2016 Hyundai Tucson: sudden loss of power

Filed May 2, 2026 · Engine · TX

The engine in this 2016 Hyundai Tucson has experienced progressive failure symptoms consistent with the known rod bearing defect covered under Hyundai's engine warranty extension campaign. Symptoms include: excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs over several months, severely degraded acceleration, failure to upshift under load, and an audible metallic crunching noise occurring around 4,000 RPM. A knock sensor fault code (P1326) was previously triggered (on 2/16/26), confirmed by a mechanic (on 2/17/26), and cleared. The dealer was visited (on 2/17/26) and refused to perform the campaign repair, stating no active code was present at that time. The vehicle is available for inspection. The problem has not been confirmed by the dealer despite a visit; the dealer declined to act citing absence of an active code. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance. Warning symptoms include the prior knock sensor code, oil consumption, loss of power, and the current mechanical noise. Symptoms first appeared several months ago and have progressively worsened. The dealer's refusal to act under the existing campaign despite documented symptoms has left this vehicle in a dangerous condition on public roads.

Filed Mar 18, 2026 · Engine · CA

Vehicle: 2016 Hyundai Tucson Issue Category: Engine / Powertrain / Vehicle Safety Complaint: I am reporting a serious safety issue involving my 2016 Hyundai Tucson equipped with a Theta II engine. My vehicle first displayed an engine oil warning light. I immediately took the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership, where I was charged approximately $500 for an oil change and diagnostic testing. I was told there were no issues with the vehicle. Within approximately 20 miles of leaving the dealership, the vehicle suddenly entered limp mode while driving and displayed diagnostic code P1326. This created a dangerous situation as the vehicle lost power unexpectedly. I returned the vehicle to the dealership, where a software update was performed. However, within another 20–30 miles, the exact same issue occurred again, with the vehicle entering limp mode and triggering code P1326. Hyundai has now refused to repair the engine under warranty and is attempting to attribute the issue to a catalytic converter problem, despite the presence of code P1326, which is associated with engine rod bearing failure and is part of a known defect affecting these vehicles. This condition presents a significant safety risk, as the vehicle can lose power suddenly while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. I believe this issue is directly related to the known Hyundai Theta II engine defect, which has been the subject of recalls and a class action settlement. I am requesting that the federal safety agency investigate Hyundai’s handling of these failures and their refusal to repair vehicles experiencing known engine defects that pose a safety risk

Filed Mar 10, 2026 · Acceleration, Engine · PR

"On [XXX], my 2016 Hyundai Tucson (VIN [XXX] ) experienced severe engine power loss and mechanical noise under load while driving uphill, creating a dangerous safety situation. This occurred 2 days after a dealer visit (February 19, 2026) where an open KSDS Service Campaign (TSB HCE22-14-E600-TL, Issue 10D021) — directly related to engine monitoring — was left incomplete. The dealer subsequently denied an engine evaluation citing mileage over 150,000, despite the open campaign having no mileage restriction and despite a prior verbal commitment to cover repairs. Multiple follow-up attempts by phone, email, and WhatsApp have been ignored." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jan 15, 2026 · Engine · WV

The car has been diagnosed with internal engine failure by both an independent service center and a dealership service center. The issue was described as a rod timing issue causing knocking, leading to failure of the engine. A light was not on for a majority of the issue but did start flashing before car became completely undrivable. The car was sold to me with this issue and has been driven for nearly 3 years with a power loss issue that was dismissed as turbo lag or other issues. Driving a car with this issue that does not alert with a check engine light is a major threat to driver and passenger safety as it can result in engine seizure and vehicle fires. The engine issues began at the least before 58,000 miles, with total failure occuring at roughly 96,000 miles. Hyundai is known for this issue, particularly in turbo model engines. Only once during ownership of the car did the check engine light come on prior to engine failure. When checked, it was described as a catalytic converter issue. The service center also did an oil change on the car, and the light went off. The check engine light did not come on again for more than a year. The check engine light did not come on until after the issue was diagnosed by the independent service center it was taken to in January 2026.

Filed Jan 2, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · CA

Car died/lost power while driving in traffic 11/28/25. Good Samaritan was kind enough to push me off the road out of traffic. Car was towed to Hyundai dealer that day, then 12/1 told engine failure, required engine replacement. Class action lawsuit settlement for engine replacement, but denied by Hyundai because of "neglect", since I am not able to locate all of the service records that they request. Known faulty rotating assembly, and Hyundai has implemented concerted practice of denying warranty coverage for failed engine. Now having to pay almost $8K to replace with new engine, but concern that new engine will have same issue. (multiple posts about this). There was high potential for significant traffic collision, injury due to sudden, catastrophic engine failure. Traumatic experience.

Filed Dec 17, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · MN

While driving on the highway at normal speed, the vehicle suddenly lost power and shut off without warning. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the loss of power. I was able to safely pull over, but the engine would not restart at that time and the vehicle required towing. The sudden engine shutdown occurred in active traffic and created a safety risk due to loss of propulsion. The vehicle later restarted, but I brought it to an authorized Hyundai dealership for inspection. The dealership diagnosed internal engine damage, including piston ring failure and cylinder wall scoring, and advised that the engine would need to be replaced. Since the incident, the vehicle has shown intermittent oil pressure warning lights and reduced performance. The issue has been confirmed by a dealer inspection. The vehicle is currently not considered reliable or safe for regular driving.

