Hyundai Tucson research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Tucson is Hyundai's compact SUV and one of its best sellers. 2011-2015 models are simple, affordable crossovers with 2.0L or 2.4L engines; the 2016-2021 generation is roomier, with a turbo/dual-clutch option through 2018 and standard forward collision avoidance from 2019. The 2022 redesign brought bold styling, a much bigger back seat, and Hybrid (up to about 38 mpg) and Plug-in Hybrid models. Several ABS-module fire recalls and the 2.4L engine settlement make a VIN check essential on older models.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. Verify 2026 trims (including the Blue hybrid), towing ratings and specifications against current Hyundai data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Roomy rear seat and cargo 2022 and later
- Available hybrid about 37 38 mpg
- Plug in hybrid about 32 33 electric miles
- Standard forward collision avoidance 2019 and later
- Long original powertrain warranty
- Good used value
- Available AWD
Things to know before you buy
- Engine and transmission vary by year resolve by VIN
- Abs module fire recalls cover 2011 2021
- 2.4 liter engine settlement 2014 2015 2018 2019
- 1 6 turbo dual clutch 2016 2018 can hesitate
- Key start models need anti theft update
- Gas 2.5 liter is adequate not quick
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 2 (2010–2015)
The second-generation Tucson (2010-2015) is a compact crossover with a 165-hp 2.0L (5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic) or 176-hp 2.4L (6-speed manual or automatic) and front- or all-wheel drive. For 2014 it got a 164-hp 2.0L and a 182-hp direct-injected 2.4L, both automatic-only, plus refreshed styling.
Buyer takeaway: A budget-friendly used crossover. 2011-2013 cars are simplest; 2014-2015 have more power but the 2.4L falls under the Theta II settlement. Confirm ABS-module fire recalls on every year.
Generation 3 (2016–2021)
The third-generation Tucson (2016-2021) launched with a 164-hp 2.0L (6-speed automatic) and a 175-hp 1.6L turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch. The 2019 refresh replaced the turbo with a 181-hp 2.4L, revised the 2.0L to 161 hp, used a 6-speed automatic throughout, and made forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist standard.
Buyer takeaway: 2019-2021 models are the easy recommendation: conventional automatic and standard safety tech. Buyers of 2016-2018 turbos should test the dual-clutch carefully. All need the 2016-2021 ABS hydraulic unit recall checked.
Generation 4 (2022–present)
The fourth-generation Tucson (2022-) is larger, with a 187-hp 2.5L and 8-speed automatic, plus the first Tucson Hybrid (226 hp) and Plug-in Hybrid (261 hp, about 33 electric miles), both 1.6L turbo with a 6-speed automatic. The 2025 refresh brought a new dashboard, column shifter, 231-hp Hybrid and 268-hp Plug-in Hybrid; 2026 adds a Blue hybrid trim and higher gas towing.
Buyer takeaway: The Hybrid is the best all-rounder for mpg and performance; the Plug-in suits short commutes with home charging; the 2.5L gas model is the lowest-cost choice. Pick 2025 or later for the updated cabin.
Hyundai Tucson by model year
2026 Hyundai Tucson
The 2026 Tucson adds a lower-priced Blue hybrid trim, raises gas-model towing to 2,750 lb, and gives the XRT terrain modes for mud, snow and sand. Powertrains carry over: a 187-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic (about 25/33 mpg), a 231-hp Hybrid (up to about 38 mpg combined) and a 268-hp Plug-in Hybrid (about 32 electric miles). Verify final 2026 specs with Hyundai.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 187 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 231 hp 271 lb ft combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 268 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive htrac
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New lower priced blue hybrid trim
- Gas models rated to tow 2750 lb
- Xrt adds terrain modes
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Connecting rod bolt recall completion; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Touchscreen and digital cluster operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Charging port and onboard charger operation; Electric range versus EPA estimate.
2025 Hyundai Tucson
The refreshed 2025 Tucson has updated styling and a new dashboard with wider displays and a steering-column shifter that frees console space. The 2.5L gas engine (187 hp, 8-speed automatic, about 25/33 mpg front-drive) carries over, while the Hybrid rises to 231 hp and the Plug-in Hybrid to 268 hp (about 32 electric miles). Some 2025 models have open recalls; check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 187 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 231 hp 271 lb ft combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 268 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive htrac
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed front and rear styling
- New dashboard with wider screens and column mounted shifter
- Hybrid rises to 231 hp and plug in hybrid to 268 hp
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Shifter wiring recall completion 2025; Connecting rod bolt recall completion; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Touchscreen and digital cluster operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Charging port and onboard charger operation; Electric range versus EPA estimate.
