The Hyundai i20 (2008-2012) was Hyundai's entry into the supermini market in New Zealand, offering a fuel-efficient and affordable option for city dwellers and those seeking a compact and practical car. As these vehicles age, understanding their potential issues and maintenance requirements becomes crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the 2008-2012 Hyundai i20, covering common problems, WOF (Warrant of Fitness) considerations, and essential maintenance tips.
Common problems associated with the 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 include: • Oxygen Sensors: The oxygen sensors can fail, leading to poor fuel economy and potentially triggering the engine check light. • Suspension Wear: Front suspension components, particularly the stabilizer bar links and bushings, can wear out, resulting in knocking noises. • Power Steering: Steering can feel heavy or inconsistent, indicating potential issues with power steering pump or system. • Brake Light Switch: A faulty brake light switch can cause issues with cruise control and can prevent the car from starting. • Central Locking: Intermittent failure of the central locking system can occur.
WOF tips
Key areas to consider when getting a WOF for your 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 in New Zealand: • Tyres: Check for adequate tread depth and any signs of damage or wear. Pay attention to even wear patterns. • Brakes: Inspect brake pads, rotors, and brake lines for wear and leaks. Ensure the handbrake is functioning properly. • Lights: All lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators) must be working correctly. • Steering and Suspension: The steering should feel tight, without excessive play. Suspension components will be checked for wear and damage. • Rust: Inspect the vehicle for rust, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and underbody.
About the Hyundai I20 CRDi
The early Hyundai i20 models were known for their nimble handling and economical engine. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements (for petrol models), is vital. Given their age, checking and potentially replacing belts (timing belt if applicable, accessory belts) is essential to prevent breakdowns. The i20, being a smaller car, can experience quicker wear on suspension components, due to the impacts of everyday driving.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common problems with a 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 in New Zealand?
Owners of the 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 commonly report issues with oxygen sensors failing, leading to poor fuel economy and check engine lights. Suspension wear, particularly with front stabilizer bar links and bushings, can cause knocking noises. Some experience heavy or inconsistent power steering, and faulty brake light switches can affect cruise control and starting. Intermittent central locking failures are also noted.
What should I look out for when getting a WOF for my 2008-2012 Hyundai i20?
For a WOF on your 2008-2012 Hyundai i20, pay close attention to tyre tread depth and even wear, ensuring all lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators) are working. Brakes, including pads, rotors, lines, and the handbrake, will be thoroughly inspected. Steering should be tight with no excessive play, and suspension components checked for wear. Finally, inspect for rust, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the underbody.
How often should I service my 2008-2012 Hyundai i20?
The recommended service interval for your 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 is every 15,000km. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements (for petrol models), is crucial to maintain its reliability and fuel efficiency.
Where can I get replacement oxygen sensors for my 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 113 SKUs for the 2008-2012 Hyundai i20, and you can find replacement oxygen sensors, along with other critical parts like suspension components and brake parts, directly through our website or by visiting a CARFIX store in New Zealand.
My 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 has a knocking noise from the front. What could it be?
A knocking noise from the front of your 2008-2012 Hyundai i20 is a common sign of worn front suspension components. Specifically, the stabilizer bar links and bushings are known to wear out on these models, leading to such noises. It's recommended to have these inspected and replaced if necessary.
Are there DIY guides available for maintaining my 2008-2012 Hyundai i20?
Yes, CARFIX offers 21 DIY video guides specifically for the 2008-2012 Hyundai i20. These guides can assist you with common maintenance tasks like oil changes, air filter replacements, and potentially even checking and replacing accessory belts.