The Hyundai G4BB is a 1,341 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 12 valves, cast‑iron block, and aluminium cylinder head. In standard form it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, providing adequate performance for compact city driving and light utility use.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (X3), Excel (X3), and Atos, the G4BB was engineered for cost‑effective manufacturing, mechanical simplicity, and ease of service. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing most units to meet Euro 1 standards, with select Korean‑market variants achieving transitional Euro 2 compliance.
One documented concern is premature timing belt failure due to inadequate tensioner design, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑96‑G4BB‑03. This issue stems from early rubber‑damped tensioners that degrade under thermal cycling, leading to belt slippage or breakage. From 1998, Hyundai introduced a revised metal‑spring tensioner in certain export markets.
Hyundai
Production years 1995–1997 meet Euro 1 standards; 1998–2000 models may have transitional Euro 2 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Hyundai G4BB is a 1,341 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact vehicles (1995–2000). It combines SOHC 12‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver reliable urban performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 (and limited Euro 2) standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,341 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.5 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 106 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre‑1998); transitional Euro 2 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (SOHC; requires 60,000 km replacement) | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑30/15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC 12‑valve layout ensures mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Early tensioners (pre‑1998) are prone to rubber degradation, increasing belt slip risk—Hyundai TSB‑96‑G4BB‑03 recommends upgrading to the metal‑spring tensioner during belt service. MPFI systems are tolerant of standard unleaded petrol (95 RON), but carbon buildup on intake valves can occur with frequent short trips. Oil changes every 7,500–10,000 km with API SG/SH or ACEA A2 oil maintain camshaft and bearing life.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (10W-30/15W-40) per Hyundai Owner’s Manual (1996 Accent). Not compatible with modern low-viscosity oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to pre-1998 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Limited transitional Euro 2 compliance in select 1998–2000 export models.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across global variants (Hyundai PT‑2017).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G4BB‑C105, TSB‑96‑G4BB‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Hyundai G4BB was used across Hyundai's Accent/Excel/Atos platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Atos city car and modified cooling in the Excel hatchback—and from 1998 the Euro 2 variants adopted updated catalytic converters and ECU maps, creating minor 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 G4BB‑C105). The 7th VIN digit is 'G' for this engine family. Pre-1998 models use a black rubber‑damped tensioner; post‑1998 units feature a silver metal‑spring tensioner. Critical differentiation from G4CN: G4BB has 12 valves and 1,341 cc displacement; G4CN is 16‑valve with 1,598 cc. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable between tensioner types (TSB‑96‑G4BB‑03).
The G4BB's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to early tensioner design flaws, with elevated incidence in high‑temperature climates and stop‑start urban use. Hyundai TSB‑96‑G4BB‑03 notes a significant rise in belt breakage after 55,000 km in pre‑1998 engines, while UK DVSA data shows higher-than-average mechanical advisories for timing-related wear in 1995–1997 Accent models. Extended oil change intervals and low‑quality fuel accelerate carbon buildup and valve train wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1995–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4BB.
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