- Reliability Index score out of 100
- 71
- Average repair cost
- £1471
- Most regular repair request
- Gearbox
- Average age at repair
- 7 years
- Average mileage at repair
- 68,300 miles
Considering a Used Hyundai Tucson? Here’s What to Know About Its Reliability
The Hyundai Tucson is a popular SUV(Sport’s Utility Vehicle) in the UK, consistently ranking among the best-selling vehicles in its class. Since its introduction to the UK market in 2004, the Tucson has seen steady sales, averaging around 30,000 units per year, with significant sales growth following the launch of its latest generation in 2020 [1][2].
In 2023, it finished as the sixth-favourite car in the UK, outperforming competitors like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage, which speaks to its strong market presence and consumer appeal [2]. The Tucson’s combination of stylish design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and a variety of engine options, including hybrids, has solidified its status as a desirable choice for UK car buyers.
However, if you’re thinking of purchasing a used Tucson, it’s important to be aware of its reliability and the potential repair costs you might face. Here’s an in-depth look based on recent Warrantywise data.
Overall reliability score: 71
The Hyundai Tucson scores a 71 on the Warrantywise Reliability Index and secures 8th place with the Hyundai Tucson. While this score is decent, it does indicate there may be some issues when it comes to reliability. Let’s take a look at what led the Tucson to end up in 8th place in the most reliable SUV list.
Most regular repair request: gearbox issues
The most regular repair requests in the reliability index data for the Hyundai Tucson involve the gearbox, specifically the manual gearbox.
The model has been reported to experience various gearbox issues, affecting both manual and automatic transmissions. Common manual gearbox problems include gear slipping and difficulty shifting [3]. Additionally, some Tucson models have experienced rough or delayed shifts, which can sometimes be addressed through transmission software recalibration [4].
To determine if your Hyundai Tucson’s gearbox is failing, pay attention to several key indicators. If you experience difficulty shifting gears, accompanied by grinding noises or resistance when trying to engage a gear, this could signal gearbox problems. For automatic transmissions, watch for signs like delayed or rough shifting, inappropriate gear selection, or a feeling of slipping between gears.
Unusual noises, such as whining, humming, or clunking sounds coming from the transmission area, can also indicate potential issues. Additionally, if you notice leaking transmission fluid beneath your vehicle or detect a burning smell, especially after driving, these could be signs of gearbox trouble. In manual transmissions, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, or the clutch failing to fully disengage, may point to clutch wear that can affect gearbox performance.
If you experience any of these symptoms, particularly if they persist or worsen over time, it’s advisable to have your Tucson inspected by a qualified mechanic or Hyundai dealership for a proper diagnosis and potential gearbox repair or replacement.
You may also want to protect yourself from gearbox repair bills with an extended warranty. Warrantywise’s extended warranties can help you drive your Tucson with confidence – subject to all terms and conditions.
Most expensive repair: costly gearbox repairs
The most significant repair cost associated with the Hyundai Tucson was for gearbox problems. The total cost of the repair request came to a huge £8,799.74. Whilst high-ticket repairs like this aren’t commonplace, it underscores the importance of considering the vehicle’s service history and ensuring that any gearbox issues have been addressed before they become more serious. Especially when you consider that the most regular repair requests for the model are also gearbox repairs.
Your Hyundai Tucson ownership could be enhanced by an extended warranty that can protect you against costly gearbox problems. Make sure you read the warranty plan thoroughly before taking out a warranty to ensure you know what’s included and what isn’t – no warranty can include everything!
Average repair costs
On average, repair requests for the Hyundai Tucson come in at £1,471.85. This is higher than the average repair costs of some of the other SUVs in the most reliable SUV list including the Honda CR-V at £614.40 and the Renault Captur at £671.91.
If you’re looking for a reliable family SUV, the Tucson still offers good value, but it’s important to factor in these potential costs. You may need to set aside more money in your budget for repairs and maintenance on their vehicles – or consider an extended warranty to help with expensive repair bills.
Age and mileage considerations for the Hyundai Tucson
The average age at which repairs are typically needed is 7 years, with vehicles generally having covered around 68,331 miles by that point. Notably, repairs have been recorded as early as 4.3 years, highlighting that issues can emerge earlier than expected.
According to the latest data from the Department for Transport, analysed by NimbleFins, the average age of cars in Great Britain and the UK in 2022 was 8.8 years old [5]. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reporting that the average age reached a record high of 8.4 years in 2021 [6]. The trend has continued, with more recent SMMT data indicating that the average UK car is now 9 years old as of 2024 [7]. Rises in the cost of motoring and the cost of living generally, combined with two years of production delays, have delayed the rate at which cars are being replaced, and the net result is an ageing population of cars on our roads.
