ix35 problems Page 2

The Hyundai ix35 (2010–2015 in Australia) is a sturdy suburban packhorse, but it does have a few party tricks you won’t enjoy. Most faults are predictable, fixable, and easy to spot if you know where to poke and prod. If you’re shopping used, budget a little for preventative maintenance and run a long test drive from stone‑cold to fully hot. Here are the common issues to check before you hand over your hard‑earned.

• Diesel 2.0 CRDi: DPF clogging from short trips; look for frequent regens, soot warning, or limp mode
• Steering knock/clunk at low speeds: worn flexible coupling in the column; cheap part, big noise
• 6‑speed auto hesitation or shift flare on light throttle; fluid condition and software updates matter—test cold and uphill
• Air‑con weak or intermittent: compressor or evaporator leaks; listen for bearing noise and sniff for dye
• Suspension clunks: front lower control arm bushes and stabiliser links; uneven tyre wear gives the game away
• Tailgate struts losing their will to live; easy DIY swap
• Electrical niggles: window regulators and central locking actuators can get lazy; check all doors and switches
• Oil seeps around rocker cover; rough cold start rattle suggests timing chain tensioner fatigue from poor servicing
• Recalls: some variants were caught up in airbag and safety campaigns; run the VIN through the official recall checker