2024 Hyundai Tucson
The 2024 Tucson is the last before the 2025 refresh, with the 187-hp 2.5L gas engine and 8-speed automatic (about 25/32 mpg front-drive), the 226-hp Hybrid (about 37-38 mpg combined), and the 261-hp Plug-in Hybrid (about 33 electric miles). A 2024 can be good value against a 2025 if you do not need the newer dashboard and column shifter.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 187 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 226 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive gas only; All wheel drive htrac; Hybrid and plug in hybrid AWD only
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Final year before the 2025 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Touchscreen and digital cluster operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Charging port and onboard charger operation; Electric range versus EPA estimate; Maintenance history.
2023 Hyundai Tucson
The 2023 Tucson carries over: a 187-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic (about 25/32 mpg front-drive), the 226-hp Hybrid (about 37-38 mpg combined, Blue trim highest) and the 261-hp Plug-in Hybrid with about 33 miles of electric range. The fourth generation offers class-leading rear-seat room and a long standard feature list; choose by budget and fuel economy priorities.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 187 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 226 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive gas only; All wheel drive htrac; Hybrid and plug in hybrid AWD only
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Hybrid blue trim rated 38 mpg combined
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Touchscreen and digital cluster operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Charging port and onboard charger operation; Electric range versus EPA estimate; Maintenance history.
2022 Hyundai Tucson
The all-new 2022 Tucson is bigger and far more modern. Gas models use a 187-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic (about 26/33 mpg front-drive). New are a 226-hp Hybrid (1.6L turbo, 6-speed automatic, AWD, about 37-38 mpg combined) and a 261-hp Plug-in Hybrid with about 33 miles of EPA electric range. Hybrids are the efficiency pick; check recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 187 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 226 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive gas only; All wheel drive htrac; Hybrid and plug in hybrid AWD only
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new fourth generation with bold parametric design
- First tucson hybrid and plug in hybrid
- New 187 hp 2.5 liter with 8 speed automatic
- Much larger rear seat and cargo area
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Touchscreen and digital cluster operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Charging port and onboard charger operation; Electric range versus EPA estimate; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.
2021 Hyundai Tucson
The 2021 Tucson is the last of the third generation: a 161-hp 2.0L or 181-hp 2.4L, 6-speed automatic, front- or all-wheel drive, about 25 mpg combined front-drive. It lacks the hybrid options of the 2022 redesign but is simpler and usually cheaper. Check the 2016-2021 ABS hydraulic unit fire recall and the anti-theft software update by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 161 hp; 2.4 liter gdi I4 181 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final year of the third generation
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history; Driver assistance cameras and radar.
2020 Hyundai Tucson
The 2020 Tucson carries over the 161-hp 2.0L or 181-hp 2.4L with a 6-speed automatic, front- or all-wheel drive, rated about 25 mpg combined front-drive, with standard forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist. It is a straightforward, conventional-automatic choice. Confirm the ABS hydraulic unit fire recall and anti-theft update by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 161 hp; 2.4 liter gdi I4 181 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Standard forward collision avoidance continues
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history; Driver assistance cameras and radar.
2019 Hyundai Tucson
The refreshed 2019 Tucson dropped the turbo and dual-clutch: engines are a 161-hp 2.0L or a 181-hp direct-injected 2.4L, both with a conventional 6-speed automatic (about 22-23/28-30 mpg front-drive). It gained a new grille, updated cabin, and standard forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist. 2019 2.4L engines are covered by the Theta II settlement; check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 161 hp; 2.4 liter gdi I4 181 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed grille lights and interior
- 2.4 liter replaces 1 6 turbo dual clutch dropped
- Standard forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise with stop and go
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning 2.4 liter; Ksds software and engine warranty status 2.4 liter; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history; Driver assistance cameras and radar.
