Hyundai Tucson 2018 recalls, problems, complaints and safety

NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Hyundai Tucson 2018 and 396 complaints filed by owners. One of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning until repaired. It has 15% fewer complaints than the average Hyundai Tucson from 2016–2025 (465 per year).

These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.

Recalls issued for the Hyundai Tucson 2018

Brakes (hydraulic)
NHTSA campaign 20V543000 · 2020-09-04 !

Owners are advised to park it outside and away from structures until repaired (fire risk).

What happens

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 customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 195.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 20V543000

Complaints from other owners

396 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.

13 with a crash · 9 with a fire · 10 injuries

Most reported problems on the Hyundai Tucson 2018

• Engine: 243 (61% of complaints)
• Powertrain and transmission: 101 (26% of complaints)
• Electrical system: 25 (6% of complaints)
• Fuel and propulsion: 22 (6% of complaints)
• Brakes: 21 (5% of complaints)

Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.

What to check before buying a Hyundai Tucson 2018

• Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
• Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
• On the test drive, check for smooth shifts with no jerks, slipping or noises; check the transmission fluid condition.
• Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
• Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.

Safety rating (NCAP)

Hyundai Tucson recalls by year

• 2016 : 5 recalls · 1,621 complaints
• 2017 : 3 recalls · 1,090 complaints
• 2018 : 1 recalls · 396 complaints
• 2019 : 1 recalls · 382 complaints
• 2020 : 1 recalls · 178 complaints
• 2021 : 1 recalls · 79 complaints
• 2022 : 3 recalls · 385 complaints
• 2023 : 2 recalls · 135 complaints
• 2024 : 4 recalls · 98 complaints
• 2025 : 6 recalls · 286 complaints

Frequently asked questions

How many recalls does the Hyundai Tucson 2018 have?

NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Hyundai Tucson 2018. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.

What is the most common problem with the Hyundai Tucson 2018?

In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: engine (243 of 396 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.