Filed Dec 6, 2025 · Engine · PA

Vehicle is showing KSDS-related engine warning behavior and the Hyundai dealership performed a diagnostic scan. The service manager told me, “I don’t recommend you driving it,” due to a potential engine safety issue. However, Hyundai Motor America’s National Consumer Affairs team is refusing to authorize towing or a loaner/rental until after a full diagnosis is completed. The dealership cannot complete the diagnosis unless the vehicle stays on-site, but I am unable to safely leave it because Hyundai is refusing transportation assistance and I was told not to drive it. This forces me to drive a vehicle they identified as unsafe in order to complete the required inspection. This involves KSDS/engine failure risk, which has been associated with stalling, loss of power, and possible fire hazards. Being advised not to drive while being denied towing or transportation creates a serious safety concern for myself and my children. I am requesting the federal safety agency document this incident because Hyundai is creating a safety hazard by refusing support for a vehicle they identified as unsafe to operate.

Filed Nov 21, 2025 · Engine · PA

Part(s) Affected: Engine / Engine Control / Stall / Loss of Power Summary: My 2016 Hyundai Tucson (VIN: [XXX] ) has an active P1326 – Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) code, which indicates rod bearing wear and imminent engine failure. The vehicle experiences: •loss of power •inability to accelerate •engine hesitation •risk of stalling while driving These are serious safety risks. This issue is part of the Hyundai/Kia engine defect settlement XXX), yet Hyundai refuses to provide towing or address the safety risk despite the P1326 code being a known precursor to engine seizure. The vehicle is currently unsafe to drive, and Hyundai Customer Care has refused to escalate my case according to settlement requirements. This is a safety hazard that can cause engine seizure and sudden loss of power while driving. Details: •Hyundai Case #: XXX •Engine settlement code P1326 confirmed •Hyundai refusing proper support •Vehicle should not be driven the federal safety agency intervention is needed due to Hyundai’s failure to address a known safety defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Oct 5, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · CA

While driving, on multiple occasions all warning lights will come on and the car will start to lose power. The headlights constantly go off and come back on randomly. Turn the blinker on and the rear window wipers intermittently come on. The vehicle has been towed to the dealership so many times and we either get “can’t duplicate” or needs oil change, which had just been done. Now we are being told that we need a second engine replacement. Unfortunately this time it will not be covered by warranty. We have reached out to Hyundaii Motors 3 times and the BBB Auto but they stand behind it not qualifying for the Lemon Law. Hyundai should have some obligation as all these issues are “known issues” just not recalls.The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is not a safe vehicle.

Filed Aug 5, 2025 · Transmission · WA

1. December 2024: Hyundai dealership diagnosed my transmission as defective (unable to shift properly) and recommended a full replacement. Despite this, they assured me the vehicle was "safe to drive" without disclosing risks. - Unedited dealer text: "The tech said he doesn’t think it will break down or leave you stranded, he just can’t get it to shift correctly." - No warnings were given about prolonged use, highway driving, or potential failure. 2. Post-Repair Damage: After relying on Hyundai’s advice, the transmission worsened, causing additional damage (e.g., radiator failure). 3. Recall Negligence: My VIN was wrongly excluded from Recall 16V‑628 (transmission control issues), despite exhibiting identical symptoms. They didn't cover repairs, despite their technician confirming the defect. The safety impacts are as follows: - Sudden loss of power while driving (e.g., inability to accelerate or shift). - Increased crash risk due to erratic transmission behavior. - Hyundai’s failure to warn put me and other drivers in danger. I am requesting: - Investigate why my VIN was excluded from Recall 16V‑628. - Force Hyundai to reimburse repairs and extend recall coverage. - Require Hyundai to issue clear safety warnings after faulty repairs. Attached is the following: - The radiator repair invoice. - Proof of text from Hyundai. - Proof of my Vin being excluded from recall. - Quote for my transmission repair.

Filed Jun 18, 2025 · Engine, Fuel system · GA

The vehicle does not accelerate entering roadway, transmission replaced in 2022, catalytic convertor replaced in 2024. Several instances occurred when entering highway vehicle lost power and failed to merge safely, ultimately requiring hasty exit to roadside to avoid collision. The vehicle was purchased used but has been a safety risk since purchase date. Originally diagnosed transmission, then catalytic convertor, then knock control sensor. Engine oil is replaced more often than routine maintenance and refilled in between oil changes. Autonation Hyundai Mall of Georgia originally assisted with transmission replacement Feb 2022, catalytic convertor was replaced in Mar 2024. The vehicle has been parked for considerable time while insurance and car payments continue. In Feb 2025 my daughter was driving and was nearly rear ended when vehicle failed to accelerate, it has primarily parked since that time while exploring repairs. Car fails [XXX] enroute to game. Last quote to repair catalytic convertor was Total Automotive in Gainesville Ga. around 19 May 2025. I believe this vehicle poses a significant safety risk due to acceleration delays, all attempts to resolve have been unsuccessful. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jun 9, 2025 · Engine, Fuel system · DE

Misfire, excessive oil consumption, engine knocking, loss of power/acceleration, gas smell, excessive gas consumption