2020 Tucson Push Button Start No Crank, No Start

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'no crank, just a click' situation on a push-button start vehicle like your 2020 Hyundai Tucson can be frustrating, especially when the battery seems fine. Here's a systematic approach to diagnose the issue:

1. Verify Battery & Connections:

   • Even if lights are bright, a battery can have enough voltage for accessories but not enough amperage for the starter. Have the battery load-tested. Also, thoroughly check both positive and negative battery terminals for corrosion or looseness. A poor connection can prevent sufficient current flow to the starter.
   • Check the ground strap from the battery to the chassis and from the engine to the chassis. A loose or corroded ground can mimic a dead battery or bad starter.

2. Brake Pedal Switch:

   • For push-button start, the vehicle needs to detect that the brake pedal is pressed. A faulty brake pedal switch is a common cause of a no-start condition. Check if your brake lights illuminate when you press the pedal. If not, the switch might be the issue.

3. Starter Motor & Solenoid:

   • The single 'click' you hear is often the starter solenoid engaging, but if the starter motor itself is faulty or not getting enough power, it won't spin the engine. The solenoid could be engaging but failing to send power to the motor, or the motor itself could be seized or have worn brushes.
   • Test: If accessible, you can try gently tapping the starter motor with a hammer (while someone tries to start the car) to see if it temporarily frees up a sticky solenoid or motor. This is a temporary fix, if it works.

4. Immobilizer System:

   • If the immobilizer system (which uses your key fob) doesn't recognize the key, it will prevent the engine from starting. However, this usually results in no crank at all, not typically a click. Check your key fob battery and try your spare key if you have one.

5. Fuses & Relays:

   • Check the starter relay in the under-hood fuse box. You can often swap it with a known good relay of the same type (e.g., horn relay) to test. Also, check the main starter fuse.

When to See a Shop: If after checking battery connections, brake switch operation, and trying a different key fob, the issue persists, it's time to have your 2020 Tucson towed to a professional mechanic. They can perform more advanced diagnostics, including testing the starter motor directly, checking wiring continuity, and scanning for any immobilizer or body control module (BCM) codes that might not trigger a typical Check Engine Light.