What 383 owners told NHTSA about the 2018 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell

The situation I’m about to explain has happened twice—once in December 2025 and again on January 22, 2026. In December, the roads were very icy, but there was no snow on the ground. As I made a right turn into a Walmart parking lot, I heard a loud metal-breaking sound while turning. I immediately got out and looked underneath my 2018 Hyundai Tucson SEL but didn’t see anything unusual. After finishing my shopping, I started the SUV to pull out of the parking space. The car was trying to move, but the rear tires were not moving at all. A man waiting for my parking spot noticed this and told me one of the tires wasn’t turning. As I drove home, I heard extremely loud metal noises coming from the back of the vehicle—sounds like metal twisting, breaking, and falling to the ground. At no point did any warning lights come on. I took the car to a highly rated mechanic, Premier Car Care, where they did a thorough inspection and found nothing wrong. After being reassured that the vehicle was safe, I continued driving it. Then on January 22, 2026, the same issue happened again. I was driving to my internship, and the roads were slushy. Suddenly, the Tucson became unstable, slid unexpectedly, and I heard the same metal twisting and breaking noises. This time, the ABS light came on briefly and then went off. The vehicle felt unsafe and unstable, even though I was driving very slowly—around 15 miles per hour. I was terrified and nearly hit someone. I had the car towed through Triple A back to the mechanic, but once again, they were unable to find the cause after inspecting it, and it is sitting in my driveway. I am reaching out because I am on disability, I have three children with autism, and I am also currently in school. I rely on this vehicle, and I truly need help investigating what is happening so this issue can be properly identified and fixed before someone gets seriously hurt.

NHTSA ODI 11714033

The car began making a knocking sound on my 5.8 mile drive. On my drive home from work, the knocking was louder, and the car barely accelerated on the highway and over-revved trying to hit at least 50 mph to keep up with the flow of traffic. I took the car to the Hyundai Service Center immediately using city streets rather than the highway. I had a family member follow me to make sure I made it to the service center as well as give me a ride home after I dropped off the vehicle. As I was driving there, the car had a hard time accelerating from a stop and barely maintaining speed of the flow of traffic and the “Check Engine” light came on and flashed as I got closer to the dealer service center. The dealer service center confirmed that the engine needs to be replaced due to the connecting rod bearing failure, a common issue with the 2.0L I4 F DOHC 16 V engine in my 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The Hyundai Service Manager has repeatedly confirmed that the engine issues presented in my car are consistent with a recall for the same model engine found in my car.

NHTSA ODI 11712262

There is oil that leaks on a couple spark plugs.....when I remove the plug there is oil on the plug cover and inside where the plug goes in.........disturbing.....can you help....supposed to be a recall but I don't know what to do.....I would like to get that straightened out..... I want to keep it .....also like to buy my wife a new one......can you help on this problem.... They were supposed to fix recall..... Hundai Uniontown Pa. Can you help.... [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11711905

The engine and engine management system of my 2018 Hyundai Tucson experienced repeated failures resulting in loss of propulsion and unsafe drivability. In November 2025, while traveling approximately 75 mph on a freeway, the vehicle suddenly entered limp mode without any prior warning, causing an abrupt loss of power in active highway traffic. No warning lamps or messages appeared before the failure. After the loss of propulsion occurred, the check engine light, battery light, and oil light illuminated sequentially. Diagnostic trouble codes P1326 and P0326 were recorded. Initial inspection indicated severe oil consumption despite a recent oil change less than 2,000 miles earlier. A Hyundai dealership replaced knock sensors under warranty. Shortly after release (30 miles), the vehicle again exhibited severe drivability issues, including a flashing check engine light, and required immediate towing. A second Hyundai dealership replaced the short engine block under warranty. Approximately 180 miles after the engine replacement, the vehicle again developed unsafe drivability symptoms, including delayed throttle response, failure to accelerate unless the accelerator was fully depressed multiple times, jerking or lugging when slowing or stopped, and a faint whining noise. The check engine light illuminated again. These failures represent repeated loss of propulsion and unsafe operation following manufacturer-approved repairs, including full engine replacement. The vehicle has been out of service for approximately 57 days and remains in the custody of a Hyundai dealership awaiting diagnostics. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The sudden and unpredictable loss of power at highway speed created a significant risk of collision and serious injury to the driver and surrounding motorists.

NHTSA ODI 11710941

The engine is burning excessive oil. Down 3 quarts over approx. 3,000 miles. Mechanic verified there are no leaks - it is burning the oil.

NHTSA ODI 11708499

High Oil Consumption

NHTSA ODI 11707773

My 2018 Hyundai Tucson has been experiencing oil consumption issues for over a year. It began at around 80k miles, when it should have been covered by warranty but they made me pay out of pocket for an oil consumption test only to ultimately recommend a top end cleaning, which I also paid for and it did not solve the problem. This is a known issue with Hyundai, and they have settled many lawsuits but have consistently denied any repair or solution for me. I am burning about 5 quarts of oil every week, and this is a problem they refuse to help solve.

