Why Hyundai Engines FAIL

Here's an in depth tear-down of the infamous Hyundai / Kia Theta II engine and how it works.
The Hyundai Theta II engine is a 4 cylinder dual overhead cam engine. Engine failures are common from 2011-2014 and newer vehicles. This is due to debris being left inside the engine after machining the components before assembly. The metal particles would circulate inside the engine's oil lubrication system, eventually starving critical components of oil, causing it to seize up. In addition, it could also be an abrasive to bearing surfaces, causing them to wear down prematurely, creating engine knock.
Hyundai issued a recall on these engines due to the fact that it may suddenly consume all oil and stop running, even during operation. In this video, we tear down a 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4L 4 cylinder engine that suffered from this failure and examine worn components that caused it to fail. The engine suffered from oil starvation on the first connecting rod bearing, causing it to overheat, shred the connecting rod bearing and seize up. The unfortunate fix is to rebuild the bottom half of the engine, including the block, crankshaft, connecting rods and clean out any particles from the lubrication system that may have damaged other components.
The gasoline direct injection system is also known to cause issues, such as fuel leaks from the high pressure fuel pump causing engine fires, and carbon buildup on the intake valve.
Keep your Hyundai well maintained with parts and tools purchased here:
Oil Filter:
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Oil Filter Wrench:
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3/8" Ratchet set:
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This is the Camera I use:
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amzn.to/2Yhb3eo (Canada)
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[@highplainnsdrifter3050]

Tearing down an engine, & showing how it works & actually does work is a tremendous source of information. Gotta give this dude an "A" for this presentation & hope he keeps doing the same in subsequent videos. Great job!!

[@patch6476]

I agree, well done A++ if that's his wife's impact gun?

[@fffwe3876]

12 rule for life. NO1 dont buy KIA No2 dont buy hyundai

[@dannybryant6873]

My advice. If you buy European or Korean cars. Don't keep them past warranty.

[@miatpa]

Might have been a good video if the guy spoke slower. Hard to understand.

[@larrydrozd2740]

I've watched two of your videos and you do a good job. I've been a mechanic for 45 years, you do a nice job of explaining without complicating. Engines are not high tech, the engine control is, but the basics are still there...as you showed us here. I'm stunned a modern manufacturer is letting this kinda stuff go out!! Imagine if this was happening to a Toyota? They would be all over it, FAST! This makes Hyundai look really bad. This is basic, engine 101 stuff that a manufacturer should have figured out decades ago. Nice work. Simple and effective.

[@marcopineda2249]

Hyundai is fixing the motors. Warranty on all of these engines. And Hyundai/Kia has only been around for less than 35 years which is about only 1/2 of most manufacturers.

[@reidy19841984]

What's your thoughts while engine in still in car: Drop sump, drop big end caps, flush, replace bearings, install magnets in sump?

[@gregnixon1296]

I believe the engineers know what they are doing at Hyundai. Some other department must be choosing not to follow their recommendations.

[@ih302]

Don't kid yourself, Toyota is just as guilty.. they all are. Do you remember the 3.5 v6 engine oil cooler hose fiasco? I sure do.. one of said oil hoses burst on our 2008 Sienna leaving my wife and two small kids stranded in a sketchy part of town with the contents of the base pan dumped all over the street.

[@larrydrozd2740]

@@ih302 Don't forget the "low tension" piston ring debacle too. But...that said, they will chase after this stuff, it eventually goes away. Others....not do much.

[@jpinnz2803]

Interesting. 18 months ago my 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe seized after just 100,000 km. The local Hyundai dealer quoted me NZ$11,000 for a new engine, but when I pushed back they replaced it at no cost. Annoying to think they knew all about how prone these engines are and how they tried to make me pay. Great vid - many thanks...

[@reckherdkek5685]

It's definitely not just a US problem, they've done a quiet recall here... Luckily for them most in AU/NZ go for the R series diesel which is solid

[@nagybalint1582]

Hey! I am on a new project of getting a Hyundai Sonata 2011 back in shape after it sat for about 10 years since it was purchased by my father in miami (it was never in actual use). As yesterday i opened up the hood, i saw that it had a GDI text on the engine cover, so i already knew whats up... i was told it was an MPI model, but sadly that does not seem to be the case... after i get the car back in shape, i want to get the engine fixed by hyundai. Long story short, how long did it take for them to fix your engine? Lets say from the time you went to the dealership to finish?

[@ernestlewis9927]

Just sent our 2016 Kia Sorento to the dealer for the knock sensor code and the lady told me that when they confirm the code that they will do a clearance check if that fails then they will contact Kia. So that would be a couple days to receive the info and the response. Then if Kia said go ahead they have to order engine and that will take let’s say a couple days to a week or so. Then finally when the engine comes they set an appointment to replace the engine and she said about 2 or 3 days to pull and put back. Best case scenario is that 2 to 3 weeks is what she was saying. This is if the knock sensor update was done prior to the engine light on. Hope this helps

[@jpinnz2803]

@@nagybalint1582 Hi, sorry for the late reply - I wasn't aware of this comment. My reply is probably going to be too late but it took about three weeks all up as Ernest says. Best of luck with your project!

[@richarddaniels1056]

Most of you people are completely full of shit you don't just go to Hyundai complain and then they give you a new fucking engine we went through nightmare after nightmare with this fucked up company and in the end they screwed us so don't tell me you just walked in there complained and got a new engine I'm smarter than that

[@JBurris]

Just got ours back from dealer. Full warranty replacement for the bearing failure. Thankfully we did the software update that grandfathered us in for lifetime replacement. New engine now at 142000, didn't pay a dime.

[@nuadasilverpaw5702]

I took my 2015 in for CVVT/ECVVT replacement, then the engine seized. Just got mine back last week after it being in the shop for 4 months. They replaced the engine under warranty. I think I got the better deal. I was sitting at 126k miles.

[@txhorn10]

I bought a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate with the 2.4L in August of 2018, I had to go back for the software update as well and have lifetime replacement (although the dealership never mentioned that to me 😂) but I got the papers in the mail. I only have 12,800 miles on it though.

[@martinnorbeck5961]

My nephew had his wifes car along with a buddy on the way to play golf it started knocking, he pulled into a nearby Hyundai dealer and got a new motor scott free. It was a Sonata. Not sure of year.

[@SpidermanX100]

Will they replace it for the second owners too? In the next few days i will have the update and i would like to know in case something goes wrong.

[@nuadasilverpaw5702]

@@SpidermanX100 I was not the original owner of my vehicle. It was owned twice before me, I believe.

[@pinoyeh]

My 2012 Sonata passed all testing requirements conducted by the local Hyundai dealer, thus, I was given an engine warranty up to 200k kms. I am now at 185k kms. and I have not felt any engine abnormalities. Almost every week, I check the engine oil level, it should be on the max side. If the oil level goes down a bit, I top it off. Once I reach 5000 kilometers, I change the oil and often use full synthetic oil and some premium oil filter. I've also installed an oil catch can at 60,000 kms. so every time I do an oil change, I see some oil accumulation from the catch can.

[@speedkar99]

This is probably the best you can do to this engine. Hopefully it lasts.

[@psyolent.]

you will be right with this --> Once I reach 5000 kilometers, I change the oil and often use full synthetic oil and some premium oil filter

[@timheersma4708]

I traded my 2011 Sonata 2.4 L with 235k km. Still ran fine...I drive mostly highway. My 2019 Tucson has the same 2.4L engine and it has a lifetime warranty on it due to the crankshaft milling issue suspected from the factory. I still drive mostly highway and the dealership mechanic told me that the highway driving would likely save my engine due to the oil being flushed through without seriously damaging the motor.

[@Akotski-ys9rr]

A little oil burning never hurt anyone

[@dbzownz12345]

I would get rid of the car prior to that 200k if you're smart. Don't go to the dealership cause they know about this. I'd shop around for best deal to get cash or trade-in. Once that warranty period is over for Hyundai/Kia cars you're playing with fire. Not worth it really.

[@2405jacko]

Love these tear down videos, love your channel altogether. Nobody does it like you, straight and to the point. Waiting for the next one.

[@joeblow1688]

Your videos should be required watching by any engineer who does machine design or automotive design. Invaluable information and lessons learned. Well done.Thanks.

[@nukedeadx]

Maybe the engineer knows, but the Executive department want new technology to impress clients and not care about the longevity of the engine, that's why I prefer N/A, no turbo, no hybrid, no CVT

[@johnarnold893]

You think that the engineers haven't inspected the many failed engines that this company has made over the years?

[@zaks9919]

Nice to see enough pictures to answer the question of piston oilers / coolers .I see them on your engine ,& I have to hope they are on all of the theta engines .Mine knocked badly on cold start up during the first winter (six months from new ). It had very low milage, & eventually started producing these noises during progressively warmer weather. Upon useing a bore scope camera to view the cylinder walls, (at 45,000 kms , I could see severe scoring of the cylinder walls. I lost no compression, & the cylinders were equal pressure (right to the pound)!, which surprized me. I added 4.5 imperial ounces of sythetic two stroke engine oil to 10 imperial gallons of fuel, & "miraculously"gained a very noticeable increase in power ., & better shifting as a result . Knocking is no worse now , but I spend time to warm up the engine , concentrating on varying the speed to keep it out of the damaging knocking noise range Now it has 126,000.kms ,& I installed a oil pressure gauge & crossed my fingers ..

[@lowrivera]

I had a 2011 YF Hyundai Sonata 2.0T. It had the recall and thus a new engine installed. As long as they honor the recall and do the work, the cars are awesome! I did the walnut blasting to clean the carbon build up, it was actually easy.

[@brucebmendoza]

Really you did the walnut blasting on the 2.0T engine ? Did you record it ? I would love to see it

[@lowrivera]

@@brucebmendoza Sorry, I didn't, and have never recorded anything I've ever done on cars. Cleaning the carbon build up via walnut blasting is surprisingly easy. I just watched a bunch of KZbin videos. The equipment and walnut media is cheap as well. Granted I already have lots of tools including a big compressor. I haven't had the car since March, as some idiot failed to yield and it was deemed a total loss. It was not modified save the Plasti-Dip emblems.

[@MrSkeltal268]

@@lowrivera Are you saying you walnut blasted the new engine or old, and did you do that while the engine is in the car? If so, how do you prevent particles from entering the engine?

[@lowrivera]

@@MrSkeltal268 look up walnut blasting videos. Did just like that. Tape off the cylinders you’re not working on. In one case, some guy even sprayed and drowned the valves in brake cleaner, that one is newer and after I’d already done it but apparently, you can. There is a tool that attaches to your vacuum that fits into the port. It has a hole for the walnut sprayer tube so you actually don’t make a mess. It’s fairly easy. The Hyundai/Kia engine intake side face the front so access is great for it. You can even buy an entire kit. More than anything, I’d just make sure the cylinder you’re working on is top dead center and you clean the big gunk off first.

[@MattPSU02]

Mine died before walnut blasting was really required.

[@misterbean8350]

tbh, I really wish I had the same knowledge/experience as my man here, knowing which shirt to use and when to use them.

[@speedkar99]

Haha thanks. You should try to take things apart if you want to learn...that's a good way to get experience

[@rossmactavish8151]

I think he only knows how to make a mess

[@alasdair4161]

@@rossmactavish8151 At least he knows to use the wife's clothes and toothbrush for cleanup...

[@haroldtinsley5940]

My daughter has a 2L turbo and they told her it was covered until the last time she carried it to the dealer and they had fifty four down and they told her that they had discontinued the warranty on hers because she was not the original purchaser. She bought it from the dealer and they first told her it was covered. They did a recall and all they did was change the oil and send it to be analyzed and told her don't worry you are covered now it is a different story you are out of luck. I told her that when they did the recall she should have made them put her an engine but no the dealer said they would take care of her now she knows that Dad knew best and the dealer lied.

[@guidedbygreen1480]

Same thing happened to me, because I wasn't first owner they wouldn't replace engine. Got rid of that thing and got a Camry

[@steveeddy6876]

Oh come on Car dealerships never lie!

[@elgatogordo9523]

@@steveeddy6876 LOL! 🤣 They're called Stealerships instead!

[@civierogarage8060]

The Hyundai website say warranty is fully transferable

[@eleventy-seven]

​@@civierogarage8060Loopholes like needed ALL your service records are used be them. They're scum.

[@wtcb7892]

2013 Sonata with 2.4 Engine. I changed the oil and filter at 500 miles my self.....Didn't believe the dealership when they told me no break period needed. Going on 80K miles no engine issues. Change oil and filter at 3k to 5k intervals and run 5w30 full synthetic.

[@michaelnefedov2267]

It has been demonstrated that insufficient cooling for first cylinder was the problem. If you have looked at first cylinder wall - there will be scratches. This is where metal debris come from clogging bearings etc.

[@v8snail]

@@michaelnefedov2267 It has been demonstrated by who? This problem was due to a change in the way they flushed the debris from the crankshaft from using water to air. Nothing to to with deburring, only cleaning. It affected less than 2% of the engines and mostly in America. This is a beautifully designed engine otherwise, efficient, reliable and powerful considering it only drinks low octane fuel. I have run this engine in Australia for 160,000km with no problems doing 15,000km oil changes using synthetic oil. Carbon build up is just not a problem. I haven't even see it on that engine apart from a light soot coating which impacts nothing. This whole 'direct injection issue' is a joke seeded from very poorly designed engines like GM and the like. There is nothing but bias in this video. I'm not a fanboy of any brand but can recognise good and poor engineering when I see it. I have replaced two minor things on my 2013 i45 where as my previous Holden (GM) cars had the bonnet up every other weekend with issues and used twice the fuel for the same power. People need to get their heads out their arses.

[@rabbmorgan5322]

I have a 2011 Hyundai Sonata SE with 170K miles. I do the all the regular maintenance, and never had a problem.

[@slowgoat6089]

@@v8snail - Your wrong KIA/HYUNDAI IS SHIT. My moms 2016 KIA Soul engine drinks a quart if oil every 1,000 miles, also the catalytic converter is clogged and Kia in my town doesn’t want to honor it.

[@v8snail]

@@slowgoat6089 Telling me I'm wrong about an engine then giving only one example of a totally different engine with an unexplained history makes for a pretty weak argument. Dealers almost everywhere are arseholes by design but in Australia we have different consumers laws to the US and in some cases a different supply chain for similar vehicles of the same brand. Hyundai/Kia are statistically right up there in reliability and here at least are usually backed up by good company service if something goes wrong. If you think I'm wrong on any point regarding that 2.4 GDI then counter argue it with specific engineering examples from your own personal experience.

[@saifcathum3423]

Nice. Love to see an engine in pieces, just not mine.

[@speedkar99]

Haha

[@TachirosLament]

Just goes to show you, behind every great man, there's a woman with a toothbrush that she stopped using and a few old dresses she stopped wearing too.

[@speedkar99]

Well she ootta stop wearing them now that I've used them 😎

[@spol1622]

Bad bearings are rather infrequent. Usually lack of proper lubrication is to blame...

[@rodpanhard]

@@spol1622 Big end bearings are made of cheese. I had a Tiburon V6 coupe once and this engine is famous for main bearing issues, the "knock of death" is a well known issue you need to check when buying the car.

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@rodpanhard I doubt the bearings were made in Wisconsin.

[@driver4011]

@@spol1622 agree.......engine failure caused by neglecting regular scheduled maintenance - oil changes. oil is cheap......engines are not.

[@DrDLightful]

When I was in Automotive school I diagnosed one of these that was locked up, it had been run out of oil, and because of the recall the guy got a free engine at 80k miles.

