2021 Hyundai Tucson Safety Report

2021 Hyundai Tucson: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Engine Reliability and Fire Risk Concerns

61Complaints
1Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
45/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (21)Service Brakes (4)Unknown Or Other (3)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (3)Engine And Engine Cooling (2)Power Train,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Power Train,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Electrical System,Service Brakes (2)Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)Vehicle Speed Control,Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings from NHTSA, and a 4-star rollover rating, its complaint data reveals significant engine-related issues. Out of 61 total complaints, 21 are specifically for the ENGINE component, indicating a prevalent problem. Several complaints describe sudden power loss, limp mode, excessive oil consumption, knocking sounds, and complete engine failure, often at mileages between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. There are also reports of 3 fires and 7 injuries, with one recall related to a potential engine compartment fire risk due to an ABS module short circuit, affecting certain 2019-2021 Tucsons. This recall, issued on September 4, 2020, and expanded on December 30, 2020, highlights a known fire hazard. Beyond the engine, other concerning issues include instances of sudden window implosions (rear hatch and sunroof), and brake-related problems, with 'SERVICE BRAKES' accounting for 4 complaints and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' for 3. The recall for the ABS module also directly impacts the braking system, as a short circuit could lead to an engine compartment fire. The high number of engine complaints, coupled with reports of sudden power loss and the recall for fire risk, suggests that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, its long-term operational safety, particularly concerning the powertrain, is a significant concern. The overall safety picture is therefore bifurcated: strong passive safety in a crash, but notable active safety and reliability concerns stemming from widespread engine issues and a fire-related recall. The 2 crashes reported, while low, should be considered in the context of potential sudden vehicle failures described in complaints. The 7 injuries and 3 fires further underscore the severity of some reported malfunctions.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

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:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Failure/Limp Mode
Vehicles experience sudden power loss, enter limp mode, or complete engine failure, often accompanied by check engine lights and knocking sounds. Multiple complaints cite excessive oil consumption leading to engine damage.		 High Common 30000-70000 miles
Excessive Oil Consumption
Engines consume oil at an abnormal rate, requiring frequent top-offs between scheduled changes, potentially leading to engine damage or failure if not monitored.		 High Common 30000-60000 miles
Abs Module Short Circuit (Fire Risk)
A recall addresses a potential short circuit in the ABS module that could lead to an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is turned off.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Sudden Window Implosion
Reports of rear hatch or sunroof windows suddenly shattering or imploding without external impact.		 Medium Rare N/A miles
Brake System Issues
Complaints of hissing/buzzing noises when braking at low speeds and a soft brake pedal.		 Medium Occasional 60000-70000 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:

Engine 34% of complaints

The most frequently reported issue, accounting for 21 out of 61 complaints, involves various engine malfunctions including sudden power loss, limp mode, excessive oil consumption, knocking sounds, and complete engine failure.

Service Brakes 7% of complaints

Four complaints specifically mention 'SERVICE BRAKES', indicating issues with the braking system, including noises and pedal feel.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 5% of complaints

Three complaints are related to 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC', further detailing problems within the hydraulic braking system.

Unknown Or Other 5% of complaints

Three complaints fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', suggesting miscellaneous or undiagnosed issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side; 4-star rollover). However, it has 61 total complaints, with a significant number (21) related to engine issues, including sudden power loss and potential failure. There's also one recall for a fire risk from the ABS module, and reports of 3 fires and 7 injuries. While it performs well in crashes, its operational reliability, particularly the engine, raises safety concerns.

What are common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?

The most reported issues for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson are engine-related, accounting for 21 out of 61 complaints. These include excessive oil consumption, sudden power loss, the vehicle entering limp mode, knocking sounds, and complete engine failure. Other reported problems include brake system issues (7 complaints combined for 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC') and instances of windows imploding.

Has the 2021 Hyundai Tucson been recalled?

Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson has been subject to one recall. This recall, initially issued on September 4, 2020, and expanded on December 30, 2020, addresses a potential short circuit in the ABS module that could lead to an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is off. This recall specifically affects certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles.

Are there fire risks with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?

Yes, there is a documented fire risk. NHTSA data shows 3 reported fires for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. Furthermore, there is a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V520000) concerning a potential short circuit in the ABS module that could cause an engine compartment fire. This recall is a significant safety concern.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Hyundai Tucson?

When considering a used 2021 Hyundai Tucson, prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on the engine. Check for signs of excessive oil consumption, listen for knocking sounds, and ensure all recall work, particularly the ABS module recall, has been completed. Inquire about the vehicle's service history, specifically oil change frequency and any past engine-related diagnostics or repairs.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant engine reliability issues and a fire-related recall. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine health and recall completion is highly recommended.

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.