Engine Code

HYUNDAI G4JD engine (2005–2010) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Hyundai G4JD is a 2,359 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125–132 kW (170–180 PS) with torque between 220–227 Nm, offering responsive mid‑range performance for mid‑size applications.

Fitted to models such as the Sonata (NF), Grandeur (TG), and Azera (TG), including the 2.4 GLS and 2.4 SE variants, the G4JD was engineered for smooth power delivery, refinement, and compliance with tightening emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise electronic throttle management, meeting Euro 4 requirements across most European markets.

One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), which can cause persistent valve train ticking. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑07‑EM‑009, is attributed to oil flow restrictions in early‑production cylinder heads. From mid‑2007 onward, Hyundai revised the oil gallery design and updated HLA specifications to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; no Euro 5 variants were produced for this engine family (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6123).

G4JD Technical Specifications

The Hyundai G4JD is a 2,359 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans (2005–2010). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,359 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded)
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 97.0 mm
Power output125–132 kW (170–180 PS) @ 5,800 rpm
Torque220–227 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain (maintenance‑free design)
Oil typeHyundai SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3
Dry weight145 kg
Practical Implications

The G4JD provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise and wear. Use of SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3 oil is essential due to its high‑temperature stability and detergency. Engines built before mid‑2007 are susceptible to restricted oil flow to HLAs—inspect during valve cover removal per TSB‑07‑EM‑009. The non‑interference design reduces catastrophic failure risk if timing components degrade, though chain tensioners should be inspected at 180,000 km. Fuel injectors may clog with low‑quality petrol; EN 228‑compliant fuel is recommended.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 10W‑40 or ACEA A3/B3 (Hyundai Owner Manual 2007). Not compatible with low‑SAPS oils.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 G4JD units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6123). No Euro 5 variants exist.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model application (Hyundai PT‑2019).

Primary Sources

Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑G4JD‑01, EM‑G4JD‑02, TSB‑07‑EM‑009

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6123)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

G4JD Compatible Models

The Hyundai G4JD was used across Hyundai's NF/TG platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Grandeur TG and modified accessory drives in the Azera TG—and from mid‑2007 the facelifted Sonata NF adopted updated cylinder heads and HLAs, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
Sonata (NF)
Variants:
2.4 GLS, 2.4 SE
View Source
Hyundai PT‑2019
Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
Grandeur (TG)
Variants:
2.4 Executive, 2.4 Premium
View Source
Hyundai TIS Doc. EM‑TG‑07
Make:
Hyundai
Years:
2006–2010
Models:
Azera (TG)
Variants:
2.4 Base, 2.4 Limited
View Source
Hyundai ETK Doc. H‑TG‑2006
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the cylinder head flange (Hyundai TIS EM‑G4JD‑04). The 7th VIN digit is 'J' for G4JD-equipped vehicles. Pre-mid‑2007 engines have silver cam covers with ‘G4JD’ cast into the valve cover; post-mid‑2007 units use black covers with updated HLA part numbers. Critical differentiation from G4GC: G4JD has larger 2.4L displacement and distinct intake manifold shape. Cylinder heads are not interchangeable—verify production date before replacement (TSB‑07‑EM‑009).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Hyundai TIS Doc. EM‑G4JD‑04

Location:

Stamped on left engine block near head flange (Hyundai TIS EM‑G4JD‑04).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-mid-2007: Silver cam cover with cast ‘G4JD’
  • Post-mid-2007: Black cam cover, updated HLA part numbers
HLA Upgrade

Issue:

Early G4JD engines (pre-mid-2007) prone to hydraulic lash adjuster noise due to restricted oil galleries in cylinder head.

Evidence:

Hyundai TSB‑07‑EM‑009

Recommendation:

Replace with updated HLA assembly and cylinder head per TSB‑07‑EM‑009 if persistent ticking occurs.

Common Reliability Issues - HYUNDAI G4JD

The G4JD's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise and wear on pre-mid‑2007 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequent-oil-change scenarios. Hyundai internal field data from 2008 indicated HLA complaints in a measurable subset of engines before 120,000 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.

Hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise or failure
Symptoms: Persistent ticking from cylinder head, especially at idle or warm-up; may progress to misfire or rough running.
Cause: Restricted oil flow to HLAs in early-production cylinder heads leading to inadequate hydraulic pressure and premature wear.
Fix: Replace with updated HLA kit and cylinder head per TSB‑07‑EM‑009; inspect oil pump and pickup screen for debris.
Oil sludge accumulation
Symptoms: Oil pressure warning light, sluggish performance, blocked oil galleries, overheating.
Cause: Extended oil change intervals combined with short-trip driving causing moisture and fuel dilution in crankcase.
Fix: Flush engine internals, replace oil pump and pickup screen, and adhere to 10,000 km oil intervals with correct spec oil.
Intake manifold runner sticking
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, check engine light (P2004/P2008), poor low-end torque.
Cause: Carbon buildup in variable intake manifold actuator or vacuum diaphragm failure.
Fix: Clean or replace intake manifold assembly; renew vacuum lines and actuator per Hyundai TIS procedure.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant odor, low coolant level, white residue near timing cover, occasional overheating.
Cause: Age-hardened rubber gasket and plastic thermostat housing prone to cracking under thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing with updated metal-reinforced unit and use OEM gasket; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2007–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HYUNDAI G4JD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4JD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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