Engine Code

GENESIS D4HC engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Genesis D4HC is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This configuration delivers 138 kW (188 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull ideal for relaxed highway cruising and effortless overtaking.

Fitted primarily to the first-generation Genesis G80 sedan, the D4HC was engineered for refined, quiet operation and strong fuel economy in a luxury context. It targeted drivers seeking diesel efficiency without sacrificing cabin serenity or performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), meeting stringent Euro 6 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed potential premature wear of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, detailed in Genesis Service Information Bulletin SIB-18-DL-007. The update involved revised cooler materials and, in some cases, replacement to prevent internal leakage and subsequent engine damage.

Gensis Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards for all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

D4HC Technical Specifications

The Genesis D4HC is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for luxury sedans (2016-2020). It combines a high-pressure common-rail injection system with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and refined efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke84.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output138 kW (188 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque400 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm
Fuel systemCommon-rail direct injection (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio15.9:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (VGT)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeGenesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP, ACEA C3)
Dry weight165 kg
Practical Implications

The VGT turbo provides strong, linear torque ideal for relaxed driving but requires premium ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to protect the high-pressure fuel system and emissions components. Genesis Premium 5W-30 oil is critical for maintaining chain and turbo longevity under high thermal loads. Short trips should be minimized to ensure proper DPF regeneration cycles. Vehicles built before Q2 2018 should have the EGR cooler inspected per SIB-18-DL-007 to prevent potential internal leakage and coolant contamination.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Genesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP, ACEA C3) specification (Genesis Owner's Manual).

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variations.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Requires EN 590 diesel for rated output and emissions compliance (Genesis TIS Doc. G-I4-TURBO-01).

Primary Sources

Genesis Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G-I4-TURBO-01, G-I4-GDI-02

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

D4HC Compatible Models

The Genesis D4HC was used across Genesis's mid-size luxury platforms with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the G80 for enhanced NVH control-and no mid-cycle facelifts affected core engine compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Genesis
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
G80 (RG3)
Variants:
2.0D
View Source
Genesis Group PT-2020
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front right side of the cylinder block, near the accessory drive (Genesis TIS G-I4-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit for D4HC-equipped vehicles is 'D'. All D4HC engines feature a distinctive silver plastic intake manifold with '2.0 CRDi' branding and a visible VGT turbo housing. Critical differentiation from the petrol Theta II: D4HC has a DPF canister and SCR AdBlue tank. Service parts are generally consistent across model years, but EGR system components require verification against SIB-18-DL-007 for pre-2018 builds.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Genesis TIS Doc. G-I4-ID-01

Location:

Stamped on the front right side of the cylinder block, near the accessory drive (Genesis TIS G-I4-ID-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Silver plastic intake manifold with '2.0 CRDi' branding
  • Visible VGT turbocharger and DPF/SCR system components
EGR Cooler Note

Issue:

Early production units (pre-Q2 2018) may exhibit premature wear in the EGR cooler, potentially leading to internal leakage.

Evidence:

Genesis SIB-18-DL-007

Recommendation:

Inspect and replace EGR cooler with latest OEM-specified unit per Genesis SIB-18-DL-007 if leakage is suspected.

Common Reliability Issues - GENESIS D4HC

The D4HC's primary documented concern is potential EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips that prevent the system from reaching optimal operating temperature. Genesis SIB-18-DL-007 outlines the corrective procedure, while routine maintenance data suggests DPF regeneration issues are a common service item. Use of correct fuel grade and oil specification is critical for long-term reliability.

EGR cooler internal leakage
Symptoms: White exhaust smoke, coolant loss without visible leaks, milky oil on dipstick, engine overheating.
Cause: Premature material fatigue in early-design EGR coolers, allowing exhaust gases to contaminate the engine's coolant circuit.
Fix: Replace EGR cooler with latest OEM-specified unit per service bulletin SIB-18-DL-007; flush cooling system and change oil if contamination occurred.
DPF regeneration issues
Symptoms: Loss of power, engine warning light, increased fuel consumption, frequent active regeneration cycles.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperatures during predominantly short-distance driving prevent complete passive DPF regeneration, leading to excessive soot accumulation.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; if saturated, remove and professionally clean or replace DPF. Modify driving habits to include longer journeys.
Variable geometry turbo (VGT) actuator sticking
Symptoms: Lack of boost, whistling noise from turbo, overboost/underboost DTCs, increased smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup and soot ingress into the VGT actuator mechanism, causing vanes to stick in a fixed position.
Fix: Clean or replace VGT actuator and linkage; perform adaptation reset via diagnostic tool to recalibrate boost control.
Injectors or high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Rough running, misfires, hard starting, fuel in oil, excessive smoke, fuel pressure DTCs.
Cause: Contamination from poor-quality fuel or extended service intervals leading to wear in high-precision common-rail components.
Fix: Replace faulty injector(s) or HPFP with OEM units; flush fuel system and always use EN 590 specification diesel fuel.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Genesis technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about GENESIS D4HC

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GENESIS D4HC.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

GENESIS Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

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Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialGENESIS documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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