The Hyundai G4FK is a 1,495 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve configuration and multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 71 kW (97 PS) and 131 Nm of torque. Its compact design prioritised reliability and fuel economy for entry‑level sedans and hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (X3), Excel (X3), and Coupé (RD), the G4FK was engineered for urban efficiency and dependable daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, meeting Euro 2 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which may cause belt slippage or failure. This issue is referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑97‑08‑001. The root cause is attributed to early‑design bearing materials susceptible to fatigue under high thermal cycling. From mid‑1998, Hyundai revised the pulley assembly with improved metallurgy.
Hyundai
All production years (1995–2000) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4FK is a 1,495 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (1995–2000). It combines SOHC 16‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low‑end torque and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.5 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 71 kW (97 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 131 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC design offers simplicity and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Use of API SG/SH 10W‑30 oil is critical for valve train longevity, especially in hot climates. The MPFI system is tolerant of standard unleaded fuel but sensitive to clogged injectors if low-quality fuel is used regularly. Early tensioner pulleys (pre‑08/1998) should be inspected for bearing play; replacement with the updated part per TSB‑97‑08‑001 is recommended during belt service.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (or equivalent) 10W‑30/10W‑40 (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 1996). ACEA A2 acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 G4FK engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on chassis dyno per Hyundai PT‑1997.
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H‑95021, H‑96033
Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑97‑08‑001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4FK was used across Hyundai's X3 and RD platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Accent sedan and modified exhaust manifolds in the Coupé—and from 1999 the facelifted Excel adopted updated ECU calibrations for improved idle stability, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Hyundai TIS H‑95021). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('FK' for G4FK). Early models (1995–1997) use black plastic cam covers with '1.5' embossed; later units (1998–2000) feature silver covers. Critical differentiation from G4FC: G4FK has SOHC with single cam gear; G4FC is DOHC with dual cam gears. ECU part numbers must match production date—pre‑1999 ECUs lack updated idle control logic (Hyundai TSB‑99‑02‑005).
The G4FK's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high‑temperature climates. Hyundai internal field reports from 1998 noted premature pulley bearing wear in ~12% of pre‑1998 engines before 70,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows timing‑related MOT failures were uncommon but severe when they occurred. Extended service intervals and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making timely belt service critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1997–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4FK.
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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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