The Hyundai Excel, arriving in New Zealand in the mid-1980s, marked Hyundai's significant entry into the Kiwi car market. Cheap and cheerful, the Excel offered basic transportation and helped establish the brand's presence. While not known for luxury or performance, its affordability made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Excel, in many ways, kicked off the affordable import revolution in NZ.
Rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and floors), carburetor problems (early models), worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers), failing electrics (lights, wipers), leaking radiator/cooling system, general wear and tear due to age, failing fuel pumps, blocked fuel filters.
WOF tips
Rust is a major WOF failure point. Check the sills, floor, and suspension mounting points carefully. Suspension components must be in good condition with no excessive play. Lights and wipers must function correctly. Tyres must meet minimum tread depth and have no sidewall damage. Brakes need to operate evenly and effectively, and the handbrake must hold securely. Exhaust system should be sealed with no excessive leaks. Engine mounts need to be inspected carefully. Steering rack and balljoint condition needs checking carefully.
About the Hyundai Excel G4AG
The Excel was built with simplicity in mind. Its straightforward mechanicals meant relatively easy repairs, a boon for budget-conscious owners. However, these cars are now quite old, and finding parts can be challenging. Rust is a major concern, especially in coastal areas. Mechanically, the engines and transmissions are robust enough if well-maintained, but neglect takes its toll. Suspension components are also prone to wear and tear after decades on NZ roads. Early models may have carburetors, so expect some tuning and maintenance around that, later models often had fuel injection. A simple car for a simpler time but age makes maintenance a serious consideration
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots I should check on my 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel in New Zealand?
Rust is a significant concern for these older Excels, especially in coastal New Zealand. You should meticulously check around the wheel arches, sills, and floor panels. The WOF inspection will also pay close attention to the sills, floor, and suspension mounting points, as rust in these areas can lead to a WOF failure.
My early model Hyundai Excel (1985-1989) is running rough. Could it be the carburetor?
Yes, if you have an early model 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel, it likely has a carburetor. Carburetor problems are a common issue with these older vehicles and can definitely cause rough running. Later models often had fuel injection, which tends to be less prone to these specific issues, but carburetors require regular tuning and maintenance.
What are the key things a WOF inspector will look for on my 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel?
For your 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel, a WOF inspector will be particularly vigilant about rust, especially on the sills, floor, and suspension mounting points. They'll also check for excessive play in suspension components like bushings and ball joints, and ensure shock absorbers are in good condition. Lights and wipers must be fully functional, tyres need adequate tread and no sidewall damage, and brakes must operate evenly. The handbrake must hold securely, the exhaust system needs to be sealed, and engine mounts, steering rack, and ball joints will be carefully inspected.
Where can I get replacement suspension components like bushings and ball joints for my 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 135 SKUs for the 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel, and suspension components are a common wear item for these vehicles due to age and NZ road conditions. You should be able to find replacement bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers through CARFIX. If you're unsure, check the specific part categories on the CARFIX website or contact customer service.
How often should I service my 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel?
The recommended service interval for your 1985-1989 Hyundai Excel is every 10,000km. Given the age of these vehicles, consistent maintenance is crucial to keep the engine and transmission robust, as neglect can quickly take its toll.
My Hyundai Excel's lights or wipers aren't working reliably. Is this a common problem?
Yes, failing electrics, including issues with lights and wipers, are a common problem in 1985-1989 Hyundai Excels due to their age. It's important to address these promptly, as functional lights and wipers are critical for safety and a WOF requirement.