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2018 Hyundai Tucson

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Tucson years

Owner complaints for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson are substantially higher than the model-year median of 180.5.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

112 reports with mileage · 283 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.

  • Engine. Review the 243 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Power Train. Review the 100 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 27 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

13 crash reports9 fire reports8 injury reports

What owners actually said

395 reports
Mileage unknown · Jun 7, 2025
EnginePower Train

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11665437

Mileage unknown · Jun 4, 2025
Engine

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11664826

Mileage unknown · May 27, 2025
EnginePower Train

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11663268

Mileage unknown · May 16, 2025
Engine

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…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11661579

Mileage unknown · May 10, 2025
Engine

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11660155

Mileage unknown · May 6, 2025
Structure

The paint on my 2018 Hyundai Tucson began peeling off the side mirrors and the shark-fin antenna on the roof. I have found that many other Hyundai owners are experiencing the same issue. It appears to be a widespread manufacturing defect related to improper paint adhesion, and I believe it should be addressed even though my vehi…

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The paint on my 2018 Hyundai Tucson began peeling off the side mirrors and the shark-fin antenna on the roof. I have found that many other Hyundai owners are experiencing the same issue. It appears to be a widespread manufacturing defect related to improper paint adhesion, and I believe it should be addressed even though my vehicle is out of warranty.

NHTSA ODI #11659341

Mileage unknown · Apr 24, 2025
Structure

The white paint on the hood began to flake off. Currently, the missing paint is about 3 inches in diameter. There is an appearance of paint bubbling on the roof of the vehicle and in the hood. The vehicle was taken to dealership, but a member of their service department conveyed nothing to be done because no current warranty o…

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The white paint on the hood began to flake off. Currently, the missing paint is about 3 inches in diameter. There is an appearance of paint bubbling on the roof of the vehicle and in the hood. The vehicle was taken to dealership, but a member of their service department conveyed nothing to be done because no current warranty on it. No outside company has reviewed the issue.

NHTSA ODI #11656545

Mileage unknown · Apr 18, 2025
Unknown Or Other

The sunroof on my Hyundai Tucson will not close. Seems to be a motor problem. I brought it to a mechanic and it will be a lot of money to fix. I have looked up if this is a common problem and it’s all over the internet. I am not sure if it should be a recall. Thank you.

NHTSA ODI #11655523

Mileage unknown · Apr 10, 2025
Engine

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 …

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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)

NHTSA ODI #11653964

Mileage unknown · Apr 10, 2025
Engine

1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Engine is failing/malfunctioning. Yes it is available upon request 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? No oil can cause an engine to overheat and/or catch fire. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confir…

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1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Engine is failing/malfunctioning. Yes it is available upon request 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? No oil can cause an engine to overheat and/or catch fire. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the issue was confirmed by Hyundai of Medford. Oil consumption test was completed. Preauth was submitted for a new engine and was denied. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, inspected by manufacturer (Hyundai of Medford). No leaks or other issues that could cause this were found. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, no warning lamps or messages were shown or sent. Even when low on oil. Consuming oil extremely quickly. Oil change was completed and I was only able to drive 700 miles before I was low on oil. I have history of oil changes and top offs every 1000 miles for about a year. It has only gotten progressively worse. Hyundai of Medford Confirmed the issue and confirmed there were no oil leaks or other issues that could cause this. They recommended I request a new engine for Hyundai. I submitted the Pre-Authorization and it was denied. After more research I have found that thousands of people have had the same exact issue with the same year, make and model of my care. There is even an entire Facebook group dedicated to this issue. The manufacture needs to be held accountable for these faulty engines. Thousands of cars should not need a new engine before they reach 100k miles. I am writing hoping to shine some light on this issue that is effecting thousands of Hyundai owners.

NHTSA ODI #11653921

Official recalls

1

20V543000 · 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.

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

1

DP22003 · 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.

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