Generations
LM — First Generation
2010–2016
1.6 GDI, 1.7 CRDi, 1.7 CRDi Blue, 2.0 CRDi, 2.0 GDI
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Hyundai Ix35 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Rear suspension component corrosion (LM)
The ix35 shows severe rear suspension component corrosion affecting control arms, links, and mounting points. MOT data shows this model fails at 16.4 times the national average for suspension component damage or corrosion, with the problem affecting all engine variants. The issue is particularly severe on petrol variants between 60,000-80,000 miles. Corrosion typically starts around suspension mounting points where road salt accumulates and spreads to load-bearing components.
What happens if ignoredCorroded suspension components can fail suddenly, causing loss of vehicle control. In severe cases, suspension mounting points can tear away from the bodyshell. Repair typically requires replacement of multiple rear suspension components and may require bodywork if mounting points are compromised. Vehicle should not be driven if structural corrosion is suspected.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,000–£1,800
Main dealer
£1,500–£2,500
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
Parking brake adjustment failure (LM)
The ix35 suffers from parking brake efficiency and adjustment problems across all variants. MOT data shows failure rates of 11 times the national average for parking brake efficiency and 8.2 times average for excessive handbrake lever movement. The issue affects all mileage ranges including very low-mileage cars, suggesting a design or manufacturing problem with the parking brake mechanism or cable adjustment system.
What happens if ignoredInadequate parking brake can allow the vehicle to roll when parked, particularly on slopes. This creates a safety hazard and MOT failure. Adjustment usually resolves the issue but may indicate worn brake shoes or cables requiring replacement. The car remains safe to drive but should not be parked on slopes until repaired.
Independent garage
£120–£250
Specialist
£150–£300
Main dealer
£200–£400
Parts only
£50–£150
Major
Brake system adjustment and efficiency issues (LM)
The ix35 shows multiple brake-related failures in MOT testing, including inadequate braking effort (10.9 times fleet average) and insufficient brake pedal reserve travel (9.9 times average). The issue affects primarily petrol variants but also appears on diesel models. Problems typically manifest as poor brake pedal feel, reduced stopping power, or brake fade under repeated use.
What happens if ignoredBrake efficiency problems directly affect safety and cause MOT failure. Poor brake adjustment can result in longer stopping distances or brake fade. Most issues are resolved by pad replacement, brake adjustment, or brake fluid service, but caliper problems may require more extensive repair.
Independent garage
£150–£400
Specialist
£180–£500
Main dealer
£250–£650
Parts only
£80–£250
Minor
Rear suspension bush wear (LM)
The ix35 shows premature wear of rear suspension bushes, with MOT failure rates 10 times the national average for suspension pins, bushes and joints being excessively worn. This affects all engine variants but is most common on higher-mileage examples. The rear suspension design appears to place higher loads on the rubber bushes than they can reliably handle over the vehicle's lifespan.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes cause poor handling, increased tyre wear, and noise. The car remains safe to drive but handling precision is reduced and MOT failure is likely. Bush replacement is straightforward but requires suspension removal for access to some components.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£400–£700
Parts only
£80–£200
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 Ix35 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 47x the fleet average
Sample: 24,107 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 3,021 tests
Tyre wear or damage
Tyres · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 10,163 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 22,925 tests
Body panel damage
Bodywork · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 12,597 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 595 tests
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Related
- Hyundai Ix35 buyer's guide
- Hyundai Ix35 service history check
- Hyundai Ix35 service schedule & costs
- Hyundai Ix35 MOT failure rates
- Hyundai Ix35 price guide
- How to check Hyundai service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Hyundai Ix35 car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Hyundai Ix35 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Hyundai Ix35?
The Hyundai Ix35 has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Rear suspension component corrosion (LM).
Is the Hyundai Ix35 reliable?
The Hyundai Ix35 has 1 dangerous and 2 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 Ix35 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Rear suspension component corrosion (LM)) costs £800–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.