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Hyundai Tucson overheating problems

62 of the 6,347 owner complaints about the Hyundai Tucson describe engine overheating, most of them for the 2016 model year.

owner complaints
62
worst model year
2016
typical repair cost reported
$5,000
typical mileage
33,000
Is there a fix? There are 3 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

What owners say

Filed Nov 9, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · OR

Manufacturer recall number290 the federal safety agency recall number25v893000 recall statusrecall incomplete summary an optional oem (original equipment manufacturer) trailer wiring harness accessory, designed for towing applications in the specified vehicles, may have been installed in a vehicle location susceptible to water ingress. Water ingress to the wire harness control module could result in trailer lamps become inoperative. In rare cases, an electrical short within the modulmay occur, which oculd lead to overheating, melting, or, in isolated instances, ignition. Safety risk inoperative stop lamps increase the risk of a crash, while an electrical short can increase the risk of a vehicle fire.

Filed Oct 13, 2026 · Acceleration, Engine · LA

While driving at highway speeds, my 2019 Hyundai Tucson SE suddenly loses acceleration and drops into a 30 mph 'limp mode' while the engine overheats. This creates an immediate highway safety hazard with an imminent risk of a rear-end collision. The vehicle also suffers from excessive oil consumption, requiring manual top-offs twice a week. The servicing dealership diagnosed a fuel system failure, quoting $5,847 to replace the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and oil gasket. Hyundai Corporate (Case #43358088) officially denied warranty coverage on October 12, 2026, falsely claiming wear and tear despite active TXXM 150,000-mile extended warranty framework protections. Furthermore, there is a data discrepancy: the dealership pulled diagnostic trouble code P0172, but corporate claims the vehicle threw code P0173 and is withholding the physical diagnostic printout behind a fee paywall.

Filed Aug 8, 2026 · Brakes, Driver assistance · CO

My 2025 Hyundai Tucson required the front brake rotors to be resurfaced at approximately 12,200 miles. The Hyundai dealership diagnosed the rotors as overheated and warped, despite the brake pads being in good condition. The repair occurred before Hyundai issued Recall 302 (the federal safety agency Recall 26V‑316). Hyundai Recall 302 identifies a defect in the Forward Collision-Avoidance (FCA) system’s front-camera software that can cause the FCA system to engage earlier than expected and potentially result in sudden braking. Hyundai’s FCA system is capable of automatically applying the brakes. I am concerned that premature or unintended brake application associated with this recalled software condition may have contributed to excessive brake heat and premature overheating/warping of my front rotors. I am NOT claiming that this causal relationship has been established. Rather, I am reporting a potential safety defect and asking the federal safety agency to evaluate whether there may be a relationship. The dealership confirmed that the rotors were overheated/warped but characterized the condition as wear and tear. Hyundai Motor America subsequently denied my reimbursement request on the same basis. I have repeatedly asked Hyundai to evaluate whether Recall 302 could have contributed to the brake condition, but Hyundai has not acknowledged or technically addressed this potential relationship. The original rotors are no longer available for inspection because they were resurfaced during the repair. The dealership performed and documented the diagnosis and repair. I am submitting this complaint because I believe the combination of premature rotor overheating/warping at only 12,200 miles and a subsequently identified FCA defect involving unexpected braking warrants investigation.

Filed Jun 10, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · AZ

While idling at a standstill (in a drive-thru queue), my 2018 Hyundai Tucson suddenly experienced a severe engine overheat, causing the vehicle's air conditioning system to immediately blow hot air and shut down. The vehicle was brought directly to an authorized Hyundai dealership (Chapman Hyundai on [XXX]) for an emergency inspection.The dealership's certified technicians confirmed that the electric Engine Cooling Fan Assembly completely failed and subsequently caused the main Front Wiring Harness and Fuse Box to physically melt. The dealership documented this catastrophic electrical and thermal meltdown under Repair Order #XXX.This is a critical safety defect. A melted engine wiring harness poses an immediate and severe risk of an electrical short circuit, sudden vehicle stalling in live traffic, or a catastrophic under-hood engine fire. Because this component controls the primary cooling of the powertrain, its failure creates an extreme hazard to the vehicle occupants and surrounding traffic. Hyundai must investigate this component failure before it results in a thermal fire incident or an accident due to sudden power loss. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 4, 2026 · Acceleration, Engine · GA

