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2017 Hyundai Tucson: engine knocking or ticking

159 of the 1,097 complaints about the 2017 Hyundai Tucson describe engine knocking or ticking.

owner complaints
159
of this car's complaints
14%
typical repair cost reported
$2,000
typical mileage
68,000
recalls
1
Is there a fix? There is 1 recall and 32 service bulletins for this area of the car. See below

Engine knocking or ticking by model year

What owners say

Filed Oct 27, 2026 · Engine · MN

My name is [XXX]. My husband, [XXX], and I purchased a 2017 Hyundai Tucson (VIN: [XXX]) from a Hyundai dealership in 2023 with 53,920 miles for our daughter to commute to school. The vehicle now has approximately 77,940 miles, and she is still attending school. Since purchasing the vehicle, we have consistently returned to the same Hyundai dealership for regular maintenance, trusting its professionals to keep the vehicle safe and reliable. While driving on the freeway, our daughter suddenly lost engine power. The vehicle slowed down and would no longer accelerate. Thankfully, she managed to exit the highway before it stopped completely. Highway patrol assisted her in moving the vehicle to the roadside. The Check Engine Light and oil-pressure warning light came on, the engine made a pronounced knocking sound, and it would no longer run. We believe these symptoms closely resemble the engine defect described in Hyundai's Recall 209 (the federal safety agency 21V‑727), involving connecting-rod-bearing failure in certain 2017 Tucson vehicles. Hyundai Motor America denied our request for assistance, stating that our VIN is not included in the recall and that no warranty coverage applies. We respectfully question whether vehicles experiencing the same or substantially similar defect may have been excluded from the recall. We request a technical investigation into why our vehicle was excluded and whether its engine failure is related to the recalled defect. This was a serious safety concern, not merely a repair expense. Our daughter could have suffered a serious accident had she been unable to exit the freeway safely. We are grateful she escaped without injury. We respectfully request that Hyundai reconsider its decision, review the vehicle's maintenance and diagnostic records, and investigate the engine failure. If the failure is related to the recalled defect, we ask Hyundai to cover the cost of engine repair or replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Oct 7, 2026 · Acceleration, Electrical · VA

While going down the highway at around 72 mph , my car went into limp mode. I was unable to accelerate, the brake and wheel locked. And then the engine light began flashing. The limp mode , non acceleration, and flashing engine light have happened twice before this instance. The first two times the pulled the P1326 knock sensor code and replaced it. Did the update, and sent me on my way saying it was fine. Now this most recent time (the 3rd time), the engine has failed. A CARFAX report says my car already had the engine replaced at 52k miles, meaning there’s 1 something internally wrong and 2 it’s still well within mileage warranty for another engine replacement. This car is extremely dangerous as it can literally stop in the middle of the highway. I went from 72 to about 15 mph in seconds, I was unable to get over or accelerate. It was terrifying. Now dealing with Hyundai - they don’t want to take fault.

Filed Oct 4, 2026 · Engine · NC

Unknown believe it engine was replaced due to engine knock

Filed Sep 30, 2026 · Engine · MD

Failed Component: Engine assembly / internal powertrain (specifically, a connecting rod bearing failure in cylinder #2 causing severe engine knocking and risk of mechanical seizure). The vehicle is available for inspection, the complete vehicle and affected engine assembly are intact and available for inspection upon request at CMA's Hyundai of Lexington Park: [XXX] Safety Risk: A rod bearing failure causes violent engine knocking, severe loss of engine power, and eventual engine seizure or stalling while driving. Losing propulsion unexpectedly—especially at highway speeds or in heavy traffic—creates an immediate collision risk for the vehicle occupants and surrounding traffic due to sudden loss of power, power steering, and power brake assistance. The issue was formally diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized Hyundai dealership service department. The technician performed a physical diagnostic evaluation and officially documented a knocking condition resulting from a connecting rod bearing failure in cylinder #2. Symptoms & Timeline: Initial engine knocking noises first appeared on XXX. The vehicle was previously updated with Hyundai's Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign, which is intended to detect excessive vibration from rod bearing wear prior to catastrophic failure. No check engine light illumination occurred or and type of indication from the vehicle there was something wrong other than the knocking noises. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 21, 2026 · Engine · MN

