Used Hyundai Tucson 2021-present reliability

When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.

While the Tucson isn’t a massive car, it feels quite bulky from the driver’s seat, and it’s hard to spot where it ends. Given that not every model was fitted with rear parking sensors and comparatively few had them at the front, it will pay to check carefully for body damage or signs of a hasty repair.

Check, too, that the alloy wheels haven’t been kerbed excessively, especially the larger-diameter versions, which will be costly to renovate if necessary. Bigger chips and grazes could be indicative of expensive damage to the suspension.

It’s also worth checking the electrics over carefully, because a few owners of the older, third-generation Tucson have noted electrical glitches. Don’t forget there are a few electrical features where you might not expect them to be, such as in the button that opens the boot.

Happily, this latest Hyundai Tucson is exceedingly problem-free. However, several owners of the third-gen car have reported excessive clutch wear and/or flywheel faults that have led to costly repairs, even under warranty. Make sure, therefore, that any manual Tucson you’re viewing has a clutch pedal that operates freely and shows no sign of slippage, and keep an eye out for any odd sensations through the clutch pedal or sluggish starting during your ownership.

Just 46 Tucsons, built during 2021, were involved in a recall in regards to a potentially twisted airbag. As of writing, models from 2022, 2023 and 2024 are yet to suffer from any recalls whatsoever.

Click here for more information. Contact your local Hyundai dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.

The Hyundai Tucson is a reliable car, according to our data. In the 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, it ranked 12th out of 34 cars in the family SUV class. Its reliability score of 94.9% makes it more reliable than the rival Seat Ateca, but less reliable than the Lexus NX.

The main trouble spots owners told us about related to non-engine electrics (a fault rate 5.1%), followed by the battery, engine electrics and the exhaust (3.4% each).

As a car brand, Hyundai inspires confidence, placing seventh out of 32 manufacturers. Its overall reliability score of 94.3% makes it a more reliable brand than Ford, Mazda and Seat. However, it remains less reliable than Honda and Lexus.

Used Hyundai Tucson: owners' reliability data

Overall, the feedback we’ve received highlights a strong record of reliability, with just a few instances of mechanical failures, as well as infotainment and other electrical issues – these didn’t affect the car’s drivability, but they did necessitate dealer visits.

The dealer network's response to these issues was generally praised for efficiency and customer service, with most repairs being covered under warranty, minimising out-of-pocket expenses for owners. There were isolated reports of delays in getting service appointments and parts, attributed to supply chain disruptions. Despite these minor hiccups, the majority of Tucson owners expressed satisfaction with their vehicle.