2015 Hyundai Tucson: problems, recalls and what it’s worth
NHTSA has 1 open defect investigation (not a recall). Known weak spot on this generation: Theta II 2.0T / 2.4L GDI engine. 1 recall campaign to confirm with a dealer. A lot of owner complaints, 53% about engine & cooling.
Cold-start knock/rattle that fades as it warms, oil consumption, a check-engine light for the knock sensor. Confirm the KSDS software recall was performed and ask whether the engine was ever replaced.
Known problems on the 2015 Hyundai Tucson
Theta II 2.0T / 2.4L GDI engine $4,000–$7,000 to fix
If equipped with the 2.4L or 2.0T Theta II GDI (most were), this generation has a documented rod-bearing failure — knocking, then seizure or fire. Covered by huge recalls, a class-action settlement, and a knock-sensor software update (KSDS); a lifetime warranty applies to many, but only for the original-owner chain in some cases.
Check for: Cold-start knock/rattle that fades as it warms, oil consumption, a check-engine light for the knock sensor. Confirm the KSDS software recall was performed and ask whether the engine was ever replaced.
Basis: NHTSA recalls 15V568/17V226/others; Hyundai/Kia engine class-action settlement; KSDS campaign
Known patterns for this year and model, not findings about one car. A well-kept example may already have had the fix. Costs are rough US shop prices.
2015 Hyundai Tucson recalls
NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign for the 2015 Hyundai Tucson. Repairs are free at a dealer for the brand, and a dealer can confirm by VIN which were already done.
- BrakesPark outsideFire risk
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Details 22V056000
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Santa Fe, 2017-2018 Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Santa Fe XL, and 2014-2015 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 218.
2015 Hyundai Tucson safety investigations and free repairs
Under investigation (not a recall):
- Hyundai and kia abs module fires since Nov 2023
Ask the seller if the car has had this problem.
Free repairs to ask about (warranty extensions):
- Exhaust and emissions: Certain 2014 – 2015 model year Tucson vehicles may have a weakened weld at the zone where the center muffler is attached to the exhaust pipe.
- Engine: The warranty coverage for engine repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to…
A dealer for the brand can check these by VIN.
Source: NHTSA, Sep 24, 2026.
2015 Hyundai Tucson safety and fuel
From NHTSA’s crash tests and the EPA’s fueleconomy.gov.
What owners complain about
227 complaints filed with NHTSA for this year and model, which is a lot.
Share of complaints that mention each area. One complaint can mention several.
What a 2015 Hyundai Tucson is worth
Rough trade-in values — roughly what a dealer would pay — by mileage, from published trade-in guides. Private sales and dealer prices run higher. For the exact car, add its VIN.
| Mileage | Trade-in (rough) |
|---|---|
| 80,000 mi | $6,925 |
| 120,000 mi | $6,250 |
Other Hyundai Tucson years
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Printable inspection checklist · Out-the-door price calculator