NHTSA ODI 11705910

Oil consumption, will change oil and within weeks i will be down 23 Quarts of oil

NHTSA ODI 11704550

The engine on this vehicle burns oil quickly which is a known defect. I took the vehicle to the dealership and both times I was told everything was working fine. On 12/5/2025 the vehicle just lost power while driving. After getting the vehicle towed to a mechanic they said I needed a new engine.

NHTSA ODI 11703688

My 2018 Hyundai Tucson experienced complete engine failure at around 118,000 miles. The motor suddenly blew without warning. This vehicle uses an engine type known for widespread engine defects, including bearing wear and internal failure. I bought the vehicle used in 2023, maintained it regularly, and there were no warning lights or overheating before the failure. I had to put oil in my vehicle every week. I had to use 5qts of oil. It smelled like fumes coming through the vents. It then stalled on the highway while we had our son in the vehicle and shaked profusely. Mind you we had our son in the vehicle. How unsafe is that. I then did my research and found out Hyundai engines of this generation have a history of stalling, seizing, and internal damage. I am filing this complaint because this appears to be part of a known safety defect that can cause sudden loss of power while driving. We took it to shop and confirmed the motor blew. It was faulty. Also, sometimes the electrical components would turn off in vehicle such as radio and would go black. Also the turn signal would be on and then turn off. It would also shake while driving. This needs to be taken care of ASAP as it almost caused danger to my family and also caused financial strain on my family too as I now had to roll over my vehicle loan into a new safe vehicle. I would like to be contacted in regards to this. Thank you.

NHTSA ODI 11702770

My car on the expressway wouldn't go over 40 and this was happening intermittently so my car was unsafe. No check engine light but it was just at the dealership for an oil change. Has. been an ongoing problem since I bought the car! Smells, gets hot!

NHTSA ODI 11698101

Excessive oil consumption (failed 3 tests) now adding two quarts a week.... Transmission shifting issues (already had a replacement at 65,000 miles. Hesitation with acceleration. AWD and can barely make it up my driveway. Rpms rev when trying to go slow. Already needed a moonroof replaced because the motor died. USB randomly disconnects and reconnects for GPS.

NHTSA ODI 11697560

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle almost stalled. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated and was flashing off and on. The accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, and the vehicle remained running. The contact waited for a while and then shifted to drive(D) and was unable to accelerate above 30 MPH. The contact stated that the failure was a recurring failure. The vehicle was taken to a Parts Store and was scanned, and DTC: P1326 was retrieved. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was no longer driving the vehicle. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

NHTSA ODI 11697679

Shortly after purchase, I had an oil change and vehicle inspection performed. I was informed that my engine may have an internal defect causing it to burn oil excessively. I later took the vehicle to a AAA-approved Hyundai service center, where they confirmed that the engine is burning oil due to a known manufacturer issue and that it is not the result of owner misuse or neglect. I have been quoted approximately $11,000 for a replacement engine, which is an extreme and unexpected cost for a recently purchased vehicle in otherwise good condition.

NHTSA ODI 11696184

I purchased this car [XXX] as a CPO vehicle from a Ford dealership. By [XXX] the oil pressure light would flicker and it was clear the car was burning a lot of oil between changes. On 8/22 an oil change was completed at dealer. On [XXX] the oil pressure light flickered and it was three quarts down. An oil consumption test was started at 112,000. On Sat [XXX] while driving to dealer for oil check, the car began shuddering violently and the check engine light came on, and went into limp mode. I was on a dangerous mountain pass at the time and it could have been a major issue. The day before a tractor trailer had almost run me off the road, if my car had stalled then I might not be here. Hyundais have a known issue with oil burning and engine damage. Right now I am stuck in a 14K loan with a car that is unsafe to drive. I am not sure what the dealer plans to do, or what the diagnosis is, but its clear these engines are not safe. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11695832

My 2018 Hyundai Tucson SEL PLUS limited showed a flashing check engine light on 10/14/2025 and basically gave up acerating pass 60mph while I was driving , I pulled over and called the dealership where I bought it from they told me to drive it in, I did and they did an oil change and filled up, we then began the oil consumption test which I brought it back yesterday 10/24/2025 and was told the whole engine needed to be replaced due to a major oil consumption problem, they advised me to bring it the Hyundai dealership to get it fixed they rudely told me no we can't fix this, we would have to wait for it to flash the check engine light again and it would have to fail a bearings test before it can be fixed and still have a possibly of it not fixing. only confirmed by the lot I bought it from since Hyundai refused to look at it.

NHTSA ODI 11695565

The contact's sister owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while his sister was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly jerked and jolted, prompting her to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway to turn off the vehicle. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed failures with all four fuel injectors and the injector assembly. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who then diagnosed a failure with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,563.

NHTSA ODI 11695439

My 2018 Hyundai Tucson 1.6 Turbo (VIN [XXX] , 113,000 miles) burns oil excessively and was deemed to need full engine and turbo replacement ($15,382.95). Hyundai refuses responsibility (case #XXX). This is a widespread defect that causes potential loss of power while driving. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11694977

2018 Hyundai Tucson has excessive oil consumption. Burns multiple quarts of oil per 1000 miles. Hyundai refuses to remedy the oil consumption. Oil consumption has also led to having to replace the catalytic converter due to oil burn off.

