2019 Hyundai Tucson Engine Problems

I had bought my car in May of 2025 and within 12 hours of owning it. The check engine light came on. They replaced the sensor well. A couple days later, the check engine light came on again, and they had to rebuild my whole engine had the car for a month at this time. When they rebuilt the engine, they had the car for over a month. And ever since I got it back, it's always something the same thing has to get repaired. Well, I took it to the shop. Yesterday because it was misfiring, and I needed to have some spark plugs replaced, and they said that the Ignition coil needed to be replaced, but there was a recall on that not too long ago. And they fixed that on the recall. There's no reason that should have already went a few months later. Well, the problem is when I bought my car, I bought it from tar. Hyundai, it's now rusty, while it's Hyundai. They charged me $200 just to get my car out of their lot. Because I refused service because they were trying to charge me. $2500 to fix my car. Now mind you, I've already put over $4000 extra into this car. After purchasing it for over 21000 now they're not wanting to honor any work that Tara. Hyundai done because they don't be responsible. They don't want to honor the tar. Hyundai warranty or anything I've had it with this Hyundai company. I've been driving this lemon. It is yet again in the shop. Being fixed, although the engine was rebuilt a year ago, there is no reason. This car should keep having engine failure. They don't want to honor it. They don't want to give me a new car, they don't want to, they're acting like they don't care like, 00 well, it's your fault, but I did not buy the car, as is it came with a warranty. When they reserved my engine and had to rebuild it. They extended my warranty 2 hundred and fifty thousand miles

NHTSA ID

11763305

Incident

Sep 9, 2026

My 2019 Hyundai Tucson repeatedly shuts off while driving , without any warning. It rolls backwards while in park. The car could easily hit me taking things out of the trunk or hit my neighbors walking past my drive. The car has no power. It can’t get up to speed. It shakes and I have to get someone to add oil to it frequently. The first time this happened was in April of 2023. The engine seized up and it was towed to Driver’s Village in Cicero, NY. They replaced the engine block. But not the converter. Now, it is happening again. I have had 2 diagnostic tests done. One by my mechanic and the other by Advanced Auto Parts. Both tests say that the problem is the catalytic converter, but Hyundai refuses to fix the problem and will not honor my extended warranty. I have written and called them numerous times for almost 2 years now, about this and they say they will call me back, but they do not. None of the dealerships will even look at my car. I need someone to look at my vehicle. This vehicle is not safe. Other Tucson owners have the same problems with their cars, that I am complaining about. There is a federal emissions warranty that Hyundai claim they have never heard of, that would fix my car and make it safe to drive. I just want Hyundai to stand behind their warranty and fix my car before it kills someone.

NHTSA ID

11762256

Incident

Apr 4, 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway and turned off, the vehicle rolled backwards and occasionally ended up in the street in front of the residence. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled in the middle of traffic and other vehicles to go around the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and was pulled over to the side of the road and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine block needed to be replaced. The contact stated that there was ice built up underneath the tires, and an unknown ring was replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the vehicle reversed inadvertently while parked and stalled while driving at various speeds, and the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended, and the vehicle was shaking abnormally on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer but was not diagnosed; however, the contact was notified that the failure might be associated with the catalytic converter. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

NHTSA ID

11761675

Incident

Apr 2, 2023

Mileage

60,000 mi

While traveling northbound on [XXX] in Florida traffic came to a stop, and when I stopped, my engine seized, I attempted to restart, but was unable to get a restart. My attempts to restart caused the starter to start burning smoke was coming from under the hood this put me at serious risk being on an interstate highway in the left lane at [XXX]. It was very difficult for me to push the car to the side of the road in this dangerous situation, recalling how Harry Chapin died in New York, because his car failed, and was struck by another vehicle. I was able to get the car onto the shoulder away from the moving traffic. The engine that seized is a 2.0 GDI engine and that engine has been identified to have multiple failures and being replaced after failing . Hyundai sent a letter. I believe this engine should be recalled and replaced before others are put in the same dangerous situation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11761578

Incident

Jun 30, 2026

OnXXX my car experienced sudden knocking in the engine. I pulled over to the service station on the [XXX] and had my car towed to Empire Hyundai in [XXX]. I had just changed oil on XXXand upon inspection oil level was fine. Problem is the theta 2 engine and though the car is under extended warranty Hyundai is requesting maintenance records before repairing this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11760673

Incident

Aug 25, 2026

I have noticed that the engine oil level in my vehicle drops significantly between regular oil changes. Despite adhering to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, I frequently have to add a quart of oil after driving only about [800~1,000 마일] miles.I understand that this is a widely reported issue with Hyundai Owners Forum affecting 2019 models. Many experts and fellow owners have identified that this rapid oil loss is often caused by manufacturing defects, such as faulty piston rings, which can eventually lead to catastrophic engine failure.As a Hyundai owner, I am highly concerned about the safety, reliability, and decreased resale value of my vehicle. Running low on oil without warning creates a high risk of sudden engine breakdown while driving on the highway.I kindly request that Hyundai Corporate or my local authorized dealer investigate and resolve this matter. Specifically, I am asking for:An official engine inspection and a proper Oil Consumption Test.Necessary repairs or a full engine replacement under the applicable powertrain warranty at no cost to me.

NHTSA ID

11751036

Incident

May 1, 2024

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.

NHTSA ID

11744669

Incident

Jun 12, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11740933

Incident

May 7, 2026

The vehicle will not get to highway speed causing it to impede traffic and presenting a safety risk for collision.

NHTSA ID

11739697

Incident

May 8, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11738126

Incident

May 1, 2026

Mileage

81,000 mi

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.

NHTSA ID

11737757

Incident

Apr 30, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11737337

Incident

Mar 21, 2026

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

NHTSA ID

11734779

Incident

Apr 18, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11734440

Incident

Apr 26, 2026

The vehicle has had two catalytic converters replaced in 70,000 miles

NHTSA ID

11732121

Incident

Mar 2, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID

11731582

Incident

Apr 16, 2026

Mileage

59,000 mi

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.

NHTSA ID

11730664

Incident

Feb 14, 2023

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)

NHTSA ID

11729405

Incident

Mar 13, 2026

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

NHTSA ID

11723997

Incident

Aug 30, 2024

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

NHTSA ID

11720312

Incident

Apr 4, 2023

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.

NHTSA ID

11720277

Incident

Oct 9, 2021

Low oil, burnt oil on dip stick, engine running dangerous hot, lights on on dash, engine knocking

NHTSA ID

11719540

Incident

Feb 19, 2026

Oil extremely hot and burnt to oil stick. Running really hot. Dangerous possible fire hazard

NHTSA ID

11719538

Incident

Feb 19, 2026

The vehicle has consumed the oil and no light came on. I drove and i checked when the running engine start doing a dry noise and loose the power. The stick was completely dry, i filled with 2 litters and now the stick show in the half. My vehicle has 60k miles and tomorrow will check on the servis. It is unacceptable first how the vehicle consumed the oil and the second the system didn't notify risking an overheat and posing an elevated risk to spop in the middle of the road causing an accident or starting a fire due to overheat.

NHTSA ID

11716364

Incident

Feb 5, 2026

Limp mode, knocking , engine light. Only has 62,768 miles on it. I can't fill out campaign 966 or 982 on the official web site for extended coverage.

NHTSA ID

11711312

Incident

Jan 14, 2026