The Hyundai i30 is a relatively small family hatchback that was first introduced for the 2007 model year and has since been kept in continuous production. The second generation of the i20 came about in 2011 while the third generation model came out in 2016. The very latest model was the 2020 facelift of the i20, but a new mode is just around the corner.
In this article, we are not going to focus on the timeline of the i20, at least not in a positive manner. Instead, we are going to talk about the Hyundai i30 years to avoid which means picking and choosing from all of the i30 models to tell you which ones may not be the best-used Hyundai i30 options to go for.
The 2007 Hyundai i30 was known to be a bit of a hit-and-miss when it comes to reliability which is why it starts off our list. The 2012 i30 was also experiencing lots of trouble with its clutch and its transmission, so much so that it had to be included on this list. To top it all off, we had to add the 2014 i30 which suffers from similar issues as the 2012, but with a few interesting caveats.
It’s worth noting that these issues are not common across all vehicles in these model years and may have been addressed through recalls or other repairs. As with any used car, it’s important to have a thorough inspection before purchasing to ensure that the car is in good condition.
2007 Hyundai i30
Some early models of the 2007 Hyundai i30 may have had issues with the engine stalling or losing power. These issues could be caused by a faulty crankshaft position sensor, which can cause the engine to stop running or run erratically. Symptoms of this issue may include the engine hesitating or surging, the vehicle stalling, or difficulty starting the engine.
This issue could be dangerous if it happens while driving, as it could lead to a loss of power steering and brakes, making the vehicle difficult to control. Hyundai did issue a recall to combat this problem as it is a really serious one. We had to make it the one to avoid because of this issue as losing engine power, steering assistance, and braking assistance while driving is incredibly dangerous.
If you are considering purchasing a 2007 i30, it’s important to have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle before making a purchase, especially if the vehicle has high mileage or shows signs of engine trouble. A qualified mechanic can diagnose any issues and advise you on whether the vehicle is worth purchasing or if repairs are necessary.
It’s also a good idea to contact your local dealership to see if the i30 you are looking for, was part of the subject recall.
2012 Hyundai i30
Quite a few owners of the 2012 i30 have reported issues with the clutch system, including difficulty shifting gears and grinding noise when the clutch pedal is pressed. These issues could be caused by a few different factors, including a worn clutch plate, a faulty pressure plate, or a problem with the hydraulic clutch system.
Symptoms usually include a spongy or soft clutch pedal, difficulty shifting gears, or grinding noise when the clutch is engaged. The 2012 also suffered from quite a few electrical problems such as a faulty stereo system, a faulty dashboard display, and problems with the power windows system.
Fuel system issues were also a thing as issues with fuel pressure, fuel leaks, or the check engine light coming on were also reported.
2014 Hyundai i30
Transmission issues continue with the 2014 model where the automatic transmission is known to shift uncomfortably due to module problems or problems with the transmission fluid. Some owners have reported problems with the steering system, including a knocking or clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps.
These issues could be caused by worn or damaged steering components, such as the steering column or tie rod ends. Finally, electrical problems are also a thing with the i30 where the audio system, dashboard display, and power windows fail due to faulty fuses or wiring problems.
FAQ Section
How Good Is the Hyundai i30?
The Hyundai i30 is a highly regarded car that is known for its reliability, practicality, and value for money. In addition to its reliability, the i30 is a practical car that offers plenty of interior space and cargo capacity, making it ideal for families or those who need to carry a lot of gear.
It also provides a comfortable ride and good handling while being competitively priced. All in all, the i30 is indeed a good car and it could very well be the best family small hatchback Hyundai makes. Sure, older models did spoil the fun a little bit, but overall, the i30 is a really good car overall.
How Long Can the Hyundai i30 Last?
The lifespan of a Hyundai i30 can vary depending on several factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and the model year. However, with proper care and maintenance, a Hyundai i30 can last for many years and hundreds of thousands of miles. Hyundai cars are known for their reliability, and the i30 is no exception.
Many i30 owners have reported driving their vehicles for over a decade without any major issues. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotations can help keep the car running smoothly and prevent major problems from developing.
Is Hyundai Going to Discontinue the i30?
There are some rumors floating around that the i30 is nearing the end of its lifeline and that it is going to be either replaced by an SUV or completely sacked. The reason why the i30 could be going away is likely twofold. For one, developing new and efficient gasoline engines is costly in an era where EV small cars are making more and more sense.
Secondly, people love crossovers and SUVs and there are many brands out there that have completely abandoned making normal cars in favor of crossovers, pickups, and SUVs.