The Kia G4JS is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and multi-point fuel injection for balanced performance. This refined design offered improved power over its predecessors, delivering outputs of 140 PS (103 kW) and 184 Nm for confident highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the first-generation Kia cee'd and the second-generation Kia Carens, the G4JS was engineered for responsive mid-range torque and smooth operation. It provided a comfortable driving experience suitable for family transportation and longer journeys. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuator, potentially leading to reduced power or rough running. This issue, referenced in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB-07-FL-008, is often attributed to carbon buildup jamming the butterfly valves or electrical failure of the actuator motor. Kia addressed this in later production by revising the actuator design and reinforcing cleaning recommendations during major services.
All production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/G4JS/01).
The Kia G4JS is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact MPVs and hatchbacks (2005-2010). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and confident mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability with lower emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.5 mm | |
| Power output | 140 PS (103 kW) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 184 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SM/ILSAC GF-4, SAE 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The DOHC design provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to protect the timing chain. Using the specified 5W-30 oil is critical. The IMRC system, as noted in TSB-07-FL-008, is prone to carbon buildup; periodic cleaning is recommended. The timing chain is designed for longevity but should be inspected if noise occurs. Fuel injectors should be cleaned every 60,000 km to maintain optimal spray patterns.
Oil Specs: Requires API SM/ILSAC GF-4, SAE 5W-30 specification (Kia Owner's Manual). ACEA A5/B5 is also acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models and years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/G4JS/01). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Kia TIS Doc. KTIS-G4JS-01).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTIS-G4JS-01, TSB-07-FL-008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/G4JS/01)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia G4JS was used across Kia's ED and FC platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts for the Carens MPV-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. 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 gearbox flange (Kia TIS KTIS-G4JS-01). The 8th digit of the VIN for cee'd ED models is 'J' for the 2.0L petrol variant. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold with visible IMRC linkages on the side. Differentiation from the G4GC: The G4JS is the 2.0L variant with IMRC, while the G4GC is the 1.8L without this system. Service parts, particularly for the intake manifold and cylinder head, are not interchangeable between G4JS and other 2.0L Kia engines (Kia SPC Manual).
The G4JS's primary reliability risk is IMRC actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended service intervals. Kia TSB-07-FL-008 documents this issue, while owner feedback frequently cites it as a concern after 100,000 km. Neglecting intake cleaning or ignoring actuator faults makes performance degradation critical.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2007-2010) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA G4JS.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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