2018 Hyundai Tucson
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 396 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 3rd highest complaint count among 21 Tucson model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 13 involved a crash and 9 involved a fire. 10 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
Representative owner complaints: engine
249 reports, newest first. Show all
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 29, 2025
Van Hyundai Dealership in Carrollton, TX has confirmed excessive oil consumption causing catalytic converter failure that results in the engine stalling and unable to accelerate. We’ve already replaced the catalytic converter once in 2024 because it was full of oil and causing engine failure. Less than a year later (less than 10,500 miles) the same problem was reproduced. The dealership refuses to replace our engine due to the engine defect. This problem directly impacts the engines ability to perform, unable to accelerate on the interstate, and engine stalling which directly impacts our safety and puts our family into a life threatening situation when the engine fails on the highway. The engine has a defect that Hyundai refuses to address. There are no warnings or engine lights that appear beforehand which is extremely concerning and a liability. Hyundai motor company is corrupt. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Sep 26, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that there were metal shavings found on the camshaft sensor. The contact was advised that the camshaft sensor, oil flow solenoid, and variable tee valve were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred 3 months later. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed, with the check engine and oil light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 56,942.
Power train, Engine, Sep 23, 2025
Over the past nine months, I’ve been experiencing ongoing issues with my 2018 Hyundai Tucson engine and transmission. After four consumption tests and a flush confirming that the engine is burning between 0.8 and 0.3 liters of oil for every 1,000, I was informed Hyundai refuses to either repair the issue or conduct testing to determine the cause. The timeline is summarized below: •February 2025 – I was told by [XXX] my vehicle simply did not have enough oil after the last oil change; •March 2025 – I was informed an initial consumption test needed to be completed; •May 2025 – a second consumption test revealed the engine was burning more than 1 liter per 1000 and a flush was completed; •July 2025 – a third consumption test was completed, revealing that while the engine was excessively burning oil, it was not currently at 1 liter per 1000 based on that test; August 2025 – the oil light came on & I was instructed to put a liter of oil into my vehicle to make it to the certified dealer for next steps. The next steps were another consumption test. Unfortunately, because I was told to add oil to make it to the dealership, I was then informed that this added oil would alter the testing, and we had to start over. •September 2025 – I am now awaiting the results of the fourth consumption test. I have receipts for every 6 months or 7,500 of service since purchasing the vehicle., Despite the engine and transmission being under warranty, the dealership has refused to conduct testing to determine the cause of the issue or remedy the excessive consumption. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 22, 2025
I took my car in for a daily oil change and inspection, where I learned that there was no oil is in my car after coming in 5k miles before as I have been religious about oil changes. I came in on Saturday September 20th for an inspection and was topped off with 3 quarts of oil but am now back in the shop Monday September 22nd to test the oil. The oil that was checked came out Black.
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, and slowing down to make a right turn, the vehicle almost stalled and lost power. The contact stated that the check oil warning light was flashing on and off. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle failed to respond. The contact was able to pull over and shift into park(P). The contact had not turned the vehicle off. The contact called her father. The father arrived, and the vehicle was turned off. The contact stated that her father checked the oil dipstick and saw that the oil level was extremely low. The contact stated that two quarts of oil were added. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed and determined that a gasket on the oil filler tube was not correctly seated, and the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The contact stated that prior to the recent failure with the catalytic converter, the catalytic converter had been replaced approximately 1 year and 8 months prior. The dealer also recommended that the engine be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
Engine, Sep 10, 2025
My engine stopped and locked up. It happened while I was driving on the highway/interstate. Yes it has been diagnosed by the dealership. There was no warning lights prior to the system failure.
Engine, Aug 18, 2025
My connecting rod came apart and went through the oil pan while I was on the highway. There were no engine or oil lights until the engine was already smoking and no longer accelerating luckily I was in the far right lane already and was able.to coast to safety. Hyundai is also refusing to honor my warranty. It requires a completely new engine. So this was a catastrophic engine failure with no warning.
