Reconditioned Hyundai i30 Gearbox

The i30 is first and foremost a city and suburban compact: its gearbox takes a battering from intense daily use

Clutches repeatedly stressed in traffic jams, frequent gear changes over short distances, varying loads depending on whether it's the family hatch or estate — the typical Hyundai i30 puts its gearbox under far greater strain than a long-distance tourer would. Between 2007 and 2019, three engines were paired with this compact: the 1.6 CRDi (engine code D4FB), the 1.0 T-GDI (G3LC) and the 1.4 (G4FA). It is these engine codes, stamped on the block, that determine the compatible gearbox — not simply the stated engine capacity.

1.6 CRDi: be aware that two gearboxes exist for the same engine

It is with the 1.6 CRDi diesel that the greatest care is needed. Depending on the year and variant, this engine was fitted with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed manual — two entirely different units, not interchangeable with one another. Relying solely on the engine capacity or the first registration date is not enough: confirmation requires the gearbox code itself, visible on the casing. The 1.0 T-GDI and the 1.4 petrol, on the other hand, are fitted exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Two reconditioning options available depending on the condition of your unit

For i30 gearboxes, two purchasing options are available: the standard exchange and the reconditioning of your own gearbox — your unit is reconditioned and then returned to you. This second option may be particularly relevant when the original gearbox has a known service history or a specific fitment characteristic you wish to retain, especially on estate variants or units that have been modified. In all cases, the gearbox code remains the essential starting point for confirming compatibility.