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2013 Hyundai Tucson Problems & Owner Complaints
Age-normalised, this year draws ~19.0 complaints per year on the road — ranking 7 of 13 Hyundai Tucson years we track (1 = most complaints per year).
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What owners report
Engine is the most-reported problem area on the 2013 Hyundai Tucson, cited in 156 of 266 filed complaints (59%).
Service Brakes is next (41 complaints, 15%), followed by Electrical System (22), Power Train (16), Air Bags (11).
Across all complaints, 16 report a crash, 18 report a fire, 12 report injuries.
The most safety-critical cluster is Air Bags: 9 crash, 1 fire, 8 injury report(s).
Complaints by vehicle system
Owner complaints filed with the U.S. NHTSA for the 2013 Hyundai Tucson, grouped by the vehicle system each cites. A single complaint can name more than one system, so the group totals can add up to more than 266.
Engine 156 2 crash 9 fire
“FIRSTOF ALL I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED ABOUT THE RECALLS WHICH NEED TO BE COMPLETED. WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY THE ENGINE BLEW UP AND CAR BROKE DOWN. THERE IS A HOLE IN THE ENGINE, I TOWED THE CAR TO A MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THAT THE ISSUE WITH THE ENGINE OCCURED BECAUSE THE RECALL WAS NOT COMPLETED. I TOWED THE CAR TO HYUNDAI IN PARAMUS WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR. THIS DEALER DOES NOT WANT TO FIX MY CAR CLAIMING I NEED TO PAY A DIAGNOSTIC FEE OF $800. I ADVISED THEM THAT I SHOULD NOT BE RESPONSIBE FOR THIS FEE AS THE ENGINE FAILED DUE TO MANUFACURER ISSUE. THEY HAVE MY CAR FOR 2 WEEKS NOW AND EVER…”
NHTSA complaint #11614134, 2024 · fire
“I recently had a car accident, which has made dealing with my car issues even more stressful. On April 23rd, I went for a recall appointment at Kerry Hyundai in Florence. While the anti-rust recall was covered, the mechanic informed me that the remedy for my specific issue wasn't available. This was surprising, as I received a letter stating that the remedy for my Tucson, identified by its VIN, was available as of April 3, 2024. This seems like clear negligence, and I need assistance from www.safercar.gov. Here is the message I sent and the responses from the Kerry representative. Unfortunate…”
NHTSA complaint #11606679, 2024 · fire
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the vehicle engine failed. When driving with the cruise control set at 70 mph, the engine emitted a loud knocking sound and the vehicle decelerated. The vehicle powered off and the vehicle rolled onto the road shoulder. The contact was able to open the hood and smoke emitted from under the hood and emitted an engine oil burnt odor. The vehicle was not towed to a dealer or mechanic to have a diagnostic performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 65,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11431266, 2021 · fire
Service Brakes 41 2 crash 3 fire 1 injury
“WHILE ON A CITY STREET IN SLOW MOTION COMING TO A FULL-STOP INTERSECTION, ATTEMPTS TO SAFELY SLOW AND STOP THE VEHICLE BY DEPRESSING BRAKE PEDAL FAILED WITH NO FEEDBACK FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE DID NOT DECELERATE RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. IT WOULD SEEM THAT THE BRAKE MASTER BOOSTER HAD WORN AND WAS NO LONGER FUNCTIONING. COLLISION CENTER RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIRS HAS STATED THE FOLLOWING: "OUR FINDINGS ARE THAT THE BRAKE MASTER BOOSTER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. YOUR VEHICLE CAME TO OUR SHOP FOR COLLISION REPAIRS FROM AN ACCIDENT <DATE REDACTED> AND DURING OUR REVIEWS TO THE COLLISION DAMAGE…”
NHTSA complaint #11195498, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)
“I was driving on the highway and was notified by passing motorists that there was smoke coming from my vehicle, I proceeded to pull to the shoulder and parked my vehicle. When parked, I noticed flames coming from the engine compartment and under the vehicle. I proceeded to get as far away from the car and that when the fire became enraged and fully engulfed my vehicle. The fire department arrived and distinguished the fire.”
