2021 Hyundai Tucson Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine failures, stalling, and power loss are the most reported issues, representing nearly 30% of complaints.
- A critical recall for the Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) addresses potential fire risk; confirm this repair is completed.
- Electrical system and service brake issues are also common, sometimes linked to the HECU recall.
- NHTSA safety ratings are strong, with 5 stars for overall, frontal, and side crash.
2021 Hyundai Tucson
Critical Failure Risk
Widespread reports of engine issues including hesitation, stalling, limp mode, and catastrophic failure such as seized engines requiring replacement. This is the most significant complaint category.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing strong safety ratings and practical SUV utility.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Hyundai Tucson Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 22 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 9 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $180
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 78.
How practical is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $7,000+).
What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
9 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
Top complaint category: engine (22 reports, 28.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Honda CR-V and 2021 Toyota RAV4.