The Hyundai G4KD is a 2,359 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Hyundai’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D‑CVVT) system. In standard form it delivered 132 kW (180 PS) at 6,000 rpm with 231 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering strong mid-range pull and smooth highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the i40 (WF), Sonata (YF), and Santa Fe (DM), the G4KD was engineered for drivers seeking refined performance with everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, D‑CVVT, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing all variants to meet Euro 5 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is timing chain tensioner wear in early production units, highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑12‑005. This issue stems from material fatigue in the hydraulic tensioner piston under high thermal load, potentially leading to chain slack and noise. From mid‑2014, Hyundai implemented an updated tensioner assembly with improved metallurgy to address this condition.
Hyundai
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Hyundai G4KD is a 2,359 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and SUVs (2010–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with Dual CVVT to deliver strong low‑to‑mid range torque and smooth idle quality. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances responsive performance with fuel efficiency and refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,359 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 231 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Hyundai Genuine 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The Dual CVVT system enhances mid-range torque but requires clean oil flow to maintain phaser operation—extended oil intervals risk sludge buildup and cam timing faults. Hyundai Genuine 5W-30 oil is critical for chain tensioner longevity and valve train protection. Early engines (pre-06/2014) may develop timing chain rattle due to tensioner wear; revised tensioners per TSB‑ENG‑12‑005 resolve this. The timing chain is designed for life but relies on consistent oil pressure—cold starts should be followed by gentle driving until oil temp stabilizes.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai Genuine 5W-30 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Hyundai Owner’s Manual Sonata YF).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all G4KD variants (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on EU-spec i40 2.4 GDi (Hyundai PT-2015).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-G4KD-01, ENG-G4KD-02, TSB-ENG-12-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4KD was used across Hyundai's YF, WF, and DM platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Santa Fe and revised oil pan baffling in the i40—and from mid-2014 the tensioner update per TSB‑ENG‑12‑005, creating minor internal 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 ENG-G4KD-02). The 7th VIN digit is 'K' for G4KD-equipped vehicles. Early engines (pre-06/2014) use tensioner part number 24410-2GAA0; post-update units use revised tensioner 24410-2GAB0. The G4KD is visually distinct from the Theta G4KE by its larger displacement and unique intake manifold routing. Service parts for tensioners are production-date sensitive—verify build date before ordering.
The G4KD's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in pre-2014 builds, with incidence linked to extended oil intervals and high-load driving. Hyundai internal field data from 2013–2015 indicated a subset of early engines developing chain rattle before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates overall. Cold-start idling and infrequent oil changes exacerbate tensioner degradation, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2012–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4KD.
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