How Long Do Hyundai Tucsons Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Published October 13, 2023
in Reliability

Thanks to its innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to quality, Hyundai has been killing it in the automotive market. Over the years, Hyundai has transformed its image from being a budget-friendly automaker to a brand that resonates with luxury, reliability, and overall excellence. Among Hyundai’s stellar lineup, the Tucson stands out as one of the best offerings in the compact SUV segment.

Although the relatively newer Palisade seems to get all the attention these days, the Tucson remains a popular option among consumers. After all, the Tucson remains the best-selling model by the South Korean automaker. Thanks to its sleek aesthetics, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Tucson appeals to a wide range of consumers – especially those looking for a highly practical SUV.

If you’re in the market for this compact SUV, you’re probably wondering: how long do Hyundai Tucsons last? Knowing the lifespan of a vehicle is crucial to ensure you’re making a sound investment. Understanding Tucson’s longevity and durability can provide insights into its potential maintenance needs, residual value, and overall reliability.

Today, we evaluate the lifespan of the Hyundai Tucson, how many miles it can last, and determine if it’s an excellent long-term investment for used car buyers.

Just How Reliable is the Hyundai Tucson?

How long do Hyundai Tucsons last? To answer this question, we’ll have to discuss Tucson’s reliability first. Basically, when a vehicle like the Tucson is deemed reliable, it suggests that the car will not only last longer but will also require less frequent and less costly repairs over its lifespan.

Fortunately, the Tucson is one of the most reliable compact SUVs available. According to RepairPal, the Hyundai Tucson boasts a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, placing it in the top 5 out of 26 compact SUVs. However, its most impressive reliability feat is its low average annual repair cost – a measly $426, indicating a meager ownership cost. WithClutch also agrees by scoring the Tucson a strong 63.45 points, making it “very reliable.”

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People all over the web also have positive feedback regarding the Tucson’s reliability. Over at Reddit, Tucson owners are satisfied with their vehicles. A 2019 Tucson Sport 2.4L AWD owner mentioned that the car still rides very smoothly, with only a minor issue of patching a tire due to a nail. Another individual with a 2021 Tucson Ultimate praised the car for its features, performance, and fuel efficiency. They mentioned that the vehicle has every quality that more expensive cars offer and more.

However, it’s worth pointing out that reliability can vary by model year. In fact, we recommend avoiding some Tucson years due to reliability woes and owner complaints. For example, the 2016 Tucson received the most complaints and struggled with significant engine and transmission issues.

How Many Miles Can a Hyundai Tucson Last?

With reliability comes longevity – that certainly applies to the Tucson. Despite being the budget-friendly model, the Tucson is known for its long-term dependability. With that said a Hyundai Tucson may last as many as 200,000 miles with faithful maintenance. However, based on many reputable sources and owner reports, the Tucson’s average lifespan is typically closer to 150,000 miles, which equates to around 13 to 15 years of use.

These numbers coincide with the experiences shared by many Tucson owners over the internet. For instance, various owners shared their high mileage units in a thread in the Hyundai Forums. An owner of a 2012 GLS AWD Tucson reported having reached 175,000 miles. Interestingly, they had to replace the motor at 145,000 miles. Later in the discussion, they updated that they had hit 200,000 miles. Another user of a 2012 Hyundai Tucson GL AWD reported that their vehicle had surpassed 180,000 miles and was still running strong.

However, while many Tucson owners have reported high mileage without significant issues, some have faced challenges. For instance, a person mentioned an engine failure due to rod bearing issues at 145,000 miles.

How long do Hyundai Tucsons last? Apparently, a lot. As usual, regular care and maintenance seem to be a common theme among owners who have achieved high mileage with their Tucson.

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How Many Miles are Too Many for a Used Hyundai Tucson?

A good rule of thumb is to be cautious with vehicles over 100,000 miles since they’ll likely have incoming major issues. While looking at the numbers on the odometer is vital, mileage isn’t the absolute factor to consider. Below are some considerations used car buyers should know:

Maintenance records: Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of any vehicle. Check for records or receipts that show consistent oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services.
Model year concerns: Some Tucson model years have known issues. For instance, specific Tucson models from 2012 to 2014 with the 2.4L engine have been known to face engine failures. The 2016-2017 models also grappled with widespread transmission woes. It’s essential to research any potential model year-specific concerns.
Signs of wear: Check for uneven tire wear, which might indicate alignment issues. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how the car drives, including any vibrations or pulling to one side.
Accident history: Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to see if the SUV has been in any accidents. Even if repaired, a previously wrecked car might have lingering issues.
Rust: This is a genuine concern when considering a high-mileage (100k miles) Tucson. Check the undercarriage, wheel wells, and other common areas for signs of rust, which can be a significant concern in coastal areas or locations that use road salt in the winter.

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So you’re in the market for a used vehicle? We’ve gone ahead and prepped some essential questions to ask when buying a used car.

Is a Hyundai Tucson a Worthy Investment?

How long do Hyundai Tucsons last? Hopefully, this quick guide has answered your questions. As for the Tucson, there’s a reason why it’s a highly-rated and popular compact SUV. From the spacious and upscale interior to the host of standard features to the excellent fuel economy, it’s a value-packed SUV and then some. Plus, it boasts impressive long-term reliability and longevity, making it a solid pick for used car buyers.

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