2020 Hyundai Tucson Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2020 Hyundai Tucson, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine7135.5%
- Brakes4522.5%
- Driver assistance2412.0%
- Electrical199.5%
- Powertrain (other)94.5%
- Airbags73.5%
- Fuel system52.5%
- Steering42.0%
- Interior & seats31.5%
- Body & structure31.5%
- Exterior lighting31.5%
- Seat belts21.0%
- Suspension21.0%
- Visibility21.0%
- Other / unspecified10.5%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The engine lost power while driving, and the vehicle entered a reduced-power mode. The check engine light began flashing, and the engine made a loud knocking noise during acceleration. A diagnostic scan showed code P1326 (Knock Sensor Signal Range/Performance). The knock sensor was replaced, and the engine oil was refilled after discovering an oil leak. The vehicle operated normally for a short time, but the same symptoms returned. The vehicle is available for inspection. The vehicle suddenly lost power while traveling approximately 70 mph on the highway, making it difficult to maintain speed and safely keep up with traffic. This created a risk of being struck by other vehicles or causing an accident. The problem has since recurred during normal driving. The problem has been reproduced multiple times. A diagnostic scanner consistently identified code P1326. The knock sensor was replaced and the engine oil was replenished, but the same symptoms returned after several trips. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a Hyundai dealership. The vehicle has been inspected by the owner and a family mechanic who replaced the knock sensor and identified an engine oil leak. It has not yet been inspected by Hyundai, law enforcement, or an insurance representative. There were no warning lights or messages indicating low engine oil or an oil leak before the failure occurred. I had the engine oil changed approximately one month before the incident. While driving on the highway at approximately 70 mph, the vehicle suddenly lost power, the check engine light began flashing, and the engine started making a loud knocking noise. After inspecting the vehicle, we discovered it had an engine oil leak and the oil level was low. Before the loss of power, there were no warning signs that the engine was losing oil or that there was an oil leak.
High excessive oil consumption and premature piston ring failure leading to excessive oil consumption
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
In August/September 2025 my mother's Tucson would randomly shut down on her (completely stall while driving) and she would not be able to turn it back on. If she waited a little while, then she would be able to turn the car back on but it was unknown when the issue would happen again. We took it to the dealer several times after each shutdown and the dealer stated it was not throwing a code and they could not diagnose the problem. The last time we took it to the dealer, the vehicle shut down while they were test driving it and they discovered it was a rear wheel sensor which is part of the ABS system. When the car would stall, lights on the dashboard would start flashing and the car would shudder to a stall. Since repairing that rear wheel sensor, the car has not exhibited the issue until 3 days ago when it again shut down randomly while she was in traffic. This, of course was terribly frightening for her as cars were honking at her and whipping around her vehicle. She was not able to get the car started. A police officer came and parked behind her car, calmed her down, and got her to try the car one more time and it did start up and she was able to proceed to the closest parking lot. After that we followed her home and have an appt. set to go back to the dealership. We are expecting the same run around at the dealer who charges excessive fees to diagnose and then repair the car. My Mom is [XXX] so this is a dangerous vehicle for her to be driving (really for anyone) as I am reading on line others reporting this same condition. I am expecting that they will find that a different rear wheel sensor has failed for which they will want another $800.00 to repair or maybe more now. Obviously we must get rid of this vehicle. It has less than 25,000 miles on it because she only drives to the grocery store and back. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Component: Engine / Electrical System / Fuel System Incident Date: February 9th, 2026 Vehicle Speed: 45-50 MPH Description: While traveling at highway speeds on a major roadway, the vehicle experienced a catastrophic and sudden engine stall without any prior warning or dashboard indicators. The engine shut off completely while in motion, resulting in an immediate and total loss of power steering and power-assisted braking. I was forced to perform a high-effort emergency maneuver in heavy traffic to reach the shoulder and avoid a collision. This vehicle is used to transport myself, my coworker and my family whose lives was placed in immediate danger by this failure. Since the start of the financing agreement, this vehicle has a documented history of recurring sensor issues and failed repair attempts at the dealership (Route 1 Hyundai). The dealership has previously attempted to address electrical/sensor malfunctions, but the root cause remains unresolved, leading to this life-threatening stall. I believe this is a significant safety defect in the vehicle’s electrical or fuel management system that poses an unreasonable risk of accidents and injury.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
