The Kia D4HB is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features a 16‑valve DOHC layout, common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). This configuration delivers strong low‑end pulling power for effortless acceleration and towing.
Fitted primarily to the third‑generation Sorento (MQ4) and second‑generation Optima (TF), the D4HB was engineered for refined, quiet operation and robust torque delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, meeting stringent Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is potential EGR cooler internal leakage, which can introduce coolant into the intake system. This issue, referenced in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑17‑DL‑003, is linked to thermal stress cycles. Kia addressed this in later production runs with a revised cooler design.
All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6b standards for the UK and EU markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/D4HB/01).
The Kia D4HB is a 1,995 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size SUVs and sedans (2015-2020). It combines a high-pressure common-rail fuel system with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances performance with low emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 136 kW (185 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Kia C2 5W‑30 (ACEA C2/C3) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The VGT turbo provides immediate throttle response and sustained torque, ideal for highway cruising and towing. Strict adherence to 20,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using Kia C2 5W-30 is critical to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. The SCR/AdBlue system requires periodic top-ups; ignoring warnings can trigger a vehicle start-lock. The EGR cooler, subject to TSB 17-DL-003, should be inspected for coolant leaks if white smoke or coolant loss is observed. DPF regeneration cycles are frequent under urban driving; regular highway runs are recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires Kia C2 5W-30 specification (ACEA C2/C3) (Kia Owner's Manual). Critical for DPF and emission system longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all model years (2015-2020) for UK/EU (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/D4HB/01).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires EN 590 diesel fuel quality (Kia TIS Doc. KTIS-FU-D4HB-01).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTIS-ENG-D4HB-01, KTIS-FI-D4HB-02, TSB 17-DL-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/D4HB/01)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia D4HB was used across Kia's MQ4/TF platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Sorento for towing duty. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface on the front of the cylinder block, near the fuel filter housing (Kia TIS KTIS-ENG-ID-01). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'D' for diesel engines. The D4HB can be visually identified by its black plastic engine cover with "CRDi" branding and the AdBlue tank filler cap located next to the diesel filler cap. Differentiate from the D4HA: D4HB has a higher power output (185 PS vs 136 PS) and features an SCR system with a visible AdBlue injector on the exhaust downpipe.
The D4HB's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Kia TSB 17-DL-003 documents this issue, while owner reports frequently cite AdBlue system warnings. Incomplete DPF regenerations make regular highway driving critical.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA D4HB-TURBO.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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