The Hyundai G4FC is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2016. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 91–96 kW (124–130 PS) and torque between 154–157 Nm, offering responsive mid‑range performance for compact urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the i30 FD, Accent RB, and Getz, including variants like the 1.6 GLS and 1.6 SX, the G4FC was engineered for fuel efficiency, refinement, and low emissions in entry‑level and compact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through three‑way catalytic converters, precise air‑fuel control, and CVVT, allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards, with select later builds achieving Euro 5 depending on market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the CVVT actuator solenoid, which can cause rough idle or hesitation. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑09‑G4FC‑01, is often linked to oil contamination or use of non‑specified viscosity grades. From 2011, Hyundai revised the solenoid design and updated oil filtration per revised service protocols.
Hyundai
Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2016 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Hyundai G4FC is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2006–2016). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC 16‑valve architecture and intake CVVT to deliver smooth throttle response and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.
| 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 | 91–96 kW (124–130 PS) | |
| Torque | 154–157 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (non‑interference) | |
| Oil type | API SM/SN (SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The chain-driven non-interference valvetrain ensures long service life with minimal risk of catastrophic failure. However, the intake CVVT actuator is sensitive to oil cleanliness—sludge or incorrect viscosity can cause solenoid sticking, leading to idle instability or reduced performance. Hyundai recommends SAE 5W-30 API SM/SN oil and 10,000 km service intervals. The absence of a turbocharger simplifies maintenance, and the engine tolerates standard EN 228 petrol. Post-2011 models benefit from updated CVVT solenoids per TSB 09-G4FC-01, improving reliability in stop-start urban driving.
Oil Specs: Requires API SM/SN petrol-rated oil (Hyundai Owner’s Manual – i30 1.6 2008). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable; avoid low-SAPS C-category oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2011 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). Some 2011–2016 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on EN 228-compliant fuel (Hyundai TIS Doc. G4FC-FUEL-04).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G4FC‑ENG‑01, G4FC‑FUEL‑02, TSB 09‑G4FC‑01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4FC was used across Hyundai's 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 Accent RB—and from 2011 the Getz facelift adopted a revised CVVT solenoid and updated ECU calibration, 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 G4FC‑ID‑01). The 7th VIN digit for Hyundai 1.6 petrol models is typically 'F' for this engine family. Pre-2011 units use CVVT solenoids with silver housings; post-2011 revisions use black housings and updated ECU maps. Critical differentiation from Gamma engines: G4FC has cast-iron block and external CVVT solenoid mounted on the cylinder head. Service parts for CVVT actuators require production date verification—kits for engines before 01/2011 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (Hyundai TSB 09‑G4FC‑01).
The G4FC's primary reliability risk is CVVT solenoid failure due to oil sludge or incorrect viscosity, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected vehicles. Hyundai internal field reports from 2012 noted a measurable share of pre-2011 engines exhibiting CVVT-related drivability faults before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions test failures due to the robust three-way catalyst system. Extended oil intervals and low-quality oil accelerate solenoid wear, making oil adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2009–2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4FC.
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