IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2023 Cupra Formentor

By 2023 the Formentor was well-established with most software issues resolved and the e-Hybrid range expanded. Build quality was consistent and the infotainment had matured through OTA updates. The 2.0 TSI 310hp VZ5 variant was the range-topping performance model.

What changed for 2023

  • •Most MIB3 software issues resolved via updates
  • •Expanded e-Hybrid range
  • •VZ5 310hp performance variant
  • •Improved build quality consistency

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front suspension creaking still possible
  • !e-Hybrid battery software can cause "Electric Drive System" errors
  • !DSC gearbox low-speed jerkiness on older software
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
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

Buying Tips for 2023 Cupra Formentor

  • ✓The 2023 Formentor is a much more polished proposition than early 2020 cars
  • ✓Check for the latest OTA software updates on e-Hybrid models
  • ✓The VZ5 is fast but expensive to run — ensure you understand the running costs
2021–20222024
Check a 2023 Cupra Formentor by Registration