NHTSA complaint #11561982, 2023 · fire
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had experienced a failure. The contact's father was driving the vehicle at approximately 65 MPH when numerous warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that her father had observed smoke being emitted from under the hood. The father pulled the vehic…”
NHTSA complaint #11562138, 2023 · fire
Unknown Or Other 23 2 fire
“I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM DINNER ON MAY 1, 2021 ON US HIGHWAY 75 TRAVELING NORTH MY CHECK OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THEN MOMENTS LATER THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON , ALL LIGHTS WERE FLASHING IN MY DASHBOARD I PULLED OVER AND WITHIN SECONDS MY CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. I ESCAPED WITH MY LIFE!”
NHTSA complaint #11416607, 2021 · fire
“I WAS DRIVING AT HIGH SPEED OF 55 MPH AND EXPERIENCED A HIGH-SPEED STALL ON MY 2013 HYUNDAI TUSCON. I HEARD A KNOCKING SOUND AND THEN ALL MY LIGHTS CAME ON (OIL,ENGINE,ETC.). I WAS SO SCARED AND MADE IT TO THE SHOULDER SAFELY. THANK GOD. I TRIED TO START THE CAR BUT IT WOULDN'T START. I ALSO, SAW SMOKE SO I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING. SO I WAS STRANDED ON THE HIGHWAY AND CALLED A TOW TRUCK AND THEY TOWED ME TO THE MECHANICS SHOP IN MY TOWN. THE MECHANIC STATED TO ME THAT THERE IS OIL LEAKING UNDERNEATH AND THAT MY ENGINE IS SHOT! I HAVE ALWAYS TAKEN VERY CARE OF MY VEHICLE, I STILL HAVE T…”
NHTSA complaint #11407201, 2021 · fire
“left front latch assembly. There is a recall on this for every other model except mine, yet I cannot get in my car because the cables have stretched and the latch will not open the door. I have to crawl in from the other side to open the driver's door. If this is a known issue and there are recalls on all other models, why would I have to spend $800-$1000 to get this repaired? I want this on the recall list so I can get it repaired. P.S. My Kona N is starting to have the same issue! Not happy”
NHTSA complaint #11742565, 2026
Electrical System 22 1 crash 5 fire 1 injury
“I REAR ENDED A CAR INFRONT OF ME THAT HAD STOPPED ABRUPTLY, I WAS GOING ABOUT 30 MPH AND THE IMPACT WAS SO HARD I SLAMMED MY CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL, IT ENDED UP DOING 13,000 DOLLARS OF DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END BUT NOT ONE AIRBAG DEPLOYTED.”
NHTSA complaint #11270577, 2016 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)
“I recently had a car accident, which has made dealing with my car issues even more stressful. On April 23rd, I went for a recall appointment at Kerry Hyundai in Florence. While the anti-rust recall was covered, the mechanic informed me that the remedy for my specific issue wasn't available. This was surprising, as I received a letter stating that the remedy for my Tucson, identified by its VIN, was available as of April 3, 2024. This seems like clear negligence, and I need assistance from www.safercar.gov. Here is the message I sent and the responses from the Kerry representative. Unfortunate…”
NHTSA complaint #11606679, 2024 · fire
“I was driving on the highway and was notified by passing motorists that there was smoke coming from my vehicle, I proceeded to pull to the shoulder and parked my vehicle. When parked, I noticed flames coming from the engine compartment and under the vehicle. I proceeded to get as far away from the car and that when the fire became enraged and fully engulfed my vehicle. The fire department arrived and distinguished the fire.”
