The G4KL is one of the freshest engines in the Theta II family. It has a lot of names like T-GDI, FR Turbo GDI. But they all refer to the same G4KL engine that exists in two modifications: the more powerful 252 hp and the detuned one – 194 hp.
Hyundai has been using this engine for the Kia Stinger and also two models of Genesis – G70 and G80, in different markets.
This is basically the sister of the G4KH engine which is more common in the American market and was used in the Sonata, Optima, and Sportage. But the G4KL is used in rear-wheel-drive cars.
So, what are the main specifications, rated durability, and common problems with the 2.0 T-GDi engine? Let’s see.
What should you know about this engine?
The Theta II family is pretty old and started in 2004. Some engines were engineered together with Mitsubishi and Chrysler, but the G4KL was created by Hyundai in 2017.
I will focus on the 252 hp version as this one is pretty common. The engine is all-aluminum, and it features a Garrett turbocharger that makes it extremely efficient and powerful. But it does come with its share of problems and possible flaws.
Here are some key features of the 2.0 T-GDi engine:
- this is the 4-cylinder turbocharged 2.0L engine offering 194-255 horsepower depending on the version and modification;
- the engine has wonderful torque of 260 lb-ft which allows the machine to feel sports-ready at low RPMs;
- the turbocharger is efficient and reliable, it will only cause problems at high mileage or with poor maintenance;
- it features the direct injection system – quite efficient but very demanding in terms of carbon buildup cleaning;
- there is the Dual-CVVT feature which means both camshafts have phasers that allow variable valve timing;
- the camshafts are driven by the timing chain here, it’s not eternal but better than in many other Hyundai engines;
- the engine requires 5w20 or 5w30 oil unless some other type is written in your driver’s manual, up to 6 liters are required for change.
The fuel efficiency was not the first priority for the company when it was engineering this powerplant. As a result, it will show about 18.5 MPG in the city and over 32 MPG on highways. To achieve these figures, you will need to drive carefully and avoid fast acceleration. The figures are for the Stinger, but there is little difference in Genesis vehicles.
There are no hydraulic lifters in this engine. It means that you will regularly have to pay for valve adjustment.
The engine has a balance shaft block that also contains the oil pump. This is a fairly bad construction that also causes some common issues you should be aware of.
How many miles will the 2.0L T-GDi engine last?
Well, this is not the most durable machine in the world, but it can fairly last up to 150,000 miles if maintained well and not abused much. Want more? Choose something simple and non-powerful.
First of all, there are a lot of common issues that start bothering you at 100,000 miles or a little later. It all comes to a point where repairing the engine may not be wise enough. I mean, it will require more and more investment over time.
Also, the construction has several weak links that are going to be impossible or almost impossible to repair.
This engine is set to be very powerful for its limited displacement and pretty economical. It can’t provide you with both super efficiency and durability. But with good maintenance, it can live a good life and may be considered worth its money.
What are the common problems with the G4KL engine?
Some of the problems are inevitable and come with a certain mileage or age. However, the majority of common issues with this engine happen because of poor maintenance or aggressive use. Drivers treat the powerplant like a sports-prepared machine but it’s absolutely not.
In this section, I will list the most common problems you are likely to deal with if you own a Stinger or a Genesis vehicle with this engine.
1) Rod bearings dying
Lubrication is a common issue mainly because of two factors: extremely high demands for quality and type of oil and also issues with the oil pump.
If you own a car powered by the 2.0 T-GDi engine, only use proper OEM oil and filters. I strongly recommend reducing the interval to 10,000 miles (or 1 year).
Also, at about 100,000 miles, it’s worth checking how the oil pump is doing. It may require replacement so that the engine keeps working for several more years. Issues with lubrication inevitably lead to rod bearing issues that are undoubtedly the death of this engine.
2) Dual CVVT problems
This is the system that allows the valves to adjust opening and closing time in different situations. This feature makes your engine more efficient and economical but there is a problem – the phasers may eventually fail much earlier than you expect.
In other engines with the same phaser, there were even recalls that aimed to replace the CVVT lid. But a lot of cars eventually had the entire CVVT mechanism replaced. I think it reveals the reliability level of the system.
3) Overheating and oil consumption
These engines are extremely afraid of overheating. Also, a lot of them suffer from water pump issues after 100-120 thousand miles.
If the aluminum block overheats, it can lose its optimal shape and the cylinders will turn oval. This will lead to oil consumption as oil will leak between the oil ring and the cylinder wall.
Avoid overheating at all costs. Also, replace the water pump whenever you repair the timing chain or phasers.
4) Timing chain lifespan
The manufacturer claims that the timing chain in the G4KL engine is good enough to last forever. But no, it isn’t. The majority of chains in these engines go bad at 120,000 miles or so. It’s really wise to replace the entire chain kit at about 100,000 miles (the chain, the pump, the tensioner, guides, etc.) and also check the phasers.
If you do this, there is a high chance that the engine may last to 200,000 miles without serious issues.
5) Valves are covered with carbon buildup
As in any other direct-injection engine, the valves here are contaminated badly and you can’t do anything but clean them regularly. At low mileage, cleaners will help, but later on, the head will need to be removed to clean the valves. And this is expensive.
Also, the engine may surprise you with a lot of minor issues like broken hoses, temperature sensor failure, and oil leaks.
How can you prolong the life of the G4KL engine?
Well, now you know what may cause the premature death of this engine and can easily deduct what you should do to make sure it lives as long as possible.
In my opinion, here are the needed actions:
- change oil and oil filter once every 10,000 miles or once a year;
- use only recommended oil and high-quality filters;
- replace the full chain kit at about 100,000 miles or once the engine starts rattling;
- clean the valves from carbon regularly to avoid expensive professional cleaning;
- check the oil pressure at 100,000 miles and replace the oil pump if needed;
- avoid overheating this engine at all costs;
- check the CVVT at 100K miles and make sure it’s healthy.
Also, as with any GDi engine, this one will hate poor-quality fuel. If the high-pressure fuel pump is broken, you will be surprised by the number in the bill from your dealership.
Other than that, this is the standard Hyundai/Kia engine that is hard to call perfect but it’s certainly not bad if you know how to use it.
Have any experience with the 2.0L T-GDi G4KL engine? Please share it in the comments below!