2019 Hyundai Tucson
The Verdict
The 2019 Hyundai Tucson has 368 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are engine (199 complaints) and brakes (108 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 37/100, it earns a "Check Engine" rating. If you're shopping for a Hyundai Tucson, consider the 2009 model year which has 95% fewer complaints.
Safe Bet
The 2009 has 95% fewer complaints
View the 2009 Hyundai Tucson dashboard →
Klunk Score: Check Engine
More complaints than most vehicles. Known issues exist — budget for potential repairs.
How is this calculated?
The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.
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Under the Hood
Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.
| Year | Body | Brakes | Electrical | Engine | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 59 | 12 | 54 | 49 | 11 |
| 2006 | 36 | 15 | 50 | 27 | 7 |
| 2007 | 25 | 6 | 19 | 11 | 4 |
| 2008 | 17 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 2 |
| 2009 | 8 | 0 | 8 | 2 | 0 |
| 2010 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 22 |
| 2011 | 26 | 25 | 4 | 46 | 19 |
| 2012 | 27 | 23 | 13 | 168 | 16 |
| 2013 | 36 | 34 | 18 | 160 | 11 |
| 2014 | 20 | 46 | 9 | 117 | 3 |
| 2015 | 26 | 52 | 12 | 120 | 6 |
| 2016 | 570 | 36 | 147 | 450 | 408 |
| 2017 | 157 | 35 | 50 | 631 | 199 |
| 2018 | 35 | 32 | 20 | 241 | 55 |
| 2019 | 35 | 108 | 18 | 199 | 8 |
| 2020 | 40 | 42 | 16 | 68 | 3 |
| 2021 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 40 | 2 |
| 2022 | 74 | 19 | 38 | 199 | 29 |
| 2023 | 45 | 16 | 20 | 32 | 10 |
| 2024 | 41 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 1 |
| 2025 | 143 | 34 | 57 | 12 | 12 |
By Category
By Severity
Worst Problems
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See how the 2019 Hyundai Tucson stacks up against rivals.
Complaints
The 2019 Tucson has 60,413 miles. My daughter drives it very low mileage - a couple of miles a day back and forth to school. Friday she was driving and the car lost engine power and it stopped driving. No warning lights. There was a cloud of smoke and it smelled like burning plastic. She was on a busy road but pulled over and quickly exited the vehicle. I had it towed and the mechanic says the engine oil was empty and the engine has seized. We do regularly scheduled oil changes. No lights or warnings and the car just stopped in traffic.
While driving, the check engine light began flashing and the vehicle shook severely due to engine misfiring. The vehicle has had a recurring cylinder 3 misfire throughout ownership. Spark plugs and ignition coils were first replaced around 40,000 miles and replaced again in December 2025 for the same recurring issue. A Hyundai dealership inspected the vehicle and found codes P0300 random misfire and P0303 cylinder 3 misfire. The dealership technician documented that the piston rings did not look good and confirmed the catalytic converter was damaged as a result of the misfires. The vehicle has had an engine rattle at idle, oil consumption, and blow-by since early in ownership. The engine defect is progressive and predates the current mileage. The flashing check engine light and severe shaking while driving at highway speeds created an unsafe condition with other vehicles on the road. The problem has been confirmed by a Hyundai dealership. Hyundai Motor America was contacted and denied goodwill warranty assistance. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle will not get to highway speed causing it to impede traffic and presenting a safety risk for collision.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while the contact's husband was driving, the contact noticed an abnormal loud sound. In addition, the contact noticed smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact noticed an unusual odor in the interior of the vehicle. The contact's husband drove the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. The contact stated that the engine seized. In addition, the contact stated that the smoke and the unusual odor subsided. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. In addition, the contact stated that when the failure occurred, the contact's minor children were occupants of the vehicle. The contact stated that the minor children were frightened. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed of an open recall associated with the contact's VIN, NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). In addition, the contact was informed that her contact information was not updated in the database. The failure mileage was approximately 49,400.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an abnormal sound and the engine seized. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle started. The failure reoccurred. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle started and the engine spuddered. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The contact was later informed that the repair was not covered under the recall because of open recalls associated with the contact's VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
I purchased this vehicle from CarMax about 5 months ago. It had 74,XXX miles. CarMax showed no open recalls and a printed sheet from your site showing the same. Several weeks ago, while driving, the engine seized. I sent it to one of the local Hyundai dealers for repair. Hyundai said because recall Campaign #966 had not been performed, they would not replace the engine under the extended warranty. When I purchased the vehicle, I had the foresight to purchase an extended warranty from Assurant. Eventually I found they will cover the repair. I have to pay the $600 deductible, plus a $350 labor charge for diagnostic work. Here is my problem, CarMax told me there was no open recalls (based on your web site), and I counted on CarMax having an accurate knowledge about this when I purchased the vehicle. This is particularly disturbing because in 2022 CarMax settled out of court with 30+ states in part, for failure to disclose open recalls on vehicles they sold. True, I could have checked myself, but how did your entity report no open recalls on this VIN, and CarMax reported no open recalls on this VIN, but Hyundai was aware of the open recalls, and denied an engine warranty repair because the recall campaign had not been completed? There are two other open campaigns, # 933 and #P33 as well. The Hyundai dealer is going to perform these recalls after the repair. To summarize, I purchased this vehicle in good faith that the information provided on the NHTSA sheet, and the CarMax sheet were correct there were no open recalls. My bank financed the auto under the premise it was a safe reliable risk for them. Now, I'm going to be out $950 plus rental car expenses I've already paid. Please contact me if you have more questions.
