The Hyundai DJY is a 1,396 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, multi‑point fuel injection (MPi), and dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), delivering 74 kW (101 PS) and 137 Nm of torque. Lightweight aluminium construction and low internal friction support fuel efficiency and urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the i20 (PB), i30 (FD), and Solaris (RB), the DJY was engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans, prioritizing smoothness, low emissions, and cost‑effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through CVVT, close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converters, and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 5 standards from launch.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes in high‑mileage units, noted in Hyundai Service Bulletin EM‑2016‑04. The issue stems from marginal surface hardening in early production batches, exacerbated by extended oil change intervals. From 2015, Hyundai introduced revised camshafts with improved nitriding treatment and updated oil specifications.

All production years (2010–2018) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4512). No Euro 6 variants were produced.
The Hyundai DJY is a 1,396 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2010–2018). It combines dual CVVT with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-rpm performance and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances refinement with serviceability and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,396 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) | |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP III (API SN, ACEA A5/B5, SAE 5W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The DJY’s dual CVVT provides smooth low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Hyundai SP III 5W‑20 oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation supporting chain lubrication and cam durability. Extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity accelerate exhaust cam wear, especially in high-mileage engines. Revised camshafts from 2015 (per SIB EM‑2016‑04) mitigate this issue. The front-mounted timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected if unusual valvetrain noise occurs.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP III (API SN, ACEA A5/B5, 5W-20) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual i20 2011). Not compatible with 5W-30 or older specifications.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4512). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output consistent across all DJY applications (Hyundai Powertrain Guide 2020).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑2010‑J1, EM‑2010‑J2, SIB EM‑2016‑04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4512)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Hyundai DJY was used across Hyundai's PB/FD/RB platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the i30 FD and updated intake manifolds in the Solaris RB—and from 2014 the i20 PB facelift adopted recalibrated CVVT maps for improved idle stability, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Hyundai TIS EM‑2010‑J3). The 7th VIN digit for DJY-equipped vehicles is typically 'J' or 'K' depending on market. All models use Bosch ME17.8 ECU with standard OBD2 port. Critical differentiation from Gamma G4FA: DJY is 1.4L with 101 PS and dual CVVT; G4FA is also 1.4L but may lack exhaust CVVT in early versions. Camshaft part numbers changed in 2015—verify against SIB EM‑2016‑04 before replacement.
The DJY's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Hyundai internal data from 2016 indicated measurable cam wear before 120,000 km in units with extended oil intervals, while UK DVSA MOT records show negligible emissions-related failures due to the absence of complex aftertreatment. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect viscosity increase valvetrain stress, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI DJY.
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