NHTSA complaint #11561982, 2023 · fire
Power Train 16 1 crash
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ROLLED BACK AFTER THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS PLACED IN PARK. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10894406, 2015 · crash
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving and exceeding 30 MPH, the transmission was slipping out of gear. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer located in Canada, where it was diagnosed that the transmission sensor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11665309, 2025
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of a failure with the transmission. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled and shuddered while attempting to change gear. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact restarted the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a transmission shudder. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case…”
NHTSA complaint #11598658, 2024
Air Bags 11 9 crash 1 fire 8 injury
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BACK AND NECK PAIN. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED BODY ACHES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INFANT CHILD LOCATED IN THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT MAY ALSO HAVE BEEN INJURED. THE CONTACT WAS CURRENTLY EN ROUTE TO THE HOSPITAL TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. IT WAS UNKNOWN IF THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT ME…”
NHTSA complaint #11196436, 2019 · crash · 3 injury(ies)
“I REAR ENDED A CAR INFRONT OF ME THAT HAD STOPPED ABRUPTLY, I WAS GOING ABOUT 30 MPH AND THE IMPACT WAS SO HARD I SLAMMED MY CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL, IT ENDED UP DOING 13,000 DOLLARS OF DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END BUT NOT ONE AIRBAG DEPLOYTED.”
NHTSA complaint #11270577, 2016 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)
“AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN MODERATE COLLISION. IMPACT WAS BY A CHEVY SILVERADO TO LEFT FRONT OF 2013 TUCSON. AIR BAG DEPLOYED ON TRUCK. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED ON TUCSON (SIDE OR STEERING COLUMN). DRIVERS LEFT SIDE,HIP AND HEAD MADE DIRECT IMPACT WITH DOOR AND WINDOW. FORCE OF IMPACT WAS ENOUGH TO SNAP AN AXEL AND SHIFT ENTIRE ENGINE BLOCK. TUCSON SPUN 180 DEGREES AFTER BEING STRUCK. STATE TROOPER AND TRUCK DRIVER ESTIMATED SPEED OF TRUCK AT IMPACT AT ABOUT 35-40MPH. IMPACT OCCURRED WHILE TUCSON WAS STATIONARY AND WAITING TO TURN LEFT FROM PARKHILL AVE. ONTO WADSWORTH BLVD. IN LITTLETO…”
NHTSA complaint #11240672, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)
Fuel/Propulsion System 6 1 fire
“I recently had a car accident, which has made dealing with my car issues even more stressful. On April 23rd, I went for a recall appointment at Kerry Hyundai in Florence. While the anti-rust recall was covered, the mechanic informed me that the remedy for my specific issue wasn't available. This was surprising, as I received a letter stating that the remedy for my Tucson, identified by its VIN, was available as of April 3, 2024. This seems like clear negligence, and I need assistance from www.safercar.gov. Here is the message I sent and the responses from the Kerry representative. Unfortunate…”
NHTSA complaint #11606679, 2024 · fire
“I was driving on the highway going 65 mph and scared when the engine started clicking and shaking a tiny bit. Plus it was slowing down no matter what i did. Well in a 4 lane highway. There was No engine light, no previous issues. The car drove great until this issue. I had the car only 3 months. Now i am afraid to drive it because i had seen theres an engine recall online for my car. Once i saw the recalls i tried calling alot of my local Hyundai dealer ships and they denied me because of the mileage.when i bought the car it was at 180 mileage. At this point i am not sure what to…”
NHTSA complaint #11751801, 2026
“The electrical in my car is slowly failing, causing problems opening 3 out of 4 windows in the vehicle. My car is currently unsafe to drive (I am a mother with a young child and I will not risk their safety). I also fear the acceleration in the vehicle is also defective, as when I'm driving it will revv the engine and shoot the RPM meter up (even when my foot is off thr pedal). I do not believe my vehicle can be repaired at this point and I cannot go without a vehicle any longer. I cannot afford to have it towed to get inspected, and I cannot drive it to a dealership.”