On March 21st, while driving my Hyundai vehicle, I noticed the vehicle began making a ticking sound. After stopping the vehicle, it slowly began catching on fire. The fire ultimately spread and resulted in the vehicle becoming a total loss. This created a serious safety concern and placed me at risk. I later learned there was a recall associated with the vehicle. However, I never received any recall notices because Hyundai reportedly had the wrong address on file. Had I been properly notified of the recall and potential safety risks, I would have done everything in my power to ensure the vehicle was inspected, repaired, and safe to drive. Because I was unaware of the recall issue, the vehicle continued to be operated without my knowledge of the potential danger. The incident caused significant financial and transportation hardship, including loss of reliable transportation and additional financial strain. Hyundai later reached a determination regarding the matter, but I remain concerned about the serious safety risk and the fact that I did not receive proper recall notification before the incident occurred. I am submitting this complaint because I believe the recall notification process and handling of this matter should be reviewed further due to the serious safety risk involved.
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while parked and occupied in the vehicle, attempting to close the drive side door, and he heard a raddling noise coming from the front of the vehicle and his wife existed the vehicle and noticed the noise was coming from the windshield. The contact mention his wife also noticed mold and water near the drive side part of the windshield. The vehicle was taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnoses. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed him we no recall they could not provide assistance. The failure mileage was 88,686.
2019 Hyundai Tucson experienced catastrophic engine failure, including internal damage. Vehicle previously had Hyundai Campaign 966 (engine monitoring logic) completed. Despite this, engine failed without sufficient warning. Concern that prior campaign did not prevent engine failure
Oil consumption is at an all time high. At last oil change I had Milage 71847 on 3/8/26. I checked my oil on 4/26/26 with 73182 miles, oil was at the add mark on the dipstick which means 2 quarts was gone from my engine at about 1500 miles put on my car since the oil change. Upon reading up on this issue, it is a wide spread issue with several Hyundai models. I bought it used at a car dealship when it was only a year old, so the warranty is only for the original owner. I still owe $3400.00 on this car and I am afraid the engine will go before it is paid off.
The vehicle has had two catalytic converters replaced in 70,000 miles
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled and was idling roughly. The message “Stop Driving” was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate and lost automotive power. The failure had occurred several times. On one occasion, the vehicle had to be towed. The vehicle was able to restart after several failures. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure due to excessive oil consumption. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.
The component involved is the engine and associated knock detection system (KSDS). The system triggered a P1326 code indicating abnormal engine knock associated with a known defect condition. On February 14, 2023, while driving on the freeway, the vehicle suddenly entered reduced power (“limp mode”) and lost acceleration capability in active traffic. This created a safety risk, as the vehicle was unable to maintain speed with surrounding traffic or accelerate as needed for normal driving conditions. There were no sufficient warnings prior to the event to allow safe planning or avoidance of the loss of power condition. The system activation itself (P1326 and limp mode) was the first indication of the severity of the issue. The problem has been reproduced multiple times, with repeated P1326 events occurring after the initial incident. The condition has been inspected and partially confirmed by a Hyundai dealership. In March 2026, dealership records documented that oil contamination was causing catalytic converter failure, indicating ongoing engine-related deterioration consistent with the defect condition identified by the knock detection system. Despite these findings, the underlying engine condition has not been resolved. The KSDS system is designed to detect a potentially serious engine defect and limit engine power to prevent further damage. However, it does not correct the underlying defect. As a result, the vehicle may continue to operate with a known compromised condition that can trigger reduced power unexpectedly. This creates an ongoing safety concern. A vehicle that can suddenly lose acceleration due to a known defect presents a risk to the driver, passengers, and other motorists, particularly during freeway driving, merging, or other situations requiring normal engine performance. The vehicle remains available for inspection upon request.
While driving at highway speed, the engine suffered a sudden connecting rod bearing failure (Cylinder 3) with no prior warning lamps, messages, or symptoms. The vehicle made a slapping noise, a belt came off, the engine died, and would not restart. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Hyundai dealership. The driver, a [XXX] [XXX] , was able to safely guide the vehicle to a stop without injury. The dealership inspected the engine and confirmed a complete Cylinder 3 connecting rod bearing failure. The technician contacted Hyundai Techline, who confirmed the diagnosis and recommended engine replacement. The estimated repair cost is 6,500. The failed engine is available for inspection at the dealership. This vehicle is a 2019 Tucson with the Nu 2.0L GDI engine, which is covered under the E2 Class Action Settlement for connecting rod bearing defects. Hyundai Service Campaign 966 provides a KSDS software update designed to detect abnormal bearing noise before catastrophic failure occurs. This update was never performed on the vehicle. The 2019 Tucson was not added to Campaign 966 until April 2022, after the vehicle had already been purchased used. The owner was never effectively notified of the campaign and the vehicle was never at a Hyundai dealership where the update could have been performed. Hyundai denied warranty coverage solely because Campaign 966 was not completed, despite confirming the failure is the exact defect type the campaign and settlement were designed to address. The vehicle had only 49,437 miles at the time of failure. The engine failed without any prior warning — the exact scenario Campaign 966 was designed to prevent. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
While driving a flashing engine light came on in my 2019 Hyundai Tucson. This made the car slow down and have no power. I brought the car to the nearest mechanic, they told me it was the knock sensor and told me it was a recall for this car, I should bring it back to the dealership. I called the dealership and they had told me to bring the car in. They inspected the car on 8/30/24 at 44,990 miles and told me it was the knock sensor and replaced it. On 11/4/24 at 46,246 miles the car was brought back in for the same issue and the car was inspected again, it was the knock sensor. This time the software was replaced. On 1/29/25 at 48,042 while driving on a highway going 70 mph the flashing light comes on again, brought it back to the dealership and I was given a loaner. The reached out to me and told me it was the knock sensor. They had the car for about 5 days. On 2/14/25 at 48,248 again, driving on a highway the flashing engine light appears again. Called the dealership and brought in the car and again, the knock sensor. On 12/31/25 at 56,712, driving on the highway, the flashing light appears again...On 1/2/26 the car goes back to the dealership, they call me and said that it's the strangest thing, the serpentine belt is worn, and it was making a banging sound which was setting off the knock sensor. At this point they offered to put in a new serpentine belt. I refused because after 5 failed attempts, I decided to bring it to my mechanic (I had lost all confidence with Hyundai mechanics). He did replace it. At this point I sent a letter to Hyundai motors stating all the facts that have been happening and asked for a buyout. After their investigation they called me and said, because you brought it to your mechanic they couldn't help me, but, if it happens again, bring it back to Hyundai. On 2/2/26, 57,286, again. I called the dealership and brought it back. This time they said that they didn't have a loaner to give so I rented one, 4 days. This is 5 failed attempts
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, there was water overflowing from the front passenger's side floormat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the water entry point could not be determined. Additionally, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a brake sensor was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where another brake sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the wiring harness had sustained water damage and corrosion due to a clogged sunroof drain. The dealer determined that the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that the repair should be covered by the manufacturer because the failure was a factory defect. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
Catalytic converter and oil leak which is causing the vehicle to lose power. The catalytic converter was replaced in 2024 and now is bad again in 2025. Oil consumption has been a problem since 2024. Hyuandi is refusing to repair the vehicle. Despite the engine making a knocking noise and the check engine light is flashing the vehicle is still under the 150,000 power train warranty
The engine consumes oil and requires catalytic converter replacement every year at inspection. The engine has been maintained with regular oil and filter changes and the oil is continuously needing to be topped off between changes. I have owned the vehicle for 5 years and have replaced the catalytic converter 3 times. The first time I had it replaced it was still under warranty and it was replaced by the dealership. The technician stated that it was a known issue with these vehicles. It was about six months before the check engine light was on again and showing the same code and problem. Every year I am replacing the catalytic converter to pass inspection. I have taken it to different locations every year to try to find a solution to this and they all say the engines are burning too much oil and causing catalytic converter failure.
Oil extremely hot and burnt to oil stick. Running really hot. Dangerous possible fire hazard
Low oil, burnt oil on dip stick, engine running dangerous hot, lights on on dash, engine knocking
368 total