My 2017 Hyundai Tucson is experiencing dangerous, sudden engine stalling, which are symptoms directly matching Service Campaign T1B. These critical safety issues surfaced following a total engine replacement in June 2025. Despite the vehicle being within the 12-month/12,000 mile workmanship warranty, the dealership is refusing to honor this coverage or offer goodwill assistance. My claim is based on a documented pattern of physical and technical negligence: - Failure to Update Software: The dealership failed to perform the mandatory ECM/TCM software integration (Campaign T1B) during engine swap, which is required to prevent the exact stalling I am now experiencing. - Dismissal of Warning Lights (Code P0456): One day after the engine replacement was “completed,” I returned to the dealership because the Check Engine Light illuminated with Code P0456. This was dismissed by the service provider without a proper diagnostic resolution, despite being a direct indicator of improper vacuum line reconnection during the engine installation. - Mechanical Negligence (Coolant Leak): Post-engine swap, the vehicle developed a coolant leak, which was a direct result of improper reassembly. Additional proof of the lack of due diligence during the repair. The lack of follow-through, combined with the dismissal of a life-safety defect and poor physical workmanship, suggests a total failure in the case management process. I am urgently requesting assistance to resolve this hazardous situation.

Filed Mar 23, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · FL

I am writing regarding the diagnosis provided for my vehicle [XXX] . I was informed today that the engine failure is being attributed to a "water hose failure" rather than the engine defects covered under the active safety recall/settlement regarding Connecting Rod Bearing failure. As there were no coolant leaks before or after the vehicle was towed to your dealership. I am formally requesting a re-evaluation and more detailed evidence. Given the known history of these engines seizing, I need to ensure this diagnosis is absolutely correct and not a symptom of the internal defect. I request the following information be provided immediately: 1. Evidence of Overheating: Did the vehicle store any specific "overheating" codes in the ECU prior to the engine shutting off? 2. Oil Pan Inspection: Has the oil pan been removed to inspect for metal shavings or debris? If the connecting rod bearings failed (the recall issue), there will likely be metallic debris in the oil, regardless of the condition of the water hose. 3. Bearing Clearance Test (BCT): Was the mandated Bearing Clearance Test performed? If not, I request that this be done, or that a teardown be performed to inspect the rod bearings specifically. 4. Causal Link: Can you provide evidence that the water hose failed causing the engine to seize, rather than the engine seizing causing a pressure spike that damaged the cooling system? I have no transportation to work and school. They would not honor a loaner. This has happened since Decemeber of 2025. I await your written response with the requested photos and technical data. My case # with Hyundai Consumer Affairs # XXX Please provide: All relevant photographs Freeze-frame and ECU data Technician diagnostic notes Results of oil pan inspection and/or BCT (if performed) Any physical evidence supporting the stated cause of failure I request this information be sent in writing at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your attention to INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U

