If you are in the market for a Hyundai i20, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. While the i20 is predominantly a reliable and well-packaged car, certain model years have had reported issues and are, as such, worse than others.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the bad years of the Hyundai i20 and what to look out for when shopping for a used i20. We will examine the reported issues for each of these model years and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision when buying a used i20.
It’s important to state that these i20 model years aren’t always a bad choice as most of these problems are tied directly to how people maintain them. To kick off this list, the Hyundai i20 years to avoid models are the 2010 Hyundai i20, the 2011 Hyundai i20, the 2012 Hyundai i20, the 2015 Hyundai i20, and the 2016 Hyundai i20.
Most of these problems are not overly widespread and may only affect a small number of owners. However, if you are considering purchasing a used Hyundai i20 from one of these model years, it’s important to do your research and have the car thoroughly inspected before making a purchase.
2010 Hyundai i20
The 2010 Hyundai i20 model had several reported issues, including engine problems such as stalling and sudden loss of power. These issues were mainly reported with the petrol engine models. The stalling issue was often caused by the vehicle’s idle control valve, which regulates the engine’s idle speed.
There were also several reports of electrical issues, such as problems with the car’s battery and alternator. Additionally, some owners of the 2010 i20 reported problems with the clutch, including difficulties in changing gears, clutch slippage, and clutch pedal issues. All of these make the 2010 i20 a bit more problematic than most i20 model years.
2011 Hyundai i20
The 2011 Hyundai i20 had similar issues as the 2010 model, with some reported engine problems such as stalling, power loss, and difficulty starting the engine. These issues were mainly experienced with the petrol engine models and were linked to a faulty fuel pump or a malfunctioning electronic throttle control system.
There were also several reports of electrical issues such as problems with the car’s battery and alternator, which affected the car’s overall performance. Additionally, some owners of the 2011 i20 reported gearbox issues, including difficulties in shifting gears, grinding noises, and clutch problems, all of which somewhat took away from an otherwise fairly enjoyable gearbox.
2012 Hyundai i20
Fuel system problems are what took away from the 2012 i20 experience the most, more specifically, problems with fuel leaks and fuel pump problems. These issues were mainly linked to a defective fuel pump seal or a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator, which could result in fuel leaks, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine stalls.
Electrical problems such as alternator trouble, short circuits, accessory problems, and starter motor problems are sadly also common with the 2012 i20.
2015 Hyundai i20
The 2015 Hyundai i20 experiences problems with the transmission/clutch, including clutch slippage and difficulty shifting gears. These two are usually caused by faulty clutch plates and clutch release bearing problems, both of which can be repaired by replacing components.
The transmission trouble further includes rough shifting and a delay in gear engagement. These issues could be linked to a malfunctioning transmission control module or a damaged gearbox, which can lead to costly repairs if left unresolved.
2016 Hyundai i20
The 2016 i20 continues the ever-lasting battle with the transmission, including sudden loss of power and difficulty shifting gears. Sudden loss of power can occur due to a malfunctioning transmission control module or a faulty transmission fluid pump, which can result in a decrease in power and acceleration.
Difficulty shifting gears can be caused by several factors such as transmission fluid trouble, module trouble, or even a gearbox that is damaged from the inside. In some cases, the transmission may also slip out of gear, making it difficult to control the vehicle. All of these combined make the 2016 i20 one of the models to avoid as all of these transmission problems are a pain to live through.
More about Hyundai i20 problems.
FAQ Section
How Good Is the Hyundai i20?
Overall, the Hyundai i20 is generally considered a reliable and well-built car. It offers good fuel economy, practicality, and a comfortable ride. The i20 also comes with a range of safety features and has received good crash test ratings from various safety organizations.
In addition, the i20 has a spacious cabin and a decent amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers or cargo. It may not be a luxury car, it may not also be a particularly cheap car, it sits somewhere in between and it seems like it’s moving units at quite a pace.
How Long Can the Hyundai i20 Last?
The lifespan of a Hyundai i20 can vary depending on various factors such as maintenance, driving habits, and environmental conditions. However, with proper care and maintenance, the Hyundai i20 can last up to 200,000 miles or more. Regular maintenance including oil changes, filter changes, and brake inspections, all of which will prolong the car’s lifespan.
It’s important to only consider buying used examples with decent service history and ones that haven’t been driven too aggressively. All in all, the i20 is built to last, but only if you allow it to do so.
Is the Hyundai i20 the Biggest Hyundai Hatchback?
No, the Hyundai i20 is not the biggest hatchback made by Hyundai. The Hyundai i20 is a subcompact hatchback that competes with other cars in its class such as the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Toyota Yaris. The i20 is designed to be a practical and affordable car for everyday use, with a focus on fuel efficiency and maneuverability in urban areas.
Hyundai offers other hatchback models that are larger than the i20, such as the Hyundai i30 and the Hyundai Elantra GT, both of which are compact hatchbacks. The Hyundai i30 is a popular model in Europe and is slightly larger than the i20, offering more interior space and a more powerful engine.
