Hyundai Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Hyundai cars?

Our database covers 23 Hyundai models and 144 documented faults across the range. Of these, 24 are classified as dangerous and a further 75 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Hyundai models fail at an average rate of 23.6%, roughly in line with the 22.7% average across all manufacturers we track. Reliability varies considerably between models. The Kona is the strongest performer at just 11%, while the Atoz has the highest failure rate at 32.4%.

If you are considering a used Hyundai, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are brakes and suspension, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Hyundai reliability summary

Where Hyundai problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Hyundai's 144 known issues break down by area.

Brakes problems dominate, accounting for 31 of the 144 faults we track (22%). Issues in this area include Brake pipe corrosion and failure and Brake imbalance and caliper seizure. The most affected models are the Tucson N (3), the Accent (2), the Atoz (2).

Suspension is the next most common area, with 31 documented faults (22%). Common faults here include Suspension component corrosion and wear and Wheel bearing excessive play and failure. The most affected models are the I10 (3), the Amica (2), the I30 (2).

We also track 20 transmission faults across the range (14%). Problems to watch for include CV joint boot deterioration and CV joint boot deterioration and joint failure. The most affected models are the Tucson (3), the I30 (2), the I40 (2).

Steering rounds out the top problem areas with 16 known issues (11%). Notable issues include Power steering system failure and Steering rack gaiter damage. The most affected models are the I40 (3), the Coupe (2), the Getz (1).

Known Hyundai faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Hyundai range

The most common and severe problems found across all Hyundai models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Hyundai model

We track faults across 23 Hyundai models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Hyundai

Every used Hyundai deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since brakes faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 24 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Brake pipe corrosion and failure, Brake imbalance and caliper seizure, Timing belt failure (X3/LC). Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Hyundai has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 23.6% average failure rate across the Hyundai range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Hyundai repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Hyundai repair costs between £268 and £574 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £3,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Hyundai repair in our database is Excessive oil consumption (1.6 GDI), which can cost £2,800–£4,500 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.