Engine, Aug 18, 2025
I own a 2018 Hyundai Tucson with 87,000 miles that consumes about four quarts of oil per 1,000 miles. I first noticed the problem at 51,000 miles, despite regular maintenance. The issue has worsened, repeatedly damaging spark plugs and causing the car to seize. Hyundai has denied my request for a replacement engine because I am the second owner. I bought the vehicle at 26,000 miles, believing it carried the 100,000-mile warranty. I was never informed that coverage drops to 60,000 miles for second owners. I have maintained the vehicle with oil changes every 3,000 miles, yet it remains unsafe to drive long distances. This defect presents a serious safety risk, and Hyundai has not provided a resolution.
Engine, Aug 13, 2025
There is a very well known issue with Hyundai (and Kia) and oil consumption issues, no recalls have been issued yet and I am another person dealing with this without any real support from Hyundai to solve the issue. In 2024 I did an oil consumption test, they found it was burning oil excessively and I had to pay $700 out of pocket for a cleaning they recommended. Afterwards it was burning only 1 quart every 1k miles which they said is acceptable so we moved on. Less than a year later I am still dealing with this issue only it has gotten worse, I am burning 5-6 quarts every 1k miles. I do keep up with my oil changes, I now have to check it and top it off almost daily, and even without being a car expert I know that something HAS to be done... why aren't there any recalls yet? Despite keeping up with my maintenance, there are other issues that can be related from this issue, including the engine stalling or skipping which is a safety issue when driving.
Engine, Aug 9, 2025
I have regular oil changes (every 3k mi) and every time I go get say there’s no or low oil. At the beginning of July my engine coil in column 3 failed and I had all four coils and spark plugs replaced. Since the replacement my engine is still consuming a quart of oil per week
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 8, 2025
I am submitting this formal safety complaint regarding my 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The vehicle has 101,900 miles and has been well maintained. Recently, it began experiencing severe performance issues, including difficulty accelerating and consuming oil at an abnormal rate. The dealership diagnosed the problem as a failed catalytic converter with an estimated repair cost of over $8,000. While Hyundai has an active recall on the engine for this model year, they have stated that my specific problem is not covered, despite the fact that the catalytic converter failure appears to be directly related to the engine defect. The oil consumption and acceleration issues raise serious safety concerns, as the vehicle can lose power unexpectedly while driving. I am a teacher, a parent, and have one child with special needs. I have no other form of transportation and am still making payments on a car I cannot safely drive. Hyundai’s refusal to address this issue as part of the known recall leaves me with an unsafe and inoperable vehicle through no fault of my own. I believe this matter warrants further investigation by the NHTSA, as it suggests that related component failures stemming from the defective engine are not being adequately addressed, leaving owners at financial and safety risk. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate whether Hyundai is failing to address a known defect’s full scope and to take appropriate action to ensure the safety and fair treatment of affected consumers. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 4, 2025
Evidence package for dealer fraud: demand letter, SMS threats, sales contract, diagnostic report. Catalytic converter failure caused by chronic oil overfill (2+ quarts excess). Symptoms: - Loud whistling noise from exhaust - Severe power loss (unable to reach 60 mph) - Check engine light activation (codes P0011/P000A) Safety risks: 1. Stalling hazard at highway speeds 2. Fire risk from clogged converter 3. Engine seizure due to oil contamination Confirmed by Hyundai dealer (Evansville, IN) on [XXX] - ONE DAY AFTER PURCHASE. Defect existed pre-sale: - Dealer admitted exhaust issue in writing: "probably will be in the exhaust" - Formal demand letter documented hidden defects on 04/28/2025 - Vehicle returned to dealer on 04/24/2025 where it remains Evidence confirms fraud: - Diagnostic report shows pre-existing conditions - Dealer demanded $300 to release vehicle, then $900 for repairs - "As-is" claim invalid due to defect concealment Warning signs appeared immediately post-purchase. Vehicle available for inspection. Legal violations: - Clean Air Act (emissions warranty breach) - KRS 367.110 (deceptive acts) - FTC Used Car Rule (undisclosed defects) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Engine, Aug 3, 2025
29 days after I bought a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The vehicle started making a ticking noise and stopped accelerating. I called the dealership and they said we didn't get a warranty. I said no that isn't correct, no warranty was offered and after seeing ALL the known engine problems I understand why ken ganley in medina wouldn't offer one. Now not even a month into having this vehicle, I have a brand new 5 year loan and a vehicle that won't move until I put a new engine in it and the dealership won't do anything for me. This is the worst experience I have ever had purchasing a vehicle
Engine, Jul 31, 2025
It's an engine failure. The car died in the middle of the rode at a traffic light with busy traffic flowing. It was confirmed by a independent service center. No one other an the independent service center has inspected it. There were no warning lamps or messages before failure.
