IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Hyundai Ioniq (Hybrid/PHEV)

The AE-generation Ioniq launched in the UK in late 2016 as a 141PS 1.6 GDi self-charging Hybrid with a 6-speed dry DCT (and 28 kWh Electric), followed in 2017 by the 8.9 kWh Plug-in Hybrid.

What changed for 2016

  • •Dedicated eco-car platform with aluminium bonnet and tailgate plus 0.24 Cd aerodynamic liftback body
  • •1.6-litre GDi Atkinson-cycle petrol engine paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox instead of a CVT
  • •Plug-in Hybrid added in 2017 with an 8.9 kWh battery offering up to 39 miles of official EV range

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear brake disc corrosion and sticky caliper sliders due to regenerative braking reducing friction use
  • !Foot-operated parking brake cable stretch or imbalance on high-mileage private-hire examples
  • !Rear suspension bush and anti-roll bar link wear on urban taxi-worked cars
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Clutch Actuator Fluid Leak

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

An internal leak in the hydraulic clutch actuator can lead to an electrical short and is a known fire risk. Most affected cars were recalled.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Hybrid system warning light, Jerky gear changes, Fluid visible under the car

What to Inspect:
  • Check recall status for "Clutch Actuator"
  • Inspect the actuator area for oily residue
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

12V Battery Drain & Deep Sleep Bugs

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The auxiliary 12V battery can drain if the car is left for several days. On earlier models, this was often due to the car failing to enter a "deep sleep" mode, sometimes exacerbated by frequent Bluelink app pings or third-party tracking apps.

Est. Repair Cost: £120–£200
Warning Signs:

Car completely unresponsive, Remote locking fails, Clock resets, 12V battery dies if HV battery is below 20%

What to Inspect:
  • Age and health of the 12V battery
  • Presence of a "Battery Reset" button (on newer models)
  • Software version of the BMC
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

DCT Hesitation & Shudder

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The 6-speed DCT can feel hesitant or "shudder" when pulling away, particularly in cold weather or stop-start traffic.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Delay when pressing the accelerator, Jerky behavior at low speed, Unpleasant vibration during take-up

What to Inspect:
  • Perform several low-speed starts from cold
  • Check for gearbox software updates in the service history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2016 Hyundai Ioniq (Hybrid/PHEV)

  • Verify by VIN that the hydraulic clutch actuator fluid-leak and main power relay recalls were completed
  • Check whether the car has a 12V BATT RESET dash button (fitted from late-2017/2018 MY onward)
  • Inspect rear cabin trim and boot sills carefully to spot disguised ex-uber or private-hire mileage
2017–2018
Check a 2016 Hyundai Ioniq (Hybrid/PHEV) by Registration