2021 Hyundai Tucson Safety Report
2021 Hyundai Tucson Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (1) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (61) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 5 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2024 | Compare against the 2024 Hyundai Tucson with 66 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2018 | Check the 2018 Hyundai Tucson before buying across this generation. |
Hyundai Tucson Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Hyundai Tucson years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Hyundai Tucson | 338 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Hyundai Tucson | 159 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Hyundai Tucson | 108 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2019 Hyundai Tucson | 355 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2024 Hyundai Tucson | 66 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Hyundai Tucson | 369 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2021 Hyundai Tucson Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
21 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Hyundai onlyService Brakes
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Hyundai onlyUnknown Or Other
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Hyundai onlyService Brakes, Hydraulic
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes, Hydraulic issues Hyundai onlyEngine And Engine Cooling
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling issues Hyundai onlyPower Train,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System issues Hyundai onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability Score
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson receives a reliability score of 5 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine And Engine Cooling The catalytic converter efficiency failure was confirmed by an authorized dealership in January 2025, indicating a moderate frequency of this issue. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles on September 4, 2020, due to service brakes, hydraulic, issues. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson:
23% of the reported issues are related to service brakes, hydraulic.
17% of the reported issues are related to engine and engine cooling.
Recall Details for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
The following 1 recall has been issued for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson by NHTSA:
Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles on September 4, 2020. On December 30, 2020, Hyundai expanded the recall population, and added certain 2016-2018 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) could corrode internally and cause an electrical short, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HECU fuse. For 2019-2021 model years, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) software will also be updated. Recall repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began November 2, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai custom...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 3 involved fires. 6 reported injuries or fatalities.
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light was frequently illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to various independent mechanics and was informed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer for service, and upon ins...
While driving on the freeway, my 2021 Hyundai Tucson SE (72,021 miles) suddenly and without warning lost power and entered limp mode. I was able to safely maneuver to the shoulder and exit the freeway. The check engine light came on and is currently flashing. I took the vehicle to AutoZone where code P1326 was retrieved. I then took it to Pep Boys for a full diagnostic where P1326 was the only cod...
The vehicle experienced a catalytic converter efficiency failure that was confirmed by an authorized dealership in January 2025. The dealer indicated the catalytic converter required replacement; however, the replacement was not performed, and the vehicle was returned to service with an unresolved emissions defect. Less than one year later, the vehicle developed recurring emissions system failure...
The contact owned a 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at 10 MPH, an abnormal clicking sound was coming from under the hood. No warning lights illuminated. In addition, the contact managed to pull over to the shoulder of the road, where white smoke was noticed leaking from under the hood, and the intensity was increasing while the smoke turned black. The local fire departme...
I have been adding oil to this engine excessively for more than 3 years..I have had appointments with the dealer where they flat out told me bring it back when the engine fails.i finally got N appointment and was told the engine needed to be replaced.that was 2 weeks ago..they are now denying the claim...have had my car for 2 weeks..no loaner..and decided to deny what they told me
The contact owned a 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that immediately after purchasing the certified vehicle, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode while her grandson was driving approximately 65 MPH, and the vehicle decelerated to 7 MPH. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the NOX sensor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but while leaving th...
I left my house this am in below zero temperatures. I drove to my daughter's apartment complex 41 miles away. I pulled into her underground parking garage and then heard a loud pop, followed by the rear hatch window imploding into thousands of pieces.
I am the original owner of this car and in June 2025 I brought my car to Hyundai from noises and they told me it had no oil despite me being up to date with oil changes on the vehicle. They told me they were going to do an oil consumption test and once they did that the engine was denied. 6 months later 3 days after an oil change and no check engine light on, the engine fails while I’m on the side...
Oil Consumption problems
Oil light comes on between changes at about 1500 miles before needing one, oil does not show on dipstick and have to repeatedly put on in engine. Chance of engine seizing or jumping time.
The issue started just before my vehicle had 60,000 miles on it and only occurred every once and a while but, now it happens more often. When braking at low speeds my car makes a hissing/buzzing noise and the pedal goes soft. We got to a dealership when it had 60,420 miles on it. The dealership had it for two weeks saying they have never experienced anything like this issue before. They even conta...