[@localcrew]

My gf and I had a 2011 Sonata and it was subject to the recall. Had 80K miles on it when we took it to the dealer. They did the acoustic test thing and said it passed. Warranty was extended to 120K miles. Kept the car until 139K and I thought the motor was getting loud so we traded it in for a 2019 Sonata that was identical. We have a great dealer (Somerset Ky) and they do the oil changes. The 2011 was the best car ever. In 139K miles we replaced the battery once, front brakes twice, rear brakes once, one set of tires, and that was it. They’re excellent cars. Our new one has about 50K miles and so far has been trouble free. I like this video. Just subscribed!

[@adl6907]

🤡

[@dbzownz12345]

do the newer cars suffer from these engine failures? I plan on getting.a 23 Kia Rio or 23/24 Kia Soul or Fiesta, maybe K5. I've always been into Honda so I'm a complete noob with this car manufacturer. Thanks.

[@localcrew]

@@dbzownz12345 As I said earlier, our 2011 Sonata was the best car ever. Our 2019 Sonata is great - but it has started using oil and we are experiencing detonation under acceleration. So it’s a bit of a disappointment but still a wonderful car. I think that it can be attributed to the old “Luck of the Draw” more than anything. I think the main factor is to buy from a dealer you are comfortable with. Our dealer started out great but they were bought out by a larger umbrella of dealerships and their service went rapidly downhill. The new service manager told my gf that the knock sensor wasn’t for detonation but was for rod knock. When I explained to my gf what a blatant lie that was she just said that we are through with that dealership and are moving on. Trust is a fragile thing. Once squandered... well, it’s hard to get back. Good luck with your purchase. Let us know how it turns out. 🤞

[@localcrew]

@@adl6907 Thanks for adding some constructive input to the conversation. That’s what KZbin is all about. 👍

[@joedejesus6363]

This was a great video and an awesome tutorial on the breack down of the theta II engine. Would love to see what the working looks like on a 1992 Nissan Maxima SE 3.0 L 6- Cyl {E} VE30DE engine.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. VE30 is a bit old

[@EAC202]

@@speedkar99 it is certainly old and was only made for a few years but it's a great engine. I have one and I love it. Only issue is the VTC clattering, especially when cold.

[@sericono9077]

This is a great video, almost a technical training I would say. Hyundai/Kia have never been my favorite brands but after watching this I will avoid them forever. That said, I was the unlucky owner of the infamous Daimler-Chrysler V6 2.7 engine mounted in a 2000 Chrysler Intrepid that broke apart at 160,000 km. Looking at the recalls today from many automaker brands, I wonder if there is any chance to get a decent engine with an affordable price. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise.

[@hubertsashegyi7537]

Absolutely enjoy your no nonsense, no bullshit videos!! You move along at a good clip, and I really appreciate it your fast-forward skips, rather than going in realtime. I am further blown away, and laughing at, your bottomless supply of brother's & your wife's discarded clothing & toothbrushes. You are funny, highly knowledgeable, entertaining, and I like that you unreservedly call out the various flaws of car engines. Well done!!

[@krp-xe3hw]

My wife and I bought a 2018 sonata sport a few years ago. It didn't take long to notice it was burning half a quart of oil every two weeks and it spark knocked all the time even on premium gas. We took it back to the dealer for a software update that might have helped a bit with the spark knock but not much. And yes i tried the intake valve cleaner but it would only clear it up for a few days. It was replaced with by a Mazda just 6 months after purchase.

[@paulgrindley8192]

Great video. Luckily my 2011 Sonota 2.4 was one of the good ones. 188k miles on it and it has never left me stranded. Been a great car.

[@hernancruzt]

This seems to be a problem of the Sonatas built in USA, the Korean ones have a similar structure but instead of gasoline they use LPI. I know several cars with over 250,000 miles and those are still working. I had to change the engine of my Sonata after 300,000 miles and if that's not something durable I'm not sure what it is.

[@zeppkfw]

@@hernancruzt American made Korean cars are trash

[@tomwest7789]

I have a 2011 Tucson with this engine with 156k miles. Have taken care of it....regular oil changes ....etc. Runs like a top and haven't had any issues with it at all. That's been my experience.

[@bigpapa2819]

what is the first digit of the Vin? the korea made ones seem to be much better than the American ones. Toyota had this same issue.

[@whocares5188]

Ya what you don't understand is there is deburring issues means nothing can prevent it. Once the burrs break loses its over

[@adhamatta]

Awesome video! Very interesting and informative. Keep up the great work.

[@ISKLEMMI]

Thank you for explaining what happens with this engine. My girlfriend's 2014 Sonata just seized up and nearly caught fire recently, after just over 100k miles with regular, timely maintenance. They're replacing the engine for free, but now we know we'll have to watch this car like a hawk in the future.

[@Mscmontes]

Yeah good luck with that,they replaced my engine on the 2014 Tucson after my engine rods blew and just since December I’ve been having different issues ever since

[@cheaptick]

They replaced our Sorento engine at 105K when it siezed up. Not many miles since but so far so good. I feel KIA treated us well.

[@lovetiffeny5357]

Mine just seized up at 101k… currently is at Hyundai motor’s… what was the approval process like for you guys?

[@cheaptick]

@@lovetiffeny5357 a few days and approved... I think our records (previous Owner) were ok

[@mark41157]

I have a 2014 Sonata with almost 100k miles. No problems yet. Burns a little oil.

[@IanPilgreen]

My siblings and I were driving to South Carolina for a cruise in a 2011 Kia Sorento and about halfway through the trip while going 65 on the highway we lost all revs and the engine stopped. Nice.

[@hamsterama]

Scary! What did you do? Did you jump out of the car and run to the side of the road? What an incredibly dangerous thing to happen. You could've been rear-ended by traffic behind you. I'm glad you're here to type this!

[@lashlarue7924]

Serves you right for driving such horrible K-Pop garbage in the first place. Lesson learned - THE HARD WAY.

[@IanPilgreen]

@@lashlarue7924 Okay, let's calm down and remember that it wasn't mine lol

[@IanPilgreen]

@@hamsterama It was basically the equivalent of a glider with wheels at that point, but we still had brakes so we pulled over onto the side of the highway. We managed to get a tow and a ride to the cruise port and we made the boarding time, but let's just say that we've got a little bit of PTSD from this engine.

[@lashlarue7924]

@@IanPilgreen sorry that came across a little agro. 😐

[@HeadTurnNet]

I bought a 2013 Sonata GLS Base back in 2014 with close to 65k miles on it. It was released from a rental fleet and that explains why it ramped up so many miles in just a little over 1 year. The car was definitely not in top shape as you could imagine how renters did all kinds of abuses on rental cars. Long story short, I started hearing some knocking sound from the engine around 75k miles and I thought it would blow up any time soon. But till today, 7 years later, with 143k miles on the clock the engine is still running pretty smoothly with lots of power, although the sound still exists with heavier throttle input. And other than this and the renowned steering wheel clunking (due to a broken $5 rubber ring in the steering motor), the car still holds up pretty well.

[@joerivas9847]

I have a 2013 Elantra GT. I always make sure it is serviced on time, I still have the car, 78,000 on it . I just got the notice from hyundai to bring the car in and as I read somewhere else, so they can install a computer program to shut the engine down, when one of the telltale signs shows up. I guess so they can put the bandaid on before the engine destroys itself. The car has been a relatively good car, it did have that issue with the rubberband in the steering and the clock spring which they wouldnt warranty, and then come out later and said it was,I fought with them to reimburse me for it.

[@patrickzadd5215]

Speedkar…… I have enjoyed your videos for a few years! Keep up the good work!

[@henrycarlson7514]

Thank You for the detailed teardown, and explanation of how things work

[@tomlismer9104]

I love this channel! Thanks for taking the time to make the videos.

[@speedkar99]

Welcome

[@WorldWideTechNews]

My favorite part is when you put the engine back together and you get many bolts left

[@guywithjeep]

weight reduction

[@guywithjeep]

@@johnogara3029 hypothetical "you" not dude in the video

[@vindiesel9345]

I always drop some extra bolts when I see someone working on their car...And the I watch the show....HA

[@RAndomlyEntertained]

just drop in the oil tank, it already got metal shavings in them

[@thetadgt]

Got 220,000 miles on my 2012 Sonata before the warranty replacement at no cost, of course had to put a quart of oil in once a week for the last 5,000 miles. Now it runs like a dream with the replacement.

