2021+ · 1.0 T-GDI 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol (100/120 hp)
A compact crossover for first-time buyers and city commuters, built on the i20 platform with practical space and Hyundai's excellent 5-year warranty. The 1.0 T-GDI three-cylinder engine is generally reliable when maintained properly, but watch for timing chain rattle on cold starts - a known issue across Hyundai's 1.0 T-GDI range. The 7-speed DCT automatic has documented reliability concerns; the manual gearbox is significantly more dependable. Electronic gremlins affect sensors and safety systems, particularly front collision assist and parking sensors after 20,000-40,000 km. Brake wear is above average for the class.
The 1.0 T-GDI engine shares timing chain issues with Hyundai's broader T-GDI range. The tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This results in a metallic rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically appearing between 60,000-100,000 km. Within certain serial numbers there's a documented problem of the cam chain grinding metal off the cam chain cover - dealers acknowledge this as a "known issue." If rattle lasts more than a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner and sprockets all need replacing. Hyundai revised the engine in 2020 including updated tensioner parts. Ignoring this leads to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. The symptom worsens in cold weather.
If your Bayon has the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, be aware this transmission has documented reliability issues across multiple Hyundai models. The most common complaint is hesitation or shuddering when accelerating from a stop, particularly in hot weather which causes the dual-clutch system to overheat. A class action lawsuit was filed against Hyundai in 2016 for these defects. Problems typically appear between 40,000-80,000 km and include delayed clutch engagement, rough shifting, and in severe cases complete transmission failure. Hyundai released a TSB in August 2016 and issued a limited recall in September 2016 for select models. The clutch learn procedure may fail if actuator control rods are out of adjustment. Manual gearbox Bayons avoid this issue entirely and are significantly more reliable.
Front collision assist sensor failure€250 - €1,000
System repeatedly fails and works again after restart, especially after 10,000+ km · more· less
This is the most frequently reported electronic issue on the Bayon. The front collision assist system intermittently fails and then works again after a restart. Electronic problems can occur repeatedly in different environmental conditions and can lead to complete system failure. The sensitive front cameras and sensors require regular calibration and checking of the CAN bus system. Simple sensor cleaning/calibration may cost €250 at a dealer, while sensor realignment runs around €450. Complete sensor replacement can reach €1,000. Contaminated or damaged sensors, misalignment after minor impacts, or software issues are common causes. This is a systematic issue requiring dealer diagnosis with proper scan tools.
Turbo actuator sticking€500 - €2,500
Actuator sticks from gentle driving or short trips, causes EPC light and limp mode · more· less
The turbo actuator tends to stick if the car is driven too gently or only used for short trips, as carbon builds up. Symptoms include EPC warning light and limp mode. Hyundai will not sell the actuator separately as a standalone part. Actuator-only repair at a specialist costs around €500-600, but if turbo internals are damaged from prolonged actuator failure, full turbocharger replacement runs €1,200-2,500. Using premium fuel and regular spirited driving (Italian tune-up) helps prevent carbon buildup. This is more common in cars used exclusively for city driving with trips under 10 km.
Parking sensor malfunction€200 - €800
Sensors fail or calibration drifts, typically after 20,000-40,000 km · more· less
Parking aid malfunctions typically occur after 20,000-40,000 km, often caused by sensor failures or incorrect calibrations. The most common reasons are bad wiring, dirt/debris accumulation, and malfunctioning sensors themselves. Aftermarket sensors cost €10-30 each, but OEM Hyundai sensors run around €200 per sensor. Main dealer quotes for four front parking sensors can reach €800. Independent garages charge significantly less - taking a bumper off is straightforward work. Front cameras and sensors require regular calibration and CAN bus system checks to avoid malfunctions. This is a known weak point in the Bayon's electronic systems.
Premature brake disc wear€300 - €600
Front brake discs show above-average wear, often by 25,000 km · more· less
The Bayon's brake system shows above-average wear compared to competitors, especially on the front brake discs. First signs of excessive wear often appear around 25,000 km - much earlier than typical for this class. This may be due to the relatively heavy curb weight of the Bayon (1,190-1,265 kg) combined with modest brake sizing. Budget brake pad and disc replacement on one axle runs €300-400 at an independent garage. Dealer service with OEM parts costs €500-600 per axle. The rear brakes typically last significantly longer. Frequent city driving with stop-and-go traffic accelerates wear. Inspect brake condition carefully when buying used - replacement may be needed sooner than expected.
Steering sensor recalibration needed€150 - €450
Steering gears require recalibration or sensor replacement after 60,000 km · more· less
The electric power steering can be characterized by various faults including sluggish steering behavior at low speeds or unusual noises when turning. Symptoms typically manifest after 50,000-60,000 km. Steering angle sensor recalibration using a scan tool costs €150-250 at a garage - this involves putting the wheels straight forward and zeroing out the sensor. If the sensor itself has failed, replacement costs €150-300 for parts plus labor. Front radar recalibration after bodywork costs around €450. More complex cases requiring MDPS (Motor Driven Power Steering) assembly replacement can reach €1,200-1,500. Code C1260 (Steering Angle Sensor - Abnormal) is a common diagnostic trouble code on Hyundai vehicles.
