EngineHigh
GDI engine (2.0/2.4) carbon build-up and, on some, bearing failure.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for knocking, oil consumption and confirm any engine recall/warranty work.
2021 Hyundai Tucson problems
A 2021 Hyundai Tucson is now 5 years old, so an average example has covered around 67,500 miles. The final model year of the generation · generally the most sorted build, so mileage, servicing and condition matter more than build-year faults. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2021 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is 5 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 67,500 miles. At that mileage 2 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first. A further 3 typically appear later in the car's life.
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Build the inspection planFaults a 2021 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~68k miles an average 2021 car has covered.
Body/InteriorMedium
Creaking, rattling, or sticking of the panoramic sunroof mechanism, caused by track debris or failing plastic guides.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Operate the sunroof through a full open and close cycle. Listen for grinding noises and check that the glass seats flush with the roofline without manual assistance.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
TransmissionHigh
1.6T 7-speed dual-clutch hesitation, jerking and failure.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive in traffic; feel for lurching and hesitation from a stop.
SafetyHigh
ABS module fire recall.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the ABS/HECU recall was completed.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment and camera glitches.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test the screen and reversing camera.
Faults still ahead of this car
Typically appear later than this year's average mileage · worth budgeting for rather than inspecting.
Exhaust/EmissionsHigh
DPF warning light illumination and vehicle entering limp-home mode due to soot accumulation, particularly on 1.7 and 2.0 CRDi models used for short journeys.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and check the instrument cluster for the DPF warning light. Rev the engine to 3,000 rpm to ensure it revs freely and has not defaulted to limp mode.
Climate ControlMedium
Air conditioning system blowing warm air due to a porous or stone-damaged condenser leaking refrigerant.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Set the climate control to maximum cold with the engine running. Feel the vents for chilled air within 60 seconds and shine a torch through the lower front bumper grille to spot dark, oily patches on the condenser.
SteeringMedium
Noticeable clicking or clunking noise from the steering column when turning the wheel, caused by a degraded flexible rubber coupling within the EPS motor assembly.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine idling and wheels pointing straight, rapidly rock the steering wheel left and right by about 10 degrees. Listen for a distinct metallic clunk from behind the dashboard.
Inspecting a 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
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Build my inspection planHyundai Tucson · frequently asked questions
Is the Tucson reliable?
Value-packed but check the dual-clutch and engine history carefully.
Are there Tucson engine recalls?
Yes — GDI engine and ABS-fire campaigns exist; confirm completion.
Should I avoid the 1.6T DCT?
Test it thoroughly; the dual-clutch can be jerky and troublesome.
Do the 1.7 and 2.0 CRDi diesel engines use a timing belt or a timing chain?
Both the 1.7-litre and 2.0-litre CRDi diesel engines fitted to the Mk3 Tucson utilise a steel timing chain rather than a rubber cambelt. These chains are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, provided the car receives regular oil changes using the correct specification synthetic oil to prevent tensioner failure.
What should I check on the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system?
The HTRAC AWD system is generally robust, but the transfer case and rear differential require fluid changes every 40,000 miles to prevent premature wear. When inspecting, check the rear differential casing for oil leaks and ensure there is no binding or juddering from the drivetrain during tight, low-speed manoeuvres.
Are there any specific checks required for the 48V mild-hybrid models?
Introduced during the 2018 facelift, the 48V mild-hybrid system features a lithium-ion battery located under the boot floor. Dealers must ensure the boot area is completely dry, as water ingress from faulty tailgate seals can damage the battery and DC/DC converter. Replacement of these high-voltage components is highly expensive.
Other Tucson model years
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