This page covers 3 recalls, 263 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2013 Hyundai Tucson.
21–23 mpg combined
10.2–11.2 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate the 2013 Tucson's ownership record by a wide margin, with owners frequently describing power loss, rough running, and noticeable shaking, often at highway speeds. Many describe the engine entering a reduced-power state that forces them to pull over, and a recurring theme involves engine noise and vibration that persists even after shop visits turn up no definitive diagnosis. Brake complaints are the second most-reported system, with owners describing braking performance issues and, in some cases, difficulty getting repairs completed due to parts availability. A smaller group of powertrain complaints covers general drivability concerns that overlap with the engine symptoms owners describe. The engine shaking and power-loss pattern is by far the most consistent thread across the complaint set.
263
Total Complaints
16
Crash-Related
18
Fire-Related
10
With Injuries
By System
The 2013 Hyundai Tucson has 3 recalls, the most serious involving the anti-lock brake control module, which can short circuit and start an engine compartment fire whether the vehicle is parked or moving.
A separate engine concern affects oil pan seals that can develop leaks. If enough oil escapes, the engine can seize or stall without warning — a stall in traffic raises the risk of a crash, and a severely oil-starved engine can also catch fire. There is also a safety equipment concern: the driver's airbag assembly can work loose from its mounting in the steering wheel. A bag that is not firmly seated may not deploy correctly in a crash, increasing the chance of injury to the driver.
At a glance
What can fail
The Anti-Lock Brake System module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, potentially starting a fire in the engine compartment.
What the fix does
The ABS fuse will be replaced at no cost to restore normal brake system function.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The engine oil pan may develop a leak. If oil leaks out and isn't fixed, the engine could be damaged from running low on oil.
What the fix does
Dealers will check for oil pan leaks, replace the pan if needed, and install an updated oil pressure switch at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's air bag assembly in the steering wheel may loosen from its mounting bolts.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten the bolts securing the air bag assembly to the steering wheel.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
