2007 Hyundai Tiburon

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2007 Hyundai Tiburon, categorized for clarity. The 2007 Hyundai Tiburon is a sporty coupe that offered two engine choices: a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder and a 2.7L V6. The 2.0L engine produced approximately 138 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.7L V6 delivered around 172 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the 2.0L engine, and a 6-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the 2.7L engine. Owners generally appreciate the Tiburon’s sporty styling, affordable price point, and decent handling. Common dislikes include its relatively low fuel economy for the class, cramped rear seating, and some concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, noticeable loss of power, check engine light illuminating. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced fuel economy, potential for rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup. If left unaddressed, can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt slips or breaks.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner (often recommended to replace the water pump at the same time).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, often from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delays or hard shifts between gears. Transmission may slip, especially when accelerating. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnosis may be needed, potentially requiring valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (fluid flush), $500 - $2000+ (valve body/rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (2.7L V6)

• Grinding During Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, particularly into 2nd or 3rd. Could indicate worn synchros.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Bushings (Control Arms/Sway Bar)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per bushing/arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate intermittently. Can be due to a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days, making it difficult to start the car. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty component (e.g., a relay stuck in the “on” position or a malfunctioning module).
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and underbody.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console latch breaks, making it difficult to open or close.
  • Solution: Replace the latch mechanism or the entire console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Hyundai Tiburon, while sporty and affordable, can be prone to a variety of issues as it ages. Engine problems, especially with the timing belt tensioner on the V6, can be costly if neglected. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, are also relatively common and can range from minor fluid changes to major rebuilds. Suspension and electrical problems can also occur. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a 2007 Tiburon. A thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.