NHTSA lists 5 safety recalls and 34 owner complaints for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Most complaints involve electrical system (10) and forward collision avoidance (9). The EPA rates it 36–38 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2026 Tucson Hybrid and Elantra vehicles. The front strut assembly fasteners may not be tightened properly, which can result in a loss of vehicle steering control.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Tucson, Tucson Hybrid, Tucson Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Santa Cruz, Tucson, Tucson Hybrid, and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. Software in the front cameras may cause the forward collision avoidance system to activate prematurely and unexpectedly apply the brakes.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“On approximately XXX, while traveling on [XXX], the vehicle's automatic emergency braking system engaged abruptly and without warning. The vehicle ahead had stopped with sufficient distance for a normal, controlled stop. Despite this, the automatic braking system activated suddenly on the 45-mph roadway, causing my left arm to jam and my head to jolt forward. Within the following week, two additional incidents of similar abrupt automatic braking occurred. Recall Discovery I subsequently researched the vehicle online and discovered an active recall for sensitive braking on this year, make, and model. The recall number may be researched and verified via the vehicle VIN number provided above. I was never notified of this recall by either the manufacturer or Element Fleet Management. I have since taken the vehicle in for resolution of the recall, and the problem has not recurred. Injury and Medical Treatment In the days following the initial incident, I began experiencing shoulder, neck, and back pain. I sought chiropractic care for approximately six weeks. As symptoms persisted, I consulted an orthopedic specialist and was diagnosed with whiplash. My symptoms have…”
“Driver alert system frequently comes on with blinking lights and on several occasions has slowed the vehicle while on cruise control even though both hands were on steering wheel. It appears that system is overly sensitive to glare from the sun. Hyundai should issue either a recall or software fix.”
“Suspect faulty TCU or associated software: My 2026 Tucson Hybrid, purchased in February, has an intermittent “Shift-by-Wire (SBW)” fault where the car refuses to shift into gear (e.g., Reverse) and displays “The car is already in the desired gear” warning on dashboard and the Check Engine light comes On. Retrying (turn car off, wait a while and restart) generally resolves the immediate issue and the Check Engine light turns Off. However, I don’t feel safe driving the car until a definitive warranty repair can be done. So, I had it towed to the dealer. The dealer showed me screen shots of their initial scan indicating No DTC codes were found, that they could not duplicate the problem, and I could pick the car up. If the Check Engine light came on there should be a DTC code stored in non-volatile memory, right? I asked the dealer to keep the car and have a technician drive it until they duplicate and fix the problem. They agreed but I have evidence that indicates the car is not being driven. I filed a formal consumer complaint with Hyundai Corporate Customer Care and received a Case Number (43328121) but no other communication in the weeks since.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson Hybrid Blue Auto (AM-S6), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 38 | 38 | 38 | $1,700 | 234 |
| Tucson Hybrid Auto (AM-S6), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 36 | 37 | 36 | $1,800 | 243 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
5 safety recalls as of Oct 30, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 34 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (10), forward collision avoidance (9), power train (3). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid at 36–38 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid 5 out of 5 stars overall.