IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2020–2022 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2020–2022 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2020–2022 period has 2 more issues than the Hyundai i20 (Gen 3) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

1.0 T-GDI timing chain tensioner wear

SeriousEngine

The timing chain tensioner and guide rails on the 1.0 T-GDI three-cylinder turbo can wear prematurely, causing a distinctive rattle on cold start as hydraulic pressure leaks overnight. If ignored the chain can stretch enough to skip a tooth, risking catastrophic valve-piston contact.

Most affected: 1.0 T-GDi

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2020–2024Often appears around: 40,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rattle from the engine for the first few seconds after cold start
  • •Engine warning light for timing correlation
  • •Rough idling or hesitation

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen to the engine from cold before viewing
  • ✓Verify strict 10,000-mile or annual oil change history
  • ✓Check for updated tensioner part number on replacement jobs

DCT Shudder & Hesitation

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission can develop a judder, especially in stop-start traffic. Often resolved with a software update but may require clutch packs.

Estimated cost: £0–£1,200Affects: 2020–2022Often appears around: 15,000–40,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Vibration when pulling away
  • •Jerky low-speed gear changes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive in heavy traffic
  • ✓Check for TCU software updates

48V Battery System Errors

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Mild-hybrid models can sometimes display battery warning lights or fail to use the start-stop system correctly due to sensor faults.

Estimated cost: £150–£500Affects: 2020–2023Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Check hybrid system warning
  • •Auto-stop not engaging

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Dash warning lights
  • ✓Battery health status

Buying Tips for the 2020 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3)

  • ✓On 1.0 T-GDi models with the 7DCT, test for any shudder or hesitation when pulling away.
  • ✓Verify the 48V mild-hybrid system is charging correctly (look for the battery graphic on the dash).
  • ✓Check the infotainment for lag or software crashes, common on early 2020-21 cars.
2023 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3)

Browse 2020–2022 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2020–2022 Hyundai i20 (Gen 3) vehicles.

View 2020–2022 Directory

Other Hyundai i20 (Gen 3) Year Periods

2020–202220232024

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