The Hyundai D4CB is a 1,396 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2020. It features a common‑rail direct injection system, variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 70–73.5 kW (95–100 PS) with torque figures of 220–240 Nm, providing strong low‑rpm pull for compact vehicle applications.
Fitted to models such as the i20, i30, and Accent, the D4CB was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive low‑end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 5 compliance across most markets from launch.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high‑pressure fuel pump, highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin EMS‑2015‑09. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubricity in low‑quality diesel fuel or extended oil change intervals. From 2016, Hyundai revised pump internals and updated calibration to improve durability.

Hyundai
Production years 2010–2020 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai D4CB is a 1,396 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2010–2020). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑rpm torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,396 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.5 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70–73.5 kW (95–100 PS) | |
| Torque | 220–240 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (ACEA C3) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The compact VGT turbo provides responsive torque ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 10,000–15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. Hyundai SP 5W-30 (ACEA C3) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation preserving the DPF and turbo bearings. Extended idling or frequent short trips increase soot accumulation in the EGR/DPF system, triggering regeneration cycles or limp mode. Post-2016 engines feature updated CP4.2 pump internals per SIB EMS-2015-09. Use only EN 590 ultra-low-sulfur diesel to prevent premature pump wear.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W-30 (ACEA C3) specification (Hyundai SIB EMS-2015-09).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all D4CB production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85 standards. 73.5 kW output requires EN 590 fuel quality (Hyundai TIS Doc. H-D4CB-03).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-D4CB-01, H-D4CB-02, SIB EMS-2015-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
UN Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Hyundai D4CB was used across Hyundai's RB/PD platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the i20 and reinforced mounts in the Accent-and from 2016 the updated i30 PD models adopted revised fuel pump calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Hyundai TIS H-D4CB-05). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('4' for D4CB series). All D4CB units feature a black plastic valve cover with integrated oil separator. Critical differentiation from gasoline 1.4 Gamma: D4CB has a VGT turbo on the exhaust manifold and Bosch EDC17C74 ECU. Fuel pump revisions from 2016 require updated service kits—verify part numbers against production date (Hyundai SIB EMS-2015-09).
The D4CB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in markets with inconsistent diesel quality. Hyundai internal data from 2016 indicated a measurable increase in pump replacements before 100,000 km in regions lacking EN 590 enforcement, while UK DVSA MOT records show DPF-related failures rising in high-mileage urban vehicles. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes accelerate pump and EGR degradation, making fuel quality and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2015–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI D4CB.
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EUR-Lex
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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