NHTSA ODI 11695118

On October 13th 2025, we were involved in a serious collision while driving our 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The vehicle was struck from behind and spun into a semi-truck, totalling the vehicle. Despite the forward and lateral collision to the semi-truck, no airbags deployed at all during the accident. This resulted in the Tucson driver striking his head on the steering wheel. Our 5-month old son was also on-board the vehicle in his car seat. While everyone walked away from the accident, both adults passengers had whiplash/minor neck injuries that could have been mitigated by airbags deploying. We have serious safety concerns about Hyundai's airbags because of this incident.

NHTSA ODI 11694065

I am filing a complaint under the NC Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-1.1) regarding Hyundai’s handling of my 2018 Hyundai Tucson (purchased new May 2018). Since 2019, the vehicle has had repeated headlight failures (at least 12 bulb replacements), persistent “bulb out” warnings, and eventually melted wiring requiring headlamp assembly replacement in 2025. These issues were first reported in April 2023 under warranty but dismissed as “could not duplicate.” Hyundai later attempted to deny coverage, only replacing the assembly after escalation to Corporate. At the April 2023 visit, I also reported a rear noise that Hyundai dismissed. After warranty expiration, it was attributed to a leaking shock. Shocks were covered under warranty; failure to act while coverage was active left me unprotected. In May 2023, the engine failed due to oil loss and lock-up. Hyundai retained my vehicle from 5/15–6/30/23 for engine replacement. From Aug–Sep 2025, the car was held an additional 24 days, with no permanent fix for the electrical defect. Overall, my Tucson has been out of service for 60+ days between 2023–2025. Examples of unfair/deceptive conduct: Dismissing documented defects under warranty, only acknowledging later after expiration. Attempting to shift labor costs onto me in Jan 2025 despite warranty obligations. Returning my vehicle with only ~39 miles of gas after requiring me to return a loaner full. Repeated misdiagnoses and delays despite video and documentation provided. These actions are deceptive and unfair, leaving me with an unsafe, unreliable vehicle and causing financial loss and hardship to my work as a self-employed pet sitter and dog groomer. I request the Attorney General investigate Hyundai’s conduct and enforce consumer protections under UDTPA. Service records, receipts, and communications are available upon request.

NHTSA ODI 11690889

Van Hyundai Dealership in Carrollton, TX has confirmed excessive oil consumption causing catalytic converter failure that results in the engine stalling and unable to accelerate. We’ve already replaced the catalytic converter once in 2024 because it was full of oil and causing engine failure. Less than a year later (less than 10,500 miles) the same problem was reproduced. The dealership refuses to replace our engine due to the engine defect. This problem directly impacts the engines ability to perform, unable to accelerate on the interstate, and engine stalling which directly impacts our safety and puts our family into a life threatening situation when the engine fails on the highway. The engine has a defect that Hyundai refuses to address. There are no warnings or engine lights that appear beforehand which is extremely concerning and a liability. Hyundai motor company is corrupt. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11690365

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that there were metal shavings found on the camshaft sensor. The contact was advised that the camshaft sensor, oil flow solenoid, and variable tee valve were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred 3 months later. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed, with the check engine and oil light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 56,942.

NHTSA ODI 11689984

Over the past nine months, I’ve been experiencing ongoing issues with my 2018 Hyundai Tucson engine and transmission. After four consumption tests and a flush confirming that the engine is burning between 0.8 and 0.3 liters of oil for every 1,000, I was informed Hyundai refuses to either repair the issue or conduct testing to determine the cause. The timeline is summarized below: •February 2025 – I was told by [XXX] my vehicle simply did not have enough oil after the last oil change; •March 2025 – I was informed an initial consumption test needed to be completed; •May 2025 – a second consumption test revealed the engine was burning more than 1 liter per 1000 and a flush was completed; •July 2025 – a third consumption test was completed, revealing that while the engine was excessively burning oil, it was not currently at 1 liter per 1000 based on that test; August 2025 – the oil light came on & I was instructed to put a liter of oil into my vehicle to make it to the certified dealer for next steps. The next steps were another consumption test. Unfortunately, because I was told to add oil to make it to the dealership, I was then informed that this added oil would alter the testing, and we had to start over. •September 2025 – I am now awaiting the results of the fourth consumption test. I have receipts for every 6 months or 7,500 of service since purchasing the vehicle., Despite the engine and transmission being under warranty, the dealership has refused to conduct testing to determine the cause of the issue or remedy the excessive consumption. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11689224

I took my car in for a daily oil change and inspection, where I learned that there was no oil is in my car after coming in 5k miles before as I have been religious about oil changes. I came in on Saturday September 20th for an inspection and was topped off with 3 quarts of oil but am now back in the shop Monday September 22nd to test the oil. The oil that was checked came out Black.

NHTSA ODI 11688893