Given that the average age of cars on UK roads is now 9 years, your Hyundai may reach the point where repairs are needed slightly before the national average. However, with proper maintenance and an extended warranty, Tucson owners can hope to keep their vehicles running reliably even as they approach and exceed the average age of cars in the UK.
Market pricing for the Hyundai Tucson
Used Tucson models provide affordable options, with prices varying based on age, mileage, and specification. CarGurus reports that the average price for a used Hyundai Tucson is approximately £20,038.57, ranging from £1,595 for older models to over £30,000 for newer, high-spec versions [8]. Arnold Clark, a major UK car dealer, lists used Tucsons starting from £8,998, with recent models (2021-2023) typically priced between £20,000 and £27,000 [9].
The Tucson’s value proposition is strengthened by its generous standard equipment, advanced safety features, and variety of powertrain options, including efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. This pricing strategy, combined with Hyundai’s reputation for reliability, makes the Tucson an attractive option for buyers seeking a well-equipped, stylish SUV without stretching to premium brand prices.
Final thoughts
The Hyundai Tucson is a solid choice for those in need of an affordable, versatile and spacious SUV, but it’s essential to consider the higher potential repair costs associated with gearbox issues. With an average repair cost of around £1,471.85 and the possibility of major gearbox-related expenses, being prepared financially is key to enjoying a trouble-free ownership experience.
A warranty can provide financial protection and peace of mind from expensive gearbox bills (subject to plan terms and conditions). Be sure to read the plan book thoroughly before you take out the extended car warranty so you know exactly what’s included. Why not get your quote today? Buy your extended warranty online.
Sources
[7] https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/362910/average-uk-car-now-9-years-old-drivers-delay-replacements
Disclaimer: Warrantywise Reliability Index Scoring and Data: Rank is measured by repair request frequency, average vehicle age at the time of fault, average mileage, and average labour time, from 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024, and includes vehicles between three and ten years old where there are a minimum of 250 cars on cover. Average repair costs collated over a period between 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024. Since the sample was selected, Warrantywise has seen a significant rise in the price of labour and parts, which will impact future repair costs. All data used is from Warrantywise’s proprietary internal research. Warrantywise believes the information contained herein to be accurate at the time of release. However, the company may upload new or updated information if required and assumes that it is not liable for the accuracy of any information interpreted and used by the reader.
Warranty FAQ’s.
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A car warranty, or an extended car warranty as you may also see it called, can help to pay for the cost of fixing your car if something goes wrong with it, like a mechanical or electrical problem.
New cars usually come with a warranty that lasts for 3 years. This means the manufacturer will fix any problems during that time. After this period any repairs or problems will need to be fixed by the vehicle owner.
For peace of mind, after your manufacturer’s warranty expires to help you seek to manage repair costs effectively, you can purchase an extended warranty.
Warranties do not include all defects. Most warranties will never pay for accidental damage or premature failure of a part.
You must read the plan terms and conditions of any warranty before you take it out.
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Our warranties are discretionary. This discretion allows for flexibility, as in each case we exercise our discretion to decide whether and how to resolve repair claims.
We have appointed an independent arbiter, Edd China, to ensure that any disputes with customers are resolved in a fair and un-biased manner. In the event of a dispute between us, Edd China has the final ‘discretion’.
This is what makes Warrantywise unique.
With access to our network of approved repair centres, you can rely on professional and reliable repairs.
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An extended car warranty from Warrantywise provides protection for your vehicle beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, shielding you from unexpected repair costs that can arise due to mechanical or electrical failures. With additional benefits including recovery, car hire and onward travel, to name but a few, our warranty gives you peace of mind, eliminating the stress and hassle associated with unforeseen repairs and expenses. With access to our network of approved repair centres, you can rely on professional and reliable repairs. By choosing Warrantywise, you can budget more effectively and avoid unexpected costs with cover you can be confident in.
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Our warranties are designed to provide the widest potential scope of repairs for the age and mileage of your vehicle. We automatically select the most appropriate level of plan for your vehicle, which you can then tailor to meet your specific needs during the online quote process or by speaking with one of our team of warranty experts on 0800 001 4990, who will help you through the process.
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At Warrantywise, we aim to make the repair process hassle-free for everyone. When If you choose one of our Authorised Repairers to carry out an approved repair, we will handle the settlement of the repair cost directly with them, eliminating the need for you to make any payments.
We always recommend using one of our Approved Repairers. Their repair facilities undergo careful monitoring to guarantee the best workmanship and service quality.
However, we understand that you may have a preferred garage in mind. If that’s the case, please ensure they are VAT registered and follow our provided ‘Repairs Procedure’ outlined in the plan booklet. It’s also crucial to verify that their labour rate aligns with your warranty schedule.