I am reporting a suspected safety defect involving my daughter's 2017 Hyundai Tucson, VIN [XXX], with approximately 77,940 miles. The vehicle experienced an engine failure beginning with the illumination of the oil-pressure warning light and Check Engine Light, followed by a pronounced engine knocking noise. The vehicle subsequently could not continue running. The vehicle was inspected by a Hyundai dealership, which diagnosed an engine failure. I am aware of Hyundai Safety Recall 209 / the federal safety agency Recall 21V‑727 involving certain 2017 Hyundai Tucson vehicles equipped with the 2.0-liter Nu GDI engine. Hyundai's recall documentation identifies premature connecting-rod-bearing wear and specifically identifies abnormal engine knocking and illumination of the oil-pressure warning light as symptoms that can precede engine damage and stalling. My daughter's vehicle experienced these same symptoms. Hyundai has informed us that this particular VIN is not included in Recall 209 and Hyundai Motor America has denied our request for assistance. I am therefore asking the federal safety agency to review this complaint as a potential safety defect and determine whether there may be additional 2017 Tucson vehicles outside the current Recall 209 population experiencing the same or substantially similar engine failure. I am not claiming that the vehicle is definitively covered by Recall 209. Rather, I am asking the federal safety agency to investigate whether the exclusion of this vehicle is appropriate given the similarity between the actual failure symptoms and the defect identified in Recall 209. I can provide the dealership's diagnostic documentation, Hyundai Motor America's denial, photographs, maintenance records, and other supporting information upon request. Vehicle: 2017 Hyundai Tucson, VIN: [XXX], Mileage: Approximately 77,940 miles Failure: Engine knocking, oil-pressure warning light, Check Engine Light, engine failure/stalling Related Recall: Hyundai Recall 209 / the federal safety agency 21V‑727. I INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 5

Filed Jul 8, 2026 · Engine · 62,000 miles · NJ

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an abnormal knocking sound was heard coming from under the hood, and the RPMs independently increased. The "Check Engine Oil" warning light illuminated. The contact managed to pull over to the shoulder of the road, and the vehicle was towed to a local Midas shop, where it was diagnosed with total engine failure.The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, who discovered metal shavings in the engine oil pan during diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired due to the high cost. Upon further investigation, the contact associated the failure with an unknown the federal safety agency Campaign number. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

Filed Jun 24, 2026 · Engine · CA

I am filing a safety complaint regarding my Hyundai vehicle after experiencing a sudden engine failure that appears consistent with known rod bearing and engine defects affecting certain Hyundai engines. While driving, my vehicle began making a knocking noise and shortly thereafter suffered catastrophic engine failure. The engine lost power and became inoperable, requiring the vehicle to be towed. This failure occurred without any prior indication that the engine was about to fail. My concern is that this type of engine failure creates a significant safety hazard because it can occur unexpectedly while driving, potentially causing a loss of power in traffic and increasing the risk of a crash. The dealership inspected the vehicle and engine but did not report excessive sludge buildup. I have provided available maintenance records showing that oil changes were performed during my ownership. Despite this, there appears to be disagreement regarding the cause of the failure. I am aware of reports involving rod bearing and engine failures in similar Hyundai vehicles and believe the federal safety agency should investigate whether this failure is related to a broader manufacturing or design defect. The cost of replacing the engine is substantial, and consumers may be placed at risk if these failures occur while vehicles are being operated on public roads. I am requesting that the federal safety agency review this issue and determine whether additional investigation, recalls, or other corrective actions are warranted. Vehicle Information: Year: 2017 Make: Hyundai Model: Tucson Mileage at Failure: Approximately 72,000 miles Date of Failure: [XXX] VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jun 10, 2026 · Engine · MA

The engine (connecting rod bearings in the 2.0L Nu GDI engine) failed. The vehicle entered limp mode with DTC P1326, then died on the road and the engine seized completely (will not turn by hand when attempted; only clicks on starter). It is currently at First Hyundai dealer in [XXX], under Repair Order #XXXand available for inspection. The vehicle suddenly lost power and died while driving on the road. This created a significant risk of an accident or being stranded in traffic. I was on a busy highway and almost got hit twice. There is also a known fire risk associated with this exact defect (oil leaking onto hot engine components), as stated in Recall 209 (the federal safety agency 21V727). The vehicle was towed to First Hyundai. They have documented the no-start/seized condition on Repair Order #XXX. A prior independent scanner reading showed P1326 before the code was cleared. The dealer has not performed the full diagnostic inspection (scheduled around June 11). Hyundai Corporate (Claim #XXX) has been notified but has not responded after multiple escalation emails. The vehicle first went into limp mode ("Engine Protection Mode") with DTC P1326 on the scanner. Shortly after, the engine died completely and would not restart. This occurred after Recall 209 (bearing/KSDS campaign) was completed on XXX. Additional Details: This is a known issue with premature connecting rod bearing wear. The dealer is refusing to provide a loaner/rental upon drop-off, which contradicts TSB 22-01-023H (Dealer Best Practices for P1326 vehicles). The vehicle has been inoperable since 6/4 ..with no resolution. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 21, 2026 · Engine · NC