NHTSA complaint #11601152, 2024
Steering 6 2 crash 2 fire 2 injury
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A TURN, BUT THE WHEELS DID NOT TURN IN THE DIRECTION THE VEHICLE WAS STEERED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE RIGHT FOOT, HAND, SPINE, AND NECK THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL SALVAGE YARD. THE CONTA…”
NHTSA complaint #11161390, 2017 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A SHALLOW TURN, THE STEERING COLUMN WAS TURNED, BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE DROVE OVER AN EMBANKMENT, COLLIDED WITH A TREE, AND CAUGHT FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND THE FLAMES WERE EXTINGUISHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD WHERE IT WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SUFFERED BROKEN BONES IN…”
NHTSA complaint #11014693, 2017 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)
“This is in direct relation to Hyundai Recall Campaign 181. NHTSA recall # 19Vx-063. Engine stalled without warning - no engine light - in February of 2020. Vehicle was towed to a local certified and well known auto repair shop for $115.00. Owner of repair shop advised he looked for recalls and at that time, nothing was showing up for my vehicle and because the engine had 171,000 miles on it, we authorized him to locate the same engine (used) and install it. Cost to us, $5000.00. It wasn't until months (?) year (?) down the road that we received a recall notice from Hyundai; campaign recall 181…”
NHTSA complaint #11449399, 2021
Structure 6 1 fire
“I was driving on the highway and was notified by passing motorists that there was smoke coming from my vehicle, I proceeded to pull to the shoulder and parked my vehicle. When parked, I noticed flames coming from the engine compartment and under the vehicle. I proceeded to get as far away from the car and that when the fire became enraged and fully engulfed my vehicle. The fire department arrived and distinguished the fire.”
NHTSA complaint #11561982, 2023 · fire
“The door opening mechanism on three doors. Once in the past we were not able to get in or out of the rear passenger door because it would not open from the inside or out even though it was unlocked. Which in case of emergency is a safety hazard if you can’t get out of the car. Now the other rear passenger door is doing the same thing. You cannot open door from the inside or outside, and the drivers door you cannot open from the outside. In my opinion this is a major safety issue and from what I read online many people are having the same issues. I feel Hyundai should be responsible to replace/…”
NHTSA complaint #11530803, 2023
“Drivers side rear door. Quit opening by either outside or inside handle. Tried repeated locking unlocking, hitting door outside and inside. Safety issue as my wife in a wheelchair must ride in back seat. Now cannot get door open. Afraid it will happen in other side aswell or maybe front doors as well. Extreme Safety issue if I was involved in an accident. The door that quit just stopped no warning at all”
NHTSA complaint #11485859, 2022
Tires 5 1 crash 1 injury
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON EQUIPPED WITH KUMHO TIRES, TIRE LINE: SOLUS KH25, TIRE SIZE: 225/45R17. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT AND THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE MEDIAN. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DECLARED AS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10609839, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)