[@michaeldose2041]

I just picked one of these up. The paint and interior were in great shape. It had a little over 200k miles and pretty much what you are looking at is what happened cams, rods and crank, which is what I expected. Number one rod was the failure point. I am in the process of overhauling it right now. The good news is parts for these are very reasonable. If you do this kind of work you can pick one up for a song.

[@speedkar99]

Ouch

[@JF-xq6fr]

Reminds me of a Toyota 2AZ/1ZZ design and layout... This engine looks simple, soundly designed and built, shame about the manufacturing defect and of course no secondary port fuel injectors as is done with Toyota.

[@jhndijkman]

No engines of that generation had dual injectors systems. Ill point out that Hyundai now uses that technology.. I already know the answer. But you yourself have used the correct reason of engine failure. I don't think he bothered to mention it. But the detail is that the failed engines came from American manufacture. If they made correctly to proper standards and practices they won't have any trouble doing very high milages as attested in other markets around the world.

[@JosephArata]

@@jhndijkman except the Theta 2 isn't American. It's a Mitsubishi design that South Korean car manufacturers Hyduai/Kia licensed and produce in their own Korean plants.

[@JosephArata]

The 2AZ-FE is a much better design than the Mitsubishi Theta engine. You don't have a coolant cross pipe from the water pump to the thermostat, everything is placed in the front of the timing cover with pretty good access for serviceability. The Theta isn't terrible design. When they retrofitted them to GDI, they didn't do enough testing and had problems with cylinder wash and carbon coking on the intake valves. Ring gaps need to be tighter with direct injection, or unburnt gasoline will seep down into the crankcase and contaminate the oil. You also need indirect secondary injectors to keep carbon from coking up on the intake valves. Pretty much what every GDI engine in manufacturer has done to fix GDI issues I've stated above.

[@warcrabcyber9908]

@@JosephArata theta 2 is not a Mitsubishi engine, theta 2 is Hyundai and Kia joint venture engine. Look at how poorly that engine is desiged, Mitsubishi don't make poor engines like that. Kia and Hyundai used early model Mitsubishi engines like the 4g15 , 4g63 then after 2004 Hyundai started building their own engines. It's clear they did not learn how to build the engine properly.

[@OhPhuckYou]

@@warcrabcyber9908 The Theta engines are made and modified by Hyundai/Kia after 04, but it started it's life as a Mitsubishi design. Hyundai/Kia just fucked it up worse than when they were using Mitsubishi built engines. (Not a huge fan of Mitsubishi, and any 4 cyl that is based off their design is a real disappointment like the Chrysler World 2.4) These Theta engines are a real hit or miss. Some wind up being long lasting, and a lot end up being the horrible turds they are. Hyundai/Kia will be paying for this mistake generations to come. Their V6 engines have shown to be relatively well built, and the Thao V8 engines are good engines. People now automatically unjustifiably condemn every Korean car even without the Theta 4cyl. The Theta and their DSG are going to hurt them for a long time. I won't even start on DSG gearboxes and how every manufacturer needs to stop using them outside of performance applications. VW even fucks the pooch with DSGs, and they're known as one of the better ones. Hyundai and Ford fucked the pooch and got it pregnant with their DSG's.

[@frankieb7405]

Bad bearings are the culprit of most of these engines. I’ve seen hundreds of these. Oh yeah and that new recall 203 is for bad piston rings. Most of the ones under recall 203 have scored cylinder walls and most fail under 10k miles.

[@markbuterbuagh4971]

If your a hyundai tech i liked when you could condemm the engine with the GTS great tool.We had some engine fails but more transmission fails.And updates lol.

[@eatingplaydoh]

They build some real junk, but it's job security.

[@zabryant01]

Mines included in that… 2020 Elantra Sel and I’m about to hit 20k. So far so good there’s no remedy so no use in trying to get them to do a recall they can’t “fix” yet.

[@frankieb7405]

@@markbuterbuagh4971 I’m not a tech for Hyundai.

[@MattPSU02]

@@markbuterbuagh4971 really? My understanding is that the Hyundai 6 speed units are very reliable. I had 165k on mine before trading it. I do know about the DCT issues, but that's specific to that transmission.

[@ddb1143]

Very well explained and shown. I believe the Knock sensor recall update actually updated the firmware to be more sensitive to knocking and sent the vehicle into limp mode sooner so that the owner would know to take the vehicle in earlier and likely prevent being stranded somewhere. I am not sure if they changed the sensor and wiring as an update too, so that is why I refer to firmware update. This just happened to our Kia Optima last week and will take the car to the dealer this week, now that we towed it back home from another state while on a vacation. I did not want the work to be performed out of state so far away from home.

[@dentech4710]

Read my post about my experience so far.

[@michaelmartinez1345]

Great video!!! I like his description of what the components do, as he removes them from the engine.... I do not like direct injection either, because of the inherent problems of intake carbon build-up... I PARTICULARILY do not like Variable valve timing because of the complexity involved with it... This engine had a problem with it, on the intake cam VVT control valve. I favor valve lash adjustments done with threaded tappets or ball-studs & locknuts, over the shim in bucket adjustments... Much easier to adjust valves that way and they offer the advantage of not having to buy highly specialised - expensive parts from dealers to do valve adjustments after head work has been done. It is doubtful that Hyundai & Kia decided to sacrifice the quality, to increase the quantity - by not properly cleaning-out the lubrication passages in their engines... My guess is, the bearing failures were caused by dirty fouled engine oil. The owner(s) of this car probably failed to do the engine oil changes in a proper manner...... But, I'll stick with my motorcycle and cast-iron 1/2 million mile American V-8's... They just keep on running...

[@curbozerboomer1773]

That engine was about the only 4cyl that gave Hyundai a bad problem....over the last ten years, KIA and HYUNDAI have achieved stellar status for being very reliable vehicles...this older 4cyl problem engine is an anomaly--not typical of most other engines from the companies....this dude knows his stuff--but he seems to have a negative attitude towards the engine in general.

[@michaelmartinez1345]

@@curbozerboomer1773 Gotcha... I imagine that Hyundai's & Kia's did not get to where they are at by producing bad vehicles, and other products... But You have to admit, the vast majority of modern OHC engines, using aluminum heads , are basically throw-away designs-after a bad overheat.... Too many things to go wrong on these newer vehicles, after they reach a certain mileage and/or age.... After they start having problems, like these examples developed, time to send the vehicle to the salvage yard and start-over with another vehicle... They just don't last the way they used to anymore...

[@dogman8436]

I read an account by a Kia dealer tech of this engine issue which also affects sister Hyundai. Drilling swarf left in the crankshaft oil passages. Dealers have a sound recording monitor which analyzes engine sound level to determine pending failure. 10 year 100K miles powertrain warranty should cover a replacement engine in addition to recall. Don’t let a dealer tell you they never heard of this issue and campaign. Now a new different engine problem recall 203 for faulty piston rings causing scored cylinder walls and excessive oil consumption. If Kia/Hyundai wants to keep up and beat Toyota and Honda they need to turn the company upside down to fix this repeated issue.

[@dbzownz12345]

isn't that 100k warranty suppose to cover engine regardless? Hell, if mine gets this bad I'm going to offset the thing beforehand or claim a lemon law if they don't honor that warranty.

[@RobertBeck-pp2ru]

There is a reason they sell for so cheap. Corners were cut.

[@dantoine0]

My wife hyundai elantra 2012 engine was rebuild about 8 months ago by hyundai dealership. Had only 28000 miles. They didn't want to do it so we had to show them articles and videos of other people having the same issues. The supervisor of the dealership give the go ahead for them to rebuild the engine.

