Hyundai Tucson
Modern turbodiesel with serious torque. Stays reliable with proper maintenance — just mind the DPF regen cycles.
Comfy SUV, family-first
The Tucson TL is a well-kitted family SUV. Dynamics are not the point, but it drives pleasantly enough.
Engine Weaknesses 5
During DPF regeneration, diesel can enter the engine oil via post-injection. Above 2% dilution, bearing damage threatens. Leaking injector copper washers amplify the problem.
Symptoms: Rising oil level without topping up, fuel smell on dipstick, sooty or thin engine oil at change.
D4HA 2.0 CRDi shows typical diesel EGR valve problems in short-trip use. Regularly check the intake manifold with swirl flaps for broken fragments.
Symptoms: Engine power loss, rough idle, EGR fault codes, engine limp mode.
The D4HA DPF clogs on frequent short-trip use. Active regeneration requires motorway runs. Filter replacement is costly.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, engine limp mode, power loss, increased fuel consumption.
The electric actuator of the VGT turbocharger fails or sends incorrect signals. The engine enters limp mode. When caught early, replacing just the actuator often avoids a full turbo replacement.
Symptoms: Power loss, limp mode, boost pressure deviation fault code, rough running at mid-range RPM.
At higher mileages and extended oil change intervals the timing chain stretches and rattles on cold start. The chain tensioner loses preload; chain skip threatens if neglected.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling in the first seconds after cold start that fades as the engine warms up.
Vehicle Weaknesses 9
Tucson TL build years 2017–2020: a short circuit in the ABS module can lead to a vehicle fire. Recall affected 78,542 vehicles — always check before buying.
Vehicles from 2015–2016 were recalled because the bonnet can open while driving — a significant safety risk.
Driveshafts and steering joints are frequently criticised on the Tucson TL according to MOT statistics. The high vehicle weight accelerates wear of suspension components.
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.
Brake discs and pads wear quickly on the heavy Tucson TL. MOT evaluations regularly show brake system complaints; parking brake also affected.
The Tucson TL infotainment system crashes, shows a black screen or USB ports fail permanently. Some owners report full unit replacement after 15,000–22,000 km.
The Tucson TL start-stop system frequently fails due to a weak starter battery. Short-trip drivers cause premature battery wear, which then affects the entire electrical system.
Rust at weld seams and sheet metal edges on the Tucson TL tailgate and door frames. Some owners report corrosion spots after only a few years, especially on facelift models.
Tucson TL owners report creaking noises from the panoramic roof and interior, especially on uneven roads.
Reports & Tests
3747 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2015–2020). Most reported: Engine (1555), Powertrain (957), Other (507).