2018 Hyundai Tucson
The 2018 Tucson continues the 164-hp 2.0L and 175-hp 1.6L turbo with 7-speed dual-clutch, and EPA data also lists a 2.4L with a 6-speed automatic on some trims (verify by VIN). 2018 was the last year of the turbo and dual-clutch. 2018 2.4L engines are part of Hyundai's Theta II settlement and knock-sensor software campaign; check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter gdi I4 164 hp 151 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 175 hp 195 lb ft; 2.4 liter gdi I4 181 hp some trims
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2 0 and 2.4 liter; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- 2.4 liter appears on some trims verify by VIN
- Last year of the 1 6 turbo and dual clutch
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dual clutch low speed judder and hesitation 1 6 turbo; Engine knock or oil pressure warning 2.4 liter; Ksds software and engine warranty status 2.4 liter; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2017 Hyundai Tucson
The 2017 Tucson carries over the 164-hp 2.0L with a 6-speed automatic and the 175-hp 1.6L turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch (about 25/30 mpg front-drive). The 2.0L is the simpler choice; the turbo is livelier but its dual-clutch can hesitate from a stop. 2016-2021 Tucsons have an ABS hydraulic unit fire-risk recall, so check the VIN and confirm the free anti-theft update.
- Engines: 2.0 liter gdi I4 164 hp 151 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 175 hp 195 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- 1 6 turbo dual clutch continues
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dual clutch low speed judder and hesitation 1 6 turbo; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2016 Hyundai Tucson
The redesigned 2016 Tucson is larger and roomier, with two engines: a 164-hp 2.0L with a 6-speed automatic (about 23/30 mpg front-drive) or a 175-hp, 195 lb-ft 1.6L turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch on Eco, Sport and Limited (Eco about 26/32 mpg). Early dual-clutch cars were recalled for a software update; drive one in stop-and-go traffic and confirm the ABS-unit fire recall by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter gdi I4 164 hp 151 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 175 hp 195 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new third generation
- New 1.6 liter turbo with 7 speed dual clutch on eco sport and limited
- Larger body and more cargo space
- Available automatic emergency braking on limited
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dct software recall completion 2016; Dual clutch low speed judder and hesitation 1 6 turbo; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2015 Hyundai Tucson
The 2015 Tucson is the last of the second generation, with the 164-hp 2.0L or 182-hp direct-injected 2.4L and a 6-speed automatic (about 21-23/28 mpg front-drive). Its 2.4L is covered by the Theta II engine settlement and knock-sensor software campaign, and 2014-2015 models have an ABS-module fire recall (park outside until repaired). A small hydrogen Tucson Fuel Cell was leased in California.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 164 hp; 2.4 liter gdi I4 182 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final year of the second generation
- 2.4 liter part of theta ii engine settlement
- Hydrogen fuel cell version leased in california
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning 2.4 liter; Ksds software and engine warranty status 2.4 liter; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2014 Hyundai Tucson
The 2014 Tucson got updated engines: a 164-hp 2.0L or a 182-hp direct-injected 2.4L, both with a 6-speed automatic (the manual was dropped), in front- or all-wheel drive, rated about 21-23/28 mpg front-drive. 2014-2015 2.4L engines are covered by Hyundai's Theta II engine settlement and knock-sensor software campaign, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 164 hp; 2.4 liter gdi I4 182 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New 164 hp 2.0 liter and 182 hp direct injected 2.4 liter
- Manual transmission dropped
- Minor styling refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning 2.4 liter; Ksds software and engine warranty status 2.4 liter; Oil level and consumption; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2013 Hyundai Tucson
The 2013 Tucson is the last before the 2014 update: a 165-hp 2.0L or 176-hp 2.4L four, manual or 6-speed automatic, front- or all-wheel drive, about 21-22/29-30 mpg with a front-drive automatic. It is mechanically similar to 2011-2012. Confirm the ABS-module fire recall and the 2011-2013 oil-pan leak recall by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 165 hp; 2.4 liter I4 176 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final year before the 2014 engine update
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Oil pan leak recall completion; Steering wheel airbag recall completion; Clutch wear if manual; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2012 Hyundai Tucson
The 2012 Tucson carries over the 2011 lineup: a 165-hp 2.0L (5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic) or a 176-hp 2.4L (6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic), with front- or all-wheel drive and about 21-22/29-30 mpg for front-drive automatics. It is roomy for its class and inexpensive to buy used; check ABS-module and oil-pan recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 165 hp; 2.4 liter I4 176 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- 2.4 liter offered with 6 speed manual or automatic
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Oil pan leak recall completion; Steering wheel airbag recall completion; Clutch wear if manual; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
2011 Hyundai Tucson
The 2011 Tucson is the second-generation design launched for 2010: a sleek compact crossover with a 165-hp 2.0L four (5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic) or a 176-hp 2.4L four (6-speed manual or automatic), in front- or all-wheel drive. The 2.4L automatic with front-wheel drive is rated about 22/30 mpg. Check the VIN for the ABS-module fire recall and anti-theft software update.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 165 hp; 2.4 liter I4 176 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Second model year of the second generation
- 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic
- 2.0 liter and 2.4 liter engines
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Abs hydraulic unit fire recall completion; Anti theft software update status if key start; Oil pan leak recall completion; Steering wheel airbag recall completion; Clutch wear if manual; AWD coupling operation if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- ABS Module / Hydraulic Unit Fire-Risk Recalls (2011–2021)
Three separate recalls address ABS modules that can short and cause an engine-compartment fire, even when parked: certain 2010-2015 Tucsons (NHTSA 23V-651), 2014-2015 Tucsons (22V-056), and 2016-2021 Tucsons (20V-543, ABS hydraulic electronic control unit). Hyundai advised parking outside until the free remedy, typically a new fuse or relay, is installed.