[@speedkar99]

You should have contact Hyundai head quarter

[@smartkid1201]

@@speedkar99 Hyundai Corp gave the dealership the go ahead to repair not the supervisor from that particular dealer.

[@S.Madman]

@@smartkid1201 The warranty is for an engine replacement not a rebuild. So they should have swapped the engine out, not rebuild it.

[@hardlymovingpro]

On the 2006 - 2008 Theta engines I've seen at the salvage yard, the #1 cylinder's connecting rod breaks loose and makes a hole in the engine block. On the customer's car I worked on, the engine was making a huge knocking noise. When I removed the oil pan and oil pump, the pump had completely seized and the bearings on #1 cylinder where completely gone. Since the Theta engine is also used by the Kia Optima, I was able to get a replacement at the salvage yard from a Optima ($150 if you pull the engine out yourself) that worked perfectly in the Sonata after the 2nd attempt. The 1st replacement engine was a oil burner.

[@suntzuwarsword1964]

Thank you for the tear down..great video.. awesome discriptions of engine problems...great channel

[@smartkid1201]

Seemed like a great idea at the time, but boy did things change quick! I personally own a 2015 Sonata 2.0T with 155K miles and so far no major issues(knocks on wood); but I'm glad they scrapped the Theta 2 family of engines in favor of the new Smartstream GDI with MPI...now only time will tell how these hold up.

[@pcno2832]

I hope the Smartstream proves to be reliable. But I wonder if they scrapped an engine that was no longer defective, given all the time they have had to get it right. I'd probably be a little more leary of a newly designed engine that one that was recalled for failing after 100K miles.

[@alexPassoSn]

Well buddy the smartstream are comming with a worsening fabric problems than these ones

[@lonniebeal6032]

@Nordav Devito Oh, Toyota has had it's problems, some with oil consumption as well, look it up.

[@kimberlyx4060]

I had a 2015 Sonata Hybrid. Wow what a nightmare. It needed a new transmission at 75k. Then a hybrid system warning and it shut down on the expressway. After a PCV replacement, a hybrid cluster and then Hyundai refuses a battery replacement, I got rid of it. Awful resale value.

[@stevenmiller2837]

Gotta love an engine whose description begins with "notorious!" Do you think you might do a Ford Ecoboost 2.0?

[@flagmichael]

I had a 1984 Dodge 600 with the notorious Mikuni feedback carburetor. I never wanted to know what the penalty was for forgetting to say "notorious" before "Mikuni carburetor." Hey - when you have to drill a calibrated hole (start with 1/4 inch and work up to a maximum of 3/8 inch) in the choke plate to get it to work right you know it is a very bad boy.

[@HowardJrFord]

My daughter's 2014 elantra still runs like new with just over 102k miles . I replaced a ball joint in it last week , but it was very easy to do . That is the only thing I ever had to replace on it outside of normal maintenance items . I change the oil and filter every 4k miles with Walmart synthetic .

[@stevenbass732]

I have a 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe with a 2.7 liter engine. Over 212,000 miles and nary a hiccup. This car has been driven from Mississippi to Wisconsin twice, and all over the east coast. Oh wait, I did have to change the thermostat once.

[@moephufnik7547]

Six cylinder, completely different engine.

[@stevenbass732]

@@moephufnik7547 Yeah but the tagline said "why Hyundai engines fail". I know that I'm being picky, but it's Monday. Lol

[@bobbypathak123]

best part.. Hyundai put this eyelets because they know how often u are going to change this engine..lolz

[@mirandafitch1013]

Right 😂😂😂😂😂

[@Toguro-oy3ld]

Sure the dealership likes that for warranty work.

[@aaronturner1072]

They drop em out the bottom but yeah it is ironic

[@chrism340i]

@@aaronturner1072 no we pull them from the top, you can pull it from the bottom but can take more time

[@JohnDiMartino]

@@Toguro-oy3ld they get maybe 50 cents on the dollar for labor and make nothing on parts ,and customers won’t be back for a new Hyundai next time they buy, But I’m sure they are loving it....

[@kanehi]

Great video. I have a 2006 Hyundai Tucson w/ the 6 and a 2009 Sonata w/ the 4. Both engines are still running strong and no problems. Too bad Hyundai rushed it's engine manufacturing to meet demands and suffered the consequence.

[@speedkar99]

I think the 6 were much better than the Theta2

[@ronijr4918]

Honestly any Kia engine that doesn't have the 2.0 or 2.4L are great. The 1.6 and 3.3L are the best.

[@davidestate]

Your car has stronger oil rings so you are lucky.

[@robertramirez3994]

Great, great video. Cracks me up using family's items when you work. Great job!

[@chihirogustafson8557]

Our family's 2013 sonata went boom earlier this week. Rod bearing failure, thankfully Hyundai covered it at 90k miles it's getting a new engine. Interesting to see the tear down of the engine. Thanks for the awesome videos as always.

[@speedkar99]

Interesting that they are still covering these under warranty!

[@chihirogustafson8557]

@@speedkar99 yeah if your engine blows up even if you aren't the first owner it's warrantied. I don't know what the mileage limit is but I've heard of people getting new engines well above 140k.

[@karrenleonard8653]

@@chihirogustafson8557 I just made my last Pymt on my 2011 sonata but do you know if they honor warranty of second owner if engine has these issues but still runs? This might have been a rental car since high mileage when I bought it 2 yrs ago over 200000

[@chihirogustafson8557]

@@karrenleonard8653 I believe so I would check Hyundai's recall site and see. If your car has gone this long without spinning a rod bearing you're probably fine. With that high of mileage Hyundai may just say that's normal wear and tear.

[@mymommassun3503]

Hey , during the time of the rod bearing failure , were you hearing buzzing noise from the engine ?

[@noseefood1943]

Takeaway: deburring is really important

[@robertrocheville7769]

Cleaning is the important thing here.

[@MrEdwithdreadz]

As an ex Hyundai Tech I can remember doing these under warranty. They would have Us replace the bottom end only. And in 2014 as a flat rate technician getting paid $12 an hour, I would make a grand total of $120 to do this job😭😖 Good times🤟

[@davidgiles5030]

You were paid $12 an hour in 2014? Ridiculous. I made over double that when I left the trade in 2008. That's in Canada.

[@MrEdwithdreadz]

@@davidgiles5030 Yeah I was a pretty new Tech I had just moved from hourly to flat rate so that's what I started out at. And I left before I got a raise lol

[@azzajohnson2123]

@@davidgiles5030 he was your discount Employee counterpart

[@steveeddy6876]

Hmmmm HUN DIE?

[@reidy19841984]

Is it possible do a bearing roll on the big end bearings insitue without removing the engine? Possibly flush oil gallery's too?

[@joesonl1610]

Thanks for this great details and very knowledgeable presentations. Awesome!

[@terp8373]

Speedkar99's videos have literally caused me to change my mind about what I'm going to buy next and will be keeping for many years. Was going to get a new Tucson Hybrid, with the turbo GDI engine -- trouble. Now I'm going to get a RAV4 Hybrid, with the 2AR-FE engine and no turbo -- bulletproof. Thanks, Speedkar99!

[@randallscott-key802]

How about REALLY smartening up and buy an ELECTRIC! Then you would NEVER have to deal with any of that crap ever again! An electric car has exactly ONE moving part inside the motor! I hear all the yip-yap by those who don't know what they're talking about trying to dis electric cars because of POTENTIAL battery problems, yet gasoline engine vehicles are a nothing but a 100+ years of band-aids, and work-arounds to make a POOR engine technology perform half-way decently! My Hyundai Kona electric has over 50,000 miles and has ZERO mechanical problems, along with ZERO "maintenance" other than normal "inspections"...oh, and a new set of tires, and cabin filters.

[@terp8373]

@@randallscott-key802 Live in a third-floor condo. No way to charge an electric vehicle.

[@mahdavimail]

I raise my hat for Honda. My last Civic had 400k on it running still like a clock before I totaled it in a winter accident.

[@speedkar99]

What engine? D17?

