2015 Hyundai Tucson: sudden loss of power

Filed Jul 21, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · IN

While driving on a US highway, the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle lost the ability to start/run normally, requiring the vehicle to be pulled off the road and towed to an authorized Hyundai dealership. Dealer diagnostic testing found the engine failed a bearing/performance test, consistent with connecting rod bearing wear. This failure mode — Check Engine light, DTC P1326, abnormal noise, or a no-crank/no-start condition caused by connecting rod bearing wear — is described in the manufacturer's own internal dealer service bulletin covering an engine warranty extension program for multiple engine families (Theta II MPI and Nu GDI engines) across several model years and vehicle lines. That bulletin acknowledges the failure as a known condition and extends coverage to 15 years/150,000 miles for original and subsequent owners. The failure occurred suddenly and without warning while the vehicle was in active use on a highway, creating a stall/loss-of-power hazard in moving traffic — the vehicle could not be restarted at the roadside. The dealership's own multi-point inspection performed shortly after intake confirmed engine fluid levels and oil grade were within normal range, indicating the failure was not attributable to a lack of lubrication at the time of failure. Despite this, the manufacturer denied warranty coverage for the repair, citing an inability to produce maintenance receipts for a prior period, even though the dealership's own inspection findings do not support a maintenance-related cause. This report is submitted because of the safety hazard posed by unwarned loss of engine power/starting capability while driving, and because this failure pattern appears consistent with a defect the manufacturer has already acknowledged for closely related engine platforms, raising the question of whether additional vehicles with this engine design should be included in that existing warranty/defect campaign.

Filed Apr 2, 2026 · Engine · AL

My 2015 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.4L engine developed a loud engine knocking sound while driving. The knocking became worse and the vehicle became unsafe to drive due to the possibility of sudden engine failure. The vehicle is currently at a Hyundai dealership and has been there for over a month. The dealership denied the warranty claim stating that a different engine component failed instead of the connecting rod bearing. This engine is part of the known Theta II engine defect issue that has caused engine failures in many Hyundai vehicles. A sudden engine failure while driving could result in loss of power, difficulty steering or braking, and could increase the risk of a crash. I am filing this complaint because the engine failure symptoms match the known defect pattern, and the vehicle may be unsafe if the issue is not properly addressed. Hyundai Tucson with 113,000 miles and failing engine. I’ve been told repairs have amounted to $10,000. I was told my car has severe engine failure and must be replaced by Hyundai of the shoals in Tuscumbia, AL. Engine failure is dangerous as a fire may start from a metal piece and also loss of control of vehicle is possible. Hyundai has denied warranty as they say the exact part in theta 2 engine settlement is not failing. I have had to complete recalls on this car since the first payment I made on it. The engine knocking began a month ago and that’s about how long the dealership has had my car.

Filed Jan 30, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · AL

On January 7, 2026, shortly after delivery of a used 2015 Hyundai Tucson (VIN [XXX] ), the vehicle experienced immediate mechanical failure while being driven, resulting in sudden loss of power and drivability. Multiple warning lights illuminated on the dashboard at the time of failure. The vehicle became disabled and left the occupants stranded roadside in Fairhope, Alabama. The exact component that failed is UNKNOWN at this time. The failure appears related to the engine, powertrain, fuel/propulsion, and/or electrical systems. The vehicle was not operable after the incident. On January 8, 2026, the selling dealership (Sandy Sansing Nissan, Pensacola, Florida) towed the vehicle back to their dealership. The vehicle has remained in the dealership’s possession since that date and is available for inspection upon request. This sudden failure created a significant safety risk due to loss of propulsion while in traffic and exposure to roadside hazards. The problem has not been independently repaired or evaluated by the consumer. No manufacturer inspection has occurred to the consumer’s knowledge. The dealer has not provided a diagnostic report or repair findings. No warning lights or symptoms were disclosed prior to delivery. The failure occurred almost immediately after delivery. The vehicle was sold and delivered by a licensed dealership. The sale is currently in dispute because the vehicle became disabled almost immediately after delivery due to this safety-related failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 7, 2025 · Engine, Fuel system · GA