I am submitting a complaint regarding a 2017 Hyundai Tucson Ultimate AWD equipped with the 1.6L Turbo Gamma GDI engine. My vehicle currently has approximately 127,000 miles and has experienced sudden engine knocking consistent with rod bearing failure and/or catastrophic internal engine damage. The vehicle has been properly maintained, including regular oil changes. However, the engine began consuming excessive oil without warning. Upon inspection by an independent repair facility, the engine was found to have extremely low oil levels despite being within the normal oil change interval. After refilling the oil, the engine continued making severe knocking noises, and the repair facility advised that the engine is likely non-repairable and requires replacement. This failure appears materially similar to the rod bearing and engine failure issues already widely documented in Hyundai/Kia engine defect investigations and class action settlements involving related Gamma and GDI engine platforms. I have learned that Hyundai extended warranties for certain vehicles with similar engine defects up to 15 years/150,000 miles; however, my specific Tucson trim/engine configuration does not appear included despite experiencing the same type of failure. This vehicle has also previously required major drivetrain repairs under warranty, including two transmission replacements and turbocharger replacement. My concern is both financial and safety-related. A sudden engine failure or seizure while driving could create a serious roadway hazard and risk of loss of power in traffic. Additionally, Hyundai dealerships have advised that replacement engines for this vehicle are no longer readily available. I believe Hyundai should further investigate whether the 2017 Tucson 1.6T Gamma GDI engine should be included in existing engine defect warranty extensions and/or recalls.

Filed Apr 22, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · GA

The vehicle has a difficult time turning over when cranking, the RPMs are sticking and the car periodically shuts off at red lights. Several warning lights pop up when it won't crank and then other warnings when the car just completely shuts off at red lights. I drive the interstate in [XXX] daily for work, so with the engine stalling my safety is at risk every time I drive it. Likewise when it won't crank, my safety is at risk. I had two Hyundai recalls updated in my car in 2022, Hyundai Recall 209 which was a connecting rod bearing test and my car passed so they installed the other Hyundai Recall 966 which was software update for the knock sensor detection system to alert the driver of future issues. Those issues are now current. The software is detecting a critical failure which is why the car is shutting off - entering limp mode, or the engine is failing. On April 9th through the 11th, 2026 my vehicle was inspected by a Hyundai dealership, where a technician identified a developing engine concern and advised me to continue driving the vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Apr 7, 2026 · Engine · PA

Knocking noise in motor and metal flakes in the oil. Called local dealership. They report no recalls for this issue.

Filed Apr 2, 2026 · Engine · 67,700 miles · AL

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine made a ticking sound. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was repaired under the federal safety agency Campaign Numbers: 20V543000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and 21V727000 (Engine); however, the failure occurred after the recall repairs were performed. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and failed to accelerate above 40 MPH. Additionally, while depressing the accelerator pedal, there was an extremely loud ticking sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,700.

Service bulletins that may apply

Related recalls

EngineReported September 17, 2021 · 95,515 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Tucson and Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
Risk
A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners were notified of the defect on November 16, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed January 15, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 209.

Recall number 21V727000 · Recall details

Questions about the 2017 Hyundai Tucson knocking

Is engine knocking or ticking a common problem on the 2017 Hyundai Tucson?

159 of 1,097 owner complaints about the 2017 Hyundai Tucson (14%) mention engine knocking or ticking. The model year with the most reports is 2017.

How much does it cost to fix engine knocking or ticking on the 2017 Hyundai Tucson?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $2,000 (median of 13 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2017 Hyundai Tucson?

There is 1 recall and 32 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.

Other symptoms on the 2017 Hyundai Tucson

Check engine light 199Stalling 191Engine failure 187Oil consumption 157Hesitation 149Jerking 79Loss of power 76Door locks 44Fire or smoke 39Misfire 34Won't shift 27Slipping 20ABS 17Shudder 16Sudden acceleration 16Transmission failure 16Warning lights 15Won't start 15Headlights 14Overheating 8Airbag light 7Grinding brakes 6Fuel smell 6No deployment 5Fuel pump 5Sunroof shattered 5

All model years of the Hyundai Tucson

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