In August/September 2025 my mother's Tucson would randomly shut down on her (completely stall while driving) and she would not be able to turn it back on. If she waited a little while, then she would be able to turn the car back on but it was unknown when the issue would happen again. We took it to the dealer several times after each shutdown and the dealer stated it was not throwing a code and they could not diagnose the problem. The last time we took it to the dealer, the vehicle shut down while they were test driving it and they discovered it was a rear wheel sensor which is part of the ABS system. When the car would stall, lights on the dashboard would start flashing and the car would shudder to a stall. Since repairing that rear wheel sensor, the car has not exhibited the issue until 3 days ago when it again shut down randomly while she was in traffic. This, of course was terribly frightening for her as cars were honking at her and whipping around her vehicle. She was not able to get the car started. A police officer came and parked behind her car, calmed her down, and got her to try the car one more time and it did start up and she was able to proceed to the closest parking lot. After that we followed her home and have an appt. set to go back to the dealership. We are expecting the same run around at the dealer who charges excessive fees to diagnose and then repair the car. My Mom is [XXX] so this is a dangerous vehicle for her to be driving (really for anyone) as I am reading on line others reporting this same condition. I am expecting that they will find that a different rear wheel sensor has failed for which they will want another $800.00 to repair or maybe more now. Obviously we must get rid of this vehicle. It has less than 25,000 miles on it because she only drives to the grocery store and back. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I have experienced 4 repeated issues within 4 months with my vehicle. Starting in September 2025 and the 4th and current issue today 1/12/26. Driving when all of a sudden all of my brake components lamps come on dash oard, forward collision alert, and check engine, my vehicle struggles to accelerate accurately. Blue Link diagnostic throws various codes such as ECM, Transmission Control System, even "multiple possible issues". Each time my vehicle has been at Hyundai dealership for repair. Each time they repair something different 1st- replace ABS module and hydraulic brake, 2nd - happened out of state at my mother funeral and replaced my ECM, 3rd couldn't figure it out and guessed it was my Forward collision camera and replaced it, 4th - is today and awaiting dealership diagnosis. This issue has left me stranded several times local and long distance, occured in middle of driving including on highway, and overall uncertain of the safety and reliability of the vehicle as each time it has been the same type of issue. I have been in communication with Hyundai Corporate since October and they stated that even tho I only have 24k miles on the vehicle that it is outside the state of IN lemon laws for a buyback. If I hadn't purchased an extended warranty I would be in even more debt or unable to put it in the shop even tho I don't feel like this should be my burden when I have kept this vehicle in great shape, low mileage, frequent oil changes, etc . however the safety of my vehicles goes unresolved. At this point I am uncertain that Hyundai is properly diagnosing my vehicle and not certain how these issues are impacting other components of my vehicle such as brakes, transmission, engine, sensors. I am the only owner of this vehicle bought brand new. I have checked repeatedly for any recalls that I have not addressed and at this time none are pending. I fear that this vehicle will continue to have more safety issues.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving on the expressway my car hit a bump and all the power from the vehicle was lost. I’ve been having issues with my car and have taking it to Hyundai dealership. Everytime I take it they are saying my car is fixed. But it’s not. Now they are saying they didn’t fix it because I didn’t explain the problem to them. I lost control driving high speeds. Thankfully the power returned. When I tell hyuandai in Naperville what happened they said it’s not their responsibility because I didn’t say it was electrical. I told them I didn’t know I had a an electrical problem. I thought that if I take my car in they would tell me the problem.
On December 27, 2025, while driving, the engine suddenly lost power and the vehicle entered limp mode and became undriveable. A warning light appeared and diagnostic code P1326 was later confirmed, indicating engine bearing failure. The vehicle could not be driven safely and required towing to a Hyundai dealership the following day. The engine failure caused a loss of propulsion safety risk. The vehicle remains out of service pending a full engine replacement. The vehicle is available for inspection at a Hyundai dealership.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving, the engine began making a loud knocking/rattling noise and the check engine light began flashing. The vehicle experienced a loss of power and was unsafe to continue operating normally. The vehicle was taken to a Hyundai dealership for diagnosis. The engine requires replacement. Hyundai denied coverage, claiming excessive oil consumption and/or maintenance concerns. However, upon inspection, the dealership removed the valve cover and advised that the engine was internally clean and showed no significant sludge buildup consistent with severe neglect. I am concerned that this engine failure may be related to known Hyundai engine issues involving the 2.4L GDI engine. The failure occurred well before the expected service life of the engine and created a potential safety hazard due to the loss of power while driving. I am requesting that NHTSA review this failure and determine whether similar failures are occurring in 2020 Hyundai Tucson vehicles equipped with the 2.4L GDI engine.
