The 2020 i30 range commonly uses small turbocharged petrol engines (around 1.0–1.5 litres) paired with a 6‑speed manual; they give reasonable economy but rely on regular oil and service intervals to keep the turbo and injectors happy. Hyundai offered a multi-year warranty when new that will generally have expired for a six-year-old car, so check service history and any recall work. Petrol models avoid diesel-specific items like DPFs, but inspect turbo and valve/coil-related service items instead.

• Clutch feel and engagement — test for slipping under load and smooth take-up from cold.
• Gearbox engagement and synchros — check all gears for crunching or vague selection, especially 2nd/3rd.
• Turbo health — look/listen for whine, smoke or hesitation on acceleration and check for oil leaks at the turbo inlet.
• Suspension and rear-arch/sill corrosion — listen for knocks over bumps and inspect common rust spots around wheelarches and lower sills.
• Tyre wear and brakes — check for uneven tyre wear (sign of alignment/suspension issues) and brake pad/disc condition.