The Hyundai G4JS is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 95 kW (129 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 171 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, providing balanced performance for compact sedans with modest fuel consumption.
Fitted to models such as the Hyundai Accent (LC), Elantra (XD), and Matrix (FC), the G4JS was engineered for urban agility and highway stability with everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed‑loop fuel control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing conformity with Euro 3 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes under high‑mileage or oil‑starved conditions. This issue, referenced in Hyundai Service Bulletin HSB‑01‑12, stems from marginal surface hardening on early camshafts. From mid‑2002, Hyundai introduced revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve spring preload to mitigate wear.
Hyundai
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Hyundai G4JS is a 1,975 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and MPVs (2000–2005). 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 3 emissions standards, it balances drivability with serviceability.
| 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 × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 95 kW (129 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 171 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 135 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 SJ/SH or higher oil is essential due to 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 mid‑2002 onward (per HSB‑01‑12) significantly reduce wear risk.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SH or ACEA A3 specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 2001). Mineral or semi‑synthetic oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2005 G4JS models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on EU‑spec Accent 1.6 GLS (Hyundai TIS H02‑4410).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H02‑4410, H02‑4411, H02‑4415
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Hyundai G4JS was used across Hyundai's LC/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 Matrix FC—and from mid‑2002 the facelifted Accent LC adopted updated camshafts per service bulletin HSB‑01‑12, 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 H02‑4409). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for G4J-series). Early engines (pre-07/2002) have silver cam covers with unpainted timing covers; post-07/2002 units use black cam covers and updated camshafts. Critical differentiation from G4GF: G4JS has 1,975 cc displacement and slightly lower output; G4GF is 1,997 cc. Service parts for camshafts require production date verification—pre-07/2002 cams are not interchangeable with later units due to metallurgical upgrades (Hyundai HSB‑01‑12).
The G4JS'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 2003 indicated cam wear in a notable subset of pre-2003 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 (2001–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4JS.
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