The Hyundai G6EA is a 2,656 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2009. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 121–132 kW (165–180 PS) with torque between 243–255 Nm, providing smooth power delivery and refined highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Sonata (EF/NF), Grandeur (XG/TG), and Santa Fe (SM), the G6EA was engineered for comfort-oriented midsize sedans and early SUVs, emphasizing low vibration, quiet operation, and linear throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed‑loop fuel system, three‑way catalytic converter, and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in engines subjected to frequent short trips or extended oil change intervals, referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑031. This issue stems from marginal crankcase ventilation design in early production units. From 2005 onward, Hyundai revised the PCV system and updated oil specifications to mitigate sludge formation.
Production years 2002–2004 meet Euro 3 standards; 2005–2009 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5128).
The Hyundai G6EA is a 2,656 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for midsize sedans and SUVs (2002–2009). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, vibration-free power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 (early) and Euro 4 (later) emissions standards, it balances comfort-focused drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,656 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.7 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 121–132 kW (165–180 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 243–255 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2002–2004); Euro 4 (2005–2009) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SL/ILSAC GF‑3) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The V6 layout provides smooth, balanced power ideal for highway cruising but is susceptible to oil sludge in urban or short-trip use due to low crankcase temperatures. Hyundai SP 5W‑30 oil (API SL/ILSAC GF‑3) is essential, and oil changes must occur every 7,500–10,000 km to prevent deposit accumulation. The engine uses a maintenance-free timing chain, but sludge can restrict oil galleries, starving camshaft bearings. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards; ethanol blends above E5 may degrade injector seals over time. Revised PCV systems from 2005 onward reduce sludge risk per TSB‑ENG‑031.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SL/ILSAC GF‑3) (Hyundai Owner’s Manual EF/NF/SM). ACEA A3/B4 oils are not recommended.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2002–2004 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5128). Euro 4 applies to 2005–2009 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model calibration (Hyundai PT‑2008).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑G6EA‑001, ENG‑G6EA‑002, TSB‑ENG‑031
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5128)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G6EA was used across Hyundai's EF/NF/XG/SM platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Santa Fe SM and updated intake manifolds in the Sonata NF—and from 2005 the facelifted Grandeur TG adopted an improved PCV system per TSB‑ENG‑031, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the left cylinder bank near the timing cover (Hyundai TIS ENG‑G6EA‑005). The 7th VIN digit for G6EA-equipped vehicles is typically 'A'. All units feature silver cam covers; pre-2005 engines have a single-stage PCV valve, while post-2005 units feature a dual-stage PCV system per TSB‑ENG‑031. Critical differentiation from G6BA (3.3L V6): G6EA has smaller displacement (2,656 cc vs. 3,342 cc) and lower power output. Service parts require verification—PCV hoses and oil pans before 01/2005 are not interchangeable with later units due to ventilation redesign (Hyundai TSB‑ENG‑031).
The G6EA's primary reliability risk is oil sludge formation in engines subjected to frequent short trips or infrequent oil changes. Hyundai internal service data from 2006 indicated measurable sludge accumulation in engines exceeding 60,000 km without strict maintenance, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates overall. Extended oil intervals and cold climate operation increase sludge risk, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2003–2009) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G6EA.
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