On [XXX], my husband and I were driving on [XXX] (Highway) in the slow lane, when the engine shutoff without any Service engine light warning. It was frightening because an tractor trailer was directly behind the car as we lost power. There was no sounds of engine parts knocking or pinging when the problem occurred. The only thing was observed was (two) 2 puffs of smoke seen from the tailpipe, witnessed by my son who was following behind in his vehicle. The vehicle was not able to start after shutdown and had to be towed to my home. We purchased a new battery after assuming battery failure--with no resolve. The vehicle was towed to(two) 2 repair shops with the same conclusion: Seized Engine After checking Open Recalls on my vehicle, I contacted Hyundai to check for assistance. The vehicle is now at the Hyundai dealership in McDonough, Georgia for inspection. I am thankful that my husband and I were not injured or laying in a Morgue after this frighten ordeal on the highway when the Engine suddenly shutoff/Seized. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Apr 5, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · PA

The engine uses about 3 to 4 quarts of oil before a oil change the it will go in limp mode. I have to get it rest and then add oil for the engine to run right. Also transmission don't want to shift 3 to 4 gear it will be 35 mph to 65 before it shifts. When the car goes in limp mode I lose power going up a hill and almost got rear ended. They won't do anything do to its a used car. No lights came on the dash till it acts up.

Filed Apr 4, 2024 · Engine, Transmission · FL

While driving our 2015 Hyundai Tucson on [XXX] outside of Sanford, Florida, [XXX], at 70mph, the car unexplainably lost all power and my husband had to veer into the right lane while avoiding traffic at high speeds, and pull onto the shoulder until the the car came to rest. This affected his safety, the cars in the right lane, the cars behind him, and his safety on the shoulder. When he tried to restart it, the engine light came on and he immediately drove home. The following day, we took it to our regular mechanic. After inspecting the vehicle, he told us our engine was completely “shot”. We called the Hyundai dealership in Daytona Beach, Florida. The engine light was on, so we paid to have it towed. The dealership called a couple of days later and after INSPECTION, stated the engine was seized, but it was under warranty. Later, we received a call saying it wasn’t under warranty because a KDSD “RECALL” was never completed. We had no idea what he was referring to, as we never received a RECALL notice regarding the KDSD. THERE WAS NEVER A RECALL ON A KSDS SYSTEM. ONLY A SERVICE CAMPAIGN THAT WE WERE NOT INFORMED OF. Therefore, the engine was a total loss and would not be replaced. THERE WAS NEVER A PRIOR INDICATION FROM ANY WARNING LIGHTS OR SYMPTOMS. Upon investigation, I learned that Hyundai was aware of this problem in 2018. Our vehicle was in for regular service on [XXX]. After reading many of the TSB Memos, Their Service Campaign began on [XXX]. We never received notice regarding this campaign. Nonetheless, as our car was in for service IN SEPTEMBER OF 2018, they should have made us aware, and performed the software update then and there. The software only warns the driver that there may be a problem. This update doesn’t improve THE ENGINE which is defective. It is abhorrent to me that they are still putting lives at risk. HYUNDAI NEEDS TO RECALL THIS ENGINE BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED OR IS SERIOUSLY INJURED. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 55

Filed Mar 9, 2023 · Acceleration, Engine · IN

Financed for a 2015 Hyundai Tucson at Byrider. On February 25th 2023. Check engine light flashing as I'm losing power unable to stay within speed limit at 40mph. Byrider service asked me to bring it in. I did. They called me back and hour later told me to come get the vehicle and take it to Hyundai. I told them I didn't feel safe driving the vehicle it was hard enough getting the vehicle to them only able to drive 40mph on the interstate. I was told they would have it towed to Hyundai west off Pike plaza. They still haven't received the vehicle and I'm unable to reach Byrider service waiting for a return phone call. Please help what do I do now?..

