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2021 Hyundai Tucson VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 58 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (20), Electrical System (7), Unknown Or Other (6).

Tucson reliability snapshot

78/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$426
Avg annual repair cost vs $521 category avg
#5/26
Ranking in compact SUVs · better than 81% of peers

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Hyundai Tucson before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Most-reported 2021 Hyundai Tucson issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Engine20
  • Electrical System7
  • Unknown Or Other6
  • Service Brakes6
  • Power Train5
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic3

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • Inspect engine for knocking sounds or excessive oil consumption
  • Test brakes for soft pedal or excessive pressure needed
  • Check air conditioning system for functionality
  • Verify recall repairs, especially for ABS module and engine issues
  • Inspect panoramic sunroof for signs of stress or damage
  • Test rear view camera visibility at night

What owners reported

2021 Hyundai Tucson owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 2 crashes, 3 fires and 7 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints20

ENGINE

Owners report frequent engine issues with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, often involving rod bearing failures and excessive oil consumption. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as illuminated check engine lights, reduced acceleration, and vehicles entering "limp mode," limiting speed and RPMs. These issues are typically reported around 25,000 to 65,000 miles, with some owners experiencing complete engine failure. Safety concerns are significant, with two reports of engine fires, one of which resulted in injuries, and several instances of vehicles stalling on highways, posing risks of accidents. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems when considering a used 2021 Tucson.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 2 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints9

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson frequently report issues with the service brakes, particularly involving an electrical short in the ABS module that poses a risk of engine compartment fires, as highlighted in multiple recall-related complaints. Several owners describe a lack of availability of parts needed for recall repairs, resulting in extended wait times and concerns over safety due to the potential fire hazard. Additionally, some owners mention problems with the brake pedal becoming soft and requiring excessive pressure, often linked to a suspected vacuum assist issue, with one owner noting resolution after replacing a check valve themselves. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some problems appearing as early as within the first year of ownership. Safety implications include increased stopping distances and potential loss of brake power, although no crashes are explicitly reported. This information is pertinent for used car buyers to consider, given the potential for unresolved recall repairs and brake system concerns.

Owner complaints7

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly concerning the air conditioning and rear view camera. Multiple complaints describe the air conditioning system failing at under 55,000 miles, with extensive parts replacements not resolving the issue. Additionally, the rear view camera is noted to be ineffective at night. Some owners experience repeated knock sensor failures leading to limp mode, significantly impacting vehicle performance and posing a safety risk due to sudden deceleration. There are also reports of poor vehicle performance and reduced fuel efficiency following a dealership software update, with no resolution from the manufacturer. Safety concerns are highlighted in complaints about potential fire risks related to the ABS module, with suggestions to park vehicles outside. These issues suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, especially those considering vehicles with higher mileage or those produced before November 2020.

Owner complaints6

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson report several issues, with a focus on rear window implosions and engine problems. Multiple complaints describe the rear hatch window shattering unexpectedly, sometimes accompanied by a popping noise. Engine-related issues include knocking sounds, self-acceleration and deceleration, and sudden shutdowns, often leading to engine replacement recommendations. One complaint involves a fire originating in the trunk area, highlighting a significant safety risk. These issues occur at varying mileages, with some owners mentioning vehicle service history and ongoing difficulties in obtaining timely dealer repairs.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints5

POWER TRAIN

Owners report that the 2021 Hyundai Tucson frequently experiences hesitation and stalling issues, particularly when accelerating from a stop or during lane changes and highway merging. Complaints commonly describe delayed throttle response, where the vehicle fails to move despite pressing the accelerator, sometimes requiring multiple attempts to engage the engine. These issues are often accompanied by additional symptoms like engine stalling, power loss, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light. The reported problems occur at various mileage levels, with some owners noting issues as early as 9,000 miles and others experiencing them beyond 36,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as several owners mention near collisions due to the vehicle's unresponsiveness, particularly in traffic or while merging at higher speeds.

Owner complaints2

STRUCTURE

Owners report that the panoramic sunroof on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson can spontaneously explode while driving, with no prior warning. Complaints frequently mention a loud noise, likened to a bomb or gunshot, followed by shattered glass dispersing into the vehicle's cabin. Both incidents occurred while driving on the freeway, suggesting potential safety implications, including injury risk from the glass and the need for sudden stops on highways. These reports do not specify exact mileage, and no external factors like temperature or impact are noted. Prospective buyers should be aware of this issue due to its potential for driver distraction and injury.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints2

AIR BAGS

Owners report issues with the airbag system in the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, particularly the non-deployment of the driver's side airbag during crashes. Complaints frequently mention incidents where the airbag fails to deploy, resulting in injuries, including neck injuries and severe internal injuries to passengers. Both reported complaints involve crashes, with one highlighting a multi-impact accident where the airbag did not deploy and the seatbelt caused internal injuries. These incidents suggest potential safety implications, especially in terms of airbag reliability during collisions. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues when considering a used 2021 Hyundai Tucson.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints2

STEERING

Owners report issues with the steering column of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, where it occasionally fails to disengage, leading to a locked steering wheel even when the vehicle is in gear. Complaints frequently mention the presence of a yellow warning light with a car and key symbol during these incidents. Multiple owners describe near-collisions due to this malfunction, particularly when starting the vehicle or backing out of parking spots. Additional symptoms include problems with the electronic e-brake, such as delayed release or unexpected engagement, and a loss of power during acceleration. These issues often occur with passengers in the vehicle, raising safety concerns, although no specific mileage range is consistently reported.

2021 Tucson recalls (1)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Tucson. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 20V543000Sep 4, 2020
    Park outside until repaired

    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.

Used-market value

2021 Hyundai Tucson resale snapshot

65.2%estimated value retained after 5 years
720listings in the model-level benchmark
$19,990median asking price from 60 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

2021 Hyundai Tucson on the road

140,721 2021 Hyundai Tucson units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2021 Hyundai Tucson stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Reliability verdict for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

With an 86/100 score against a 72/100 segment average, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson rates above average for reliability. That gap suggests a lower-than-typical likelihood of owner-reported problems compared with peers, supporting a generally solid dependability profile for this model year. Recall activity is limited, which aligns with the stronger overall score.

Complaint patterns are not confined to a single system. While engine-related reports lead, braking and electrical concerns also register meaningfully, with additional issues spread across other areas including the powertrain. This distribution points to a mix of problem types rather than one dominant weak spot, even if the engine stands out as the primary theme.

Overall risk level: below-average buyer risk for the segment.

What you get in a 2021 Hyundai Tucson report

Available title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2021 Hyundai Tucson — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson reliable?

With an 86/100 score against a 72/100 segment average, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson rates above average for reliability. That gap suggests a lower-than-typical likelihood of owner-reported problems compared with peers, supporting a generally solid dependability profile for this model year. Recall activity is limited, which aligns with the stronger overall score.

How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson have?

1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2021 Hyundai Tucson problems?

The most-reported 2021 Hyundai Tucson problem areas are: Engine (20), Electrical System (7), Unknown Or Other (6).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Hyundai Tucson?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Hyundai Tucson, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.