[@mahdavimail]

@@speedkar99 it was R18 1.8 civic 2007 now I got 2014 with stick shift manual its the same engine though 😅 thanks for video. It was km not mile. In harsh Quebec climate!

[@christianlail7266]

@@speedkar99 what do you think of the d17. Specifically the a2

[@boostego1268]

The original insight motors have seen 1 million miles. Now the F1 motor is matching Mercedes. Honda knows motors

[@JoshuasRecordings]

@@mahdavimail I'm impressed. Our 2009 Honda Civic failed at 140k with the transmission loosing 1st, 2nd, 5th and reverse (manual) and the engine having very excessive blow by and a failing headgasket.

[@Skitzofreenic]

I love how he points out those "Eyelets" for easy replacement of these engines which you'll be doing often...😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@seminolefantodd4736]

2013 KIA Optima owner. Had engine replaced at 130K miles under warranty due to consuming a quart of oil every 400 miles. Was told by dealership engine #2 also comes with lifetime warranty. We'll see if it lasts.

[@danny1988221]

Great video!! 👍 now I know what that knocking sound was.. man that was so insightful

[@Jakek200]

I remember when the recall came out on these engines (for Kia anyways) where we had to take an android tablet with this snake microphone and place it in the dipstick tube while running the engine at various RPMs. If the tablet said it Failed (even if you couldn't hear any weird noises) the car got a new engine no questions asked. But sometimes it would 'Pass' while the engine was sitting their clanging loudly so we'd have to send a video of the noise to Kia's warranty and then they'd approve replacement. Doing that sound test on the 2.0 Turbo was an absolute pain because you had to hold the engine within 100RPM of a certain value for a certain amount of time (like 30 seconds or so, I cant remember I don't work there anymore) and on the turbo engines the boost would come in and out and you'd end up with an engine constantly fluctuating RPMs. I had to use my finger to very precisely control the go-pedal to do that test and even then it was difficult. Why Kia didn't implement automatic RPM control in their test I don't know considering the tablet was plugged into the OBD port to monitor RPMs.

[@19jacobob93]

I'm not convinced with their official explanation as to these failures being something as simple as debris left behind in the manufacturing process. Surely something is failing in operation which is causing the debris to accumulate over time, or else the issues would be apparent almost immediately. They are however mostly happening after 100,000 miles and up to 10 years after leaving the showroom! I have a feeling there is a design flaw somewhere that they aren't admitting to...

[@speedkar99]

If the metal debris isn't affecting the bearings directly, it's building up over time in the oil galleys causing oil starvation.

[@19jacobob93]

@@speedkar99 I don't get how this debris will build up over time though if it is already there in the galleys from day one. If this were true it would be trapped in the oil filter almost immediately, long before they had a chance to accumulate. I feel there is a design flaw causing a sudden point of failure somewhere and they are literally embarrassed about it haha

[@Sjalabais]

Excellent video! Two questions: With the fuel injectors injecting fuel directly, you get the carbon buildup and you mention that requires regular cleaning. How? Does it help to drive the engine real hot, or do you need to clean it mechanically? When it comes to these engine recalls...all the owners who typically paid up to 6k$ for an engine replacement or rebuild before the NHTSA order - do they get a refund? Or are they just forked either way? I'm looking to buy a 2018 Optima PHEV here in Urop, with the 2.0 Theta GDI engine. Getting second thoughts here.

[@SaveTheManuals]

I learn so much every time I watch one of your videos. Thank you for that.

[@theadvocate4698]

That was brilliant! Any chance of tearing down a 1.6 gdi from hyundai next? i'm very curious about this engine quality, mine is great at 146000 km but i'm not sure about the soot from gdi, the exhaust pipe is pretty dark....

[@speedkar99]

Would like to get my hands on one...some day

[@robbflynn4325]

That was really interesting, a shame because the top part of engine looked really clean. I bought a nearly new 2017 Elantra (in 2018), it has the the newer Atkinson cycle 2 liter engine. My son and his wife now own, so far so good, no problems and I think it has close to 100,000 miles. Thankfully they take my advice and make sure the oil and filter is changed every 3,000 miles. Have to say it is a really nice car to drive, hopefully last them a while longer.

[@adoreslaurel]

My son has the 2017 2 litre Kona, 6 speed torque converter trans [down under] which has about 75.000 km now [Atkinson cycle manifold injection], serviced every 15,000 km, no dramas to date. Oil chang period seem long but dealer serviced under warranty, maybe engines built in other countries might have some differences? have not heard of this down under.

[@robbflynn4325]

@@adoreslaurel probably same engine as what’s in the Elantra. I would definitely recommend changing the oil more frequently on yours though

[@NovaResource]

Well maintained Hyundai/Kia engines last. I have 3 Hyundai/Kia vehicles with the 2.4L Theta II engine and all are excellent. One has 52k miles, one has 100k miles and one has 120k miles. I have 2 other Hyundai/Kia vehicles with different engines with even higher mileage. A 2006 2.0L Beta engine with 160k miles and a 2008 3.3L Lambda with 177k miles.

[@adoreslaurel]

@@robbflynn4325 Yes, it's my sons own vehicle, going to be sold soon as he is to get a new company car, A Subaru [probably an Impreza I think]. I wish I had enough use for it as I would buy it off him at 75000 km Still got some warranty left. I threw out the under diameter "Donut" and put in a 16 inch [down under car] BA Falcon 6.5 inch rim with a 205/60 profile tyre, fancy putting a spare wheel in that is less than the diameter of the cars wheels. insane with a 80km speed limit and about the same distance before getting your flat fixed. At least it has a real emergency brake, not like these iffy EPB's that if you lose your electrics in total, stopping is a real problem EPB will not work.

[@robbflynn4325]

@@NovaResource I agree, Google million mile Elantra and you will see how they can last. I think some (not all) of the well documented problems with certain engines are probably due to owner neglect. A lot of car owners simply do not change their engine oil at the correct interval, or use the incorrect oil or buy a cheapo filter. Always use quality oil and filters. Also drive your car moderately, most cars are not designed to be revved high all the time. Check your fluids regularly. My son has a 2003 Accord. After a long trip I checked the fluids, transmission fluid barely showing on dipstick. Turns out one of the axle seals from the transmission had a leak which I since fixed with a $14 OEM seal. Had to get right under the car to pinpoint the leak, fact is most people do not do these checks, and in my son's case the eventual inevitable transmission failure on his Accord would have been explained by it having 170,000 miles and therefore reaching it's lifespan.

[@michaelpence468]

My Sonata engine (2.4l GDI) just blew up. Luckily covered under the 120,000, 10 yr warranty. The problem is there are no engines available for replacement due to supply chain issues. Hyundai is paying for a rental. So now I’m driving a Mazda. Thanks for the video. Very informative.

[@michaelpence468]

Oh. BTW the engine only had 78k when it cut lose. Regular oil changes (5k) and service was by the manufacturer recommended schedule.

[@hideousproductionsllc]

My 2017 Hyundai Tuscon siezed on me yesterday. My buddy who's a mechanic immediately told me its the rod bearing as soon as i started the car...just found out theres a recall on Hyundai Tuscons for this exact reason. Wow thank you so much for this video...now I can see exactly what caused this. Dealership says it should be replaced completly free!

[@09ROCKERC]

Owner of 2003 Santa Fe, 244000 miles running strong. Bought brand new when my daughter was 3 months old. She drives in college.

[@marvelv212]

It was probably made in Korea not USA like now

[@MetaView7]

Congrats !

[@RickTroutner]

All a man needs are toothbrushes, old familial clothes, and broken down car engines.

[@ClosestNearUtopia]

The dude in my company who arranges our spareparts/material and tools still dont want me to give brushes and stuff like that. He asked me serveral time what I need to paint… even after explaining he doesnt see use of it, what a dumbnut isnt it..

[@zendher]

And a can of diesel to clean all!!!

