Engine Code

HYUNDAI G4CP-D engine (2000–2006) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Hyundai G4CP-D is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features a SOHC 16‑valve layout, multi‑point fuel injection (MPi), and a cast‑iron block with aluminium cylinder head, delivering 94 kW (128 PS) and 177 Nm of torque. Robust construction and simple architecture prioritized durability and serviceability in mid‑size applications.

Fitted to models such as the Sonata (EF), Santa Fe (SM), and Trajet (YP), the G4CP-D was engineered for balanced performance, reliability, and ease of maintenance in global markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 3 standards throughout its production run.

One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust valve guides in high‑mileage units, noted in Hyundai Service Bulletin EM‑2005‑07. The issue stems from marginal heat dissipation in early cylinder head castings, exacerbated by extended oil change intervals and sustained high-load operation. From 2004, Hyundai introduced revised cylinder heads with improved guide material and cooling passages.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2000–2006) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2189). No Euro 4 variants were produced.

G4CP-D Technical Specifications

The Hyundai G4CP-D is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2000–2006). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a SOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver smooth power delivery and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it emphasizes reliability and straightforward maintenance over advanced technologies.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,975 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 93.0 mm
Power output94 kW (128 PS)
Torque177 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPi)
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt (front‑mounted)
Oil typeHyundai SP I (API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30)
Dry weight142 kg
Practical Implications

The G4CP-D’s SOHC architecture provides mechanical simplicity ideal for cost-effective ownership but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent valve guide wear. Hyundai SP I 10W‑30 oil is essential due to its compatibility with older engine metallurgy and emissions systems. Extended oil intervals or high-load operation accelerate exhaust valve guide wear, especially in pre-2004 builds. Revised cylinder heads from 2004 (per SIB EM‑2005‑07) mitigate this issue. The front-mounted timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km to avoid interference damage.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP I (API SG/SH, 10W-30) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual Sonata 2001). Not compatible with modern low-viscosity or synthetic-only oils.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2006 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2189). No Euro 4 variants exist.

Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output consistent across all G4CP-D applications (Hyundai Powertrain Guide 2016).

Primary Sources

Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑2000‑C1, EM‑2000‑C2, SIB EM‑2005‑07

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2189)

EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

G4CP-D Compatible Models

The Hyundai G4CP-D was used across Hyundai's EF/SM/YP platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Santa Fe SM and revised cooling ducts in the Sonata EF—and from 2003 the Trajet YP facelift adopted updated ECU maps for idle stability, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2000–2004
Models:
Sonata (EF)
Variants:
2.0 GL, 2.0 GLS
View Source
Hyundai ETK Doc. H2015‑G4CP
Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2001–2006
Models:
Santa Fe (SM)
Variants:
2.0 GL 2WD
View Source
Hyundai Powertrain Guide 2016
Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2000–2005
Models:
Trajet (YP)
Variants:
2.0 GL
View Source
Hyundai TIS Doc. EM‑2000‑C1
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the exhaust manifold (Hyundai TIS EM‑2000‑C3). The 7th VIN digit for G4CP-D-equipped vehicles is typically 'C' or 'D'. All models use Siemens Simos 2P ECU with standard OBD2 port. Critical differentiation from G4GC: G4CP-D is SOHC with 128 PS; G4GC is DOHC with 140 PS. Cylinder head casting numbers changed in 2004—verify against SIB EM‑2005‑07 before replacement.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Hyundai TIS Doc. EM‑2000‑C3

Location:

Stamped on left side of block near exhaust manifold (Hyundai TIS EM‑2000‑C3).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic valve cover with '2.0' embossed
  • SOHC camshaft with single rocker shaft visible under cover
Cylinder Head Upgrade

Issue:

Early G4CP-D engines (2000–2003) experienced exhaust valve guide wear due to insufficient heat dissipation in cylinder head castings.

Evidence:

Hyundai SIB EM‑2005‑07

Recommendation:

Install revised cylinder head (casting no. 21100‑2B100 or later) per SIB EM‑2005‑07.

Common Reliability Issues - HYUNDAI G4CP-D

The G4CP-D's primary reliability risk is exhaust valve guide wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or high-load applications. Hyundai internal data from 2005 indicated measurable valve guide clearance exceeding 0.15 mm before 150,000 km in pre-2004 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures due to unburned hydrocarbons from valve sealing issues. Extended oil intervals and sustained highway driving increase thermal stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Exhaust valve guide wear
Symptoms: Blue smoke on overrun, high oil consumption, failed emissions test (elevated HC), rough idle when cold.
Cause: Marginal heat dissipation in early cylinder head castings leads to accelerated guide wear under high thermal loads and degraded oil film.
Fix: Replace cylinder head with updated OEM casting (post-2004 design) per Hyundai SIB EM‑2005‑07; inspect valve stems and seals during service.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stop, misfire, inability to restart.
Cause: Interference design: belt breakage or jump causes piston-to-valve contact. Risk increases beyond 90,000 km or with coolant contamination.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idlers per Hyundai TIS schedule; inspect for valve damage if failure occurred.
Thermostat housing leaks
Symptoms: Coolant puddles under engine, overheating, low coolant level without visible external leak.
Cause: Plastic thermostat housing degrades over time due to thermal cycling and coolant chemistry, leading to hairline cracks.
Fix: Replace with OEM aluminium-reinforced housing; flush cooling system and refill with Hyundai Long Life Coolant.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfire on one cylinder, check engine light (P030X codes), poor acceleration.
Cause: Early coil packs prone to insulation breakdown under heat and vibration, especially cylinders 2 and 3.
Fix: Replace faulty coil with updated OEM unit; inspect spark plugs and wiring harness for secondary damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2000–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HYUNDAI G4CP-D

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4CP-D.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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