The Hyundai G4FA is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2016. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard form it delivers 81–85 kW (110–115 PS) with torque figures of 144–157 Nm, providing responsive urban drivability and smooth highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the i20 (PB), i30 (FD), and Getz, the G4FA was engineered for global compact vehicle applications, balancing fuel economy, refinement, and emissions compliance. Emissions control was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic throttle management, allowing Euro 4 compliance across most markets, with later variants meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin EMS‑2010‑06. This issue is often linked to infrequent oil changes or use of non‑specified viscosity grades. From 2012, Hyundai updated HLA materials and revised oil specifications to improve valvetrain longevity.
Hyundai
Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2016 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Hyundai G4FA is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2006–2016). It combines DOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth low-to-mid-range response and mechanical reliability. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards depending on model year, it emphasizes serviceability and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 81–85 kW (110–115 PS) | |
| Torque | 144–157 Nm @ 4,200–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Denso) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai API SN 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The DOHC design supports smooth operation and good mid-range torque but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals with API SN 5W-20/30 oil to prevent hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear and timing chain degradation. Extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity can cause valvetrain ticking and reduced performance. Use only EN 228 unleaded petrol. Post-2012 engines feature updated HLA materials per SIB EMS-2010-06; pre-2012 units benefit from early oil specification upgrades to mitigate noise and wear.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai API SN 5W-20 or 5W-30 specification (Hyundai SIB EMS-2010-06).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006–2010 models; Euro 5 applies to 2011–2016 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85 standards. Output varies slightly by market calibration (Hyundai TIS Doc. H-G4FA-03).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-G4FA-01, H-G4FA-02, SIB EMS-2010-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
UN Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Hyundai G4FA was used across Hyundai's PB/FD platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the i20 and updated engine mounts in the Getz—and from 2012 the facelifted i30 FD models adopted updated hydraulic lash adjusters, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Hyundai TIS H-G4FA-05). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for 1.6L DOHC series). All G4FA units feature a black plastic valve cover with 'G4FA' embossing. Critical differentiation from SOHC G4FC: G4FA has dual camshafts, no VVT, and Denso MPFI with individual coil-on-plug ignition. Hydraulic lash adjuster kits for pre-2012 engines require original-spec parts (part #22410-2B000); post-2012 units use hardened HLAs per SIB EMS-2010-06.
The G4FA's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles with delayed oil changes. Hyundai internal data from 2011 indicated increased valvetrain noise complaints before 100,000 km in markets with inconsistent oil quality, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates but occasional emissions faults linked to degraded combustion from misfires. Infrequent servicing accelerates HLA and timing chain wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2010–2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4FA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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HYUNDAI Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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