Used Hyundai i30 Differential

Both years fall within the Hyundai i30 second generation (GD), which ran from 2012 to 2017, so on paper they share the same platform — however, the engine code is the critical detail, because a differential from a 1.4 petrol application will not simply drop into a 1.6 diesel application even within the same generation. Supply your engine code (found on your V5 or a VIN check) to the breaker so they can match the unit precisely rather than going on year alone. Fitment is never guaranteed without that confirmation.

The first-generation i30 (FD) ran from 2007 to 2012, and the second-generation (GD) ran from 2012 to 2017 — these are distinct platforms and the differential from one generation is very unlikely to be a straight swap into the other. Even where engine codes overlap across that 2012 boundary, confirm with the breaker against your specific registration before purchasing. Do not assume cross-generation compatibility based on engine size alone.

Trim level does not affect differential fitment on the i30; what matters is engine code, fuel type, and whether the car has a manual or automatic gearbox — not whether the car is a Classic, Style, Active, SE, SR, or Premium. A breaker may pull a unit from any trim as long as the mechanical specification matches yours. Bear in mind you may receive a differential from a car with different interior or exterior details, which is entirely normal for used mechanical parts.

Yes, fuel type matters because petrol and diesel engines in the i30 have different torque outputs and in many cases different gearboxes, meaning the differential ratios are not the same across fuel types. Always tell the breaker your fuel type and, more importantly, your exact engine code — for example a D4FB diesel application differs from a G4FA petrol application even if both are badged as 1.4 or 1.6. Matching on engine code rather than just fuel type or engine size gives you the most reliable result.

The second-generation i30 (GD) received a facelift in 2015, running through to the end of production in 2017, and while the core platform carries over, ancillary and mounting changes can occur mid-production even within a named generation. Name the 2015 boundary to the breaker and ask them to confirm compatibility against your specific registration, as this is not something that can be stated categorically without checking the exact parts. Providing your engine code will help the breaker identify any revision differences quickly.

The third-generation i30 (PD) launched in 2017 and represents a new platform compared with the GD generation that preceded it, so a direct swap across that 2017 boundary is very unlikely without significant modification. Engine codes also changed across the generations, which further reduces the chance of straightforward interchangeability. Confirm with the breaker against both registrations before committing to a purchase.