Hyundai i20 1.2 PB

Many i20 PB owners report clutch judder or slipping between 40,000 and 70,000 km, earlier than expected for this class of car. The root cause is often an oil leak from the first motion shaft seal in the gearbox, which contaminates the clutch plate. Hyundai has acknowledged this as a known defect. Additionally, the clutch slave cylinder is prone to sticking due to heat degradation, causing the clutch pedal not to return properly. Replacing the slave cylinder alone costs around €150-250, but if the clutch plate and flywheel are also worn, a full clutch kit replacement runs €400-700 at an independent garage, or up to €1,000 at a Hyundai dealer. When replacing the clutch, always inspect and reseal the gearbox input shaft seal to prevent recurrence.

The electric power steering in the i20 PB is known to cut out intermittently, particularly during low-speed manoeuvres like parking or tight U-turns. The EPS motor shuts itself off as a thermal protection measure and typically returns to normal after a few minutes of cooling down. While disconcerting, this is a safety feature rather than a total failure. A recall was issued for some production years addressing an electronics fault that caused conflicting steering input data. If the motor fails permanently, replacement of the EPS column assembly costs €400-800 depending on whether an OEM or remanufactured unit is used. Verify with a Hyundai dealer whether the EPS software update recall has been completed.

The thermostat on the 1.2 Kappa engine is a common wear item that tends to fail between 70,000 and 100,000 km. When it sticks closed, the engine overheats rapidly, which can warp the cylinder head if not addressed immediately. When it sticks open, the engine never reaches optimal operating temperature, leading to poor fuel economy and weak cabin heating. The part itself costs €10-30, with labour bringing the total to €100-200 at an independent garage. If overheating has already occurred and caused head gasket damage, repair costs can reach €300-500. Always check the temperature gauge behaviour during a test drive.

Forum reports indicate AC compressor issues on i20 PB models, though this is more related to the car's age than a specific design flaw. Common symptoms include the AC blowing warm air intermittently or the evaporator freezing over due to a faulty temperature probe. A compressor replacement costs €300-500 for the part plus €200-400 for labour and system recharge. The condenser dryer must also be replaced and the system flushed during compressor replacement. On cars of this age, it is worth checking AC function thoroughly before purchase, as an inoperative AC system could indicate deferred maintenance.

Some i20 PB owners report electric window motors failing, particularly the driver's side which gets the most use. Symptoms include slow or jerky window operation before complete failure. The motor or regulator assembly costs €60-120 for the part, with labour around €80-150 depending on the door. This is a relatively minor issue but worth checking during a pre-purchase inspection, as windows that struggle to move smoothly likely need replacement soon.