[@dyslectische]

And what is can mis is his wife who cry how mutch time he set in his hobby

[@ClosestNearUtopia]

@@dyslectische zet je taal anders even op engels;)

[@technop.8461]

They finally to replace my engine after the law suit

[@StraightOuttaContent]

Glad you made this video I've been making videos talking about these engines for years now. People really need to stay away from these cars

[@davidw2731]

I worked for a hyundai dealer, before I left we started seeing our replacement engines starting to fail, it's a bad deal ,but they are standing behind them as of now , but I do see them changing policies in the future

[@Peppermint1]

The 'manufacturing debris' was a lie to cover up faulty engine management and design. To keep the intake valves clean, Hyundai's GDI are running very rich at cold starts (much richer than non GDI engines). This happens both in summer and winter times, for both turbo and non turbo engines. This way some of the gasoline doesn't burn and is coating the combustion chamber and keeps it clean. Downside is excess gasoline also leaks into the engine oil and causes oil dilution. If you're doing mostly short trips, the gasoline in the oil won't have time to evaporate so the engine wear is increased. Another problem is these engines keep a very low rpm in most driving conditions - even when going uphill, even in the Normal and Sport modes. They designed the transmission to have crazy low shifting points in all Eco, Normal and even in Sports mode. It can't be good for the oil pressure at the connecting rod bearings. MPG Obsession took over mechanical engineering.

[@chihirogustafson8557]

I also noticed that these engines suffer badly from oil dilution. The oil got contaminated with gas rather quickly in our sonata and I think that led to the bearings going out at 90k

[@Peppermint1]

@@chihirogustafson8557 Correct. Actually, rev the engine to 5000 rpm just before an oil change (diluted oil), then rev it again at 5000 rpm after the oil change (fresh oil). You will be amazed how nice the engine sounds with fresh oil, and how harsh it sounds with old diluted oil. There is a way to prevent the oil from getting diluted on these engines, I shall make a video this fall about it.

[@chihirogustafson8557]

This ^. My dad will drive it in eco all the time absolutely babying it. The car also gets moved around the driveway a lot and often doesn’t get the chance to fully warm up. Both my Lexus IS and Acura Tl I had have cleaner oil at 5000 miles than this does at 500 😳. As long as they keep giving us new engines I am fine with it.

[@xcmskim4]

There are many videos in Korean on KZbin that explain the failure of the Theta 2 engines. This engine is a design flaw with the connecting rod bearing and the aluminum engine block. Their recall or remedy is to install a new engine and/or a software update for a knock sensor (KSDS), which to me does not make any sense. Hyundai/Kia completely abandoned their GDI engines for their new GDI/MPI engines. In Korea, the new engines already have reports of excessive oil consumption. I know a lot of people who are satisfied with their Hyundai's, so if you plan on getting one either lease it or buy one without the GDI engine (prior 2011 models).

[@tigertrail3361]

GDIs are a failure with every manufacturer, isnt it?

[@aresv5704]

Also gamma engines present noises that no one knows where the come from(tapping and ticking)

[@CHANNEL12021]

I also believe, there is a engine design issues

[@SHADOWBONELESS]

But sadly here in Canada, there isn't many pre 2011 Hyundai left..

[@joesmith6524]

Right the engine before 2011 was great lot of people with 100 of thousands on them!

[@neil6958]

I like the way you analyze engines like this.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. More to come

[@velox731]

Amazing explanation! Due to carbon build up, fuel direct injection issues and quality control problems from the manufacture. It would be wise to do a break in oil change in 500 miles and another about 1500 hundred miles, thereafter using a quality synthetic oil and filter for the rest of future oil changes. In regards to the fuel, using non ethanol or mid grade fuel would be best for the longevity of the fuel system, maybe even using fuel injection cleaner perhaps every oil change.

[@Henry_Jones]

I remember all the great press this engine got when it came out in the 2011 sonata and optima. 200hp 4 banger with no turbo was a big deal then. I was dead set on the optima for a while. Now im glad I never got one.

[@speedkar99]

Yeah these cars were good for their time back then

[@ecoRfan]

Have a 2011 Optima with that engine. Not a bad car. But engine has sounded a bit harsher recently. And maybe a bit pokier than in the past. Hope it doesn’t blow on me.

[@aaronturner1072]

@@ecoRfan If you find the oil level consistently low or any form of knock at idle, she's on borrowed time

[@frankieb7405]

@@ecoRfan especially if you start hearing some knocking from the engine. You might qualify for the lifetime extended warranty on that engine.

[@MattPSU02]

I fell for it. I wondered how Hyundai got 274HP and still got over 30mpg highway. Now I know why...

[@sullybiker6520]

"Hey have you seen my toothbrush or dress?" ".....No?"

[@SuperRasean]

As an owner of 17 sonata and a previous hyundai dealer employee I recommend everyone get only a full synthetic oil change the conventional stuff doest resist thermal breakdown as well as synthetic in addition to using additives like Lucas full synthetic oil stabilizer (the black bottle), motorkote, or best line. They add a tremendous amount of friction modification lubrication and will NOT void warranty. just make sure you keep detailed documentation on oil changes if you do them yourself.

[@armchaireconomist8648]

How about just buying a Honda or Toyota instead.

[@user-cs8py8lk3o]

I just figured that my engine on my 2013 santa fe sports required full engine replacement due to Connecting Rod Bearing issue which is the reason of engine recall ordered by court. I replaced Knock Sensor and not solved an issue with knocking noise then I realized my motor seized up. I have been wondering how it will be looking like for bearing. Thank you so much for the video

[@whatever3749]

Two coworkers that owned a Sportage had the engine seize within 100,000 kms. I thought the first one might be an anomaly but after the second it's obvious Hyundai and Kia are not even close to Japanese cars like we thought.

[@speedkar99]

Wow. Twice

[@adoreslaurel]

Are these cars built in America? I can't think of any other reason that there are these problems I see on youtube. Down under, I don't believe there are these problems.

[@eugene4817]

I too started wondering a while ago if they are US made engines. Here in Canada the cars come from Korea and we don't seem to have the issue, or at least not a common issue. Wondering if the engines assembly debris was actually a sabotage by factory workers

[@adoreslaurel]

@Zero More likely sloppy Yankee build quality.

[@marvelv212]

@@adoreslaurel yes this is American issue. Modern Hyundai and Kia in US are made in USA not Korea.

[@CanadianTalent1]

I have a 2015 Kia Sorento with this engine & it had the rod bearing issue at 95000 km's. Annoying and inconvenient however Kia replaced the engine free of charge even tho it was out of factory warranty. I was lucky that way, as it's a known issue.

[@sachsgs2509]

However....did they replace it with the same machining engine or a proper replacement with out these problems?🤔

[@CanadianTalent1]

@@sachsgs2509 I did inquire about that. They said the engine is brand new without the defects, and they haven't had any of the replacements experience the same issues

[@sachsgs2509]

@@CanadianTalent1 got ya...thank you for the info👌

[@danbush1249]

Got one in the shop now waiting for approval to replace engine. Hope they do it, or I'll have to rebuild the POS myself, not spending too much money on a 2012 vehicle, but I hate to junk it too.

[@trevorharley4475]

I work for Hyundai. They've done nothing to address the issue. Just send us reman long blocks most of the time. They'll pretty much cover it forever though. I've put engines in cars with 200,000 on the clock.

[@davidzitzman6511]

Another tutorial from the master!Very informative and interesting.

[@speedkar99]

Awesome thanks

[@jmencarini9220]

great video. I guess the big question is: what are they replacing these with? have they fixed the manufacturing issues? is it a whole, new engine? sorry, that's three questions.

[@eatingplaydoh]

The new 2.5 are coming apart too. We have done soooo many engines at work it's unbelievable.

[@speedkar99]

Are they? Haven't read anything yet

[@alejandro11000]

How are they still in business??

[@eatingplaydoh]

@@speedkar99 one oil pump failure and one complete lower end failure so far. 80 miles on the pump car and 9k on the failed engine. Cvts are very short lived some haven't worked off the car carrier to the lot. Updates rendering modules useless... busy but not a lot of fun.

