The Hyundai G4GF is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 99 kW (135 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 181 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, providing a balance of mid‑range responsiveness and everyday drivability for compact sedans.
Fitted to models such as the Hyundai Accent (X3), Elantra (XD), and Coupe (RD), the G4GF was engineered for reliable urban and highway performance with modest fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed‑loop fuel control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing conformity with Euro 2 standards across most European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or oil‑starved conditions. This issue, referenced in Hyundai Service Bulletin HSB‑97‑08, stems from marginal surface hardening on early camshafts. From late 1998, Hyundai introduced revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve spring rates to mitigate wear.
Hyundai
Production years 1995–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4GF is a 1,997 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1995–2000). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive mid‑range performance and acceptable fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 99 kW (135 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | API SH/SG, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The DOHC layout provides smooth high‑rpm performance but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent cam lobe wear. Use of API SH/SG or higher oil is essential due to the engine’s marginal cam hardening in early builds. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected after 200,000 km for tensioner wear. Fuel injectors may clog with low‑quality petrol; EN 228‑compliant fuel is recommended. Revised camshafts from late 1998 onward (per HSB‑97‑08) significantly reduce wear risk.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SG or ACEA A2 specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 1997). Mineral or semi‑synthetic oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 G4GF models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on EU‑spec Accent 1.6 GLS (Hyundai TIS H98‑3321).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H98‑3321, H98‑3322, H98‑3325
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Hyundai G4GF was used across Hyundai's X3/XD platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Elantra XD and revised intake manifolds in the Coupe RD—and from 1998 the facelifted Accent X3 adopted updated camshafts per service bulletin HSB‑97‑08, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Hyundai TIS H98‑3320). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for G4-series). Early engines (pre-10/1998) have silver cam covers with unpainted timing covers; post-10/1998 units use black cam covers and updated camshafts. Critical differentiation from G4GE: G4GF has 1,997 cc displacement and DOHC; G4GE is SOHC. Service parts for camshafts require production date verification—pre-10/1998 cams are not interchangeable with later units due to metallurgical upgrades (Hyundai HSB‑97‑08).
The G4GF's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequent-oil-change scenarios. Hyundai internal quality data from 1999 indicated cam wear in a notable subset of pre-1999 engines before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show few emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and low-quality oil increase cam stress, making oil specification and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1997–2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4GF.
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