Engine, Jul 28, 2025
Since I purchased the car in 2018 I took great care of it, keeping the services going on time. But recently in October 2024 even tough I did services the oil service’s sign keep on showing up. I then schedule an appointment with a dealer ship near my area in January and they told me that they were no oil in the car. But I show them the date ans mileage on my stickers I specified that is the reason I am here and to double check for me for filtration because something is wrong, they told me that the car was fine. Days after I had to go in my regular service place for another service and on May I drove the car from Massachusetts to New York and in the middle of the way car start shaking, making noise and when I drove it to a shop they diagnose a failed engine. I left the car in Goshen NY in a Hyundai dealer ship and they told me a valve un the engine was burned and that where the problem came from . They said , they fixed it. A friend pick up the car and 30 mnt driving it police came to rescinde her in the highway, they then told me that’s it’s was a failed engine and days after ask for services record, I provide the last 6 times , they asked me from 0 until today. The shop were I take care of the car don’t keep record from so long. Talking about 2018. They said they won’t fixed it without those record . The car is still under warranty with 71321 miles and I have it for 7 years.
Power train, Engine, Jul 19, 2025
My 2018 Hyundai Tucson 2.0L GDI engine with only 79,000 miles was "knocking" and wouldn't accelerate. We pulled over and towed the vehicle to the local Hyundai Dealer who declared "oil level good but failed bearing clearance test". Diagnosed with a rod and bearing failure. They submitted to Hyundai Motor Warranty the vehicle needed new engine. They declined. I know this is covered under the Hyundai Engine 2 Class action lawsuit with the extended 15 year/150,000 mile warranty as a result of the catastrophic engine failures. I have all oil change service records for every 5,000-6,000 miles while I was the second owner, as well as, have obtained another from the dealer who bought it from a rental/lease company starting at 14,000 miles. Hyundai Corporate is claiming "exceptional maintenance neglect" because of one missing oil change record from the rental company that I may not be able to obtain as the paper trail for the rental car company only states first owner was rental/fleet
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 30, 2025
Won’t shift so that I can gain speed
Engine, Jun 10, 2025
Component: Engine Vehicle: 2018 Hyundai Tucson VIN: [XXX] Approx. Mileage at Failure: 79,413 miles Incident Date: [XXX] Where It Happened: While driving [XXX] At 79,413 miles, my 2018 Hyundai Tucson (VIN: [XXX}) suffered complete engine failure without warning. The vehicle had been properly maintained (records from Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers), and was operating under normal conditions. The dealership diagnosed total engine failure and quoted $7,723.88 for replacement. They are not replacing the engine with the same type, which may indicate a known issue. There are no active recalls, but similar engines in Hyundai vehicles from this era have been subject to recalls and warranty extensions. I believe this may be due to a manufacturing defect. No injuries occurred, but the failure posed a safety risk while in traffic. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine, Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH and depressing accelerator pedal, the vehicle started to decelerate. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact waited for two minutes and attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinders #1 and #2. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 177,000.
Power train, Engine, Jun 7, 2025
On April 12, 2025, my 2018 Hyundai Tuson which only has 99,000 miles started stalling out at random speeds. The vehicle stalled going up a hill and would not accelerate it would also not go past 55-60 miles per hour on the highway. There were no check engine lights or codes on the dashboard. The vehicle is also burning oil on 2 occasions when having the oil changed. I feel like my life and others is in danger because the vehicle is stalling at random speeds which could cause a major accident due to this issue. I could be hit by another vehicle while trying to accelerate or merge on the highway. I reported the oil consumption last November and I contacted Hyundai customer care who issued a case number in May 2025 for the stalling issue, they instructed me to take it to the Hyundai dealership to be diagnosed. There is a recall out, but they said my vehicle is not included in it. I took the vehicle to the dealership, and they confirmed the vehicle was stalling and would not accelerate and were able to reproduce the issue. They informed me the vehicle needed a new transmission, and the vehicle only has 99,000 miles. Hyundai and the dealership declined to add the vehicle to the recall campaign for stalling vehicles. I had to cover the cost of $3,000 for a new transmission. I picked the vehicle up on June 6,2025 with the new transmission installed and it is still stalling and won't accelerate past 45 miles per hour.
