Generations
IX20_GEN1 — First Generation
2009–2021
1.4 Petrol, 1.6 Petrol, 1.4 CRDi, 1.6 CRDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Hyundai Ix20 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Track rod end ball joint wear
The ix20 steering system uses track rod end ball joints that wear prematurely, with MOT data showing failure rates up to 80.8 times the fleet average. The failures range from excessive play to complete detachment risk, with 298 cases reaching the 'serious risk of detachment' category. This represents a direct safety hazard as steering connection loss can cause complete loss of directional control. The issue affects both petrol variants primarily and appears related to the steering geometry or component specification.
What happens if ignoredTrack rod end failure can cause complete loss of steering control, creating an immediate safety hazard. Even with excessive wear short of failure, the car may not track straight, suffer rapid tyre wear, and feel unstable in emergency manoeuvres. This is an MOT failure and the vehicle should not be driven if serious wear is suspected.
Independent garage
£100–£180
Specialist
£120–£220
Main dealer
£160–£280
Parts only
£40–£80
Major
Diesel particulate filter blockage (1.4/1.6 CRDi)
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) captures soot particles from the exhaust but requires periodic high-temperature regeneration to burn off accumulated deposits. Short urban journeys prevent the exhaust reaching regeneration temperature, causing progressive DPF blockage. This is the most significant reliability concern for diesel variants and makes them unsuitable for predominantly urban use.
What happens if ignoredComplete DPF blockage causes the engine to enter limp mode with severely restricted power. Professional DPF cleaning costs £200-400. DPF replacement costs £1200-2000. Continued driving with a blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and engine due to excessive back-pressure.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£400–£800
Parts only
£800–£1,500
Major
Parking brake mechanism failure
The ix20 uses a conventional cable-operated handbrake mechanism that suffers from premature cable stretch and adjuster mechanism wear. MOT data shows parking brake failures at up to 284.5 times the fleet average across all engine variants, with 54 recorded failures. The mechanism fails to provide adequate holding force on slopes, creating a safety risk. This affects all variants equally and appears to be a design weakness rather than wear-related failure.
What happens if ignoredInadequate parking brake holding force creates a safety risk on slopes and may cause the vehicle to roll away when parked. Complete adjustment or cable replacement is required. The issue is MOT-testable and will result in test failure if not addressed.
Independent garage
£120–£250
Specialist
£150–£300
Main dealer
£200–£400
Parts only
£60–£150
Major
Brake system performance degradation
The ix20 brake system experiences premature caliper binding and brake performance issues, with MOT data showing braking inadequacy failures at 284.5 times the fleet average on 1.4 petrol variants. The failures suggest seized brake caliper pistons or contaminated brake fluid causing uneven braking force. This can result in increased stopping distances and unpredictable braking behaviour, particularly dangerous in emergency situations.
What happens if ignoredPoor brake performance significantly compromises safety and will result in MOT failure. Seized calipers can cause brake disc warping and premature pad wear. Complete brake system inspection and caliper overhaul or replacement may be required, with typical costs reflecting the safety-critical nature of the repair.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£350–£650
Parts only
£120–£300
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Hyundai Ix20 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective ...
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 169x the fleet average
Sample: 977 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 68x the fleet average
Sample: 856 tests
Restriction in free movement of the braking system
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 49x the fleet average
Sample: 10,119 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 33x the fleet average
Sample: 900 tests
Mandatory tell-tale for main beam headlamp or r...
Lights & Electrics · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 25x the fleet average
Sample: 3,052 tests
Front or rear fog lamp switch inoperative or no...
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 5,228 tests
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Related
- Hyundai Ix20 buyer's guide
- Hyundai Ix20 service history check
- Hyundai Ix20 service schedule & costs
- Hyundai Ix20 MOT failure rates
- Hyundai Ix20 price guide
- How to check Hyundai service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Hyundai Ix20 car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Hyundai Ix20 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Hyundai Ix20?
The Hyundai Ix20 has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Track rod end ball joint wear.
Is the Hyundai Ix20 reliable?
The Hyundai Ix20 has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Hyundai Ix20 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Track rod end ball joint wear) costs £100–£180 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.