Filed Mar 9, 2023 · Acceleration, Engine · NY

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the recall repair performed on my 2015 Hyundai Tucson on October 5th, 2022. I have received numerous letters from Hyundai regarding an open recall and finally received a notice stating the remedy was ready. I scheduled an appointment with Matthews Hyundai of Syracuse and took the vehicle for the recall. Unfortunately, after taking the vehicle back to the dealership, I was advised that the check engine light was on and the issue was a result of a faulty knock sensor and purge valve. I was asked to pay more than $100 for the repairs. However, after further discussion, it was concluded that I wouldn't be charged. However, after only two days, the engine check light came on again, and the speed reduced to 45 MPH on the highway. I was then told that the problem was from the ignition coil and was charged $232.72 for the repairs. Despite paying the full price, the same problem occurred again, and I had to take the vehicle back to the dealership seven times, paying a total of $1,160.67. Throughout this recall repair failure, the vehicle's check engine light would come on, or it would randomly lose power, making a knocking sound and reducing speed even while driving. I no longer feel safe in this vehicle, and it has resulted in thousands of lost wages as it is the only vehicle I use for my work and personal use. On December 1st, I wrote a complaint to the New York division of vehicle safety and was advised to take the vehicle to a different Hyundai authorized dealership for diagnostics. I took the vehicle to Burdick Hyundai of Cicero, and after a week, they stated they were able to find the problem. However, Hyundai denied the claim for repairs on the vehicle. Since then the vehicle inspection has expired, and I took the vehicle to a shop for inspection. They stated they could not pass the inspection as the vehicle speed would not exceed 45MPH.

Filed Jun 14, 2022 · Engine · KY

My engine just started making a really loud noise and I lost all power to it

Filed Mar 10, 2022 · Engine · KY

While driving down an interstate I accelerated to pass a semi truck. Immediately after passing the truck I took an exit and about halfway off the ramp my car lost all power...no noises or notifications. Had to coast to side of road. Once car was off thr road the engine light oil light and battery light were all lit. I bought a new battery and it did not fix my car. I had a mechanic look at my car and they believe the engine siezed up. The dealership said there is 3 recalls now on my car but engine is not one of them though is probably should be. Was told it would take 3-4 months to get my car in due so many needing repaired. I do not understand how this hasn't been recalled yet. I had my 1 yr old and 2 yr old in the car with me. If my car had quit just 10 seconds earlier we would have likely died. This is not ok for them to keep selling these cars with engine problems. Someone needs to open a lawsuit against hyundai.

Filed Jan 21, 2022 · Engine · PA

After inspection by the mechanic it was determined that the engine seized. The vehicle is currently at the garage and is available. At the time the engine seized we were on the highway with a speed limit of 70 mph. The vehicle shut off but luckily I was able to pull over safely onto the shoulder. I had my entire family in the vehicle so I definitely feel our safety was at risk. The vehicle has only been inspected by my mechanic. The oil was changed less than two months ago and was changed at regular intervals. There was no warning lights or messages prior to the vehicle losing power. Once it lost power the oil light and engine light came on.

Filed Jan 12, 2022 · Engine · IN

Our 2015 Tucson has the G4NC DOHC GDI engine, which unfortunately isn’t listed in any current engine settlement as of the writing of this complaint. Our engine started to rev at considerably high rpms while driving up hill, followed by a subsequent loss of power and speed. We managed to make it to the top of the hill and pull over, traversing over multiple lanes in front of on-coming semi trucks and other fast moving traffic with our hazards on. Upon pulling over, our engine died. There were no red or amber warning/caution lights on the dash, nor did the check engine light illuminate during the incident. After a few attempts at restarting the engine, we finally got it started and drove it home and brought it to the dealer the next day. They diagnosed it as a “clogged catalytic converter.” Although seemingly a secondary issue, and no further information as to what actually caused the clog in the vehicle inspection report, we reluctantly dished out the $3,200 for the repair of the vehicle we so desperately needed for work. They also installed a “knock-sensor” update. A couple months later… When driving the vehicle to work, the check engine light illuminates and flashes on and off continually. After pulling the vehicle over to a stop and consulting a Hyundai mechanic, I had the vehicle towed to a Hyundai dealership for diagnostics. Turns out the knock sensor update is what caused the engine light to illuminate to “prevent severe engine damage,” and I’m left with a large bill for engine repairs. Will the G4NC engine be investigated by the federal safety agency? Will Hyundai honor my drive train warranty? Will Hyundai Corporate ever call me back? Tune in next week…