Discovering the Potential Issues of the 2019 Hyundai Tucson: A Balanced Look

When it comes to the 2019 Hyundai Tucson it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to it. It’s a stylish crossover that promises both comfort and utility for families and adventure-seekers alike. But like any vehicle it’s not without its potential issues. In this article we’ll dive deep into some of the common problems owners have reported with the 2019 Tucson while still appreciating its strengths.

Alex Collantes an automotive enthusiast shares "I’ve always admired Hyundai for their affordability and design but the 2019 Tucson left me with mixed feelings." His balanced viewpoint will guide us as we explore the pros and cons of owning this popular SUV.

Common Problems with the 2019 Hyundai Tucson

The 2019 Hyundai Tucson has garnered a fair bit of attention for its potential reliability issues. However it’s important to note that not every owner will experience these problems and Hyundai does offer warranties that cover many of the issues that might arise. That said let’s break down the most commonly reported concerns.

1. Engine Stalling Issues

One of the most significant complaints about the 2019 Hyundai Tucson involves engine stalling. Some owners have reported that their Tucson would unexpectedly stall while driving which could pose a serious safety hazard. Stalling typically occurs at lower speeds or when coming to a stop and the issue is linked to the engine’s ability to properly regulate fuel or air intake.

Potential Causes of Engine Stalling

There are several potential causes for this issue including:

• Faulty sensors: The mass airflow sensor (MAF) or oxygen sensor may not be providing accurate readings to the ECU causing improper fuel mixture.
• Throttle body issues: A dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can restrict airflow leading to stalling.
• Fuel system problems: Low fuel pressure or a failing fuel pump can also contribute to this issue.

"It’s frustrating," says Collantes. "I had the car stall on me a couple of times at traffic lights which really got me worried."

What to Watch Out For

• Check engine light: Often before the stalling occurs the check engine light will illuminate. Get it checked as soon as possible.
• Hesitation or rough idling: If the Tucson hesitates when accelerating or feels rough when idling it may be a sign of impending stalling.

While this can be a worrisome issue many owners report that getting the fuel system checked and replacing faulty sensors helped resolve the problem. Hyundai dealerships can diagnose these issues and offer repairs under warranty in most cases.

2. Transmission Problems

Another frequently reported issue involves the Tucson’s transmission. Some drivers have experienced rough shifting delayed acceleration or transmission slipping. These issues seem to be more common in the models equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

Common Transmission Complaints

Here are the transmission-related problems some owners have faced:

1. Rough shifts: The transmission may jolt or hesitate when shifting from one gear to another particularly when accelerating from a stop.
2. Delayed response: Some owners reported a delay between pressing the accelerator and the vehicle responding which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
3. Slipping: The transmission may feel like it’s slipping especially during highway driving leading to a loss of power.

Transmission failure though rare can be a catastrophic problem. If you’re noticing any of the above symptoms it’s important to take the car in for a diagnostic.

Possible Solutions

Hyundai has issued software updates to address some of these transmission problems and in some cases transmission components have been replaced under warranty.

3. Electrical System Issues

Modern vehicles rely heavily on their electrical systems and the Tucson is no exception. While most owners don’t encounter major electrical problems there have been reports of electrical glitches affecting various systems like the infotainment system backup camera and exterior lighting.

Infotainment System Malfunctions

The Tucson’s infotainment system is one of its standout features but some owners have reported problems like:

• Screen freezing: The screen may freeze or go blank intermittently requiring a restart of the system.
• Bluetooth connectivity issues: Some drivers have experienced problems pairing their phones or maintaining a stable Bluetooth connection.

"It’s really annoying when the screen freezes just as I’m trying to change a song or make a call," Collantes shares. "It’s not a dealbreaker but definitely a frustration."

Backup Camera Problems

Another area where electrical issues can crop up is with the backup camera. Some drivers have reported that the camera feed will cut out or display a distorted image while reversing which can make parking more difficult.

Exterior Lighting Issues

Though not as common there have also been complaints about the Tucson’s exterior lighting. Owners have noted premature burnout of headlights and taillights as well as issues with the daytime running lights.

4. Brake Problems

Some 2019 Hyundai Tucson owners have also reported issues with the braking system particularly related to premature wear of brake pads and rotors. While this isn’t a widespread problem it’s worth noting for anyone considering a used Tucson.

Brake Wear and Replacement

Signs of brake issues include:

• Squealing or grinding noises: This could indicate that the brake pads have worn down and are in need of replacement.
• Vibration when braking: Warped rotors can cause a noticeable vibration when applying the brakes especially at higher speeds.

If you’re experiencing brake problems it’s important to address them promptly to avoid further damage or safety risks. Regular maintenance and brake inspections can help catch these issues before they become more serious.

5. Suspension and Steering Complaints

While the 2019 Tucson generally offers a comfortable ride some drivers have reported problems with the suspension and steering systems. These issues can lead to a less smooth ride and decreased handling performance.

Suspension Noise and Handling Issues

Some owners have noticed a clunking or knocking noise coming from the suspension particularly when driving over bumps or uneven terrain. This could be due to:

• Worn suspension components: Struts or shocks may wear out over time causing noise and a rougher ride.
• Loose or damaged sway bar links: This can also contribute to noise and handling issues.

In addition some drivers have reported problems with the steering feeling too loose or too stiff which can affect the vehicle’s overall handling. Regular inspections of the suspension and steering systems can help identify and fix these issues early on.

6. Fuel Efficiency Concerns

While the Tucson is marketed as a fuel-efficient SUV some owners have been disappointed by its real-world fuel economy. The EPA rates the 2019 Tucson at 23-25 mpg combined but many drivers report getting lower mileage especially in city driving.

Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency

There are several factors that can impact the Tucson’s fuel efficiency including:

• Driving habits: Frequent stops and starts in city traffic can reduce fuel economy.
• Tire condition and alignment: Worn or improperly inflated tires can decrease gas mileage.
• Engine issues: As mentioned earlier problems with the fuel system or sensors can also affect efficiency.

While this isn’t a major concern for all drivers it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a vehicle with top-notch fuel economy.

The Bright Side: What the Tucson Does Well

Despite these potential issues the 2019 Hyundai Tucson has plenty of redeeming qualities. It offers a spacious interior user-friendly technology and a smooth comfortable ride. Plus Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty provides peace of mind for many owners.

Key Strengths of the 2019 Tucson

• Interior comfort: The Tucson’s cabin is well-designed with quality materials and plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
• Advanced safety features: Standard features like forward-collision warning lane-keeping assist and a rearview camera make the Tucson a strong choice for safety-conscious buyers.
• Warranty coverage: Hyundai offers one of the best warranties in the industry with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty.

Should You Buy a 2019 Hyundai Tucson?

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV the 2019 Hyundai Tucson is worth considering especially if you prioritize comfort and technology. However it’s important to be aware of the potential issues that some owners have experienced.

For buyers considering a used Tucson it’s a good idea to:

1. Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a mechanic check the vehicle for any signs of engine transmission or suspension issues before buying.
2. Check the vehicle’s service history: Ensure that any recalls or known issues have been addressed by the previous owner.
3. Test drive thoroughly: Pay attention to how the vehicle shifts accelerates and handles at different speeds.

In the end the 2019 Hyundai Tucson has its share of pros and cons but for many drivers its comfort reliability and warranty coverage outweigh the potential drawbacks.

"If you’re okay with a few quirks and can keep up with regular maintenance it’s a solid choice for the price," Collantes concludes.

With these insights you can make a more informed decision about whether the 2019 Tucson is the right fit for your needs.