MOT failure rates

Hyundai i30 MOT failure rates: what fails, what to fix

What the DVSA MOT data shows for the Hyundai i30. The most common failure categories and what each one typically costs to put right.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 101,380 recorded MOT tests, 28.6% failed.

Hyundai i30
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Hyundai i30 models have varying MOT failure rates influenced by age and common issues. Key failure categories include brakes, suspension, lighting, and emissions. Regular maintenance can help reduce these risks.

Common Failure Categories

The Hyundai i30 frequently fails MOT tests in several key areas. The most common categories include brakes, suspension, lighting, and emissions. Brakes often fail due to worn pads or discs, while suspension issues can arise from worn shock absorbers or bushings. Lighting failures typically involve faulty bulbs or misaligned headlights. Additionally, emissions failures can occur due to malfunctioning catalytic converters or exhaust leaks, which are particularly concerning in diesel models.

Age-by-Age Fail Rate Trajectory

As the Hyundai i30 ages, its MOT failure rate tends to increase. Models up to five years old generally have a lower failure rate, often below 10%. However, after five years, the rate can rise significantly, with many vehicles experiencing issues related to wear and tear. By the time the vehicle reaches ten years, failure rates can exceed 30%, particularly for suspension and emissions. Buyers should pay close attention to the age and service history of any used i30 they consider.

Quick Fixes vs Structural Issues

Many MOT failures can be addressed with quick fixes. Replacing a blown bulb or adjusting brake components are straightforward and inexpensive. However, structural issues such as significant suspension wear or emissions system failures require more extensive repairs. These can be costly and may involve multiple components, leading to higher bills.

Cost Ranges for Repairs

Repair costs for common MOT failures vary widely. Owners should budget for these potential costs, especially as their vehicle ages. Furthermore, investing in preventative maintenance can help mitigate these expenses over time.

What people are asking

Is the Hyundai i30 a reliable car?

The Hyundai i30 is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle. Many owners report that with proper maintenance, the i30 can serve them well for many years without significant issues. Regular servicing and timely repairs are crucial to maintaining its reliability.

How long will an i30 engine last?

The lifespan of a Hyundai i30 engine can vary, but many owners report that with good maintenance, it can last well over 150,000 miles. Factors such as driving habits, regular servicing, and the type of fuel used can all influence engine longevity.

What is the most common problem with a Hyundai?

Common problems reported with Hyundai vehicles, including the i30, often involve electrical issues, such as problems with the remote control keys and the ignition system. Owners have also noted issues with the emissions system, particularly in older models.

What is the best year of the Hyundai i30?

Many buyers consider the 2017 Hyundai i30 to be one of the best years due to its blend of reliability, updated features, and improved safety ratings. However, the ideal choice may depend on individual preferences and budget.

What owners say

Many highlight its comfortable driving experience and spacious interior, making it suitable for families and daily commutes alike. Owners frequently discuss the reliability of the Hyundai i30, noting that it is a dependable choice for both new and experienced drivers.

In terms of common faults, users have mentioned that older models, particularly those from 2011 to 2015, can experience issues with the suspension and emissions systems. These concerns often arise after several years of use, prompting owners to recommend thorough inspections before purchasing a used model.

Value for money is a recurring theme in discussions. Owners express satisfaction with the i30’s performance relative to its price, particularly when considering the features offered in newer models. The fuel efficiency of petrol and diesel variants has also been praised, making it an economical choice for many drivers.

However, some owners caution about potential pitfalls. Buyers in UK communities have flagged concerns about the dual-clutch transmission in specific models, which may lead to performance issues if not properly maintained. It is advisable for prospective buyers to research the specific model year they are considering to avoid any unexpected problems.

Hyundai i30 recall record

9 recalls have been issued for the Hyundai i30, between 2013 and 2025.

  1. Driver-side Airbag (DAB) Inflator may not deploy as intended

    R/2025/456

    Issued 17 November 2025

    Driver-side Airbag (DAB) Inflator may not deploy as intended. This may result in a component entering into the vehicle occupant compartment.

    Remedy:The DAB Inflator will be replaced.

    Affects cars built Oct 2008 to Jun 2009

  2. THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE ABNORMAL PERFORMANCE OF THE FRONT RIGHT HAND SEATBELT PRETENSIONER DURING DEPLOYMENT

    R/2022/164

    Issued 27 June 2022

    The subject vehicles may experience abnormal performance of the front right hand seatbelt pretensioner during deployment.

    Remedy:Replace the front right hand seatbelt assembly with a countermeasure part.

    Affects cars built May 2020 to Oct 2020

  3. INDIRECT TYRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEMS MAY NOT COMPLY WITH EUROPEAN REGULATIONS

    R/2021/261

    Issued 16 August 2021

    Indirect tyre pressure monitoring systems may not comply with European regulations.

    Remedy:Software update applied to the electronic stability program.

    Affects cars built Jun 2020 to Sept 2021

  4. IF MOISTURE ENTERS THE ABS MODULE IT COULD CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT

    R/2020/059

    Issued 1 June 2020

    When the vehicle is turned off if moisture enters the ABS module it could cause an electrical short.

    Remedy:Affected vehicles will have a relay installed in the main fuse box to prevent power going to the ABS module when the ignition key is in the off position.

    Affects cars built Nov 2006 to Dec 2010

5 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Hyundai i30 MOT record

From 101,380 recorded MOT tests, 28.6% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20221,3938.4%23,773 mi
20211,75311.2%32,035 mi
20201,55410.8%37,282 mi
20194,10011.4%41,807 mi
20187,25114.2%53,235 mi
20176,65215.8%60,306 mi
20169,35823.9%69,175 mi
201513,40125.2%76,696 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements29.5%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn28.0%
  3. A suspension component excessively damaged or corroded14.3%
  4. A tyre seriously damaged14.3%
  5. Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured13.8%

Figures cover every Hyundai i30 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Hyundai i30 official figures

Median across 18 variants on sale, petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
48.3 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
131 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are the common failure categories for the Hyundai i30?

The most common failure categories include brakes, suspension, lighting, and emissions.

How does the failure rate change with age?

Typically, older Hyundai i30 models show higher failure rates, especially after five years.

What are some quick fixes for common MOT failures?

Quick fixes often include replacing bulbs, adjusting brake components, or replacing worn tyres.

Is the Hyundai i30 reliable?

Overall, the Hyundai i30 is considered reliable, but regular maintenance is key to avoiding MOT failures.

Sources