What to do: Do not buy until the VIN shows the applicable ABS recall complete, or have a Hyundai dealer complete it first. - 2.4L Theta II Engine Settlement and Knock-Sensor (KSDS) Campaign (2014–2019)
Tucsons with the 2.4L direct-injected engine from 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2019 are in Hyundai's Theta II engine class settlement, which gives lifetime warranty coverage for connecting-rod-bearing-related short block damage (conditions apply) and requires the Knock Sensor Detection System software update. KSDS warns the driver of early bearing wear with a flashing check-engine light and limp mode.
What to do: Confirm the KSDS update and ask a Hyundai dealer about warranty coverage for the VIN. - 1.6L Turbo 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Behavior and Software Recall (2016–2018)
2016-2018 Tucsons with the 1.6L turbo use a 7-speed dual-clutch. Some 2016 models were recalled for a software update (NHTSA 16V-628) after reports the transmission could lose drive; owners also reported hesitation and judder at low speeds. 2.0L and 2.4L Tucsons use a conventional 6-speed automatic.
What to do: Test-drive a 1.6T Tucson in traffic and confirm software updates are done. - Anti-Theft Software Update (Key-Start Models) (2011–2022)
2011-2022 Tucsons with a conventional turn-key ignition are eligible for Hyundai's free 2023 anti-theft software update, which requires the key fob to unlock the car before it will start. Push-button-start models are not affected.
What to do: Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm the update; it is free and quick. - 2011-2015 Airbag, Oil Pan and Other Recalls (2011–2014)
Certain 2011-2014 Tucsons were recalled because the driver's airbag module could loosen in the steering wheel (14V-245), and certain 2011-2013 models for an oil pan that may leak and lead to engine damage (19V-063).
What to do: Confirm these recalls are complete and check for oil leaks. - 2025-2026 Shifter Wiring and Connecting Rod Bolt Recalls (2025–2026)
Certain 2025 Tucsons were recalled because misrouted wiring could let the transmission shift out of Park without the brake pressed (24V-877), and certain 2025-2026 Tucsons (and Santa Fe models) because connecting rod bolts may be improperly tightened, risking engine damage (25V-549). Other newer-model recalls exist; check the VIN.
What to do: Have a Hyundai dealer confirm every open recall on a 2025-2026 Tucson. - Gas, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Disambiguation (2022–2026)
From 2022 the Tucson comes as a 187-hp 2.5L gas model (8-speed automatic), a 1.6L turbo Hybrid (226 hp, 231 hp from 2025) and a Plug-in Hybrid (261 hp, 268 hp from 2025) with about 32-33 miles of electric range. Hybrids use a 6-speed automatic. Fuel economy, maintenance and incentives differ, so resolve the powertrain by VIN.
What to do: Confirm which powertrain you are buying before comparing prices.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, engine, transmission, production date and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls (including ABS-module fire-risk recalls), and confirm Theta II engine campaign status on 2.4L models and the anti-theft update on key-start models.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Kia Sportage
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Mazda CX-5
- Nissan Rogue
- Ford Escape
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Subaru Forester
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Hyundai Santa Fe
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Hyundai Tucson?
- What engine and transmission does this Tucson have?
- Does this Tucson have the dual-clutch transmission?
- Is this Tucson part of the 2.4L engine settlement?
- Has the ABS module fire recall been done on this Tucson?
- What is the difference between the Tucson Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?
- What fuel economy does the Tucson get?
- What changed in the 2025 Tucson refresh?
- Does this Tucson need the anti-theft software update?
- What similar compact SUVs should I consider?