If you decide to use your preferred garage, you may be required to pay the bill in full. However, rest assured, once the repair work has been agreed by us, we will promptly reimburse you directly for the agreed expenses. Our aim is to provide convenience and financial peace of mind throughout the repair journey.
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As long as your car has an up to date service history you don’t necessarily need to service the car before we issue a warranty. However, if the vehicle doesn’t have evidence that the last service was performed at the correct time, you will need to arrange to have the car serviced to the manufacturer’s recommendations before your warranty cover is effective. Please refer to Section G – Servicing your vehicle for full details.
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It is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to maintain their vehicle. Following the manufacturer’s service schedule ensures that vehicles are properly maintained.
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It is important to thoroughly check the service history of a second-hand vehicle before purchasing. Where the previous owner has missed a service, we’ll still provide a warranty if the service history is brought up to date according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (including any recommended remedial work). This must be brought up to date immediately and proof of the service provided.
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No, you don’t have to have a car inspected before it can go on cover.
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Our warranties are available in lengths to suit your needs. From monthly warranties to 12, 24 or 36 month warranties.
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You can choose to pay for your warranty in full, over 4 month or PAYG (monthly pay as you go).
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All Warrantywise plans come with a no question 14 day money back guarantee. You can cancel the plan at any time within the first 14 days and providing you have not requested that we meet the cost of any repairs, we will cancel the plan and refund your payment without deduction.
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We always recommend using one of our Approved Repairers. These repair facilities undergo careful monitoring to guarantee the best workmanship and service quality. However, we understand that you may have a preferred garage in mind. If that’s the case, please ensure they are VAT registered and follow our provided ‘Repairs Procedure’ outlined in the plan booklet. It’s also crucial to verify that their labor rate aligns with your warranty schedule.
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Our repairs office hours are 8.30am-5.00pm Monday – Friday (except bank holidays). If you breakdown out of hours, please phone our 24/7 breakdown service on 0800 054 2174. For full details on what to do with regards to repairs out of hours, please refer to Section H in your plan book.
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It is important to stop driving the vehicle immediately, and call our repairs team on 01254 355102. The lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm. In the case of an emergency breakdown out of hours, please call 0800 054 2174. If you continue to drive after you suspect a fault, it could affect your warranty. Rest assured, we are here to assist you throughout the process.
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The Oxford English Dictionary defines ‘Electrical’ as: (1) concerned with, operating by, or producing electricity. This means it has to be powered by, use, or produce electricity in order to function. NB: There are some items listed under our Additions that we will never pay for under the warranty.
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The Oxford English Dictionary defines ‘Mechanical’ as: (1) relating to or operated by a machine or machinery. (2) relating to physical forces or motion. This basically means it has to be a part that moves, is moved and/or is acted upon by something else that makes it do that motion. NB: There are some items listed under our Additions that we will never pay for under the warranty.
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If, during a journey, your Vehicle suffers a Breakdown within Great Britain you can telephone 0844 693 1910 (24h service) and we will arrange for an engineer to attend. If your Vehicle suffers a breakdown whilst in the European Union, you will need to make your own recovery arrangements and submit a claim under the warranty.
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If your repair is approved and you need a hire car, because your vehicle is off the road, we may reimburse you for up 10 days for car hire, please refer to the terms of your warranty for details.
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If you purchased your warranty directly, then yes. If you sell your car, you can transfer the remainder of your warranty to your new vehicle. Depending on the make, age and mileage of your new car additional charges may apply. Call our admin team on 0800 001 4990 for full details.
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We take complaints very seriously and all complaints are thoroughly investigated by our Customer Relations Team. Our commitment to customer satisfaction means that if you are dissatisfied with the initial response, we have an escalation process in place to address your concerns further. We value your feedback and strive to continuously improve our services, ensuring that your experience with Warrantywise is of the highest standard. For more information on the escalation process, please refer to our complaints page, and if we cannot resolve your complaint between us, you can refer it to Edd China for consideration in his role as Final Arbiter.
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All calls are answered directly from our UK offices by our knowledgeable and experienced customer advice teams. We take pride in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that your enquiries and concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. Our dedicated teams are here to assist you with any questions you may have, offering expert guidance and support.
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Edd China fulfils the role of independent arbiter, this means he has the final say over any dispute that we cannot resolve between us, subject of course to your statutory rights.
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Quentin Willson was instrumental in working with Warrantywise from 2007 to 2023 to develop our extended warranty plans to ensure they are clear, transparent and comprehensive. In July 2023, he passed over the responsibility of final arbiter to Edd China who will use his ‘discretion’ to ensure a fair and equitable resolution on a case-by-case basis.