The best Tucson year
The 2021 Tucson has about a tenth of the 2016's complaint rate. A few engine failures are reported, so check the oil level and service history.
Updated November 2026 · based on 80 owner complaints and 1 recalls
53 90% below the Tucson average
1 free to fix at a dealer
Every Tucson year compared
Owner complaints per 100,000 cars sold. Lower is better. The newest years have had less time to collect complaints, so they are marked too new to judge.
Known problems on the 2021 Tucson
Top problems and what they cost
Engine knock and failure
Rare reports of engine knock, limp mode or failure.
Fix: Ask about Hyundai's knock sensor update and warranty.
Engine
Dash and electrical dropouts
A few owners report losing dash lights and systems.
Fix: Diagnosis $100 to $200.
Electrical
ABS module fire risk
Recall 20V543 covers this year too.
Fix: Free under recall.
Brakes
Recalls
An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Complaints by part
Before you buy a 2021 Hyundai Tucson
- Confirm the ABS recall (20V543) shows as repaired.A recall is a safety fix the carmaker must do for free, even for later owners. Typing the 17-character VIN (on the dashboard and driver door) into nhtsa.gov/recalls shows any that were never done. Codes like 18V332 are recall numbers.The 2021 Tucson has 1 recall on record, listed below.
- Check the oil level and ask for regular oil change records.Some engines burn or thin their oil. A low or high level, a gas smell on the dipstick or blue smoke are warning signs, and regular oil changes show the engine was looked after.Owners filed 24 complaints about engine failure and engine fires on the 2021 Tucson.
- Listen for knocking under acceleration.Knocking, ticking or rattling from the engine, especially when cold, can mean worn bearings, lifters or a stretched timing chain. These are engine-out repairs costing thousands.Owners filed 24 complaints about engine failure and engine fires on the 2021 Tucson.
Questions
Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson reliable?
The best Tucson year. The 2021 Tucson has about a tenth of the 2016's complaint rate. A few engine failures are reported, so check the oil level and service history.
How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson have?
1 recall. Recall repairs are free at any Hyundai dealer, even for later owners. Enter the VIN on the free government recall lookup to see which are still open on a specific car.
What are the most common 2021 Hyundai Tucson problems?
Engine knock and failure; Dash and electrical dropouts; ABS module fire risk.
Crash rating shown for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV FWD. Repair costs are typical U.S. ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. How we score.