The Hyundai D4TA is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and variable intake timing (VVT). In standard form it delivered 101–105 kW (137–143 PS) and torque between 184–186 Nm, offering smooth mid‑range response for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Elantra XD facelift, Tucson JM, and Santa Fe SM, including variants like the 2.0 GLS and 2.0 AT, the D4TA was engineered for reliability, refinement, and moderate fuel economy in compact and midsize SUVs and sedans. Emissions compliance was achieved through three‑way catalytic converters and precise air‑fuel control, allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the variable intake cam phaser actuator, which can cause rough idle or hesitation. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑07‑D4TA‑02, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or use of non‑specified viscosity grades. From 2008, Hyundai revised the phaser design and updated oil recommendations per revised service protocols.

All production years (2005–2010) meet Euro 4 standards across EU markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Hyundai D4TA is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and midsize vehicles (2005–2010). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with variable intake timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 91.0 mm | |
| Power output | 101–105 kW (137–143 PS) | |
| Torque | 184–186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (non‑interference) | |
| Oil type | API SL/SM (SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The chain-driven non-interference valvetrain ensures long service life with minimal risk of catastrophic failure if timing components degrade. However, the variable intake cam phaser is sensitive to oil viscosity and change intervals—using non-specified oil or exceeding 10,000 km between changes can cause phaser sticking, leading to rough idle or reduced performance. Hyundai recommends SAE 5W-30 API SL/SM oil for optimal phaser operation. The absence of a turbocharger simplifies maintenance but limits low-end torque; throttle response remains linear and predictable. Fuel quality is less critical than in direct-injection engines, but EN 228 petrol is required for emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL/SM petrol-rated oil (Hyundai Owner’s Manual – Elantra 2.0 2006). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable but not required.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (2005–2010) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on EN 228-compliant fuel (Hyundai TIS Doc. D4TA-FUEL-04).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D4TA‑ENG‑01, D4TA‑FUEL‑02, TSB 07‑D4TA‑02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai D4TA was used across Hyundai's XD/JM/SM platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Santa Fe SM and updated intake manifolds in the Tucson JM—and from 2008 the Elantra XD facelift adopted a revised cam phaser and updated ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Hyundai TIS D4TA‑ID‑01). The 7th VIN digit for Hyundai 2.0 petrol models is typically 'G' for gasoline. Pre-2008 units use cam phasers with silver actuator housings; post-2008 revisions use black housings and updated ECU maps. Critical differentiation from Beta II engines: D4TA has a cast-iron block and external VVT solenoid mounted on the cylinder head. Service parts for cam phasers require production date verification—kits for engines before 01/2008 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (Hyundai TSB 07‑D4TA‑02).
The D4TA's primary reliability risk is cam phaser wear due to improper oil maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected vehicles. Hyundai internal field reports from 2009 noted a measurable share of pre-2008 engines exhibiting phaser-related drivability faults before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions test failures due to the robust three-way catalyst system. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity accelerate phaser wear, making oil adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2007–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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