IllustrationEngine or transmission The vehicle has stalled randomly multiple times on the freeway, business roads and intersections, not accelerating and burning through oil Dealership says they cannot figure out or replicate the issue No check engine light or warning of any kind given
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 reportsFront passenger door will not open using the key fob. It has to be opened from the inside door handle. If there was an accident the door would not be able to open from the outside. This is a serious safety issue. There have been numerous issues with this problem. Hyundai should recall these vehicles for this safety issue
Dear NHTSA, I am submitting this complaint to report a recurring issue with oil consumption in my Hyundai vehicle, which I understand is a known problem affecting this particular engine type and model. I am the original owner and have been a loyal Hyundai customer for many years. I have followed all recommended maintenance, in…
Read full complaint
Dear NHTSA, I am submitting this complaint to report a recurring issue with oil consumption in my Hyundai vehicle, which I understand is a known problem affecting this particular engine type and model. I am the original owner and have been a loyal Hyundai customer for many years. I have followed all recommended maintenance, including regular oil changes. Despite this, my vehicle has developed excessive oil consumption that has not been resolved through standard service procedures. The dealership has contacted Hyundai for approval to perform a combustion chamber cleaning, but based on my research and feedback from other owners, this procedure does not effectively address the root cause of the issue. My concern is that this problem may be indicative of a broader mechanical defect that could impact engine performance and safety. My 10-year warranty is nearing expiration, and I am worried that delays in resolving this issue may result in the loss of warranty coverage for necessary repairs. I believe this issue warrants further investigation, as it appears to be affecting multiple vehicles with the same engine configuration. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this matter and consider whether a broader safety investigation is warranted. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The rear doors cannot be opened from the inside or outside after the door is locked then unlocked. This is very dangerous for rear seat passengers. There are a lot of complaints online of this problem.
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the de…
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.
For about a year I have had issues with my car not accelerating in stop and go traffic. I push the gas pedal and it moves a little then will not go for about 20 seconds. Sometimes the engine will flutter. I have taken it to Hyundai and was told no diagnostic codes show and they can't find anything wrong despite bringing the repo…
Read full complaint
For about a year I have had issues with my car not accelerating in stop and go traffic. I push the gas pedal and it moves a little then will not go for about 20 seconds. Sometimes the engine will flutter. I have taken it to Hyundai and was told no diagnostic codes show and they can't find anything wrong despite bringing the reports from my auto shop of these things occuring. My car is going in yet again this week because this issue continues to get worse and I have almost caused several accidents in traffic due to not being able to drive. There is a recall however Hyundai says my car is not in the recall despite the same issues the recall is for. I have all routine service done when needed and have taken care of this vehicle but I feel like Hyundai should step up because this is very dangerous not only for myself but other commuters as well.The Hyundai dealership literally said they just have the sign on their building they don't support these issues
The back passenger door will not open from inside or outside. The front passenger door will not open from outside or inside. The warranty will not cover this as they are saying it it wear and tear. Hyundai has confirmed they know there is an issue with the doors but refuse a recall to fix this.
I leased a 2016 hyundai tucson from Metcalf Auto Plaza [XXX]. Every week since then i have had to return the car for repairs. It got to a point where Neil suggested he can trade it for another but each and every vehicle i test drove to replace my car was NOT ready to be on the road but according to them every car had just …
Read full complaint
I leased a 2016 hyundai tucson from Metcalf Auto Plaza [XXX]. Every week since then i have had to return the car for repairs. It got to a point where Neil suggested he can trade it for another but each and every vehicle i test drove to replace my car was NOT ready to be on the road but according to them every car had just got out the shop. Instead of trying to have issues resolved the mechanics decide to make "jokes" as if your pain and suffering is a joke. Since i did not want a trade in and wanted my car fixed instead Neil tried to tell me that this was my final offer which i declined because why not just fix my car? I went to talk to Neil in person September 9, 2025 about getting my car fixed and the frustrations i am having because having to return the car weekly and i havent had it for a month is outrageous. [XXX] i was driving the hyundai on the highway with my children in the car and the electricity to the car completely cut off but came right back on, i got off the highway and the car did it again and this time the wheel locked up and i almost wrecked the car. I called metcalf and the only thing they could tell me was they can tow my car to metcalf but me and my children had to find our own means of transportation. Every time i called to have my car serviced and told them about what i would hear and feel they could NEVER make the car "do it again". I am beyond frustrated, upset and terrified because i have been telling them about smoking coming from the engine, rattling noise etc. My kids lives were put in danger and the only thing they could say was "i apologize and we can tow the car to the shop". Did not care if we had transportation and have never offered to give us any after continously getting stranded in the car. Now the car is towed to their shop once again and the car wouldnt even turn over for me to get it out of the middle of the street. I was blocking traffic and had to have the police block INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA)
In April of 2024, I bought my 2016 Hyundai Tucson for a certified dealership in FL. Within 2 months the car began shaking and I had to take it to have spark plugs replaced which cost several hundred dollars. Shortly after that in November 2024, I was driving on the highway to school when I got an ‘engine overheating alert’ and i…
Read full complaint
In April of 2024, I bought my 2016 Hyundai Tucson for a certified dealership in FL. Within 2 months the car began shaking and I had to take it to have spark plugs replaced which cost several hundred dollars. Shortly after that in November 2024, I was driving on the highway to school when I got an ‘engine overheating alert’ and immediately pulled over to turn off the car. After waiting for a few minutes to let it cool down and noticing that the coolant was very low, I added some more coolant in and tried to restart the car, but it would not turn on. I had to get a tow truck to a repair shop to which they informed me that the headgasket had blown and it would cost about $12,000 to replace it. Ever since, my car has been towed to multiple Hyundai dealerships and repair shops when I sought after answers as to what happened and one told me that the engine was known for eating oil too quickly, causing it to blow. I bought the car only for $16,000 and would have to pay about the same amount just to fix the engine and reading multiple reports online have shown from other others having the same exact issues with no answers and being stuck. We have had it sitting in our garage ever since and still do not know what to do.
The rear doors stopped opening. Could be a failed lock actuator or the lock is sticking. This is a safety hazard, especially when traveling with a child in the car
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.