Filed Mar 4, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · NY

I am submitting this complaint regarding Hyundai Safety Recall #290 (the federal safety agency Recall No. 25V893) as it applies to my vehicle, VIN [XXX] . I received the official recall notice by mail on February 13, 2026. The recall identifies a defect involving the tow hitch wiring harness control module, which may allow water intrusion. According to the recall documentation, this defect can cause inoperative stop lamps and, in rare cases, an electrical short that could result in overheating or a vehicle fire. Since receiving the notice, I have contacted Hyundai Motor America corporate customer care three separate times seeking escalation and guidance on how to safely address this recall. During each call, Hyundai stated that no repair solution, parts availability, or timeline exists for remedying the defect. Despite the recall involving a documented fire risk and potential brake/stop lamp failure, Hyundai representatives advised me that I could continue driving the vehicle while waiting indefinitely for a remedy. No interim safety measures, inspections, alternative repairs, or mitigation steps were offered. I am concerned that Hyundai is failing to properly execute a federally mandated safety recall and is placing consumers in the position of operating vehicles with known, unresolved safety defects. Being advised to continue driving under these circumstances creates a risk to vehicle occupants and to other motorists. I am requesting that the federal safety agency review Hyundai’s handling of Recall #290, specifically regarding recall remedy delays, lack of escalation, and failure to mitigate an acknowledged safety risk, and take any enforcement or compliance action deemed appropriate. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Feb 7, 2026 · Engine · NY

The vehicle has consumed the oil and no light came on. I drove and i checked when the running engine start doing a dry noise and loose the power. The stick was completely dry, i filled with 2 litters and now the stick show in the half. My vehicle has 60k miles and tomorrow will check on the servis. It is unacceptable first how the vehicle consumed the oil and the second the system didn't notify risking an overheat and posing an elevated risk to spop in the middle of the road causing an accident or starting a fire due to overheat.

Filed Jan 27, 2026 · Body, Electrical · OH

During normal winter operation with the heater in use, the center console area becomes excessively hot. I have measured surface temperatures exceeding approximately 130°F using an infrared thermometer. The affected area includes interior touch surfaces, cup holders, and a factory-installed wireless phone charging pad. The heat appears to originate from HVAC ducting routed through the center console to supply the rear seat vents. Closing the rear vents does not reduce the console temperature, indicating heat transfer through the ducting rather than airflow. The condition is most severe after a warm-soak cycle (driving to operating temperature, briefly parking, then driving again). When a phone is placed in the intended storage or wireless charging area, the device overheats and triggers thermal protection warnings. The console surfaces also become hot enough to present a potential burn risk with prolonged skin contact. These temperatures exceed recommended ambient conditions for consumer electronics and lithium-ion batteries in a normal-use interior storage and charging location. The issue was reported to a Hyundai dealership. The service department stated the heat was caused by the rear HVAC duct and considered the condition “normal.” No repair, insulation review, or corrective action was offered, and no specific temperature measurements were provided in writing. Hyundai Consumer Affairs directed me to return to the same service department, despite the concern remaining unresolved. This condition occurs during normal vehicle operation and represents a potential interior thermal safety concern.

Filed Jan 7, 2026 · Engine · 90,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that after coming to a complete stop, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle went into LIMP Mode. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several dealers. The contact was informed that the unknown hoses and the dipstick melted inside due to the engine overheating. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the catalytic converter had been replaced three times since the first failure. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was adding engine oil every two weeks. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The failure was a recurring failure, and the contact drove the vehicle intermittently due to the safety concerns. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: critical fastenersReported August 25, 2025 · 29 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Tucson and Santa Fe vehicles. The connecting rod bolts in the engine may have been improperly tightened, which can cause a loss of drive power and engine damage, possibly resulting in an oil leak.
Risk
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. An oil leak in the presence of hot engine components can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 23, 2025. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 281.

Recall number 25V549000 · Recall details

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

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported February 5, 2019 · 120,000 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Tucson vehicles. The engine oil pan may leak and, if not addressed, the loss of oil may 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
Hyundai has notified owners, and dealers will inspect for an oil pan leak, replacing it if necessary, and install an updated oil pressure switch, free of charge. The recall began August 19, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 181.

Recall number 19V063000 · Recall details

Questions about the Hyundai Tucson overheating

Which Hyundai Tucson years have engine overheating problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2016 (28 complaints), 2017 (8 complaints) and 2019 (6 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix engine overheating on the Hyundai Tucson?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $5,000 (median of 5 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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