IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Cupra Formentor

The launch year for the Formentor in the UK as Cupra's first bespoke model. Early 2020 cars had the most MIB3 infotainment crashes and software freezes, though these were largely resolved by 2022 via updates. The 1.5 TSI engine showed "kangarooing" hesitation when cold on some early examples.

What changed for 2020

  • •Cupra's first model not based on a SEAT platform
  • •1.5 TSI, 2.0 TSI and e-Hybrid powertrains
  • •Distinctive crossover-coupe styling
  • •MIB3 infotainment system introduced

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !MIB3 infotainment crashing and freezing
  • !Front suspension creaking over bumps
  • !Rear brake squeal under light application
5
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
2
Minor

All Known Issues

1.4 e-Hybrid High-Voltage Charger & Battery Contact Relays

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

On Formentor e-Hybrid models, the high-voltage onboard charger or high-voltage contactor relays can suffer communication faults, preventing plug-in charging and showing an electrical drive system warning.

Est. Repair Cost: £650–£1,600
Warning Signs:

Charging cable locked in port or charging session aborts, "Drive system: error" on digital cockpit, Car switches to petrol engine only

What to Inspect:
  • Test AC wallbox charging before purchase
  • Check dealer history for high-voltage battery service campaigns
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Infotainment (MIB3) Crashing

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The central touchscreen system is prone to lag, sudden reboots, or being stuck on "Loading settings."

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200 (Software update)
Warning Signs:

Screen goes black, Sound stops working, Navigation stuck on "Starting"

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm software is version 1896 or higher
  • Test wireless smartphone connectivity
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

EA888 Gen 4 Coolant Regulation Module & Water Pump Leak

ModerateCooling System

On 2.0 TSI models (VZ2 310PS and VZ3), the electronically controlled coolant regulator module and integrated water pump develop slow seal leaks, dripping coolant onto lower subframe covers.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£850
Warning Signs:

Low coolant warning message on digital binnacle, Pink crusty residue around oil filter casing, Sweet anti-freeze aroma after parking

What to Inspect:
  • Check expansion tank fluid level
  • Inspect lower engine undertray with torch for coolant pooling
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Front Suspension Creaking

MinorSuspension & Chassis

The front suspension can develop a creaking sound over speed bumps, especially in colder weather.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£300
Warning Signs:

Squeaking/Creaking over bumps, Knocking when turning at low speeds

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over speed bumps during the test drive
  • Ask if top mounts have been greased or replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Brake Squeal

MinorBrakes

Many owners report persistent high-pitched squealing from the rear brakes under light application.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£200
Warning Signs:

High-pitched squeal when braking gently, Brake dust buildup

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for brake noise during slow-speed manoeuvres
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2020 Cupra Formentor

  • Ensure the MIB3 software is at version 1896 or higher
  • Check that all safety systems work without persistent "Unavailable" warnings
  • Drive the car from cold to check for 1.5 TSI hesitation
2021–2022
Check a 2020 Cupra Formentor by Registration