My car has been burning through about 2 quarts of oil every 1000 miles. Hyundai will NOT replace the engine. If this continues My engine could malfunction while driving. This is a serious safety concern and there's plenty of information on it. They refuse to recall it.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Was in a side impact car accident last year. And have been speaking with Hyundai off and on since the accident and have basically been brushed off in my concerns about the fact my airbags never deployed when my rear passenger door was essentially ripped off during the car accident. Progressive moved quickly with my claim and Hyundai pretty much told me not their problem since progressive moved the vehicle so fast and they said they can’t locate it even though I gave them exactly who to get in contact with and they never bothered and basically told me my issue was unfounded due to the fact they couldn’t locate said vehicle
For about three weeks, my airbag warning light appeared intermittently, lasting 1–3 minutes at a time. I have not taken it to the dealership because I was unsure if it was covered by the warranty, and they had no availability. Now the warning light is off, but I am worried that the airbags will not deploy if needed.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
Dealer completed update 9C2 Theta 2 emissions update. After update, the car sputters slightly and increased noise is heard from the tailpipe. Customer returned to dealer after driving the car in different temps and noted the above complaint. Dealer verified the complaint but continues to take no responsibility for the fault on the repair receipt by writing condition is “normal” and recommending “customer to allow vehicle to properly warm up for one to three minutes prior to driving.” The last line of the service record indicates “no problem found at this time.” A template letter from Hyundai was attached to the repair record. Hyundai may be instructing dealers to not document problems in the service records assumably so they will not be liable for future litigation. It should be noted that owner was previously denied payment on their 2017 Hyundai Tucson due to lack of documentation by the dealer to prove the case with prior class action lawsuit despite years of verbal complaints to the service staff. Dealer may be intentionally not documenting or taking responsibility for systematic failures in the Tucson in service records. This may be on the direction of Hyundai corporate. 2020 Hyundai Tucson continues to sputter periodically during normal driving conditions. Car is parked in an attached garage making a 1 to 3 minute warm-up time-consuming and possibly unsafe. This required warm up should not be considered normal as indicated on the repair record. Hyundai should take responsibility for their shortcomings and allow proper documentation on service records rather than pushing the fault on the owners. As with previous Tucson complaints, the dealer continues to indicate the problems are the result of owner actions not internal failures.
Spark plugs have been replaced twice- fuel injectors cleaned and now I have another misfire in cylinder 3 and have to replace all four fuel injectors.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
In August/September 2025 my mother's Tucson would randomly shut down on her (completely stall while driving) and she would not be able to turn it back on. If she waited a little while, then she would be able to turn the car back on but it was unknown when the issue would happen again. We took it to the dealer several times after each shutdown and the dealer stated it was not throwing a code and they could not diagnose the problem. The last time we took it to the dealer, the vehicle shut down while they were test driving it and they discovered it was a rear wheel sensor which is part of the ABS system. When the car would stall, lights on the dashboard would start flashing and the car would shudder to a stall. Since repairing that rear wheel sensor, the car has not exhibited the issue until 3 days ago when it again shut down randomly while she was in traffic. This, of course was terribly frightening for her as cars were honking at her and whipping around her vehicle. She was not able to get the car started. A police officer came and parked behind her car, calmed her down, and got her to try the car one more time and it did start up and she was able to proceed to the closest parking lot. After that we followed her home and have an appt. set to go back to the dealership. We are expecting the same run around at the dealer who charges excessive fees to diagnose and then repair the car. My Mom is [XXX] so this is a dangerous vehicle for her to be driving (really for anyone) as I am reading on line others reporting this same condition. I am expecting that they will find that a different rear wheel sensor has failed for which they will want another $800.00 to repair or maybe more now. Obviously we must get rid of this vehicle. It has less than 25,000 miles on it because she only drives to the grocery store and back. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Component: Engine / Electrical System / Fuel System Incident Date: February 9th, 2026 Vehicle Speed: 45-50 MPH Description: While traveling at highway speeds on a major roadway, the vehicle experienced a catastrophic and sudden engine stall without any prior warning or dashboard indicators. The engine shut off completely while in motion, resulting in an immediate and total loss of power steering and power-assisted braking. I was forced to perform a high-effort emergency maneuver in heavy traffic to reach the shoulder and avoid a collision. This vehicle is used to transport myself, my coworker and my family whose lives was placed in immediate danger by this failure. Since the start of the financing agreement, this vehicle has a documented history of recurring sensor issues and failed repair attempts at the dealership (Route 1 Hyundai). The dealership has previously attempted to address electrical/sensor malfunctions, but the root cause remains unresolved, leading to this life-threatening stall. I believe this is a significant safety defect in the vehicle’s electrical or fuel management system that poses an unreasonable risk of accidents and injury.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
My driver's seat broke and started wobbling while driving. The whole. Bottom plate is broken and the bolt will not hold it steady. It will not stay in one place. It slides back and forth and bounces up and down
I WAS DRIVING THEN I SMELLED SOMETHING, DIDN'T FIGURE OUT WHERE THE SMELL COME FROM AT FIRST, BUT WHEN I GOT HOME I REALIZED THAT MY REAR SEAT WAS BURNT AND MELTED SO DEEP IT WAS UNBELIEVABLE BECAUSE MY SEAT HEATER WAS ON, MY CAR COULD HAVE BEEN EXPLODED, IT WAS MELTED COMPLETELY. I TOOK IT TO DEALERSHIP THEY WERE SO SCARED THEY SAID THAT THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN SOMETHING LIKE THIS BEFORE, I WAS SO SCARED, WHY SEAT SHOULD BURN BECAUSE THE SEAT HEATER IS ON!!!!! IT'S UNBELIEVABLE. IMAGINE IT WAS A CAR SEAT ON IT OR A PARALYSIS PERSON WHO WAS SITTING THERE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The paint is peeling off the car prematurely. Hyundai is only acknowledging their responsibility for white vehicles but it is affecting others as well.
