2017 Hyundai Tucson Safety Report
2017 Hyundai Tucson: Excellent Crash Ratings Undermined by Pervasive Engine and Powertrain Failures, Multiple Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability Score
The 2017 Hyundai Tucson receives a reliability score of 35 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure/Seizure Due To Connecting Rod Bearing Wear Premature wear of connecting rod bearings can lead to engine damage, stalling, or fire. This is covered by NHTSA Recall 21V727000. |
High | Common | 50000-120000 miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Vehicles consume oil at an alarming rate, leading to low oil levels, engine damage, and potential stalls if not frequently monitored and refilled. |
High | Common | 40000-100000 miles |
| Vehicle Entering 'Limp Home Mode' (P1326 Code) Sudden loss of engine power and reduced speed (e.g., 45 MPH limit) often triggered by the Knock Sensor Detection System, creating dangerous situations, especially at highway speeds. |
High | Common | 60000-100000 miles |
| Abs Module Fire Risk The ABS module can malfunction, leading to an engine compartment fire. This is covered by NHTSA Recall 20V813000. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Transmission (Powertrain) Malfunction/Slipping Transmission slips, fails to properly engage, or causes hesitation during acceleration, sometimes accompanied by 'Transmission too hot' warnings. |
Medium | Occasional | 70000-100000 miles |
| Door Latch Failure (Inoperable From Inside) Door latches fail, preventing doors from opening from the inside, posing an entrapment risk. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Hyundai Tucson:
The most frequent issue, with 390 complaints, involves engine failure, excessive oil consumption, and vehicles entering 'limp mode' due to internal engine issues or knock sensor detection system faults.
With 163 complaints, issues include transmission slipping, hesitation, and general powertrain malfunctions, sometimes related to overheating.
70 complaints fall under this category, indicating various other unspecified issues.
40 complaints specifically link issues to both the powertrain and engine, highlighting their interconnected problems.
30 complaints relate to structural issues, including door latch failures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Hyundai Tucson
Is the 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON safe?
The 2017 Hyundai Tucson received excellent 5-star overall safety ratings from NHTSA for crash protection. However, its operational safety is significantly compromised by a high volume of complaints (1054 total) regarding severe engine and powertrain failures, including sudden loss of power and fire risks, which have led to 13 crashes, 26 fires, 12 injuries, and 1 death. Multiple recalls address these critical issues.
What are common problems with the 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson are engine-related, accounting for 390 complaints. These include engine failure, excessive oil consumption, and the vehicle entering 'limp home mode' (often with a P1326 code). Powertrain issues, such as transmission slipping and hesitation, are also common, with 163 complaints.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
Yes, there are three significant recalls for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson. These include a recall for premature connecting rod bearing wear in the engine (NHTSA ID: 21V727000), a recall for an ABS module issue that can cause an engine compartment fire (NHTSA ID: 20V813000), and a recall for trailer brake lights staying illuminated (NHTSA ID: 16V574000).
Does the 2017 Hyundai Tucson have engine problems?
Yes, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson has extensive engine problems, making it the top complaint category with 390 reports. Issues range from excessive oil consumption, sudden engine power loss (limp mode), and complete engine failure due to connecting rod bearing wear. These problems are serious enough to be addressed by a major recall (NHTSA ID: 21V727000).
What is the reliability score for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson?
Based on the high volume of severe complaints, particularly concerning the engine and powertrain, and multiple safety recalls, the reliability score for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson is estimated to be around 35 out of 100.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of severe engine and powertrain complaints, along with multiple safety recalls, prospective buyers should exercise extreme caution and ensure all recalls have been addressed, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is performed, specifically checking for signs of excessive oil consumption or engine issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Hyundai Tucson
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson. The data includes 1054 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 13 reported crashes, 26 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Hyundai Tucson an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.