Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

The Hyundai Tucson has been one of the UK’s most popular crossovers for years, offering value, comfort and a generous spec list as standard. From the older diesel models to the latest hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, it’s a strong all-rounder in its class.

But how does it fare when it comes to reliability? In this guide, we explore common Tucson issues reported by owners, along with key recalls and known faults that you should be aware of before buying.

Generally, yes – the Hyundai Tucson is considered one of the more reliable options in the compact SUV segment. Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty provides peace of mind, and reliability surveys such as those from What Car? have placed the Tucson near the top of their rankings over recent years.

However, like all cars, it’s not entirely fault-free. Owners of both diesel and hybrid models have reported recurring issues with electronics, the DCT gearbox, and occasional engine sensor faults.

DCT Gearbox Jerking / Hesitation (Hybrid & PHEV Models)

Some owners of hybrid and plug-in hybrid Tucsons have reported hesitation or jerky gear changes when pulling away or during low-speed manoeuvres. This is most often linked to the dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which can struggle at lower speeds or when crawling in traffic.

In some cases, the cause of the issue is down to a flywheel fault that needs attention and can be costly if out of warranty, however, most issues are eased with a clutch recalibration at the dealership.

Common in older 1.6 and 2.0 CRDi diesel Tucsons, a failed NOx sensor can trigger the engine management light and put the car into limp mode. This is a known issue and is easily fixed, but a replacement sensor typically costs several hundred pounds, including labour to fit.

Hyundai has acknowledged this fault in certain batches and has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for affected vehicles, although it hasn't been classed as a full recall in the UK.

To check what recalls your car has received, regardless of the model, use the 

Electrical Gremlins and Infotainment Freezes

Some owners, particularly of the latest generation models with the 10.25-inch touchscreen and digital cluster, have reported infotainment system glitches. These include unresponsive touchscreens, slow navigation systems, and the display freezing entirely.

With many controls, including the sat nav and some climate controls, accessed through the screen, this can be more than just annoying. Thankfully, most of these bugs can be resolved with a software update from the dealer. 

Hyundai has pushed several updates to address compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though it remains a point of frustration for some users.

Interior rattles are another relatively minor but common complaint. Some owners report squeaks or rattles from the rear seats or boot area, especially on rough roads. While this doesn’t affect performance or safety, it can be irritating over time.

Hyundai dealerships have been known to add extra foam padding or adjust boot latches to reduce noise, particularly under warranty. Thankfully, the Hyundai standard warranty is one of the best around.

Despite a few known niggles, the Tucson remains one of the best family SUV choices on the market. Its generous warranty, practical layout, and high standard equipment levels make it a solid buy, new or used.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions offer strong fuel efficiency, and if you prefer a petrol or diesel engine, the earlier models are known for their reliability when well-maintained. Just keep in mind the potential DCT quirks and occasional electrical issues – and make sure the service history is up to date.

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 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Hyundai Tucson Problems / Reliability Guide

The Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion has long been a go-to for UK drivers looking for an efficient and practical hatchback. With its impressive fuel economy and affordable running costs, the Bluemotion variant of the Golf has been popular among commuters, fleet buyers and private motorists.

However, while the Golf Bluemotion delivers strong on efficiency, is it free from faults? In this guide, we take a closer look at the known issues and real-world problems experienced by owners across the UK.

Overall, the Golf Bluemotion fares reasonably well for reliability. Certain model years, especially earlier Mk6 and Mk7 Bluemotion versions, have shown patterns of specific faults. These include EGR valve issues, DPF (diesel particulate filter) problems, and concerns with the DSG gearbox.

What Car?’s reliability survey gave the 2013 - 2020 Golf a 90% reliability score, but they aren’t completely free from problems. However, many of the more serious issues can be mitigated with preventative maintenance and regular driving, something particularly important for diesel variants.

One of the most frequently reported problems in Golf Bluemotion models, especially diesel variants, is the failure of the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve. Symptoms include a loss of power, 

The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, particularly in cars used for lots of short journeys. The cost of replacing the valve can be anywhere from £300–£600, depending on labour costs and model year.

Some owners have also reported carbon build-up in the intake manifold, leading to reduced performance and fuel economy.

All Bluemotion diesel engines are fitted with a DPF, or 

 However, these filters require regular high-temperature runs to self-clean through a process called regeneration. When used mainly for short trips or urban driving, the DPF cannot reach the required temperature to regen, leading to issues.

This issue is common among many modern diesel cars, not just Volkswagens, but is a known weak spot in Bluemotion models when not driven appropriately.

Many Bluemotion Golfs were sold with a DSG automatic gearbox. These offer great efficiency and performance, but need to be maintained to avoid costly faults. A bad DSG gearbox will cause: 

These issues can stem from mechatronic unit faults or clutch pack wear, particularly in earlier Mk6 models. Repairs can be costly, upwards of £1,200, so it’s vital to check the car's service history for those all-important gearbox service receipts.

It’s worth noting that VW extended some warranties on DSG boxes due to widespread issues in earlier production years.

Many Bluemotion models come with automatic start/stop systems to improve fuel efficiency. However, several owners have reported that the system:

While often just an annoyance, issues with the start/stop system can sometimes relate to low battery charge or faulty sensors. 

This may just be a symptom of the car's age, with most batteries only lasting around 5 years, but it’s worth checking that the start-stop function works effectively on any prospective car.

Despite these known faults, the Golf Bluemotion remains a very popular and sensible choice for many UK drivers, particularly for those doing regular long-distance driving where the diesel engines perform best.

That said, buyers should avoid high-mileage examples without full service history, and look for cars that have not had DPF issues, and have the DSG gearbox serviced. 

For those doing mostly short trips or city driving, a petrol or hybrid alternative may be more reliable and cost-effective in the long run.

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VW Golf Bluemotion Problems / Reliability Guide

This question is popping up more and more for Brits these days. What used to be a go-to engine is now uncertain for shoppers. 

From stricter emissions regulations to evolving technology, we have more options, and making a decision is tougher than ever. 

Let’s look at the pros and cons of purchasing a diesel car in the current market. 

Diesel engines aren’t a complete no-go. In fact, for certain drivers, they still make a whole lot of sense! 

Here are a few benefits and positive reasons to choose a diesel engine.

Diesel engines are inherently more fuel-efficient than their petrol counterparts, particularly for larger SUVs or frequent long motorway drives.

If your idea of a short drive is further than your local shops, a diesel could save you a tidy sum at the pumps. But a diesel might not be the best bet if you rarely hit the road for long.

Diesel cars will always be associated with towing, as they produce more torque at lower RPMs, which means they’re excellent for towing, climbing hills, and overtaking slow-moving lorries. 

Diesel engines are built to withstand higher compression ratios and typically have a longer lifespan than petrol engines. 

When properly maintained, a diesel car can rack up hundreds of thousands of miles, making it appealing to high-mileage drivers who want a car that goes the distance. 

 to tackle those last-minute service bills.

Diesel cars can still be a good option for long trips and may save money under current tax rules (depending on your company’s policy). 

But for the best long-term savings, especially with company car tax perks, electric cars are the smarter choice.

When buying a used car, bigger diesel models often keep their value better than petrol ones. 

Newer diesels that meet Euro 6 standards also hold their value since they’re exempt from charges in clean air zones like London’s ULEZ.

But looking ahead, it’s unclear how used diesel prices will change after the 2035 ban on new diesel sales. With fewer vehicles on the road each year, a lower supply could help keep prices strong.

While diesel cars still have their strengths, there are now several key drawbacks to consider, especially when considering the modern competitors. 

Many UK cities now operate low-emission or clean air zones, which penalise older diesel vehicles (like London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

If your car doesn’t meet Euro 6 emissions standards, you could face daily charges just to drive into town. This typically affects those registered before 2016.

Diesel engines produce more nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter than petrol cars, which can contribute to poor air quality and respiratory issues. 

This is essentially why they’ve become a target in clean air strategies around the UK, and with greener electric options around, people are opting for new, more sustainable alternatives.

Diesel fuel is often more expensive per litre than petrol, and this price gap has widened in recent years. You might still benefit from better fuel economy, the savings aren’t always as clear-cut as they once were.

Sure, EVs have a higher initial cost. But once you look at their monthly running costs, you will notice that diesel engines are suddenly looking much more expensive. 

Modern diesel engines are fitted with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to trap soot and reduce emissions. 

However, if you frequently do short trips or city driving (or drive less than 12,000 miles per year), the DPF can become clogged, leading to expensive repairs and time with your car in the garage. 

Similarly, other diesel-specific parts, such as high-pressure fuel pumps, can also be costlier to replace if they go wrong.

Older diesel cars cost more in road tax (VED) due to higher CO2 emissions. 

In fairness, newer diesels are cheaper to tax, but EVs are still cheaper with no VED. Plus, diesel drivers pay much more in fuel tax than EV owners pay in electricity VAT.

Diesel cars won’t disappear overnight. There’s still a future for these vehicles, as over 11 million are still on UK roads, and many will continue to run into the 2040s. 

 looming, and shifting public opinion due to their environmental impact, their long-term timeline looks uncertain.

Car manufacturers are also shifting their priorities toward hybrids and electrics. So, the options are also dwindling. 

In short, diesel is being gently but firmly shown the exit.

Unsure whether you should buy a diesel car? Let’s look at the pros and cons of diesel vs petrol, hybrid, and electric cars.

Is it worth it? Should I buy a diesel car?

The real answer is ‘it depends.’ Diesel cars don’t suit everyone, and it depends on your driving habits, where you live, and how long you plan to keep the vehicle. 

Diesel cars still have a role to play, but it’s no longer centre stage. 

Rather than being a go-to, diesel cars are best for drivers who go the distance and need a more robust option. However, for those who drive under 15,000+, live near a low-emission zone, or want an eco-conscious car, it might be time to assess other options.

Whether you drive a diesel, petrol, or EV, staying on top of surprise costs is key.

, you can split the cost of vehicle maintenance into monthly payments without breaking the bank.

Should I Buy A Diesel Car? A 2025 Guide

Touted as the affordable Tesla by many upon its launch in 2017, the Model 3 gained serious popularity, making it the top selling EV in the world from 2018 to 2020. But does popularity necessarily mean reliability? 

This guide explains some of the common faults you should consider when buying a Tesla Model 3.

Whilst there have been some quality control concerns and safety recalls, the Model 3 is a pretty reliable car. It scored just under 94% in What Car?’s reliability survey, around the middle of the pack among other well known brands such as Polestar and Kia.

Tesla as a whole placed 10 out of 32 manufacturers in a similar survey which puts them in the top 30% of car brands in the UK, not too bad.

Across both the UK and US, the Model 3 has been affected by over 30 recalls, ranging from minor electrical faults that are fixed with a software update, to safety issues pertaining to brakes and suspension, here are some of the key ones to make sure have been addressed.

Addressed in two separate recalls, Tesla dealerships had to take back around 650 cars to ensure certain fasteners were tightened correctly. Naturally, this could have caused significant issues had it gone unaddressed. 

It’s unlikely you’ll come across a car that has not been back for the simple remedial work, but make sure to check for any un-repaired recall issues 

This recall and others like it were talked about a lot at the time, in 2019, but the reality is that very few cars were affected by this issue. The bolt held the steering column to the body of the car, something that could cause an issue during normal driving but especially in the event of an accident. 

If you do end up with a Model 3 that was affected, it’s probably worth buying a lottery ticket too, as only 5 out of the nearly 35,000 cars sold that year were missing the bolt.

Software Issue Affecting the Sound Sub-system

This is, in essence, the same issue that affected the Model Y too; an update rendered the e-call emergency alert warning system faulty. This is an issue that would only present during a crash, and affected quite a few cars, so it’s worth checking yours.

Around 9,500 cars were affected by the glitch; thankfully, reversing the update fixed the problem, with no need to visit the dealership.

Another fault that is all too common in Tesla circles is the poor bodywork and paint finish. It's suspected that the high demand for Teslas caused quality control issues to crop up. One of the things often mentioned online is debris or contaminants inside the paint finish. 

Not only is this an eyesore once you notice it, but it could lead to improper protection of the panels. If you’re buying a used Tesla, there’s likely no recourse for this issue, so make sure you check over any prospective purchases thoroughly. 

Electric cars use two electrical systems: a high-voltage system that powers the motors to drive the car along, and a low-voltage system similar to that of a normal car. Some owners experienced issues with the low-voltage system not working properly.

Whilst the issues were generally fixed promptly by Tesla, usually within one day, they did cause significant problems, and often resulted in the car being unable to drive until the low-voltage battery was charged or replaced. 

The Model 3 represents a shift in electric vehicles, from drab and boring but expensive cars, to a more exciting and cost-effective package. Both second-hand prices and finance fees are very low at the moment, so it could be a good time to buy. 

Purely on technical merit, I’d say the Model 3 is worth looking into, and the few niggly issues shouldn’t put you off entirely.

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Tesla Model 3 Problems / Reliability Guide

Tesla changed the way we think about electric cars with the launch of the Model S in 2014, the Model Y represented a further leap forward, with its higher driving position and unique gullwing doors. 

Whilst the Model Y offers great power, range and tech, can it be equally as reliable? In this guide, we take a look at any common faults, and potential issues owners face. 

Yes, the Model Y is generally quite reliable. Some sources have cited mixed reviews from owners, with one stating nearly 40% of drivers discovered an issue in the first year of ownership. Despite this, the Model Y placed first in What Car?’s reliability survey.

By all accounts, the 2023 onwards cars are better built and cause fewer issues than the previous models.

On some cars built between May 2022 and September 2023, a software update was required to address an issue with the steering system. In cold weather the steering could begin to feel notchy and not smooth.

Interestingly, this fault was fixed through a software update that didn’t require owners to take their car into the dealership. Despite the initial fault meaning the cars affected may not comply with ECE safety regulations, Tesla brand the recall update as for “smoother steering”.

A recall affecting nearly 9,500 cars’ audio system caused issues with the car’s external speakers, but was again resolved through a simple software update. The issue came about due to a quirky feature that allowed owners to play audio through the cars pedestrian-warning system speakers. 

These PWS speakers are a mandated feature that helps alert pedestrians of an otherwise silent vehicle, the “Boombox” feature meant this could become non-compliant with the relevant laws surrounding the PWS feature.

Something that has been commonly reported with many Teslas, is their poor fitment and quality control on the body panels. With owners sharing images of uneven and large panel gaps online.

What's more, some owners of cars only 2-3 years old are seeing the paint issues across multiple panels, with debris inclusions and other paint quality issues. This is a known issue with the company's processes, but seems to have improved over time.

Even in 2025, Tesla offers the best charger network by far, which, coupled with the virtually unparalleled performance of the dual motor Model Y for the money, I’d say the Model Y is still a good buy. 

However, this only really applies if you are looking for the SUV bodystyle, because there are some incredible cars in other segments, such as offerings from Volvo, Polestar and BMW to name a few.

Regardless of if you drive a Tesla, Mercedes or Ford, Bumper can offer 

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Tesla Model Y Problems / Reliability Guide

What's your go-to fast food order? A classic Big Mac? A foot-long meatball Sub? Or how about a simple sausage roll? 

Whatever your favourite, we all love a bit of fast food. In particular, we love eating it in our cars. I mean, what's the point in fast food if you can't have it passed through a tiny window and immediately spill it down your steering wheel?

In fact, at Bumper, we love fast food so much that we want to take it one step further. What about, instead of having fast food 

Thanks to the magic of artificial intelligence, we've been able to find out.

The absolute king of fast food around the world, McDonald's serves 69 million people daily across more than 100 countries. Fancy a ride in this golden-arched car?

Started in Newcastle upon Tyne in the 1950s, this home-spun fast food giant now has over 2,300 stores across the UK and is famous for their iconic sausage rolls. Imagine cruising next to the Tyne in this buttery, flaky motor? Yes, please!

Like it hot? This Mexican-inspired American fast-food chain is known for its bold flavours and unconventional menu items. Some fan favourites include the Doritos Lacos Tacos (with shells made from Doritos) and the Naked Chicken Chalupa (with shells made from chicken!).

Another strong contender for the king of fast food – of course, Burger King! Founded in 1954 in Miami, this hamburger joint was originally named ‘Insta-Burger King’. 

