Hyundai brand mark

Is the 2011–2019 Hyundai i40 reliable?

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

Quick answer

4.3/ 10
Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Hyundai i40 rates 4.3 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, suspension and electrical. 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 · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
3
Medium
4
Low
1

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

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The faults that decide it

EngineHigh

DPF and EGR faults on the 1.7 CRDi

Typically appears
90,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for regen warnings and run it hot
Typical repair
DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
TransmissionHigh

Clutch judder when pulling away in first gear or a rattling noise at idle, indicating dual-mass flywheel (DMF) wear on manual 1.7 CRDi models.

Typically appears
70,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine from cold. Listen for a metallic rattle that disappears when the clutch pedal is depressed. Test a pull-away in first gear to feel for driveline judder.
Typical repair
Clutch & dual-mass flywheel · £700–£1,600
EngineHigh

Rhythmic ticking or metallic rattling from the engine bay on cold start due to timing chain stretch and tensioner wear on the 1.7 CRDi.

Typically appears
80,000-120,000 miles
What to inspect
Ensure the engine is completely cold. Start the car with the bonnet open and listen closely to the timing chain cover area on the left side of the engine for a harsh metallic rattle.
Typical repair
Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
SuspensionMedium

Front bush and drop link wear

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen for knocks over rough roads
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
BrakesMedium

Rear caliper seizing on low mileage cars

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Check for uneven rear pad wear
Typical repair
Brakes (discs, pads, caliper) · £200–£800

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

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