The Hyundai G4KF is a 1,594 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve configuration and multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 78 kW (106 PS) and 142 Nm of torque. Its design prioritised fuel economy and serviceability for compact sedans and hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (X3/LC), Excel (X3), and Coupé (RD), the G4KF was engineered for dependable urban driving with smooth low‑end response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, meeting Euro 2 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which may cause belt slippage or failure. This issue is referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑99‑06‑002. The root cause is attributed to early‑design bearing materials susceptible to fatigue under thermal stress. From mid‑2000, Hyundai revised the pulley assembly with improved metallurgy and lubrication paths.
Hyundai
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891).
The Hyundai G4KF is a 1,594 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (1998–2002). It combines SOHC 16‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low‑end torque and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,594 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 78 kW (106 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 114 kg |
The SOHC design offers simplicity and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Use of API SG/SH 10W‑30 oil is critical for valve train longevity, especially in hot climates. The MPFI system is tolerant of standard unleaded fuel but sensitive to clogged injectors if low-quality fuel is used regularly. Early tensioner pulleys (pre‑06/2000) should be inspected for bearing play; replacement with the updated part per TSB‑99‑06‑002 is recommended during belt service.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (or equivalent) 10W‑30/10W‑40 (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 1999). ACEA A2 acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1998–2002 G4KF engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891). No market variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on chassis dyno per Hyundai PT‑1999.
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H‑98045, H‑99056
Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑99‑06‑002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5891)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4KF was used across Hyundai's X3 and early LC platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Accent sedan and modified exhaust manifolds in the Coupé—and from 2000 the facelifted Excel adopted updated ECU calibrations for improved idle stability, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Hyundai TIS H‑98045). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('KF' for G4KF). Early models (1998–1999) use black plastic cam covers with '1.6' embossed; later units (2000–2002) feature silver covers. Critical differentiation from G4FC: G4KF has SOHC with single cam gear; G4FC is DOHC with dual cam gears. ECU part numbers must match production date—pre‑2000 ECUs lack updated idle control logic (Hyundai TSB‑00‑02‑005).
The G4KF's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high‑temperature climates. Hyundai internal field reports from 2000 noted premature pulley bearing wear in ~10% of pre‑2000 engines before 70,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows timing‑related MOT failures were uncommon but severe when they occurred. Extended service intervals and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making timely belt service critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1999–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002–2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4KF.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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