# Hyundai Tucson Common Issues

> Hyundai Tucson reliability issues: transmission and engine problems affect certain models.
- Title: Hyundai Tucson Common Issues · Jalopnik | Shortify
- Summary: Hyundai Tucson reliability issues: transmission and engine problems affect certain models. Hyundai Tucson models from 2010-2018 face transmission and engine…
- Keywords: hyundai, tucson, transmission, engine, theta ii, consumer reports, carcomplaints, maintenance, cars, culture, Common, Issues
- Source: Jalopnik — https://jalopnik.com/2282172/hyundai-tucson-common-issues
- Author: Monday Goma
- Published: 2026-10-11T19:50:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: hyundai, tucson, transmission, engine, theta ii, consumer reports, carcomplaints, maintenance, cars, culture
## Hyundai Tucson Reliability
Hyundai Tucson is generally reliable with few flaws, earning top rankings in Consumer Reports and J.D. Power surveys.
## Transmission Problems
2010-2015 models face rough shifting, power loss, and gear slipping in six-speed automatic transmissions.
## Severe Transmission Issues
2016-2018 models with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission experience acceleration hesitation and gear refusal.
## Engine Failures
2012 models use Theta II engine with connecting rod bearing failures causing potential engine fire or seizure.
## Fourth-Generation Reliability
Fourth-generation Tucson gas models with Smartstream 2.5-liter engine show better reliability despite oil consumption issues.
## Maintenance Costs
Hyundai Tucson maintenance costs $8,560 after ten years, with hybrid models costing $5,310 over five years.
## Key takeaway

Hyundai Tucson models from 2010-2018 face transmission and engine issues, with 2012 models having Theta II engine failures.