Hyundai ix35 Common Problems and Solutions
Instrument Panel Gauges Dropping
Problem:
When driving, the instrument panel gauges will return to their initial positions. This problem is often accompanied by flickering running lights.
Solution:
Sometimes, this issue is caused by a software problem, requiring your control unit to be reset and upgraded. However, the fault can reoccur at any time, even after the update. Hyundai is aware of this defect on the ix35 and has begun recommending a complete replacement of the instrument panel cluster.
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Instrument Panel
Front Suspension creaking
Problem:
There is a creaking noise coming from your front suspension, especially when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps.
Solution:
A common issue with many 4x4 Hyundai models is caused by excessive movement between the front shock absorber rod protection and the upper front suspension bearing. This is a very simple fix, and you won't need to buy any replacement parts. Just pull down the cover for the shock absorber rod and apply sealant to the outer edge.
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Rear Suspension Knocking
Problem:
You can hear a knocking noise coming from the rear suspension while you are driving.
Solution:
Caused by a loose rear lower arm safety bolt, in some cases, you will need to tighten the bolts. In other cases, the looseness may have damaged the safety bolt, requiring you to replace the outer retaining bolts on both of the lower rear suspension arms. We offer various bolts to assist with this repair.
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Tapping Noise From Front Suspension
Problem:
You can hear a tapping noise coming from your front suspension, especially when driving over rough or uneven surfaces.
Solution:
This usually stems from wear and tear on your front link balance lever. To resolve this, you'll need to fit a new one from us. When fitting it, ensure you tighten the nuts to a torque of at least 98-118 Nm.
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Creaking Door
Problem:
There's an unexpected and unusual noise coming from the door. You normally hear it when locking or unlocking it.
Solution:
This is a common issue with the Hyundai ix35, caused by insufficient lubrication. The problem is that once you can hear the noise, damage has already occurred. You will need to fit a new locking mechanism, which you can obtain from us.
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Entertainment System Shutting Down
Problem:
Your entertainment system becomes sluggish and then powers off.
Solution:
If you keep seeing the 'System Shutting Down' message on your entertainment system, then the most likely problem is simply a lack of battery. If you tend to drive your ix35 for short bursts, it's worth taking it out for a longer drive. In worst-case scenarios, you may need a replacement battery, which you can get from us here.
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Battery
Gearbox problems
Problem:
The manual gearbox on the ix35 has been known to slip out of gear while driving. This can potentially be very dangerous. Is the issue with your vehicle similar to the one in the video below?
Solution:
You will need to take the vehicle to your dealer for them to fix this problem. It should be covered by the warranty.
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Sat Nav problem
Problem:
The built-in Satellite Navigation (Sat Nav) system can display your vehicle in the wrong location. The GPS often shows incorrect positions, which is caused by a software issue.
Solution:
You will need to take your vehicle to your dealer to have them update the software. This should resolve the issue, but if it does not, you will need to have the sat nav replaced. If a replacement is necessary, Hyundai should cover this under warranty.
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Clutch problems
Problem:
There have been known issues with clutch problems on the ix35. Several reports mention a burning smell followed by difficulties with gear engagement and a soft clutch pedal. This can be a dangerous problem, especially when driving in traffic. Sometimes, turning off the engine and restarting can temporarily resolve the problem. A fault with the clutch master cylinder appears to be the main cause of this failure.
Solution:
Replacing the clutch master cylinder should resolve the problem. This is still likely covered under warranty, and Hyundai should repair it free of charge. If not, you will be responsible for the repair costs. We can assist you in finding a replacement clutch master cylinder at a very competitive price.
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Seat Belt Doesn't Tighten
Problem:
You've noticed that when you tug on the seatbelt, it doesn't lock into place as it should.
Solution:
This is an issue with the seatbelt pre-tensioner. It's potentially life-threatening, so always ensure you address this problem as quickly as possible. Many Hyundai vehicles produced between November 2011 and June 2012 were severely affected by this fault, leading to a recall. You could replace the pre-tensioner yourself using one of our parts, but this can be very challenging due to its position on the ix35. A Hyundai dealer will be able to inspect and repair this for you.
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Seatbelt Pretensioner
Leaking Fuel
Problem:
You can smell diesel or notice a drop in power.
Solution:
Hyundai issued a recall for any ix35 built between 1st September and 2nd November 2011 due to a faulty fuel hose. You can either replace it with one of ours, repair the hose yourself, or take it to a Hyundai dealer.
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Fuel Hose
Three Beeps from Rear Sensor
Problem:
When in traffic or parked, the rear sensors activate and produce three rapid beeps.
Solution:
In most cases, this is likely caused by something blocking the sensors. Check them for dirt, dust, or spider webs and give them a good clean. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you might need to replace the sensors or the sensor control unit. While replacing the sensor is a relatively straightforward (though fiddly) task, replacing the entire unit can be very challenging. We stock sensors and units available for purchase to fix this problem.
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