The Hyundai G4GC is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 100–105 kW (136–143 PS) with torque between 182–186 Nm, offering smooth mid‑range response for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Elantra (XD), Sonata (NF), and Tucson (JM), including the popular 2.0 GLS and 2.0 CRDi variants (petrol versions only), the G4GC was engineered for reliability, refinement, and cost‑effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards across most markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or oil‑starved conditions. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑EM‑012, is attributed to insufficient surface hardening in early production batches. From 2005 onward, Hyundai implemented revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve train components.
Hyundai
Production years 2000–2010 meet Euro 3 standards; no Euro 4 variants were produced for this engine family (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4GC is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans and SUVs (2000–2010). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances serviceability with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.5 mm | |
| Power output | 100–105 kW (136–143 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 182–186 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The G4GC delivers predictable, linear power suited to daily commuting but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent camshaft lobe wear and sludge buildup. Use of SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3 oil is critical due to its high‑temperature stability under sustained load. Engines built before 2005 are susceptible to exhaust cam wear—inspect during major services per TSB‑04‑EM‑012. The non‑interference design reduces catastrophic failure risk if timing components degrade, but chain tensioners should still be inspected at 150,000 km. Fuel injectors may clog with low‑quality petrol; EN 228‑compliant fuel is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3 (Hyundai Owner Manual 2005). Not compatible with low‑SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2010 G4GC units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model application (Hyundai PT‑2018).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑G4GC‑01, EM‑G4GC‑02, TSB‑04‑EM‑012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4GC was used across Hyundai's XD/NF/JM platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Sonata NF and modified accessory drives in the Tucson JM—and from 2005 the facelifted Elantra XD adopted updated camshafts and valve springs, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the cylinder head flange (Hyundai TIS EM‑G4GC‑04). The 7th VIN digit is 'G' for G4GC-equipped vehicles. Pre-2005 engines have silver cam covers with ‘G4GC’ cast into the valve cover; post-2005 units use black covers with updated camshaft part numbers. Critical differentiation from G4GF: G4GC uses DOHC and MPFI, while G4GF is SOHC. Timing chain covers are interchangeable, but camshafts and lifters are not—verify production date before replacement (TSB‑04‑EM‑012).
The G4GC's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on pre-2005 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequent-oil-change scenarios. Hyundai internal field data from 2006 indicated cam wear in a measurable subset of engines before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates overall due to the engine’s non-interference design. Extended oil intervals and low-quality lubricants accelerate wear, making oil specification and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2004–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4GC.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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