Home · 2016 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell · Complaints

What 1,536 owners told NHTSA about the 2016 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell

These are the actual owner complaints behind this car’s reliability verdict, filed with the federal government, unedited. They’re unverified reports, not confirmed defects: read them as leads for your pre-purchase inspection, not a diagnosis.

All (1,536)Crash / fire / injury (36)Transmission & drivetrain (498)Engine (372)Body & structure (220)Electrical system (200)Latches & locks (156)Speed control (104)Fuel system (54)Brakes (48)Visibility & wipers (40)Lights (28)

Newest first · 1,536 complaints · page 21 of 62

Feb 3, 2022SuspensionBrakesElectrical system

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the starter had failed and needed to be replaced. The starter was replaced. The independent mechanic also informed the contact that the brake pedal needed to be replaced, and the rear trailing arm was corroded and could fracture while driving. There were no warning lights illuminated. The independent mechanic stated that the suspension front spring and coil spring could damage the tire overtime. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 37,861.

NHTSA ODI 11450164

Feb 2, 2022Engine

1. January 7, 2022 my vehicle began to lose engine power, as I began to try and find a place to pull over safely, the car stalled. It would not immediately start again for several hours. It had to be pushed out of the way. The engine failed due to wear of connecting rod bearings with no previous indication of engine issues. 2. Due to the sudden stall and having to push the vehicle to a safe location, myself and passengers could have easily been hit by another vehicle. 3. A dealership has confirmed the failed rod bearings. 4. The vehicle's engine has been inspected and photos taken by the dealership and submitted to Hyundai corporate. 5. It was not until the car stalled that the oil light illuminated. When I started the car back up several hours later, all lights were gone and no error codes were present. There was no previous warning lights before this incident.

NHTSA ODI 11449916

Feb 2, 2022Transmission & drivetrainElectrical system

The car vibrates, shakes, when stopped; hesitates, shakes, vibrates on accelerating from stopping, in traffic at stoplights. Incident becomes unsafe in traffic, etc. Reported to Dealer (Horne Hyundai, Mesa, AZ, 85120) and took car in for troubleshooting, diagnostics, or repair(s); twice, 1 st on Jan. 19, 2022, Dealer duplicated the same problem; Dealer technician performed 7 Type Judder Test, Vehicle Failed. Performed Transmission (TCU) update, Vehicle Passed, performed test drive, vehicle passed. Dealer acknowledged the same issue with vehicle; however reported to customer that it passed the Judder Test. Vehicle released to customer, no further testing or logic improvement. Customer drove vehicle home and incident occured again, less than 24 hrs from Dealer troubleshooting the incident. Customer returned vehicle to Dealer on Jan. 31, 2022; with the same issue; vibrating, hesitating, when stopping, and accelerating at stop lights, etc. Safety Issue in traffic. Dealer acknowledged the same issue again. Dealer technician again performed 7 Type Judder test. Judder detected. Performed Dual Clutch Transmission Detection and TCU Software updates, proceeded to test for Judder, Vehicle Passed. Returned vehicle to customer. Customer conferred with Dealer Service Manager about the vehicle issues, and was unable to resolve any further testing or next logical repair issues. Dealer suggested the customer contact the Manufacturer for further issues; unable to satisfy customer complaints of this issue and documented issues with previous recall of 41,000 Hyundai Tucson DCT issues and problems. Dealer could not reconcile with customer on why this VIN number was not included in the recall #149 for Hyundai Tucson vehicles; suggesting we report to NHTSA for the safety issue. This DCT issue is recurring with recurring "reprogramming by the Dealer(s) never really repairing anything, just software updates. Invoices 358494 (2) Horne Hyundai, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

NHTSA ODI 11449925

Jan 29, 2022Visibility & wipers

Back windshield shattered spontaneously upon closing driver door

NHTSA ODI 11449395

Jan 24, 2022Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that soon after purchasing the vehicle, the vehicle would stall upon depression of the accelerator pedal as the RPM's would loudly rev. The contact took the vehicle back to the independent used auto shop where the vehicle was purchased and was informed that they would not service the transmission or offer any additional assistance. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V628000 (Power Train, Electrical System) which he linked to the failure. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact called a local dealer and made an appointment for service. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

NHTSA ODI 11448646

Jan 23, 2022Engine

The engine has Rod Bearing failure. The engine is a Gamma GDI 1.6 L engine- the same engine that was recalled from the Veloster, for this problem but the Tuscon was not included in the recall. Hyundai has stated they recalled the Gamma GDI 1.6 L due to metal shavings being left in the engine during production that overtime created wear on the rod bearings leading to failure and engine failure. (Which is exactly what is wrong with my vehicle) Hyundai has said they will not fix my engine, and that it is out of warranty. It has been inspected by 2 local mechanics who have confirmed the diagnosis, I have called Hyundai corporate and the local Hyundai dealerships who have provided no help and requested $250 to even look at my vehicle. The oil light came on right before the engine started knocking and it was taken directly to a mechanic. I purchased this vehicle 1 year ago from a reputable used car dealership who will not help me either, the vehicle is now out of warranty, and I still owe $17,000 on the loan. A new engine is $10,000. Hyundai needs to step up and fix this issue.

