IllustrationBrakes locks and the vehicle do not move. Vehicle was parked. Recently I noticed that the vehicle was breaking by itself instead of keep moving. Until today the vehicle brakes lock and do not move.
2016 Hyundai Tucson
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Tucson years
Owner complaints for the 2016 Hyundai Tucson are substantially higher than the model-year median of 180.5.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Tucson years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
3990–25K
12925–50K
16050–75K
8375–100K
56100–150K
5150K+
832 reports with mileage · 785 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Power Train. Review the 516 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 423 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Structure. Review the 227 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
14 crash reports24 fire reports6 injury reports
What owners actually said
1,617 reportsMe and my daughter were headed back home from a family trip and we were stranded on the side of the road luckily we had family tailing us!! My engine light came on while we were still in the city in Savannah so we stopped by an autozone and changed the spark plugs so the engine light stopped blinking but when we got about 20 mil…
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Me and my daughter were headed back home from a family trip and we were stranded on the side of the road luckily we had family tailing us!! My engine light came on while we were still in the city in Savannah so we stopped by an autozone and changed the spark plugs so the engine light stopped blinking but when we got about 20 miles from home it stopped going we had to pull over it started smoking and it was really hot but the temperature had never moved we had it towed home!! I keep my maintenance up regularly on my car I had 2 mechanics check it out they both said the piston is breaking the spark plugs and it’s something down in the motor that’s doing it I should not have any motor issues at all with my car!! Especially when I do my part at keeping it up I was quoted 7,738 to fix my car which I don’t have both mechanics said the engine in those cars are no good and it’s been recalls on them just not my model it’s not right I’m out of a car and no way to work or no way for my kids to get around they have to ride in Lyfts and Ubers with strangers I feel like my car should be fixed because I did my part at keeping it up and I’m still out of car and frustrated due to the companies negligence!!
-Power window failures of all 4 windows. -Windows will not open and close which creates a safety issue in case of an accident that renders the doors inoperable and escape is needed via windows. Also, if the driver is pulled over, the car windows do not work which makes the driver have to open the door which puts both the driver…
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-Power window failures of all 4 windows. -Windows will not open and close which creates a safety issue in case of an accident that renders the doors inoperable and escape is needed via windows. Also, if the driver is pulled over, the car windows do not work which makes the driver have to open the door which puts both the driver and police officer at risk. -Both a dealer service center and an independent service center has confirmed the problem. -Component was inspected by both a dealer maintenance shop and an independent repair shop. -There were no warnings.
total engine failure. per dealership mechanic, random misfires on all cylinders with a dead miss on 4
While driving I noticed my ABS, Traction Control, AEB, and a couple of other lights came on. Upon restarting my car it was still there but the lights went away on their own after a few minutes of driving. They have been periodically turning and and off as I've driven the past couple of days. I went to the local mechanic shop who…
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While driving I noticed my ABS, Traction Control, AEB, and a couple of other lights came on. Upon restarting my car it was still there but the lights went away on their own after a few minutes of driving. They have been periodically turning and and off as I've driven the past couple of days. I went to the local mechanic shop who performed a diagnostic and found it to be a faulty left rear wheel speed sensor. When researching online, I've come across many people with the same make, model, and year as my car that have experienced this issue.
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 55 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power and started vibrating abnormally. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over and was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehic…
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The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 55 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power and started vibrating abnormally. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over and was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the ignition coils, water pump, spark plugs, valve, oil filter, and the engine were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 113,000.
Engine has rod knock and low power due to rod bearing failure. There was never an illuminated oil light or message of any sort prior to failure. this vehicle has had oil changes regularly and never been an issue till now. With Hyundai not having a recall on this engine, and seeing many other reviews about this same issue it is a…
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Engine has rod knock and low power due to rod bearing failure. There was never an illuminated oil light or message of any sort prior to failure. this vehicle has had oil changes regularly and never been an issue till now. With Hyundai not having a recall on this engine, and seeing many other reviews about this same issue it is a very dangerous issue leaving people stranded and loosing power in times where serious harm issues could occur and this issue is very costly being that the engine will have to be replaced. As a consumer taking care of the vehicle and still the engine failing due to the lack of integrity of Hyundai I believe Hyundai should step up and make it right and take care of the people who have spent there hard earned money on these cars and are now left in the dark.
Was driving down busy road when engine suddenly knocked violently and shut off rendering car inoperable. Inspection revealed low oil, despite not being due for an oil change after and no visible/identifiable leaks. Investigation by mechanic resulted in being told that numerous Hyundai engines like this are having the same proble…
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Was driving down busy road when engine suddenly knocked violently and shut off rendering car inoperable. Inspection revealed low oil, despite not being due for an oil change after and no visible/identifiable leaks. Investigation by mechanic resulted in being told that numerous Hyundai engines like this are having the same problems and need total engine replacements. The call only had 70,000. Dealership said they see one a week.
Acceleration issues especially after coming stop. When proceeding to accelerate you can push pedal multiple times before the car jerks into movement.
The vehicle does not accelerate entering roadway, transmission replaced in 2022, catalytic convertor replaced in 2024. Several instances occurred when entering highway vehicle lost power and failed to merge safely, ultimately requiring hasty exit to roadside to avoid collision. The vehicle was purchased used but has been a safet…
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The vehicle does not accelerate entering roadway, transmission replaced in 2022, catalytic convertor replaced in 2024. Several instances occurred when entering highway vehicle lost power and failed to merge safely, ultimately requiring hasty exit to roadside to avoid collision. The vehicle was purchased used but has been a safety risk since purchase date. Originally diagnosed transmission, then catalytic convertor, then knock control sensor. Engine oil is replaced more often than routine maintenance and refilled in between oil changes. Autonation Hyundai Mall of Georgia originally assisted with transmission replacement Feb 2022, catalytic convertor was replaced in Mar 2024. The vehicle has been parked for considerable time while insurance and car payments continue. In Feb 2025 my daughter was driving and was nearly rear ended when vehicle failed to accelerate, it has primarily parked since that time while exploring repairs. Car fails [XXX] enroute to game. Last quote to repair catalytic convertor was Total Automotive in Gainesville Ga. around 19 May 2025. I believe this vehicle poses a significant safety risk due to acceleration delays, all attempts to resolve have been unsuccessful. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Official recalls
520V543000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Sep 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.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: 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.
16V842000 · Electrical System:wiring; Trailer Hitches
Nov 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."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Trailer Hitches
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."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Electrical System:wiring
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."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
16V628000 · Electrical System:software; 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.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Inability to move the vehicle while in traffic may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:software
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.
Consequence: Inability to move the vehicle while in traffic may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)
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.
Consequence: Inability to move the vehicle while in traffic may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
16V348000 · Latches/locks/linkages:hood:latch
May 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.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: 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.
Remedy: 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.
16V147000 · Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
Mar 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."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Failure to illuminate the trailer's turn signal lights would prevent the communication of the driver's intent, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
1DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing. There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.