Engine, Jun 4, 2025
I noticed my vehicle was burning through oil, initially indicated by a P011 code, when I called Hyundai they said its often a symptom related to low oil pressure. After oil changes, the code would clear, but it returned multiple times, and on two occasions, the dipstick showed no oil when checked. Despite staying current on oil changes and maintenance, I was dismissed as excessive oil burning being “common” for this engine. After recent recall updates at the dealership, a technician confirmed excessive carbon buildup and that my catalytic converter was beginning to plug. I inquired about an extended warranty offered due to the knock sensor installation but was told it only covers rod bearing failure. Hyundai Corporate echoed this, stating no coverage until catastrophic engine failure occurs, despite the ongoing damage from oil burning and converter clogging. Since my visit to the Hyundai dealership, the symptoms have rapidly escalated. Now, my vehicle is extremely loud and acceleration is poor. It takes a long time to get up to speed, and I worry about driving it as it may result in an accident.
Power train, Engine, May 27, 2025
While starting and accelerating my 2018 Hyundai Tucson, I began hearing abnormal engine knocking and noticed rough performance. I took the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership, where they diagnosed an internal engine defect. They confirmed the engine issue but refused to cover the repair, citing that I’m not the original owner—despite public information stating that Hyundai’s extended engine defect warranty (related to known bearing failures) applies to all owners for up to 15 years/150,000 miles. This creates a major safety concern, as I drive long distances on highways daily and fear the engine may seize or fail at high speeds. The vehicle remains at the dealership and is currently undrivable. I’ve submitted proper maintenance records, and the issue has been escalated through Hyundai Consumer Affairs and the Better Business Bureau. This appears to be a widely reported engine defect that Hyundai is not consistently addressing. The lack of coverage and delay in resolution places drivers at unnecessary risk.
Engine, May 16, 2025
I was driving my car and the engine started knocking and when I stopped the car kept stalling and losing power especially going up a hill. I had oil in the car. I bought the car to a repair shop and the mechanic advised me to go to Hyundai because they’re having problems with the engines in the Tucsons. I found out they extended the warranty from 100k to 150k so I’m covered I thought. They started diagnosing my car and they said the engine needs to be replaced. They contacted Hyundai corporate to dis cuss this. Corporate said they’re no t responsible for this because there was sludge in the engine. The car has 103k miles on it. The diagnosis charge I owe so far is about 400.00 Hyundai corporate wants further diagnosing of the engine. The dealership said Hyundai corporate said I have to pay the additional diagnostic charges of approximately 900.00 before they’ll determine the outcome of my claim. I don’t think it’s fair at all. I believe they should be paying for information they’re requesting. I’m having a hard time with Hyundai corporate with this runaround they’re giving me. I do t l ow what else to do? I can’t afford to pay for an engine replacement that they should be responsible for this problem. I hope I’ve proved enough information. Thank you sincerely.
Engine, May 10, 2025
The oil sensor doesn't illuminate the light on the dash when the oil level becomes low. The only warning is when it becomes really low and then the check engine light will appear. It's a safety concern due to the engine possible failure and or damage may occur at that point if continuing driving happens. This causing the engine to stall and loss of control of the vehicle. Which could lead to a vehicle crash resulting in injury or death to the occupants and or others nearby.
Engine, Apr 10, 2025
1.The engine is consuming oil excessively. 2 and 3. I was informed during a service visit that this is a common problem. I asked how to get it fixed and was advised to lock the engine up. I informed the service advisor that I would not lock the engine up and told him I have a [XXX] son. I told him I'm trying to do everything I can to prevent that very scenario. 4. Yes, I will provide records. Additionally, a class action lawsuit was filed in California under their Lemon Law. Do a quick google search. Everyone I have spoken to at the dealership has confirmed they are all well aware, however they can only do what corporate allows under the Warranty. I am the first and only owner supposedly covered until 100k miles. This problem began at 79k. I'm at 86k and still struggling to get anything moved forward. 5. Unknown 6. My oil light flickered briefly but never stayed on. I immediately checked to discover not a drop on the dipstick. I will provide photo. My oil has been below the low mark several times since this photo and has never come back on. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)