NHTSA ODI 11448518

Jan 21, 2022Engine

Failed intake valve/compression valve. It is currently at the dealer I bought it from. I was driving in traffic and it had no power at all. I was almost rear ended several times trying to coast off the road. The dealer took the engine apart and put it back together 3 times and informed me that it will need a new motor. There were no warnings at all before this happened. The dealer nor Hyundia has tried to work with me on the cost. The purchase price was $14,000 and they want to charge $8000 for a new motor. I am still paying for the SUV that isnt running.

NHTSA ODI 11448411

Jan 20, 2022Visibility & wipers

All of the window regulators have gone out now 3 within a few months, don't know how there isn't a recall yet. Seems there is a lot of complaints in forums. All within 3 months definitely sounds sus. Most think it's due to the plastic wheel the regulator spins on. The heat melts it over time. I only have 49,000 miles on the car at this time. They want 2,300 to fix it.'

NHTSA ODI 11448222

Jan 19, 2022Engine

The contact's son owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the dealer replaced the spark plugs; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then towed to Wiesner Hyundai (1645 Interstate 45 N, Conroe, TX 77304) and diagnosed with engine failure, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer. The failure mileage was 107,727.

NHTSA ODI 11448053

Jan 13, 2022Engine

This same oil leak issue has been addressed at least 6 times and is worse than its ever been. 1-16-20 9-12-20 1-8-21 1-22-21 5-17-21 9-10-21 The Oil pan was replaced on 09-10-21 at 109,331 miles. At around 2,000 mile after this service noticed oil spots again in my driveway, it seems to be leaking in the same spot. I called for an appointment on November 1 to have it looked at and you were about a month out, so I had to make an appointment for November 29th. The problem seems to be getting worse and I dont feel comfotable driving it. I called service twice in the last week and was advised to leave it in case an appointment opens up. Please see service history, check, and advise. I have a college visit with my son in Maryland on November 15 and had to rent a vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11447362

Jan 11, 2022Engine

The Engine block overheated and seized causing a connecting rod to break and eject from the bottom of the vehicle. I was driving down a highway when this happened with no indication or check light of the problem on the dashboard. I heard a snapping noise which was the connecting rod breaking and then ejecting out of the engine and then the engine smoked, and the car immediately lost acceleration on a packed highway and had I not responded quickly - I would have caused a serious accident. I had the car towed to a repair shop initially and they diagnosed it as engine seizure with massive engine failure and they told me to send it to Hyundai dealer in Algonquin IL, which was where they confirmed the diagnosis - it seemed suspicious to me as I have had all maintenance done with Hyundai besides my tires. They told me the engine overheated and seized which caused the connecting rods to snap, I had visited my dealership recently the prior month for an oil change and they did not indicate any major problems with my vehicle. The car had to be towed to my local dealership McGrath City Hyundai as I have no way to drive to the other dealership as it was so far way. I'm waiting now almost half a year for an engine replacement and no word from the manufacturer or dealership on this matter.

NHTSA ODI 11447080

Jan 6, 2022EngineFire

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at 65 - 70 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and there was smoke coming from the bottom of the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle made abnormal sounds. Upon the vehicle being placed onto the tow truck, there was oil leaking from underneath the vehicle onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with rod bearing failure in the lower part of the engine, which caused a hole in the engine block. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

NHTSA ODI 11446511

Jan 6, 2022Latches & locksBrakesEngine

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving 55-60 mph, she heard an abnormal noise. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that she was able to park on the side of the road before the vehicle was seized. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to her residence. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the engine to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, started to experience failure with the brakes. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and was informed that the VIN was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The dealer completed the recall repair however, the failure with the brakes recurred. Additionally, the rear driver’s side door failed to open. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 39,055.

NHTSA ODI 11446469

Jan 3, 2022Engine

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while his daughter was driving 25 MPH, she heard an abnormal noise. The contact stated multiple unknown warning lights were illuminated. The driver was able to park on the side of the road. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to another daughters' apartment. The contact spoke to the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The dealer had the vehicle towed to their location to be diagnosed which was still pending. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 92,933.

NHTSA ODI 11445924

Jan 1, 2022Body & structureLatches & locks

The passenger front door Will not open from the outside once locked. It must be open from inside the car. This would be a safety concern if there was an accident and people were trying to get into the passenger side car. It seems from research that this is a known issue from Hyundai

NHTSA ODI 11445802

Dec 28, 2021Engine

At the end of November 2021, my oil change light came on, which was odd because I was not due for an oil change. Brought the car in, they changed my oil and the light was gone. Barely a week later, the oil light came on again. I had some guys at work check it and they said I barely had any oil. I scheduled another appointment but never made it. I was driving on the highway when my car starting shaking uncontrollably and dropped down to barely 20mph. I almost created a pileup as cars behind me were swerving out of the way. I was almost hit multiple times and could barely get my car over to the breakdown lane. My check engine light also came on as my speed dropped. I had it towed to a nearby independent garage where the mechanic told me the diagnostic codes showed that I had misfired cylinders. He suggested I bring it to a Hyundai dealership to submit a claim as he knew that those type of engines were having issues. I had it towed again to the nearest Hyundai dealership, where they confirmed that 2 of the cylinders had failed. Hyundai confirmed with me that they had every record of me coming in to the dealership to get any required maintenance done on the car, yet the engine dies when it barely goes over 100,000 miles. And to top it off, when I asked for an estimate for repair, they quoted me $17,000 to fix it!

