Dependable Korean hatchback that ranks well among reliable used family cars. The 1.6 CRDi diesel is generally robust but has some weak points typical of modern diesels: DPF issues if driven mainly in the city, potential turbo/EGR problems at higher mileage, and steering column knock from a failing plastic gear. Avoid the 7-speed DCT automatic - the manual is significantly more reliable. Engine lifespan estimated at 250,000 km. Check handbrake recall (Jan-Feb 2012 builds) and airbag recall (2007-2012) completed.
Frequent short trips prevent filter regeneration, leading to blockage · more· less
The Diesel Particulate Filter needs hot exhaust temperatures to regenerate (burn off trapped soot). If you mainly drive short city trips, the DPF cannot complete its cleaning cycle. Warning light, reduced power, and limp mode are typical symptoms. Professional DPF cleaning costs €200-400, but if the filter is too damaged, replacement costs €1,000-2,000. Regular motorway driving (20+ minutes) helps prevent this. Changing the differential pressure sensor (€50-100) can sometimes resolve false error codes.
Steering column knock€150 - €800
Plastic gear in electric steering motor wears, causing clunking noise · more· less
A common fault on the i30 is a knock or clunk when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or over bumps. The cause is a small plastic star-shaped gear that perishes where the electric motor connects to the steering column. The part itself is cheap (€20-50, part number 563152K000FFF available through Kia), but labor adds up. If caught early, repair costs €150-300. If ignored, the motor can develop too much movement, requiring full steering column replacement at €1,500+. Same fault affects Elantra, Veloster, and related Kia models.
7-speed dry-clutch DCT has shuddering, hesitation, and premature wear issues · more· less
If your i30 has the 7-speed DCT automatic, be aware this is the problematic dry-clutch variant. Common issues include hesitation/shuddering when accelerating from a stop (worse in hot weather), sudden loss of power, and grinding noises when shifting. Clutch packs can wear out in as little as 40,000-80,000 km with urban driving. Clutch replacement runs €1,500-2,500, full transmission replacement €5,000+. Manual gearbox versions are significantly more reliable. Hyundai settled a $41.2 million class action lawsuit over these DCT defects.
Turbo actuator sticking€400 - €2,500
Actuator sticks from carbon buildup, causes limp mode (max 2900 rpm) · more· less
Reported problem where the turbo stops charging (no boost) and the ECU goes into safe mode, limiting revs to around 2900 rpm. Often there's no warning light initially. Switching off and restarting temporarily resolves it. Caused by the turbo actuator sticking due to carbon buildup, especially if the car is driven too gently or only for short trips. Actuator repair at a specialist costs €400-600. If turbo internals are damaged, full replacement runs €1,200-2,500. Using premium diesel and occasional spirited driving helps prevent this.
EGR valve carbon buildup€150 - €400
Exhaust gas recirculation valve clogs, affecting throttle response · more· less
A poorly functioning EGR valve significantly impacts throttle response and can trigger the check engine light. Symptoms include rough running, poor fuel economy, and hesitation. Cleaning the EGR valve yourself takes about 3 hours and requires care - using too much force during removal can break the valve (one owner ended up spending €300 on a new valve after breaking theirs). Professional cleaning costs €100-200. Replacement valve costs €150-300 for OEM parts, plus labor.
Glow plug failure/seizure€150 - €1,500
Glow plugs fail or seize in head, causing cold start issues · more· less
White smoke on startup and difficulty starting in cold conditions can indicate glow plug failure. The plugs should be replaced every 50,000 km. The problem: glow plugs can seize in the cylinder head over time. If they snap during removal, extraction can cost €500+, and in worst cases, the head may need to come off (€1,500+). Dealers warn about this risk upfront. Best practice: warm the engine first, use penetrating oil, and apply gentle torque. Four new glow plugs plus straightforward replacement costs around €150-250.
