Hyundai brand mark

Is the 2014–2025 Hyundai i20 reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

6.4/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Hyundai i20 rates 6.4 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, electrical and brakes. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
1
Medium
3
Low
4

Weak points cluster around engine, electrical, brakes, suspension.

Two faults free · full checklist for this exact Hyundai i20 for $9.

Check this car

The faults that decide it

EngineHigh

Metallic rattling on cold start (1.2 MPI Kappa engine)

Typically appears
60,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
Open the bonnet and perform a completely cold start. Listen closely to the right-hand side of the engine for a sharp metallic rattle that lasts 3-5 seconds, indicating timing chain stretch.
Typical repair
Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
EngineMedium

1.0 T-GDi carbon build-up and misfire

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check idle quality and engine light history
Typical repair
Routine repair · £180–£700
SteeringMedium

Clicking or clunking noise from the steering column

Typically appears
40,000-70,000 miles
What to inspect
With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel rapidly left and right. Listen for a distinct clunking sound indicating a worn EPS flexible coupling.
Typical repair
Steering rack / column repair · £400–£1,500
Hybrid SystemMedium

Whining or belt squeal during start-stop operation (Mk3 48V MHEV)

Typically appears
30,000-50,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine, engage Eco mode, and trigger a stop-start cycle. Listen for belt slip or bearing whine from the Belt Starter Generator (alternator area) when the engine restarts.
Typical repair
Starting & charging parts · £150–£650
ElectricalLow

Infotainment, Bluetooth and camera faults

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test full infotainment functionality
Typical repair
Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

Inspecting a Hyundai i20?

See two faults free, then get the full tickable checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Full report $9.

Check this exact car