Paint peeling and chips easily.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while reversing, the brake warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the brake light needed to be replaced. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the brake light housing case had melted. The dealer was contacted to purchase a new housing case. The contact purchased the part, and the vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic and the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
The left brake lights are on the vehicle remains on even when the brake is not pressed.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the Brake Auto Hold was engaged unintendedly and failed to disengage upon pressing the button, which required the contact to turn off, restart, and drive the vehicle for some time for the Brake Auto Hold to disengage. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The contact stated that the infotainment system was inoperable. Additionally, the passenger's side rear seat belt failed to buckle as intended, and the passenger's side rear door handle fractured while the contact was opening the door. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
When driving this car it is hard to go to higher speed. Acceleration is a huge problem. Coming on to the highway I have to wait until there's no one approaching due to the fact that it takes about 40 seconds to a minute for the car to accelerate once it comes to a stop. When switching lanes it takes 40 to 60 seconds to accelerate as well. That's not safe. God forbid someone was speeding directly behind me I would absolutely be hit. It takes to long to accelerate and get out of the way. I was nearly hit by a semi truck due to this problem. Thank goodness the truck moved to the other lane because the Tuscon couldn't! Also the car won't allow you to close off the outside air while if the front or rear air function. So if I want to place air on the windshield I have to breathe in the air from the person in front tailpipe. That's crazy. This is the first car I've had that did this. It's disgusting especially living in ny why should I have to breathe in that toxin. Also I can not find the third seat belt for the passengers in the back. The car is suppose to be a five passenger car however only four can safely be seated.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The rear self leveling shocks are worn out. The car bounces terribly and control is an issue. I have confirmation from the dealer that the shocks need to be replaced. There were no warnings that the parts were broken.
from time to time, when stepping on the brakes the whole front end shakes . when this happended i took the 2020 tucson back to the dealer to be checked out. I was told there was nothing wrong with it. and i was just not use to abs. I"m not stupid. i've had many , many cars and suv'''s, trucks with abs. this made me mad. and guess what, it still locks up. i
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
I’ve owned this vehicle for a year and a half and have had to fix my windshield 3 times. 2 of those, including replacement. After only have the car for 2 months the windshield cracked. Then after I have had to replace it twice. I don’t know if it’s faulty design, but there have been lots of complaints of 2020 Hyundai windshields
MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY. NOTHING HIT IT. IT STARTED OUT AS A 5INCH LONG CRACK AND IS NOW 18INCHES. I CANT FEEL IT ON THE INSIDE, OR OUTSIDE OF THE GLASS. IT IS FROM THE INSIDE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
THIS CAR HAS HAD AN ACTIVE RECALL FOR MONTHS, I HAVE TRIED TO GET THIS FIXED AND WHEN I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET THE CAR SERVICED THEY SAY THEY DON'T HAVE THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL AND DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY WILL GET IT. NOW I ALSO HAVE A WARNING ON THE DASHBOARD FOR AN ISSUE WITH TIRES AND CAN'T GET IN TO SEE THEM AS I HAD AN APPOINTMENT THEY CANCELED. AT THIS POINT I THINK THEIR MAINTENANCE PROGRAM IS FRAUDULENT AND SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .