2016 Hyundai Tucson Has Rough Idle

Causes of Rough Idling in Your 2016 Hyundai Tucson and How to Resolve the Issue

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Reviewed by

Bo Fader

Written by RepairPal Car Genius

Updated January 14, 2025

21% chance it's the

Spark Plugs

15% chance it's the

Ignition Coil

64% chance it's

Something else

The most common reasons a 2016 Hyundai Tucson has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.

Spark Plugs: A worn or fouled spark plug can cause misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency due to incomplete combustion.
Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.

Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What are the best Hyundai repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2016 Hyundai Tucson engine and performance issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Hyundai Tucson has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the common causes of a rough idle in a 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

When dealing with a rough idle in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture necessary for smooth engine operation. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires, causing the engine to idle roughly. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning ignition coil, which is crucial for providing the spark needed for combustion. It's also worth noting that an imbalance in the engine's air, fuel, and spark components can contribute to rough idling, as the engine relies on these elements working harmoniously. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and address the root cause of the rough idle, ensuring your Tucson runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in my 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance that should not be overlooked. A rough idle can signal underlying engine performance issues that, if ignored, may escalate into more severe problems, potentially leading to costly repairs. For instance, neglecting this symptom can result in decreased fuel efficiency, which not only affects your wallet but also increases emissions. Moreover, a rough idle can indicate issues such as vacuum leaks or faulty spark plugs, which can compromise engine components and pose safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve the rough idle promptly, whether through DIY maintenance or by seeking professional help. By addressing this issue in a timely manner, you can ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle, ultimately safeguarding your investment and enhancing your driving experience.

Related 2016 Hyundai Tucson Problems

Read about related problems experienced by other Hyundai Tucson drivers like you.

Jaguar XKR rough idling issue with trouble codes indicating random multiple misfire in one bank

Some Jaguar XKR owners report experiencing rough idling issues accompanied by trouble codes indicating random multiple misfires, such as P0300, P0302, and P0304, which are linked to specific cylinders like cylinder 2 and cylinder 4. These owners often identify potential causes including vacuum leaks, spark plug problems, or ignition coil failures. Additionally, some report symptoms of fuel starvation, prompting checks of fuel pressures for accurate diagnosis. Issues with the supercharger bypass valve have also been noted as a contributing factor to rough idling. Furthermore, maintaining the correct air-to-fuel ratio is crucial, as any discrepancies can exacerbate misfires and idling issues. To resolve these problems, owners may need to reset fault codes, check fuel pressure, inspect the supercharger bypass valve, and ensure optimal air-to-fuel ratios.

1 model year affected

Avg Mileage: 199,940

2 others reported problem

1 comment

Mazda Navajo stalls and has a rough idle issue

Some Mazda Navajo owners report experiencing stalling and rough idle issues, particularly when coming to a stop. Common problems include fuel system malfunctions, such as clogged fuel filters, dirty fuel injectors, or malfunctioning fuel pumps, which can restrict fuel flow to the engine. Additionally, owners have noted that cracks or holes in the air duct can allow unmetered air to enter the engine, disrupting the air/fuel mixture and leading to rough idle and hesitation. Vacuum leaks have also been reported to cause difficulties in maintaining idle, contributing to stalling and rough running. Moreover, some owners experience issues with the idle air bypass valve, which can lead to difficulty starting the engine when cold and stalling at idle. Faulty O2 sensors have been cited as another factor, with symptoms including rough idling, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light. Addressing these issues through proper maintenance and timely repairs is crucial for improving the performance of the Mazda Navajo and resolving these concerns.

4 model years affected

4 others reported problem

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