2009 Hyundai Tucson

The 2009 Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV known for its affordability and practicality. Engine options include a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder producing approximately 140 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter V6 delivering around 173 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The available transmissions are a 4-speed automatic (for both engines) and a 5-speed manual (primarily paired with the 2.0L engine). Owners often appreciate the Tucson’s comfortable ride and spacious interior for its class. Common dislikes include perceived lack of power with the 2.0L engine, fuel economy that is not the best, and some concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Engine Knocking/Piston Slap
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise, especially when the engine is cold. May worsen over time. Can be attributed to excessive wear in the cylinder bore.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. Burning oil smell. Low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, misfires, or won’t start. Loud knocking noises.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt, and possibly other damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, slipping, and/or difficulty finding gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If that doesn’t solve the issue, then valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, nose diving during braking, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Window doesn’t go up or down smoothly, or at all. Grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly dies, especially overnight.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty relay, short circuit). May involve replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Depending on Location)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around wheel wells and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, or rustproofing treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blows warm air, or doesn’t blow at all.
  • Solution: Recharge refrigerant, repair or replace compressor, condenser, or other A/C components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2009 Hyundai Tucson can have a range of issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine issues, particularly with the 2.0L engine, can be costly if a rebuild or replacement is required. Suspension and electrical problems are fairly common but generally less expensive to address. Rust can be a significant concern depending on the vehicle’s location. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these potential issues before purchasing.