The Hyundai G4ED is a 1,594 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves, delivering 81–85 kW (110–116 PS) with torque between 142–147 Nm. The lightweight aluminium block enables responsive urban driving and efficient thermal management.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (LC), Getz, and Matrix, including variants like the 1.6 MPI, the G4ED was engineered for fuel economy, agile city performance, and compliance with emissions standards of its era. Emissions control relied on a three-way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 3 compliance across most markets from launch.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin HST‑04‑012. This issue stems from inconsistent oil pressure delivery under high-mileage or infrequent oil change conditions. From 2003, Hyundai revised HLA design and updated oil viscosity recommendations per the bulletin.
All production years (2000–2006) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2108).
The Hyundai G4ED is a 1,594 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and MPVs (2000–2006). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver responsive throttle response and dependable urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,594 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 81–85 kW (110–116 PS) | |
| Torque | 142–147 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (all years) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted; replace every 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP I (API SH/SJ, SAE 10W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The lightweight DOHC design offers crisp throttle response but requires strict adherence to 7,500–10,000 km oil change intervals using API SH/SJ–compliant oil to maintain hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) function. Extended oil change intervals or low-viscosity substitutes accelerate HLA wear, causing valve train noise. The timing belt must be replaced at 90,000 km or 6 years—failure causes catastrophic interference damage. Post-2003 models include revised HLAs per Hyundai SIB HST‑04‑012 for improved durability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SJ / Hyundai SP I (10W-30) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 2002). Not compatible with later SP II/III oils in early engines due to additive incompatibility.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all model years (2000–2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2108).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on EN 228 petrol with ≤150 ppm sulfur (Hyundai TIS Doc. H23‑0400).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H22‑4100, SIB HST‑04‑012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2108)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4ED was used across Hyundai's LC and GS platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Accent LC and compact accessory drive in the Getz—and from 2003 the facelifted Matrix adopted updated HLA components, 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 H22‑4100). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for G4 series). Pre-2003 models use early HLA design (part #24310‑21000); post-2003 units use revised HLAs (part #24310‑21100). Critical differentiation from Alpha engines: G4ED has DOHC with external cam drive belts and no balance shafts. Service parts require production date verification—HLA kits for engines before 08/2003 are incompatible with later units due to plunger redesign (Hyundai SIB HST‑04‑012).
The G4ED's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear under extended oil change intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban fleets. Hyundai internal data from 2005 indicated a measurable rate of HLA-related noise complaints before 80,000 km in stop-start driving, while UK DVSA records show timing belt-related MOT advisories in neglected examples. Infrequent oil changes and low-viscosity substitutes increase valve train stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2003–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4ED.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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