Last updated: 2026-10-10

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 73/100

The Hyundai Tucson years to avoid are 2022, 2019 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2022 with a reliability score of 66/100. The best Hyundai Tucson year to buy is 2021 78/100.

Verdict

The 2022, 2019 Hyundai Tucson score significantly below the model average of 73/100. The weakest year is 2022 with a score of 66/100 due to power train (82) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2021 78/100. The newer 2026 model year scores higher partly because it has had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Hyundai Tucson Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Hyundai Tucson average of 73/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1202266/100Good3433Power Train (82)
2201968/100Good1349Engine (116)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good

2022 Hyundai Tucson

Weakest of the nine scored Tucson years, with fuel injector failures that cause stalling and far more complaints than the 2021 and 2023 models.

3 recalls433 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Power Train (82), Fuel Propulsion System (76), Engine (59), Electrical System (57), Unknown Or Other (50), Service Brakes (17)

View full 2022reliability report →
68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

2019 Hyundai Tucson

Among the weaker Tucson years despite a good standing, with engine oil burning that can end in failure and a brake recall with a park-outside fire risk.

1 recalls349 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (116), Service Brakes, Hydraulic (60), Power Train (37), Service Brakes (36), Electrical System (33), Unknown Or Other (22)

View full 2019reliability report →

What Are Common Hyundai Tucson Problems?

Tucson engine problems

394 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2022

2018: Excessive oil consumption leads the reports, with engines burning a quart or more every 1,000 miles despite regular oil changes.

POWER TRAIN

260 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2022, 2019

2018: Sudden engine failure is the main pattern.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

231 complaints

Most reported in 2025, 2022, 2019

2025: The instrument cluster and head-up display go dark while driving.

SERVICE BRAKES

225 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2018, 2020

2019: Most reports concern the ABS module recall, which carries a fire risk even while parked.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

210 complaints

Most reported in 2022, 2025, 2018

2022: Panoramic sunroof glass shatters at highway speed with a loud bang and no apparent impact.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

106 complaints

Most reported in 2025, 2024, 2022

2025: Automatic emergency braking engages when there is no real hazard and brings the car to a full stop, at city speeds and on the highway.

Best Hyundai Tucson Year to Buy Instead

78
GoodReliability score: 78 out of 100, rated Good

2021 Hyundai Tucson

Rates better than the 2020 and 2022 models, with a good standing, though engine power loss and a park-outside brake recall still apply.

Score: 78/100 (Good)1 recalls58 complaints
View full 2021reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2021 Hyundai Tucson has 1 recall on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Hyundai Tucson Years by Generation

80
ExcellentReliability score: 80 out of 100, rated Excellent

2026 Hyundai Tucson

4 recalls · 3 complaints

78
GoodReliability score: 78 out of 100, rated Good

2021 Hyundai Tucson

1 recalls · 58 complaints

77
GoodReliability score: 77 out of 100, rated Good

2024 Hyundai Tucson

4 recalls · 87 complaints

75
GoodReliability score: 75 out of 100, rated Good

2025 Hyundai Tucson

6 recalls · 251 complaints

75
GoodReliability score: 75 out of 100, rated Good

2023 Hyundai Tucson

2 recalls · 142 complaints

73
GoodReliability score: 73 out of 100, rated Good

2020 Hyundai Tucson

1 recalls · 153 complaints

68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

2019 Hyundai Tucson

1 recalls · 349 complaints

Weakest Year
68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

2018 Hyundai Tucson

1 recalls · 362 complaints

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good

2022 Hyundai Tucson

3 recalls · 433 complaints

Weakest Year

Frequently Asked Questions

What Hyundai Tucson years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Hyundai Tucson years: 2022 (score: 66/100), 2019 (score: 68/100). These model years score significantly below the Hyundai Tucson average of 73/100.
What is the best year for the Hyundai Tucson?
The best year for the Hyundai Tucson is 2021, with a reliability score of 78/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 58 owner complaints. The newer 2026 model year scores higher partly because it has had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Hyundai Tucson have?
Across all years in our database, the Hyundai Tucson has a total of 23 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Hyundai Tucson worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2021 model year, which scores 78/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 73/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Hyundai Tucson problems?
The most common Hyundai Tucson problems are engine (394 complaints), power train (260 complaints), electrical system (231 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Hyundai Tucson reliable long-term?
The Hyundai Tucson has an average reliability score of 73/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
How much does it cost to maintain a Hyundai Tucson?
The estimated annual maintenance cost for the Hyundai Tucson is $426 based on independent repair cost databases. This is below the category average, making it relatively affordable to maintain.
Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson a good used buy?
Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 78/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 58 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every Hyundai Tucson model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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