NHTSA ODI 11445358

Dec 27, 2021Electrical system

electrical issues and/or hardware issues with rear windows. understand the issue to be electrical motor and/or window regulator. One window fixed but other to be repaired. in driving, window starts to sag and persons outside the vehicle have attempted to gain entrance through the sagging window. for the repaired window, the dealer inspected and was to repair except the price seemed too high and was only for the window regulator. taken to a glass/auto body shop who indicated both motor and regulator needed to be replaced and charged what the dealer was going to charge for only the replacement of the regulator. the within days after one window fixed, the other window refused to close all the way and the issue of someone trying to gain entrance occurred.

NHTSA ODI 11445131

Dec 22, 2021Engine

I was at a stoplight waiting to turn right. When there was a safe break in traffic I began the right turn, but the engine made a clunking noise and stopped accelerating in the middle of the road. At this point, cars were getting close to me and my car wasn't speeding up, so I turned on my hazard lights and managed to inch onto the shoulder. I had my 5 month old baby in the car with me, so his safety, my safety, and the safety of others on the road were at risk. We took the car to our local Hyundai dealership and they said they couldn't diagnose the issue unless they took the engine apart. They checked all of the fluid levels and electrical connections, the battery, all of that was normal but we didn't have the $500+ they wanted to take the engine apart, so that did not get checked. This car had less than 100,000 miles on it and was in great shape. We had it for less than a year and did not even drive it every day. There were no warning lights or messages or anything to let me know that there was a problem. The engine starting making that clunking noise about five minutes before it died. I was on the highway and got off the nearest exit to check for problems but the car stopped moving before I could get someplace safe to take a look. Other than that, there was no indication of any issue, and no issues spotted during any routine maintenance/oil changes.

NHTSA ODI 11444709

Dec 14, 2021Electrical systemBrakes

Sensor default, ABS on dashboard, acceleration on dashboard, oil lights default on dashboard, electrical problems, and radio default. My vehicle is still under warranty however im trying to figure out will warranty cover for all of the problems within my vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11443842

Dec 13, 2021Body & structure

Passenger side door failing to unlock fully, not openable from the outside under many circumstances. This seems to be a common problem with the 2016 Hyundai Tucson. Hyundai needs to issue a recall for this safety issue.

NHTSA ODI 11443601

Dec 13, 2021Engine

I had the same problem over and over again. Did not show any used oil at that time. Between oil changes, the car was 2.5 quarts low again. There is no evidence of leaks and no smell or smoke from the exhaust no lights indicating the is a problem. My engine is beyond repairs and must be replaced. The car is housed in my daughter's garage because I am unable to pay for a rebuilt or new engine.

NHTSA ODI 11443692

Dec 12, 2021Engine

Started having issues with acceleration after getting gas. Thought it may have been bad gas. Took to independent mechanic who changed all spark plugs, coil packs, catalytic converter. Next month during regular oil change (every 3000 miles), tech told me that I was low on oil and that it looked as if the engine was burning oil. He stated that he had seen multiple engines from Tuscons burning oil and to get in touch with dealer.

NHTSA ODI 11443544

Dec 2, 2021Engine

While driving on the freeway in high traffic, my vehicle suddenly shut off. I re-started it and exited the freeway and drove to a mechanic. Mechanic said vehicle was almost completely out of oil , but there was no visible oil leak. He heard a engine knock and after investigating, found the engine was consuming large amounts of oil and caused damage to the engine. There were no warning indications.

NHTSA ODI 11442440

Dec 1, 2021Body & structure

First the passenger side rear door would not unlock or open; was repaired for a very high amount and I was told it wasn't covered; now the same thing with the driver's side rear door; online forums show this as a very common problem with Hyundai Tucson 2016. This is a safety issue - door cannot be used to exit the vehicle from the inside or outside at the malfunctioning (non-functioning) door.

NHTSA ODI 11442230

Nov 30, 2021Body & structure

My third door has stopped opening from the outside. This is a known issue to Hyundai about these cars and it is a safety issue.

NHTSA ODI 11442180

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Working with the data? Download all 1,536 complaints as CSV · fetched from NHTSA July 25, 2026

How to use these: a complaint is one owner’s report, filed voluntarily and published unverified. Patterns matter more than any single story. If several owners describe the same failure at similar mileage, put that system at the top of your pre-purchase inspection list. Back to the full 2016 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell verdict →