Hyundai Tucson TL-FL(TL)
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Hyundai Tucson TL-FL (2018–2020) is the facelift of the third-generation Tucson — and for diesel buyers it's the stronger choice over the base TL (2015–2017) for one clear reason: the new D4FE Smartstream diesel replaced the outgoing 1.7 CRDi, bringing quieter running, better torque, and improved efficiency. The facelift also brought revised damper tuning and updated safety systems. One major caveat remains: the dual-clutch gearbox.
The new engine: The D4FE (1.6L CRDi Smartstream, 115–136 hp) is quieter, more efficient, and produces more torque than the unit it replaced — 280–320 Nm depending on output level, real-world consumption 38–43 mpg. Known Smartstream diesel weak points: DPF clogging for predominantly urban drivers from 30,000 km (replacement $3,000–5,000), EGR valve fouling, and the AdBlue SCR system needs regular top-up (every 15,000–20,000 km). Short city trips are a cost trap with the D4FE — long-distance users routinely reach 250,000 km without major intervention.
Gearbox decision: The 7-speed DCT is the TL-FL's biggest liability — low-speed judder, gear-change hesitation between 25–40 mph, clutch pack wear from 40,000–60,000 km. Repair costs up to $7,700. Hyundai acknowledged the problem and issued software updates — these help, but do not fix the mechanical root cause. The 6-speed manual is the only recommended transmission.
Recall: ABS module fire risk (78,542 vehicles, 2017–2020). Verify completion by VIN before any purchase.
Test-drive checklist: D4FE: have the DPF regeneration history read from the ECU at a specialist. DCT: creeping in a car park or on a slope for judder and overheating warnings. Manual: all gears clean and dry. Infotainment for spontaneous reboots. ABS recall status by VIN.
2026 market: D4FE manual in good condition: $11,000–16,500. DCT models cheaper — risk priced in at $8,500–13,000. AWD variants in demand, $1,500–2,000 premium.
Insider pick: D4FE 1.6 CRDi 136 hp 6-speed manual, MY 2019–2020, under 100,000 km, demonstrable long-distance use, ABS recall completed — the best diesel Tucson yet, with the gearbox that actually works.
136 PS
Tucson · Diesel
Comfy SUV, family-first
DecentGenerations
Engine Overview
The Hyundai Tucson TL-FL is available with one engine variant at 110 hp.
Updated 1.6L CRDi from the Smartstream diesel family — successor to the D4FB with improved emissions treatment. EGR valve fouling is the most common issue. DPF regeneration fails regularly on short-trip driving. VTG turbocharger occasionally sticks. High-pressure fuel issues on some examples. A decent diesel that needs regular long-distance driving to keep DPF and EGR clean.
- !! EGR valve contamination from 110,000 km
The EGR system on the 1.6 CRDi D4FE is prone to soot deposits in urban use. Cleaning the EGR valve and intake manifold is recommended to prevent swirl flap breakage.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough running, check engine light, EGR fault codes (P0400–P0409). - !! DPF regeneration fails on short trips from 80,000 km
The diesel particulate filter of the Smartstream D4FE does not fully regenerate in predominantly short-trip use. The engine enters limp mode; complete DPF cleaning or replacement becomes necessary.
Symptoms: Limited engine output (limp mode, max. 3,000 rpm), check engine light, DPF warning indicator, unpleasant smell after failed regeneration. - !! VTG turbocharger actuator seized from 100,000 km
The variable turbine geometry (VTG) of the Smartstream turbocharger tends to stick with carbon build-up. Vehicle enters limp mode; sometimes only cleaning is needed, sometimes the turbo must be replaced.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss, limp mode, irregular turbo response depending on driving situation.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Dual-clutch transmission: juddering and loss of drive The Tucson TL DCT shows lack of forward drive despite rising revs, juddering between 40–60 km/h and skipped gears. Hyundai has officially acknowledged gearbox problems. Symptoms: Juddering between 40–60 km/h, no drive despite rising revs, gears skipped from 60,000 km | High | |
| Manual gearbox – synchroniser rings worn On the Tucson TL with manual gearbox, synchroniser rings wear disproportionately quickly. Hyundai replaced revised parts as a goodwill gesture; outside warranty the owner bears the costs. Symptoms: Gear difficult to select, crunching when changing gear, gear pops out from 60,000 km | High | |
| Dual-clutch gearbox judders and jerks The optional dual-clutch gearbox shows juddering and power interruptions between 40–60 km/h. Vehicles with complete service history are less frequently affected; software updates often only help temporarily. Symptoms: Juddering when accelerating between 40 and 60 km/h, slipping despite rising revs, shift shocks when setting off from 50,000 km | High |
Test Reports
TÜV Report 2026
The Tucson TL achieves average MOT results with weaknesses at driveshafts and tie rods.
2025-11ADAC Breakdown Statistics 2025
The Tucson TL shows average breakdown figures in the compact SUV segment.
2025-04Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 56 weaknesses have been documented for the Hyundai Tucson TL-FL (2018–2020) — 33 engine-related and 23 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Steering, Other, Interior.
Tucson (D4HA, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Fuel in engine oil (diesel dilution), EGR valve fouling, DPF clogging. Power: 136 PS.
Tucson (D4HA, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Fuel in engine oil (diesel dilution), EGR valve fouling, DPF clogging. Power: 185 PS.
Tucson (D4FE, 2018–2020) — Be Careful: EGR valve contamination, DPF regeneration fails on short trips, VTG turbocharger actuator seized. Power: 116 PS.
Tucson (D4FE, 2018–2020) — Be Careful: EGR valve contamination, DPF regeneration fails on short trips, VTG turbocharger actuator seized. Power: 136 PS.
Tucson (G4FD, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: High-pressure fuel pump failure, Valve carbon buildup (GDi system), Timing chain stretch. Power: 132 PS.
Tucson (G4FJ, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Fuel contamination of engine oil, Turbocharger oil coking, LSPI: pre-ignition at low rpm. Power: 177–179 PS.
Tucson (G4NA, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Timing Chain Stretch and Jumping, Cylinder Bore Scoring from Catalytic Converter Disintegration, Piston Ring Oil Consumption (Class Action Affected). Power: 164 PS.
Tucson (G4NA, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Timing Chain Stretch and Jumping, Cylinder Bore Scoring from Catalytic Converter Disintegration, Piston Ring Oil Consumption (Class Action Affected). Power: 155 PS.
What to watch out for with the Hyundai Tucson? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee