2017 Hyundai Tucson: sudden loss of power

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 21, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · FL

On [XXX], I purchased a 2017 Hyundai Tucson from DriveTime, located at 6400 Pensacola Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505. Within approximately nine days of purchase, the vehicle began experiencing serious mechanical problems, raising significant concerns about its safety and roadworthiness. On [XXX], the vehicle suffered a severe loss of acceleration and was unable to exceed approximately 30 mph. This sudden reduction in engine performance created a dangerous situation while driving, particularly when attempting to maintain normal traffic speeds. Following these issues, mechanical inspections revealed water inside the spark plug wells, a severely rusted ignition coil, and a failing catalytic converter. Firestone estimated the catalytic converter repair at approximately $5,000. The presence of water and corrosion raised concerns about possible pre-existing damage and whether the vehicle had been properly inspected before being sold. The vehicle remained in repair-related custody for approximately 29 days. Despite repeated communications with DriveTime, the mechanical problems were not satisfactorily resolved. DriveTime representatives informed me that a replacement vehicle had been approved. On [XXX], I returned to the dealership expecting a replacement but was informed that no suitable vehicle was available. I was left without transportation, and the dealership failed to provide a satisfactory resolution. As of October 21, 2026, I remain without a vehicle. I am requesting that the federal safety agency investigate the sudden loss of engine power, possible electrical or ignition system damage caused by moisture intrusion, and any similar safety complaints involving the 2017 Hyundai Tucson. My primary concern is that these mechanical failures could cause another driver to experience a dangerous loss of power while operating the vehicle, potentially resulting in a serious collision. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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 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 May 12, 2026 · Acceleration, Transmission · GA

The vehicle has experienced life-threatening safety defects during operation; shaking, hesitation, and stalling in high-speed traffic. The vehicle unexpectedly stalled/lost power while driving, putting myself and others in direct risk of collision. The Hyundai dealership claimed it needed an Actuator Gasket replacement, Throttle Body replacement, and ECM/TCM update. The vehicle had NO warning lights until after it stalled, then warning lights illuminated briefly. The Hyundai dealership claimed repairs were "completed" 5/8/26; within 72 hours of "completion" the vehicle's symptoms reappeared. The Hyundai Executive Case Manager has made NO efforts to resolve this LIFE-THREATENING SAFETY issue. This has put myself and children in danger and is legally unsafe to drive.

Filed Mar 19, 2026 · Engine · GA

On March 10, 2026, my 2017 Hyundai Tucson entered 'Limp Home Mode' while driving, a known safety defect that causes a sudden loss of engine power. Diagnostic testing confirmed error code P1326 (Knock Sensor Detection System - KSDS). Despite this vehicle being covered under the Theta II Engine Class Action Settlement (Recall 209), which provides a 15-year/150,000-mile extended warranty for this specific issue, the dealership (Jim Ellis Hyundai of Atlanta) is refusing to perform the warrantied repair. Instead, the dealership has provided an estimate (#XXX) attempting to charge me $816.22 for the knock sensor replacement. They are also withholding the full GDS diagnostic scan reports and freeze frame data despite multiple written requests. Furthermore, the dealership is threatening to charge daily storage fees while actively denying a mandated safety repair. This refusal to honor the settlement warranty leaves the vehicle in an unsafe, unrepaired condition. This vehicle is a subject of the In re: Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation II settlement. The refusal of the dealership to perform the KSDS-related repair (P1326}) is a direct violation of the court-approved settlement terms and a failure to address a documented safety defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Mar 7, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · SC

While driving on the interstate at highway speed, my 2017 Hyundai Tucson lost power without any warning lights or prior symptoms. The vehicle experienced an immediate loss of propulsion while I was traveling in traffic, creating a dangerous situation because surrounding vehicles were also moving at highway speed & I had to quicky maneuver the vehicle to the shoulder with no power. The vehicle had approximately 73,861 miles at the time of the failure. After the incident, the vehicle was taken to a Hyundai dealership and diagnosed with a burned exhaust valve requiring replacement of the cylinder head & valve. The estimated cost of repair provided by the dealership was approximately 7550. The vehicle had no prior warning lights or symptoms before the sudden loss of power. A sudden engine failure resulting in loss of propulsion at highway speed presents a serious safety risk to both the driver and surrounding traffic. This was an extremely dangerous failure.

Filed Feb 6, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · IN

Car engine seized and lost ALL power going 60mph down the highway at night with my child in the back seat. I have poured quarts and quarts of oil in this vehicle because it burns oil at an alarming rate until it eventually runs dry and the engine seizes. This is extremely dangerous and luckily my child and I were able to drift to the side of the road without harm and injury. Very discouraging that there are thousands of these cars and engines on the road that can literally seize up at any minute. Maintenance was performed and kept up with. The Oil pressure light had been flashing when the vehicle turned but was flashing even when oil had just been changed. These engines are dangerous and have people in a financial hard spot. I still owe $16k on a car I can no longer drive and that Hyundai is saying due to owner maintenance will not get an engine replacement. The Facebook group Hyundai Oil Consumption test has thousands of people dealing with the same exact issue on these cars and engines.

Filed Jan 20, 2026 · Engine · 66,000 miles · VA

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle lost power, decelerated, and the check engine warning light started flashing on and off. The vehicle was parked on the left shoulder of the highway and later driven to the right shoulder with the assistance of a State Trooper. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the vehicle was previously serviced under the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 21V727000 (ENGINE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 66,000.

Filed Jan 20, 2026 · Steering · NJ

2017 Hyundai Tucson SE vehicle mileage approx. 54,000 miles Was driving on a Highway doing approx. 65-70mph within 30 minutes of the 1hr and 1/2 drive I had lost complete POWER STEERING. Wheel stiffened up and was scary and difficult to lane change to a slower lane or attempt to pull over at 11:00PM due too safety and could not pull over for over an 1 hour until I was home safely. Had to hold the wheel tightly for an hour. It was very difficult to turn and enter my double wide driveway and took 3 times to get car straight enough and pull in without Power Steering. Turned vehicle off and I had looked into possible issues with the (EPS) Electric Power Steering and read possible loss of Power Steering check MDPS Fuse in vehicle Interior Fuse Panel for blown fuse and all was Fine with that Fuse.. Then checked MDPS Fuse Panel in engine compartment near battery and found no issue on the long circuit fuse for the MDPS. After researching 2017 Tucson EPS issues I ran a test by Turning Key on and turn Wheel all the way too Right and leave it there for a minute then turn wheel all the way too the Left and leave there for a minute ,then turn steering wheel till wheels are straight and turn key off. Then start car and see if Power Steering comes back when turning steering wheel in which it did but I'm still skeptical if that was the Fix. Hyundai Car dealership wants to charge me $250 too run tests and diagnostics with computer system. Why should I have to pay for this since there have been numerous recalls on 2017 Tucson and the failure rate on some of the Electronics and Safety features and Engine issues and was originally in for a New Paint job for the Recall. And I just received a notification for the Anti-Theft Ignition Cylinder Protector hardware too be installed Free of charge for the ignition and hardware to be added. I have read and seen MDPS assembly issues causing sudden loss of Steering Assist on many of the sites and on these internet Hyundai Blog complaints.