We were driving and the engine light started flashing and buckling. The vehicle had been properly maintained with oil changes. We have oil changes receipts from our mechanic. Hyundai refuses to cover it under their warranty even though there are documented issues with the make and models of 2021 Hyundai Tuscons.
Engine started making a knocking sound, then the oil light came on followed by the check engine light. Accelerates and decelerates on its own. Was forced to immediately pull over across three lanes on Interstate 95. It’s been over two weeks and I’ve yet to hear if Hyundai is going to cover a replacement engine. However, what happened is exactly what they have listed on their website ️ What to look...
My family’s safety is at serious risk with my 2021 Hyundai Tucson, which I’ve owned only 55 days. This vehicle has stalled three times while driving, putting me and my two young children in immediate danger. Each time, the car operated normally until a flashing engine light appeared, RPMs spiked, and the vehicle suddenly lost all power—entering “limp mode” and unable to exceed 3,000 RPM or 50 MPH....
Engine started making a knocking sound, light came on. Accelerates and decelerates on it's own. Dealership will not provide a diagnosis in any way, but says complete engine replacement is the answer. Car has been at dealership for almost a month.
I was trying to defrost my windows and my air was on so I clicked the air off so the heat could come on and I started smelling a matalicky smell. I drove to a stop light and when I stopped the back windshield popped and then shattered. I then went to drive again to take the car home and I started to see smoke. Once the light changed I continued to drive to get the car home I happened to look throu...
While driving on a major highway, my car went into limp mode topping out at 60 mph then decreasing before going back to 60. My check engine light was also blinking, not solid.
While driving on the freeway my sunroof suddenly imploded sending glass everywhere. No warning whatsoever it was like a bomb went off out of nowhere. Nothing hit the car and temps were not high and it just imploded This is a serious matter and extremely dangerous. The pain and ringing in my ears is awful, glass went all over this is serious issue that can cause death and injury
When going through Auburn, AL with speed limit of 70 mph my car engine started blinking on and off then my car dropped down only allowing me to go 60 Mph.
On [XXX], the vehicle was involved in a complex multi-impact accident. It was struck by a vehicle on the passenger (right) side and, simultaneously, by another vehicle on the driver's (left) side. (Police Report). During this sequence of collisions, and despite the magnitude of the impact, I must express my extreme concern that the left side airbag (driver's side) did not deploy. This failure caus...
Showing 20 of 61 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module
Opened 2023-11-17
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando....
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Hyundai Tucson
Has the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON have?
The 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON has 61 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 2 involved crashes. 7 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
The 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON involve engine (21 complaints), service brakes (4 complaints), unknown or other (3 complaints). Other affected components include service brakes, hydraulic, engine and engine cooling, power train,engine,fuel/propulsion system.
How many crash reports does the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON have?
There are 2 crash reports associated with the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON out of 61 total complaints (3.3% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON have?
There are 3 fire reports for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON out of 61 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
7 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON is acceptable with caveats. It has 61 complaints, 1 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON are: 1. ENGINE (21 complaints), 2. SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), 4. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC (3 complaints), 5. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 21 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
Be aware of potential service brake and engine cooling issues, especially after 30,000 miles. Check for recalls and service your vehicle regularly. The 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON has 61 NHTSA complaints and 1 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
The 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON receives a reliability score of 5/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 61 owner complaints, 1 recalls, and 5 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine and engine cooling and Service brakes, hydraulic.
What are the known issues with the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON?
Known issues with the 2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON include: Engine and engine cooling, Service brakes, hydraulic. These are based on patterns found across 61 NHTSA complaints. 1 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson prone to engine issues?
Yes, some vehicles have experienced catalytic converter efficiency failures.
What should I do if I notice the check engine light coming on frequently?
Have the vehicle inspected by a professional to identify and address the underlying issue.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
Yes, Hyundai recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles due to service brakes, hydraulic, issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential service brake and engine cooling issues, especially after 30,000 miles. Check for recalls and service your vehicle regularly.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Hyundai Tucson
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The data includes 61 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16