“The driver side front sidewall developed a shake then a crack appeared in the sidewall about 4 inches long. The other tires show signs of dry rott. They have worn away to nothing in 21k miles less than a year. Can provide mechanic reports of the validity of my car's parts cause ive had a horrible vibration and sound. Turns out the tires are coming apart. And they are refusing to fix it. Said too much of the tires worn away. I have proof that all possible precautions were taken as ive spent a good bit of money having the garage confirm my parts are good trying to track that vibration and sound…”
NHTSA complaint #11694101, 2025
“I WAS DRIVING HOME WHEN THE CAR FELT FUNNY AND STARTED TO SHAKE A LITTLE. I PULLED OFF THE ROAD INTO A PARKING LOT. I GOT OUT AND SAW THAT THE SIDE OF MY TIRE WAS BLOWN OUT. MY HUSBAND CAME AND CHANGED THE TIRE. TO OUR SURPRISE IT WAS NOT ONLY BLOWN OUT ON THE OUTSIDE BUT ON THE INSIDE ALSO. IT APPEARED TO US THAT THIS TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE. WE HAD ONLY HAD THE CARE A LITTLE OVER A YEAR. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER WHICH INFORMED US THAT SINCE WE DIDN'T BUY THEY'RE WARRANTY PLAN FOR THE TIRES THEY COULDN'T HELP US. IF THE PEOPLE THAT SOLD US THE TIRE CAN'T HELP THEN WHO DO WE GO TO. FEEL…”
NHTSA complaint #10606493, 2014
Visibility 5
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the front driver’s side window failed to operate as intended. The vehicle was initially taken to an independent mechanic and a diagnostic test showed that the window motor had become damaged due to the electrical solenoid overheating which caused a breakage in the mounting between the spool assembly and the driver’s side window module motor. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was referred to a local dealer to have a diagnostic test performed. The contact then received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number…”
NHTSA complaint #11573101, 2023
“Spontaneous breaking of the sunroof. Second time this has happened”
NHTSA complaint #11448273, 2022
“MY POWER CONTROLS FOR WINDOWS NO LONGER WORK. I'M ONLY ABLE TO CONTROL WINDOWS USING DRIVER CONTROLS. IN ADDITION, THE POWER CONTROL ON MY DRIVER SEAT NO LONGER WORK. MY SEAT IS STUCK IN AN UNCOMFORTABLE POSITION. VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11243407, 2019
Wheels 5
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tuscan. The contact stated that the air pressure in all four tires had continued to leak causing the tire air pressure warning to display. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that all four wheel air valves were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11499038, 2021
“I WAS DRIVING HOME WHEN THE CAR FELT FUNNY AND STARTED TO SHAKE A LITTLE. I PULLED OFF THE ROAD INTO A PARKING LOT. I GOT OUT AND SAW THAT THE SIDE OF MY TIRE WAS BLOWN OUT. MY HUSBAND CAME AND CHANGED THE TIRE. TO OUR SURPRISE IT WAS NOT ONLY BLOWN OUT ON THE OUTSIDE BUT ON THE INSIDE ALSO. IT APPEARED TO US THAT THIS TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE. WE HAD ONLY HAD THE CARE A LITTLE OVER A YEAR. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER WHICH INFORMED US THAT SINCE WE DIDN'T BUY THEY'RE WARRANTY PLAN FOR THE TIRES THEY COULDN'T HELP US. IF THE PEOPLE THAT SOLD US THE TIRE CAN'T HELP THEN WHO DO WE GO TO. FEEL…”
NHTSA complaint #10606493, 2014
“PURCHASED CAR NEW IN 2013. HAD VEHICLE IN FOR 20,000 MILES SERVICE AT 19, 700 MILES. TREADS ON ALL 4 TIRES ARE AT 5/32. TIRES ARE THE ORIGINAL KUMHO SOLUS KL21. WAS IN CONTACT WITH HYUNDAI AND KUMHO, NO WARRANTY ON THE OE TIRES. NEED TO REPLACE THESE TIRES. I DIDN'T EXPECT A NEW CAR TO HAVE SUCH CHEAPLY MADE TIRES ON IT.”
