Engine Code

Ssangyong G23D Engine (2013–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The SsangYong G23D is a 2,260 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 129 kW (175 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing linear power delivery suitable for mid‑size SUV applications.

Fitted to models such as the Rexton W (Y400) and Korando C (C200), the G23D was engineered for depend

SsangYong Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2013–2020) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).

Ssangyong G23D Technical Specifications

The SsangYong G23D is a 2,260 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid‑size SUVs (2013–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and dependable drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,260 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
86.0 mm × 97.0 mm
Power output
129 kW (175 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque
221 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi‑point injection (Denso)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain‑driven DOHC
Oil type
ACEA A3/B4 or SsangYong Longlife 5W‑30
Dry weight
168 kg

Ssangyong G23D Compatible Models

The SsangYong G23D was used across SsangYong's Y400 and C200 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Rexton W and revised intake manifolds in the Korando C—and from 2018 the facelifted Rexton W LCI adopted updated camshafts and oil pump revisions, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
SsangYong
Years:
2013–2020
Models:
Rexton W (Y400)
Variants:
2.3 Petrol
View Source
SsangYong PT‑2019
Make:
SsangYong
Years:
2013–2019
Models:
Korando C (C200)
Variants:
2.3 Petrol
View Source
SsangYong ETK Doc. SY‑G23D‑01

Common Reliability Issues - SSANGYONG G23D Compatible Models

The G23D's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in pre-2018 builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or hot-climate use. SsangYong internal quality data from 2017 indicated a measurable increase in camshaft replacements before 150,000 km in fleet vehicles, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended oil intervals and low-quality oil dramatically accelerate wear, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.

Exhaust camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping from cylinder head (especially under load), loss of power, misfire codes on bank 1.
Cause: Insufficient surface hardening on early cam lobes combined with marginal oil film strength under high thermal stress.
Fix: Replace with updated camshaft assembly (P/N 0K01A23002B) and switch to ACEA A3/B4 5W-30 oil per service bulletin SB‑ENG‑2017‑09.
EGR valve coking
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, increased fuel consumption, occasional limp mode.
Cause: Carbon buildup from recirculated exhaust gases restricting valve motion and flow passages.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and associated passages; reset adaptations via OEM diagnostic tool after service.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Cold-start rattle lasting 1–2 seconds, especially after extended idle periods.
Cause: Hydraulic tensioner bleed-down due to aged oil or infrequent oil changes affecting chain preload.
Fix: Inspect chain stretch and tensioner function; replace if wear exceeds 5 mm per 10 links (SsangYong TIS ENG‑G23D‑A).
Intake manifold runner sticking
Symptoms: Flat spot in mid-range torque, inconsistent idle, diagnostic trouble codes for intake control.
Cause: Carbon accumulation in variable intake runner mechanism causing binding or incomplete actuation.
Fix: Remove and clean intake manifold runners; verify actuator motor operation and linkage freedom per OEM procedure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from SsangYong technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

SSANGYONG G23D FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The G23D is generally robust if maintained properly, but early models (2013–2017) are prone to camshaft lobe wear under high-load conditions. Post-2018 revisions improved durability significantly. Using correct oil (ACEA A3/B4 5W-30) and adhering to 10,000 km service intervals greatly enhances longevity.

The top issues are exhaust camshaft lobe wear (pre-2018), EGR valve coking, timing chain tensioner rattle on cold start, and sticking intake manifold runners. These are documented in SsangYong service bulletins SB‑ENG‑2017‑09 and TIS procedures.

The G23D was used in the Rexton W (Y400, 2013–2020) and Korando C (C200, 2013–2019) as the 2.3-litre petrol variant. It was not licensed to other manufacturers and is exclusive to these SsangYong platforms.

Limited potential. As a naturally aspirated engine with conservative tuning, ECU remaps typically yield only +8–12 kW. Significant gains require forced induction, which is unsupported by OEM. Most owners retain stock calibration for reliability.

In a Rexton W, expect ~11.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.8 L/100km (highway), or about 28–30 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 25–32 mpg (UK), depending on load and terrain.

Yes. The G23D is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. Regular inspection of chain tension and guide wear is essential.

SsangYong specifies ACEA A3/B4 or SsangYong Longlife 5W-30 synthetic oil. Low-SAPS (C-category) oils must be avoided as they lack sufficient anti-wear additives for cam lobe protection.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SSANGYONG or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

Strict Sourcing Protocol

Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.

No Unverified Sources

No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.

Transparency in Gaps

If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

SSANGYONG Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

Corrections & Submissions

To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk

Copyright & Legal

Fair Dealing Use

All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

GDPR Compliance

EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

No Paid Endorsements

This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.

Funding Model

Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.

Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSSANGYONG documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.