Hyundai ix35
Compact turbodiesel sized for SUVs. Strikes a good balance between power and economy — give the DPF a proper motorway run now and then.
Family SUV, does what it says
The ix35 is a sensible family crossover. Solid, dependable, sporting ambition nowhere to be found.
Engine Weaknesses 5
D4FD uses a timing belt drive. Manufacturer recommends replacement every 96,000 km. Earlier preventive replacement is advised, as belt failure causes total engine loss on this interference engine.
Symptoms: No direct symptom before breakage. Knocking and engine stuttering shortly before failure possible.
When DPF regeneration cycles are interrupted, fuel is injected to burn off the soot filter. If regeneration aborts, diesel enters the engine oil — visible as a rising oil level.
Symptoms: Rising oil level (diesel smell in oil), check engine light, blue exhaust cloud, increased consumption.
Early D4FD variants (production 2011–2013) had known engine block cracks leading to coolant loss. Hyundai replaced affected engines under warranty; corrected design after 2013.
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible external leak, rising coolant temperature, white smoke from exhaust.
All D4FD versions have a DPF that blocks on frequent short trips. Rising oil level from fuel contamination during failed regeneration is a warning sign.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, engine limp mode, increased fuel consumption and rising oil level.
EGR valve and intake manifold become contaminated with soot in urban use. Engine power and efficiency drop; swirl flaps in the intake manifold can break.
Symptoms: Disturbed idle, engine power loss, fault code P0400–P0409, black exhaust cloud.
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
Vehicles from production October 2011 to June 2012 were recalled due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners. In an accident the belt might not tension adequately.
Hyundai recalled ix35 models with 1.7 CRDi engine from production October 2011 to April 2012. The brake booster could fail, significantly reducing braking force.
The steering joints on the ix35 are the most common inspection complaint. Worn joints lead to imprecise steering and are a safety risk.
The bonnet on the ix35 LM tends to flutter at motorway speeds. The cause is usually a weakening bonnet latch or worn rubber buffers. Safety-relevant — check carefully.
Frequent problem on the ix35: the battery discharges through a faulty starter motor or interior lighting that does not switch itself off.
Like other Hyundai models of this era, the ix35 shows rust on the tailgate, especially at the lower edge and around mounting points.
Inspection regularly flags headlights and tail lights on the ix35 LM. Bulb failures, connector corrosion and moisture ingress into headlights are known weak points.
Seats and interior trims on the ix35 LM produce squeaking and creaking noises with age. The most common area is the seat runner and B-pillar trim that works on road undulations.
Reports & Tests
1133 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2009–2015). Most reported: Engine (580), Brakes (245), Hydraulic (176).