Generations
FS — First Generation
2011–2020
1.6 GDI
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Hyundai Veloster problems ranked by severity. We track 6 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (FS)
Brake pipes on the Veloster suffer from premature corrosion, with MOT data showing failures at 7.3 times the fleet average even on very low mileage cars. The pipes appear to be inadequately protected against salt corrosion, with failures documented from as early as 0-20,000 miles. This represents a safety-critical failure mode where brake pressure can be lost suddenly. Later models do not appear to have addressed this design weakness.
What happens if ignoredCorroded brake pipes can fail suddenly, resulting in complete loss of braking ability and a serious accident risk. Once corrosion begins, it spreads rapidly and replacement of the entire brake pipe system may be required. Full brake pipe replacement typically costs £400-800 depending on which sections need replacement.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£500–£900
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Handbrake efficiency problems (FS)
The handbrake system on the Veloster has documented problems with both complete failure on one side and insufficient overall efficiency. MOT data shows failure rates of 9.1 times the fleet average for single-side inoperative handbrakes and 8.9 times average for insufficient efficiency. This appears to be a design or adjustment issue affecting the mechanical handbrake mechanism, with problems typically manifesting from 40,000 miles onwards.
What happens if ignoredAn ineffective handbrake creates a safety risk on slopes and will fail the MOT test. Single-sided failure can cause the car to roll unexpectedly when parked. Adjustment may resolve early cases, but cable or mechanism replacement is typically required, costing £200-400 depending on which components have failed.
Independent garage
£120–£300
Specialist
£150–£350
Main dealer
£200–£450
Parts only
£60–£150
Major
Steering ball joint excessive wear (FS)
Steering ball joints on the Veloster wear at 7.4 times the fleet average rate, affecting cars across all mileage bands from 20,000 miles upwards. With 1,646 recorded MOT failures, this represents the most common chassis-related failure on the model. The ball joints appear to be underspecified for the vehicle's weight and suspension geometry, with both the joints themselves and their protective dust covers failing prematurely.
What happens if ignoredWorn steering ball joints create dangerous handling characteristics and can fail suddenly, causing loss of steering control. Both the joints and their protective covers require replacement when worn. Replacement of both track rod ends typically costs £200-400, but if the steering rack is also damaged by dirt ingress, costs can reach £800-1200.
Independent garage
£180–£350
Specialist
£220–£400
Main dealer
£280–£500
Parts only
£80–£150
Major
Front wheel bearing failure (FS)
Front wheel bearings on the Veloster fail at 10.3 times the fleet average rate, with premature failures documented from as early as 20,000 miles. The bearing assemblies appear to be inadequately sealed or underspecified for the loading conditions. This is a concerning failure rate for a safety-critical component that, when it fails completely, can cause wheel separation.
What happens if ignoredA failed wheel bearing can cause wheel separation and loss of control. Early intervention when noise first develops allows bearing replacement for £150-300 per side. If left until the bearing seizes, hub damage can increase costs to £400-600 per side and create a dangerous driving situation.
Independent garage
£150–£280
Specialist
£180–£320
Main dealer
£220–£400
Parts only
£60–£120
2 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 Veloster fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Tyre wear or damage
Tyres · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 42x the fleet average
Sample: 353 tests
Suspension joint dust cover missing or no longe...
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 33x the fleet average
Sample: 2,371 tests
Steering rack wear
Steering · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 1,553 tests
Parking brake inoperative on one side
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 749 tests
Suspension joint dust cover severely deteriorated
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 2,371 tests
Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the r...
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.9x the fleet average
Sample: 3,160 tests
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Related
- Hyundai Veloster buyer's guide
- Hyundai Veloster service history check
- Hyundai Veloster service schedule & costs
- Hyundai Veloster MOT failure rates
- How to check Hyundai service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Hyundai Veloster car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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- Free car check
Hyundai Veloster reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Hyundai Veloster?
The Hyundai Veloster has 6 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Brake pipe corrosion (FS).
Is the Hyundai Veloster reliable?
The Hyundai Veloster 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 Veloster problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Brake pipe corrosion (FS)) costs £400–£800 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.