Suspension noise and wear€300 - €800
Noise when driving over bumps, shock absorber and mount issues · more· less
Suspension noise is a frequent complaint, especially when navigating bumps. Advanced wear and tear on the shock system is one of the most likely causes, with issues often involving suspension cups and silent blocks. Common problems include clunking sounds in rear suspension isolated to shock absorbers, upper shock isolator mounts requiring replacement, and bump stops installed upside down at the factory in some cases. On other Hyundai models, TSBs have been issued for upper shock mount replacement. Repair costs vary from €300 for minor bushing/mount replacement to €800 for shock absorber replacement. This appears to be a broader Hyundai issue rather than Bayon-specific, but owners report it nonetheless.
Electrical issues can range from faulty lights to battery drainage, with repair costs varying from €200 to €800. The 2022 model has reported minor electrical issues. Common causes include malfunctioning alternators not supplying sufficient power (battery drains even while driving), faulty alternator diodes or poor wiring causing parasitic draws, and inoperative voltage regulators on the alternator. Warning signs include dim or flickering headlights and the battery discharge warning appearing while driving. Electrical parts can continue using power when the car is off (parasitic draw) - things like glove box lights staying on. After jump-starting, drive for at least 20 minutes to recharge. A professional mechanic must check the alternator promptly to prevent damage to the battery and other electrical components.
Premature rear tire wear€200 - €500
Rear tires wear faster than expected, often by 30,000-50,000 km · more· less
Premature wear of the rear tires is not uncommon on the Bayon, often appearing after 30,000-50,000 km. This may be related to suspension geometry or alignment sensitivity. The Bayon uses tire sizes 185/65R15 (base), 195/55R16 (mid-spec), or 205/55R17 (top spec) depending on trim level. Budget tires in these sizes cost around €50-80 per tire, while premium brands (Michelin, Continental, Pirelli) run €100-140 per tire. A full set of four mid-range tires typically costs €300-400 fitted and balanced. Check tire wear patterns carefully when inspecting a used Bayon - uneven wear may indicate alignment issues that need correction (€80-120). Regular rotation every 10,000 km helps extend tire life.
New model with limited long-term data, but early concerns emerging
The Bayon launched in 2021, so long-term reliability data is still limited. However, early patterns show above-average electronic issues (sensors, safety systems) and the 7-speed DCT transmission has documented problems across Hyundai's range. The 1.0 T-GDI engine is generally reliable with proper maintenance, but timing chain and turbo actuator issues affect the broader T-GDI family. Manual gearbox models are significantly more dependable than DCT variants. The excellent 5-year unlimited mileage warranty provides crucial protection during the riskiest early ownership period.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Hyundai dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify 15,000 km service intervals maintained.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Rear tires may show premature wear.
Cold start
CRITICAL: Engine must start completely cold. Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, panel gaps. Inspect wheel arch area for damage.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Listen for suspension noise over bumps.
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start timing chain rattle
Most important check. Start engine completely cold and listen for metallic rattle in first 30 seconds. Rattle lasting more than 2 seconds indicates timing chain/tensioner wear. This is a known issue across 1.0 T-GDI engines.
Test all electronic safety systems
Front collision assist, parking sensors (front and rear), lane keep assist. These systems frequently malfunction after 20,000-40,000 km. Drive the car and verify no warning messages appear.
DCT transmission operation (if equipped)
Drive for 15+ minutes to get transmission hot. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation when accelerating from stop, shuddering, or clunking. These are common DCT issues. Manual gearbox models avoid this problem.
Check for EPC warning light
Drive the car under various loads. If EPC light appears with loss of power, turbo actuator sticking is likely. More common in cars used only for short city trips.
Inspect brake discs and pad thickness
Front brake discs show above-average wear on Bayons. Check for scoring, lip formation on disc edge, pad thickness. Brakes may need replacement sooner than expected at 25,000-40,000 km.
Check for steering sensor codes
If possible, have a Hyundai dealer scan for codes. C1260 (Steering Angle Sensor Abnormal) is common. Test for unusual noises when turning or sluggish steering at low speeds.
Verify recall 41DT05 completed (2023-2024 models)
DCT transmission recall affects vehicles built March 2023 - January 2024. Contact Hyundai with VIN to confirm completion.
Check rear tire wear pattern
Premature rear tire wear is common. Check for uneven wear which may indicate alignment issues. Ask when tires were last replaced.
Battery health and electrical system
Check battery voltage (should be 12.4-12.7V at rest). Ask if car needs frequent jump starts. Test all lights, windows, infotainment for proper operation.
As of late 2024, the Bayon has limited recall history due to being a new model (launched 2021). Contact a Hyundai dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls completed. The DCT transmission recall (41DT05) is particularly important for 2023-2024 models. Monitor owner forums for emerging TSBs as the model ages.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (5 years / unlimited mileage)Active on 2020-2025 models
Anti-perforation warranty12 years
Consumables (brake pads, filters, wipers)2 years / 20,000 km
Roadside assistance5 years included
The Bayon's 5-year unlimited mileage warranty is a major selling point and one of the best in the class - only beaten by Kia's 7-year warranty. Coverage includes comprehensive vehicle repairs, high-voltage batteries (if equipped), and all exterior paint. Annual Vehicle Health Checks are included, covering engine, gearbox, steering, suspension, and braking system. The warranty is transferable to subsequent owners. Important: consumable parts (brake pads, filters, wiper blades, spark plugs) are only covered for 2 years / 20,000 km, not the full 5 years. Given the electronic issues and DCT problems reported, having active warranty coverage is highly valuable when buying a used Bayon.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.