Timing chain stretch and tensioner wear
Rattle from the engine on startup or at idle, sometimes followed by rough running or an engine warning light.
Should I buy a 2011–2020 Hyundai i40?
Considering a 2011–2020 Hyundai i40? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.
At a glance
We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.
This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.
Enter your registration to see the ownership outlook for the exact car you're considering.
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Common Hyundai i40 (2011–2020) problems
EGR valve fouling and limp-mode running
Flat acceleration, uneven idle, engine warning light, or sudden limp mode after town use.
Electrical cut-outs and battery drain, often worsened by damp
Intermittent no-start, random warning lights, dead electrics, or repeated flat-battery episodes.
Hyundai i40 buying questions
Is a 2011–2020 Hyundai i40 worth buying?
It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2011–2020 Hyundai i40, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.
What common problems affect the Hyundai i40 (2011–2020)?
The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.
What should I check before buying a Hyundai i40?
Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.
A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.
The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.
Or enter the vehicle manually