"Park it outside" is not a sentence anyone wants to hear about their car. But that's exactly what Hyundai and NHTSA told Tucson owners, and the advice still stands for any Tucson that hasn't had the recall done. The good news: the fix is free and doesn't take long.
Which Tucsons are affected
| Model years | Recall | What can go wrong | Free fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-2021 Tucson without Smart Cruise Control, built May 19, 2015 to Nov 16, 2020 | Hyundai Recall 195 (NHTSA 20V-543) | ABS module circuit board can develop an electrical short over time, possibly helped by heat and humidity | ABS fuse kit or multi-fuse kit; ESC/ABS software update on some 2019-2021 |
| 2010-2013 Tucson (and 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell) | NHTSA 23V-651 (September 2023) | ABS module can leak brake fluid internally and short | New ABS module fuse |
The 2016-2021 recall started with about 180,000 2019-2021 Tucsons in 2020 and then grew to roughly 652,000 vehicles when Hyundai added 2016-2018 and more 2020-2021 models. Hyundai reported 12 US fires in that group: nine 2019 models, two 2020s and one 2021.
The 2023 recall was part of a giant Hyundai and Kia campaign covering more than 3.3 million vehicles. Across all the Hyundai models in it, Hyundai reported 21 fires and 22 other thermal incidents like smoke or melting, with no known crashes or injuries.
Warning signs
- ABS warning light on the dash. This is the big one for the 2016-2021 recall.
- A burning or electrical smell from under the hood
- Smoke from the engine compartment, even with the car off
- Melted plastic or scorch marks near the ABS module (it sits in the engine bay, attached to the brake lines)
How to check your Tucson
- Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. It's 17 characters, on the driver's side of the dashboard and on your registration.
- Look for the smart cruise question. For the 2016-2021 recall, only Tucsons *without* Smart Cruise Control are included, so the VIN check matters more than the model year.
- Bought it used? Recall letters go to the registered owner. A VIN check is the only way to be sure a past owner got it done.
- Call NHTSA's hotline at 888-327-4236 if you need help.
What the dealer does
For the 2016-2021 recall, the technician installs a fuse in the ABS module's power circuit. There are two versions (an ABS Fuse Kit and a Multi-Fuse Kit), and the tech checks the label on your ABS unit to see whether a software update is needed too. The point of the fuse is simple: if the module starts drawing too much current, the fuse blows instead of the module catching fire. For the 2010-2013 recall, the dealer replaces the ABS module fuse.
Both repairs are free at any Hyundai dealer, no matter the mileage or how many owners the SUV has had.
What it might cost you
| Situation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Recall fuse kit or fuse replacement | $0 at a Hyundai dealer |
| Software update (some 2019-2021) | $0, part of the recall |
| Rental while waiting (2016-2021 recall) | Provided if needed, per Hyundai |
| ABS module already failed and needs replacing | Ask the dealer whether it's covered under the recall or warranty before you pay |
What to ask the dealer
- "Is the recall remedy available for my VIN right now, or is it parts-pending?"
- "Does my ABS unit need the software update too?"
- "If the module itself is damaged, is the replacement covered?"
- "Can I get a rental or loaner until it's done?"
Is it worth fixing?
It's free and it's a fire risk, so yes, today. This is a 'book it this week' recall, not a 'when I get around to it' one. Once it's done, your Tucson is fine to park in the garage again. If your AC is giving you trouble too, see our Tucson AC guide, or check the Hyundai Tucson repair page.
Info checked October 14, 2026.
