Is the Hyundai i20 reliable? Honest answer.

Is the Hyundai i20 a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.

Hyundai i20
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TL;DR

The Hyundai i20 is generally reliable, especially models from 2015 to 2018, which have fewer issues. Earlier models (2010-2013) may face electrical and suspension problems, leading to higher repair costs. Overall, the i20 is considered affordable to maintain.

MOT Pass Rates

The Hyundai i20 generally performs well in MOT tests, with pass rates varying by year. Models from 2015 to 2018 often exceed 85% pass rates, while earlier models, particularly from 2010 to 2013, have higher failure rates due to brake and emissions issues.

Common Failure Modes

Common faults reported by owners include electrical problems, especially with central locking and infotainment systems. Suspension components on models from 2010 to 2013 can wear prematurely. Brake issues, such as worn pads and discs, are also frequently mentioned, leading to increased repair costs.

Model Years to Favour

The 2015 to 2018 Hyundai i20 models are generally more reliable, benefiting from improved build quality and updated technology. These models have fewer reported issues compared to their predecessors, making them a safer choice for potential buyers.

Model Years to Avoid

Be cautious with i20 models from 2010 to 2013, as they have higher rates of MOT failures and more frequent reports of electrical and suspension issues. While these models may be cheaper, potential repair costs can outweigh the initial savings.

Repair Costs

Repair costs for common issues can vary. Electrical faults may cost around £150 to fix, while suspension repairs can range from £300 to £500. Brake replacements generally fall within the £150 to £300 range, depending on the extent of the wear.

What people are asking

What is the problem with the Hyundai i20?

Some owners have reported issues with electrical systems and premature wear in suspension parts, particularly in earlier models. These problems can lead to higher maintenance costs if not addressed promptly.

What is the weakness of i20?

The main weaknesses noted by owners include electrical glitches and potential problems with the automatic transmission in certain model years. These issues can affect the overall driving experience and reliability.

Is the Hyundai i20 a reliable car?

Yes, the Hyundai i20 is generally considered a reliable car, particularly the models produced from 2015 to 2018. However, earlier models may have some reliability concerns that potential buyers should be aware of.

Are Hyundai i20 cheap to repair?

Generally, the Hyundai i20 is considered affordable to repair, with many common issues costing less than £500 to fix. This makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers.

What owners say

Many owners on r/CarTalkUK have shared their experiences regarding the reliability of the Hyundai i20. A common theme is the reliability of the 2015-2018 models, with users praising their performance and lower incidence of faults compared to earlier versions. Owners often mention that these models have fewer electrical issues and better overall build quality.

However, discussions also highlight concerns about the 2010-2013 models. Owners have reported frequent electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system and central locking. These issues can be frustrating and may lead to costly repairs, making some owners wary of purchasing these older models.

Another theme from r/CarTalkUK is the cost of repairs. Many owners find that while some repairs can be pricey, they are generally manageable. The consensus is that the i20 is relatively inexpensive to maintain compared to other vehicles in its class, adding to its appeal for budget-conscious buyers.

Additionally, there are mentions of specific faults, such as suspension wear and brake issues, particularly in the earlier models. Owners have noted that while these problems can arise, they often do not lead to catastrophic failures, allowing for timely repairs without excessive costs.

Overall, feedback from owners suggests that while the Hyundai i20 has its share of issues, particularly in older models, it remains a reliable choice for many drivers, especially those considering the newer versions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults with the Hyundai i20?

Common issues include electrical faults, suspension wear, and brake problems.

Which model years are the most reliable?

Generally, the 2015 to 2018 models show better reliability.

What is the average repair cost for common issues?

Repair costs can range from £150 to £500 depending on the issue.

How does the i20 perform in MOT tests?

The i20 has a decent pass rate, but certain years have higher failure rates.

Are there any major recalls for the i20?

There have been a few recalls, mainly related to electrical and safety issues.

What is the problem with the Hyundai i20?

Some owners have reported issues with electrical systems and premature wear in suspension parts, particularly in earlier models.

What is the weakness of i20?

The main weaknesses noted by owners include electrical glitches and potential problems with the automatic transmission in certain model years.

Are Hyundai i20 cheap to repair?

Generally, the Hyundai i20 is considered affordable to repair, with many common issues costing less than £500 to fix.

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Sources

DVSA MOT History, Honest John reliability index, Parkers owner reviews, WhatCar reliability survey, UK Government MOT failure data.