Hyundai ix35 I facelift (LM) (2013 – 2015)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The Hyundai ix35 (known as the Tucson in North America and other markets) received a facelift in late 2013 for its phase 2 (LM generation). This refresh brought LED daytime running lights, new taillights, higher quality interior materials, an updated multimedia system, and, most importantly, improvements to the suspension and steering to correct the handling, which was considered too vague on phase 1. Mechanically, the diesel engines (which represent the overwhelming majority of sales in Europe) were carried over with slight optimizations, while the 2.0 petrol block was replaced by the new 'Nu' generation with direct injection (GDI) in certain markets. It is a pragmatic compact SUV, very reliable in its diesel version, which largely contributed to establishing Hyundai's reputation in Europ

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai ix35 phase 2 (2013-2015) is an extremely rational and safe used choice, provided you opt for a diesel engine (CRDi). The 1.7 CRDi 115 hp is perfect for economical daily use, while the 2.0 CRDi (136 or 184 hp) proves to be a truly tireless tractor, ideal for high mileage drivers or the mountains in the 4WD version. Problems are rare and are often limited to wear parts (clutch, steering flex disc) or clogging linked to improper use (DPF in the city). On the other hand, for buyers outside Europe (especially in North America), the 2.0 and 2.4 GDI petrol versions should be approached with extreme caution due to major design flaws (connecting rod bearings, oil consumption). In Europe, the 1.6 GDI is decent but lacks power for the size.

Common issues

Encrassement et dysfonctionnement du FAP (Filtre à Particules Diesel) High
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 1 200 – 2 500 €
Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour une bonne régénération du FAP.
Dysfonctionnement ou encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium
🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km
💶 350 – 700 €
Un nettoyage préventif peut prolonger sa durée de vie. Attention aux voyants moteur.
Défaillance des injecteurs diesel High
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 800 – 2 000 € (pour 1 ou 2 injecteurs)
Utiliser du carburant de qualité et faire vérifier en cas de ratés ou surconsommation.
Usure prématurée ou défaillance du turbo High
🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km
💶 1 500 – 2 800 €
Laisser le moteur tourner au ralenti quelques secondes avant de couper le contact.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £80 – 140
Timing chain £650 – 1 200 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Clutch £800 – 1 400
Complete brakes £280 – 550
Estimated annual budget £600 – 1 200

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.