NHTSA complaint #10846213, 2013
Engine And Engine Cooling 3 1 fire
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, SHE BEGAN TO HEAR A TICKING SOUND EMITTING FROM THE ENGINE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND CHECKED HER FLUIDS, ALL FLUID LEVELS WERE NORMAL. AS THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND SHUT OFF AS THE OIL AND THE BATTERY WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. AS THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE, WHITE SMOKE BEGAN TO EMIT FROM THE ENGINE. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED INITIALLY TO HOME.; THE NEXT DAY, SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO JOHNSON HYUNDAI OF CARY (…”
NHTSA complaint #11340417, 2020 · fire
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V063000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a software update. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed that the oil pressure sensor switch, PCM module, and electrical fan needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified but no additional assistance was prov…”
NHTSA complaint #11468300, 2022
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was stolen, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for repair. The vehicle remained in its possession for a month before being returned to the contact. While the contact was driving home from the mechanic shop at an unknown speed, the engine shut off without warning. The contact initially towed the vehicle back to the independent mechanic who then informed her of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V063000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact then had the vehicle towed to a dealer where a diagnostic…”
NHTSA complaint #11446292, 2021
Vehicle Speed Control 3 1 fire
“I WAS DRIVING AT HIGH SPEED OF 55 MPH AND EXPERIENCED A HIGH-SPEED STALL ON MY 2013 HYUNDAI TUSCON. I HEARD A KNOCKING SOUND AND THEN ALL MY LIGHTS CAME ON (OIL,ENGINE,ETC.). I WAS SO SCARED AND MADE IT TO THE SHOULDER SAFELY. THANK GOD. I TRIED TO START THE CAR BUT IT WOULDN'T START. I ALSO, SAW SMOKE SO I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING. SO I WAS STRANDED ON THE HIGHWAY AND CALLED A TOW TRUCK AND THEY TOWED ME TO THE MECHANICS SHOP IN MY TOWN. THE MECHANIC STATED TO ME THAT THERE IS OIL LEAKING UNDERNEATH AND THAT MY ENGINE IS SHOT! I HAVE ALWAYS TAKEN VERY CARE OF MY VEHICLE, I STILL HAVE T…”
NHTSA complaint #11407201, 2021 · fire
“We experienced engine failure of a 2013 Hyundai Tucson on 2/20/24. There were no warning lights displayed on the instrument panel. There was an unidentified noise and a loss of power/compression. We are in the process of learning the difference between a Service Campaign and a Recall Notification and I can’t say we understand it yet. We were not notified nor aware of potential engine failure issues. The research we’ve been able to obtain regarding Service Campaign 966 (“SC966”) appears to exclude the 2013 Tucson model unless it has a Theta II engine. The service department at Dick Smith Hyu…”
NHTSA complaint #11578410, 2024
“I WAS ORDERING AN OIL CHANGE ONLINE APPT. AND THERE WAS A NOTE SATING A RECALL ON AIRBAGS FOR MY VEHICLE. I VE BEEN SERVICING MY VEHICLES AT DEALERSHIPS IN 3 STATES AND NEVER ONCE TOLD OR SENT AN EMAIL OR LETTER. I LIVE IN GA AS OF MARCH 2017.”
NHTSA complaint #11015889, 2017
Visibility/Wiper 3
“When I back up, you cannot see what is behind you. April 2022 I was leaving my rehab building and got into my car in the parking lot and there was no one behind me. I got into the car and made several phone calls before I backed up. I always honk my horn and back up slowly because there is no clear visual of what is behind me. As I backed up my car was unable to move. I got out of the car and someone had come from the wrong way of the parking lot and parked their car behind my car and left it. About 5 minutes or more later the driver appeared and I asked why did she park her car behind my ca…”
NHTSA complaint #11498303, 2022
“THE CAR IS ONLY 5 YEARS OLD THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I'M TAKING IT FOR INSPECTION AND IT IS READING FUEL SYSTEM NOT READY. WHEN I BOTH THE CAR THEY SAY I HAVE A TEN YEAR WARRANTY OR 100.000 WHICHEVER IS FIRST. MY CAR IS NEITHER BUT THEY ARE TELLING ME THAT IT IS NOT COVERED FOR THEM TO CHECK IT IS $230 PLUS TAX. AND MY WIPER BLADES”
NHTSA complaint #11088892, 2018
“WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED BRIEFLY ON WINDSHIELD DURING RAIN WHILE DRIVING. FOLLOWING DAY WHILE PARKED PREPARING TO DEPART WIPERS WERE TURNED ON, WIPERS MOVED UP ABOUT SIX INCHES AND STOPPED ON THE WINDSHIELD. NO RESPONSE AT WIPERS FROM CONTROLS DURING HI-LO, INTERMITTENT OR WASH SETTINGS. UNABLE TO USE VEHICLE. THE FOLLOWING DAY THE DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT FOUND LOOSE WIPER MOTOR WIRING CONNECTOR AND PINS. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10478221, 2012
