot. I called for an appointment on November 1 to have it looked at and you were about a month out, so I had to make an appointment for November 29th. The problem seems to be getting worse and I dont feel comfotable driving it. I called service twice in the last week and was advised to leave it in case an appointment opens up. Please see service history, check, and advise. I have a college visit with my son in Maryland on November 15 and had to rent a vehicle.
Engine, Jan 11, 2022
The Engine block overheated and seized causing a connecting rod to break and eject from the bottom of the vehicle. I was driving down a highway when this happened with no indication or check light of the problem on the dashboard. I heard a snapping noise which was the connecting rod breaking and then ejecting out of the engine and then the engine smoked, and the car immediately lost acceleration on a packed highway and had I not responded quickly - I would have caused a serious accident. I had the car towed to a repair shop initially and they diagnosed it as engine seizure with massive engine failure and they told me to send it to Hyundai dealer in Algonquin IL, which was where they confirmed the diagnosis - it seemed suspicious to me as I have had all maintenance done with Hyundai besides my tires. They told me the engine overheated and seized which caused the connecting rods to snap, I had visited my dealership recently the prior month for an oil change and they did not indicate any major problems with my vehicle. The car had to be towed to my local dealership McGrath City Hyundai as I have no way to drive to the other dealership as it was so far way. I'm waiting now almost half a year for an engine replacement and no word from the manufacturer or dealership on this matter.
Engine, Jan 6, 2022, fire
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at 65 - 70 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and there was smoke coming from the bottom of the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle made abnormal sounds. Upon the vehicle being placed onto the tow truck, there was oil leaking from underneath the vehicle onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with rod bearing failure in the lower part of the engine, which caused a hole in the engine block. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Latches/locks/linkages, Service brakes, Engine, Jan 6, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving 55-60 mph, she heard an abnormal noise. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that she was able to park on the side of the road before the vehicle was seized. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to her residence. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the engine to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, started to experience failure with the brakes. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and was informed that the VIN was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The dealer completed the recall repair however, the failure with the brakes recurred. Additionally, the rear driver’s side door failed to open. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 39,055.
Engine, Jan 3, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while his daughter was driving 25 MPH, she heard an abnormal noise. The contact stated multiple unknown warning lights were illuminated. The driver was able to park on the side of the road. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to another daughters' apartment. The contact spoke to the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The dealer had the vehicle towed to their location to be diagnosed which was still pending. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 92,933.
Structure, Latches/locks/linkages, Jan 1, 2022
The passenger front door Will not open from the outside once locked. It must be open from inside the car. This would be a safety concern if there was an accident and people were trying to get into the passenger side car. It seems from research that this is a known issue from Hyundai
Engine, Dec 28, 2021
At the end of November 2021, my oil change light came on, which was odd because I was not due for an oil change. Brought the car in, they changed my oil and the light was gone. Barely a week later, the oil light came on again. I had some guys at work check it and they said I barely had any oil. I scheduled another appointment but never made it. I was driving on the highway when my car starting shaking uncontrollably and dropped down to barely 20mph. I almost created a pileup as cars behind me were swerving out of the way. I was almost hit multiple times and could barely get my car over to the breakdown lane. My check engine light also came on as my speed dropped. I had it towed to a nearby independent garage where the mechanic told me the diagnostic codes showed that I had misfired cylinders. He suggested I bring it to a Hyundai dealership to submit a claim as he knew that those type of engines were having issues. I had it towed again to the nearest Hyundai dealership, where they confirmed that 2 of the cylinders had failed. Hyundai confirmed with me that they had every record of me coming in to the dealership to get any required maintenance done on the car, yet the engine dies when it barely goes over 100,000 miles. And to top it off, when I asked for an estimate for repair, they quoted me $17,000 to fix it!