Famous for their Domino's Tracker allowing you to follow your pizza in real-time and their delicious stuffed crusts, Domino's was founded in 1960 by brothers Tom and James Monaghan. Tom traded his brother's share of the business for a used Volkswagen Beetle. Although we think he'd have preferred driving off in our pepperoni creation.

Focusing on freshness and simplicity, Five Guys only uses coolers so nothing is ever frozen, and their fries are hand-cut every day. Noteworthy Five Guys fans include Barack Obama, who was once pictured tucking into one of their delicious burgers in Washington D.C. 

Colonel Sanders founded KFC during the Great Depression, initially serving food from a gas station in (you guessed it) Kentucky. His iconic white suit and goatee still feature in the brand's logo today. How about a spin in our bargain bucket?

This iconic brand was the first to deliver a pizza to space, when in 2001 they sent a vacuum-sealed pizza to the International Space Station for a Russian cosmonaut – and we thought our AI pizza car was innovative!

As of 2024, this sandwich giant has over 37,000 restaurants, making it the largest fast food chain by number of locations. The brand distinguished itself from the competition as a healthier option during the early 2000s and has become a staple of the UK high street ever since. No doubt this car would run on low-fat mayo as a fuel source!

What if fast food chains made cars?

With sun glare becoming a bigger issue on UK roads as summer approaches, drivers are being urged to carry one simple item in their glovebox that could help them avoid hefty fines, penalty points, and potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Experts are now warning that sudden, intense sunlight can reduce visibility behind the wheel, making it crucial for motorists to be prepared. Their advice? Always keep a spare pair of legal sunglasses in your car.

Sun glare can appear suddenly and completely obscure your vision, especially during early morning or late afternoon driving. Having a spare pair of sunglasses within easy reach could be the difference between driving safely or committing a serious offence.

Although it's not a legal requirement to wear sunglasses while driving, the Highway Code Rule 237 states that drivers must slow down or stop altogether if they are “dazzled by bright sunlight.” Failing to do so could be seen as driving without due care and attention, which carries a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points.

In more serious incidents, police can escalate the offence to dangerous driving, where fines can reach £5,000, along with higher penalty points or a potential driving ban.

Being dazzled by the sun and continuing to drive without slowing down could be seen as reckless. You don’t need to be in a crash for it to be a legal issue — the risk alone can result in a penalty.

However, not all sunglasses are road-safe. Dark-tinted 'category four' lenses, fashion frames with small lenses, or glasses with oversized side arms may obstruct vision or peripheral awareness, and wearing these while driving could also lead to prosecution.

Drivers need to be aware that some sunglasses are actually unsafe for road use. Stick to category two or three lenses, which reduce glare while maintaining clear visibility.

Motorists who already wear prescription lenses are advised to consider prescription sunglasses or anti-glare coatings, especially for vehicles without built-in tinting or sun visors.

Drivers urged to keep this ‘essential’ item in glovebox to avoid summer fines and points

As the weather gets warmer, the number of drivers on the road increases, but so do the number of wasp colonies which may leave you with an unwelcome passenger in your car.

While it may seem unlikely to happen, wasp numbers are significantly higher in the summer months. During this time, wasps pose an additional hazard to drivers, who may become distracted by the flying insects entering their car whilst they are driving, especially when travelling on high-speed roads and motorways.

If you fear bugs, flies, and other insects, the sudden appearance of one inside your car might be startling and could cause erratic driving behaviour.

Driving whilst distracted by a wasp or any other insect could lead to up to 9 penalty points and a £2,500 fine for careless driving in extreme circumstances. In some cases, if it results in someone getting hurt, the punishments could be even more severe.

Even to people who don’t mind wasps, the sudden appearance of one could be quite alarming. When in the enclosed space of a car, it's understandable that they could prove to be a distraction to the driver.

Nevertheless, it's crucial that we stay as calm as possible and don’t let wasps or other insects distract us from driving safely.

Experts advise maintaining a clean and tidy car, free from food and drink containers, as these usually attract insects.

If you encounter a wasp flying around your vehicle whilst driving, remember to remain calm. The calmer you are, the less likely the wasp is to sting you. Be sure to wind down your windows to give the wasp an opportunity to escape. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Drivers warned to stay calm over deadly insect or risk fine of £2,500

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