Latches/Locks/Linkages 2
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the rear driver’s side door would not open from either the inside or the outside of the vehicle without warning. The contact also stated that the trunk latch had once failed to open as needed without warning. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer to service a recall and was given an estimate to repair the door. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11438384, 2021
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side door latch failed to unlock from outside the vehicle. Additionally, the passenger’s side rear door latch failed to unlock from inside or outside the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11574958, 2019
Firerelated 1 1 fire
“The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the dealer had previously repaired the vehicle under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the failure occurred 72 miles after the recall was repaired. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound, and smoke filled the cabin. No warning light was illuminated. The contact's daughter pulled over and safely exited the vehicle. The contact's daughter noticed a small flame coming from under the hood, which spread and engulfed…”
NHTSA complaint #11624040, 2024 · fire
Lane Departure 1
“When I back up, you cannot see what is behind you. April 2022 I was leaving my rehab building and got into my car in the parking lot and there was no one behind me. I got into the car and made several phone calls before I backed up. I always honk my horn and back up slowly because there is no clear visual of what is behind me. As I backed up my car was unable to move. I got out of the car and someone had come from the wrong way of the parking lot and parked their car behind my car and left it. About 5 minutes or more later the driver appeared and I asked why did she park her car behind my ca…”
NHTSA complaint #11498303, 2022
Seat Belts 1 1 crash 1 injury
“TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER CRASHING INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE PASSENGER SUFFERED A FACIAL LACERATION AND A BLACK EYE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A YARD WHERE NO INSPECTION HAD BEEN PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000. UPDATED 4/20/15*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10693580, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)
Seats 1
“MY POWER CONTROLS FOR WINDOWS NO LONGER WORK. I'M ONLY ABLE TO CONTROL WINDOWS USING DRIVER CONTROLS. IN ADDITION, THE POWER CONTROL ON MY DRIVER SEAT NO LONGER WORK. MY SEAT IS STUCK IN AN UNCOMFORTABLE POSITION. VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11243407, 2019
Suspension 1
“I NOTICED MY TIRES HAD BEEN EXTREMELY WORN, VIRTUALLY NO TREAD LEFT FOR ONLY HAVING THE CAR FOR 6 MONTHS. I BEGAN NOTICING THAT DRIVING WAS MUCH MORE DIFFICULT THAN EXPECTED IN RAIN AND SNOW, UNTIL I REALIZED MY TIRES WEREN'T IN LINE LIKE THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO. ONCE I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY HAD REALIZED THAT MY CAMBER BOLTS WEREN'T PROPERLY TIGHTEN WHICH CAUSED MY TIRES TO BECOME OUT OF LINE AND BEGIN TO TILT CAUSING THE INSIDES TO BECOME VERY WORN DOWN. I WANT TO BRING THIS TO SOMEONES ATTENTION IN HOPES THEY CAN FIGURE OUT WHAT MANUFACTURER MY VEHICLE CAME FROM TO HELP PREVENT THE…”
NHTSA complaint #10658674, 2013
Traction Control System 1 1 crash
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI TUCSON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE TIRE TRACTION WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE VIBRATED AND THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE BLEW OUT. THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO A CONCRETE DIVIDER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 15,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10609279, 2014 · crash
How we read this (methodology)
How to read this: raw complaint totals are not a clean reliability score — a model year with more cars sold, or simply more years on the road, accumulates more complaints regardless of how good it is. So this page leans on two signals that are not distorted by sales volume: the share of complaints falling on each vehicle system (the breakdown above) and NHTSA's own crash / fire / injury / death flags. When we compare model years of the same model, we normalise by years on the road (complaints ÷ vehicle age) rather than comparing raw totals. Age-normalised, the 2013 Hyundai Tucson draws about 19.0 complaints per year on the road, ranking 7 of 13 among the Hyundai Tucson model years we have ingested (1 = most complaints per year on road).
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Data source: U.S. NHTSA (nhtsa.gov). SaveVIN surfaces public recall data and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NHTSA.