1998 Hyundai Tiburon Problems: 2 Known Issues
1998 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Hyundai Tiburon has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Timing Belt Tensioner Failure ($400-$1,200 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $1,200. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
1998 · All trims · All engines
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All 2 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH THREADED PORTIONS OF THE STEERING GEARBOX ASSEMBLY'S LEFT AND RIGHT INNER BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES THAT CONTAIN INTERNAL CRACKS IN THE MATERIAL STRUCTURE.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Hyundai Tiburon problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Hyundai Tiburon has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Belt Tensioner Failure, Clutch Hydraulic System Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Hyundai Tiburon reliable?
The 1998 Hyundai Tiburon has 2 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Timing Belt Tensioner Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Hyundai Tiburon problems?
Repair costs for known Hyundai Tiburon issues range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Belt Tensioner Failure, typically costs $400-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1997-2008 Hyundai Tiburon Timing Belt Tensioner Failure?
The Tiburon Beta and Delta engines use a timing belt with a hydraulic tensioner that can fail, causing the belt to lose tension and potentially jump timing. Both the 2.0L Beta engine (1997-2001) and the 2.7L Delta V6 (2003-2008) are interference engines, meaning a jumped or broke… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-2008 Hyundai Tiburon Clutch Hydraulic System Failure?
Manual transmission Tiburons use a hydraulic clutch with master and slave cylinders that are prone to failure. The clutch master cylinder develops internal seal leaks, and the slave cylinder (mounted on the transmission bell housing) can develop external leaks. When either cylind… Repairs typically run $150-$800. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.