Injector wear/failure€400 - €1,200
Common-rail injectors wear, causing rough idle and poor performance · more· less
Symptoms include rough idle, engine vibrations, hesitation on acceleration, and excess smoke. Some owners have found metal fragments in the injector pump after experiencing starting problems. Modern diesel fuel has less lubrication than in the past, contributing to injector wear. Single injector replacement with labor runs €300-400. Full set of four injectors: €1,000-1,200. Aftermarket injectors are available for around €50 each, but OEM quality is recommended for longevity.
Air conditioning condenser damage€300 - €700
Condenser behind radiator gets damaged by road debris · more· less
If the A/C isn't blowing cold air, the condenser (located in front of the radiator) may be damaged by stones or debris. This is common on all cars but worth checking on the i30. Independent garage quotes around €320 fully inclusive; German dealers quote €690. Aftermarket condensers available for €110-150. Stone damage is not covered under warranty. The job takes about 1 hour including A/C regas.
Windscreen seal water ingress€100 - €300
Deteriorating seals allow water into cabin, causing damp carpets · more· less
The i30 tends to develop more condensation than usual due to windscreen seal failure. Symptoms include damp patches on carpets and foggy windows. Over time, temperature changes cause rubber seals to become stiff and crack. Seal replacement costs €100-300 depending on extent of work needed. Maintaining seals with glycerin-based products can help prevent deterioration. Check door drain holes aren't blocked, which can also cause water to enter the footwell.
The i30 GD 1.6 CRDi is one of the more dependable diesel hatchbacks in its class. The engine is fundamentally sound with an estimated 250,000 km lifespan when properly maintained. Most issues are common to modern diesels (DPF, EGR, turbo) rather than specific defects. Avoid the DCT automatic and you'll have a solid car. Regular motorway driving helps prevent many diesel-specific problems.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Check stamps in service book or invoices. Verify genuine Hyundai parts were used if warranty claims may be needed.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Standard size is 205/55 R16.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual rattling or excessive smoke.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch.
Test drive
Minimum 20-30 minutes including motorway speeds to allow DPF regeneration opportunity.
Specific for this vehicle
Turn steering wheel at standstill
Listen for clunking or knocking noise - indicates worn steering column plastic gear. Check at full lock both directions.
Check exhaust smoke on startup
White smoke for more than a few seconds suggests glow plug issues. Black smoke under acceleration is normal for diesel, but excessive blue smoke indicates turbo or engine wear.
Test for turbo boost
During test drive, accelerate firmly. The car should pull strongly. If power cuts out around 3000 rpm and enters limp mode, turbo actuator problems are likely.
Check for DCT symptoms (automatic only)
If equipped with 7-speed automatic, feel for shuddering or hesitation when accelerating from standstill. Test in traffic with stop-start driving.
Inspect carpets for dampness
Press firmly on carpets in footwells and boot. Dampness indicates seal leaks. Check for musty smell inside.
Verify handbrake recall (Jan-Feb 2012 builds)
Contact Hyundai with VIN to confirm recall work completed if applicable.
Verify airbag recall (2007-2012 builds)
Check that airbag control unit software update has been completed.
Check DPF warning history
Ask about previous DPF warnings or regeneration issues. Request diagnostic scan for stored fault codes.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Handbrake seal failure (Jan-Feb 2012 manual cars)Verify completed
Airbag control unit software (2007-2012)Verify completed
Contact Hyundai with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The handbrake recall affects only manual cars built in January-February 2012. The airbag recall affected over 500,000 vehicles worldwide and requires a 10-minute software update.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (5 years unlimited km)Expired on all GD models
Corrosion warranty12 years (check year)
DCT extended warrantyCheck with dealer
All i30 GD models (2012-2017) are now outside their original 5-year unlimited mileage warranty. Hyundai was the first manufacturer to offer this comprehensive coverage in Europe. If the car has a DCT gearbox, check whether any extended warranty coverage might apply following the class action settlement. Body panels are covered against perforation for 12 years from first registration.
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.