[@tonyzase]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aH_RhWyZis2jfpo

[@wolfsburvviann]

@@alejandro11000 Good question. Probably the same case as GM. If Korea had more decent car brands they'd be dead by now.

[@pdsrenos]

Great job explaining the issues and operation of that motor! I was confused by the tear-down on the back porch and using your wife's clothes as rags, but it was pretty nice to see the internals.

[@Moondoggy1941]

It didn't want to use his clothes.

[@furballami5842]

2012 Elentra limited, engine still strong after 100,000 miles. The only major thing that went wrong was the transmission, which was replaced for free. The underlying thing was with the sunroof, they have plastic guides that keep warping in the nevada sun. I do take mine in to dealer for all my timely services. Even if you don’t use the dealer, make sure that you take care of the engine and it will take care of you. Still liked the video though.

[@alright272]

Great, detailed video. You should try to find and teardown one of their tau v8s. There's a lot of interesting technology in those.

[@speedkar99]

That would be sweet Just hard to find Maybe a Genesis one day

[@williamgrissom9022]

Thanks. Very detailed info and fast talk. Pretty corroded for a fairly new engine, at least where I live in CA. My 1996 Plymouth engine still looks almost pristine. White powder on the spark plugs looks normal, and that varies with gasoline used. Seems you are comparing the metal timing chain with earlier rubber timing belts, but the designs are almost always different. All engines I've seen with a chain, have it inside the crankcase to be bathed in oil, as here (whether pushrods or OHC), so the water pump is then external and belt-driven. It is strange they use a chain-driven oil pump (like my 1985 M-B 300D) since many today have the oil pump integral with the timing cover, driven directly by the crankshaft (simpler and more rugged). VVT gives big advantages, but adds much complexity and has proven a maintenance issue on many engines which use it, from the earliest Honda. Coking of the intake has been a problem on GDI engines. Goss's Garage on MotorWeek (TV) had a episode where they said you must remove the intake manifold to clean every 50K miles on many. I understand that some added an upstream fuel injector a few years back to avoid the issue. The coking shown wouldn't make the engine run bad, but would limit max power by restricting the airflow at WOT. The knock sensor in all gas engines is used for active feedback control of spark advance, so you can run on varying grades of gasoline without damaging the pistons. Since metal debris in the oil passages was such an endemic problem in Hyundai and Kia engines, I don't know why they didn't have the dealers remove the oil pan to get at the bearings, then flush the oil passages clean and replace at least the rod bearings. Seems cheaper than having to provide new engines under warranty (10 years or 100K miles?). Indeed, I wonder if this engine could have been rescued by doing that, which is a fairly easy in-car repair from underneath. Interesting that it has oil squirters under the pistons. I thought those were only on turbocharged engines.

[@sugarnads]

Honda has made about 5 million vtecs with almost zero issues.

[@williamgrissom9022]

@@sugarnads I recall a Wheeler-Dealers episode when they dug into the VVT passages to fix a Honda which was anemic. Some gunk or material was plugging a port as I recall.

[@gibby8141]

We've had 3 Hyundais. They've all been outstanding! My wife and I commute about 100 miles per day. My 2016 Sonata just flipped 156,000 miles, with zero engine problems! My wife's 2017 Elantra has about 105,000 with no major issues. Everybody I know who owns a Hyundai has never had any substantial engine issues. Title seems a bit misleading. It makes it sound like Hyundais are experiencing engine fails all the time. I'm not seeing this.

[@austing4321]

Hyundai makes great cars, it's just the 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2018 SF Sports that should be avoided. The rest of their engines are fine, and frankly nearing Honda if you find one with MPI like on the Elantras and Konas. Good to hear the Theta in your 2016 is holding up well though! A lot of these engine issues, even in the "shitty" years come from owners who think they can treat it like they treated their old port-injected V6s of yore which just isn't true for ANY GDI engines. All that said, they were indeed more reliable before 2011 and I wish they would stop trying to be so cutting-edge all the time.

[@joerivas9847]

You are lucky then. A person from work, her car's engine bit the dust when it reached 40,000 . ( 2013)

[@austing4321]

@@joerivas9847 That was the most problematic generation but even then, 40,000 is REALLY unusual. I'm going to guess she barley changed the oil and used the cheapest possible.

[@dragancrnogorac3851]

It's actually strange that this channel doesn't have like 2-3 mil subscriptions

[@SaifaldeenSAH]

Many thank for all these videos, please can you demonstrate about the 2011 Hyundai Elantra ?

[@serenitynow8265]

Hi there. I found this very interesting - Thank You. Seeing this is a Canadian site, I'm trying to find out why my 2012 KIA Forte5 EX 2.0 hasn't been put on the recall list here in Canada? I know Canada has been really slow/behind on getting the recalls out, but I have read & heard others with the same engine have gotten their recalls & some not. Some have even had their engines replaced or tended to (aka installing the knock detection sensor). Also, a class action has started back east & not here in my neck of the woods (I live on the west coast). I can't get an honest answer from KIA (the dealership or KIA Canada) obviously, just "oh you must be one of the lucky ones". This engine issue isn't only the 2.4, this is apparently happening to the 2.0 engines as well!! I know someone who has the sedan of the same year & the same engine as my hatchback & they received their recall notice a few months ago already & their issue seems to be rectified. My car has 92,000 km on it and I have been noticing "ticking" which seems to be getting louder. No oil issues, yet. I feel trapped with this vehicle now as I'm terrified every time I'm out driving it for my safety as well as for others. Also now I can't even sell it with the reputation Hyundai & Kia has right now nor am I in the position to replace it with a new vehicle. Any helpful, intelligent, honest people out there to help me out? Thank You in advance!! BTW - Sorry about the novel

[@dantebg100]

"ticking sound" is from the pistons hitting the cylinder walls. ( Noting to do with knock, btw) This engine is garbage bro. You can only fix it with complete engine rebuild. If you are driving like a granny you can maybe get 150 000km, before the engine completely destroy itself

[@dantebg100]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZ2ql6mHrcuLmqs The sound you are hearing 59:48

[@serenitynow8265]

@@dantebg100 Thanks for your input - Unfortunately wish the vid had English subtitles.

[@dr2644]

I have two of these engines - 09 Sonata/13 Santa Fe, both run perfect with no issues due to oiling. The engine in your video appears (due to the abnormal amount of corrosion on the aluminium block) a higher mileage engine. The recall issued by Hyundai addresses possible metal debris left in a new engine during the manufacturing process at the US Alabama plant. The question is...how in the world could metal debris left in a engine during manufacturing manifest itself and cause damage at 50k/60k etc miles later? The answer is it would be virtually impossible. The engine took apart in the video failed due to lack of lubrication......all the mains and rod bearings scorched and gouged. This is not a design fault....it is a failure of maintenance. With proper and timely oil changes these engines are very durable. The other issue you mentioned concerns carbon build up on the back side of the intake valves. This is an issue with any GDI engine as no fuel (which is a solvent) ever gets to the back side to clean them which is why some manufactures have started putting an additional injector ahead of the valves like a conventional PFI system to rectify this issue. The other "solution" is to simply clean the intake system with a solvent like CRC on a regular basis and install an oil catch can in the PCV system to reduce the build up of carbon deposits in the first place. (retired ASE Master Tech)

[@speedkar99]

Good input thanks

[@moephufnik7547]

Hyundai's original defect allocation was IMO BS. Engines have been failing for at least 5 years since 2011

[@It5M3Again]

Thank you. I have a 2019 kia sportage with the 2.4 that i bought new. I did the first oil change at around 1500 miles and ive done the rest every 6 months because i dont put 5000 miles on the engine in 6 months so do them ever 6 months instead. It now has 18000 miles on it. I hope it will last a long time.

[@MrDadMoo]

You're flat out wrong. It was an issue with metal burrs being left on the edges of the oil passages. After X amount of miles, those burrs would finally break off and cause oil starvation. It's not as if there were metal shavings floating around in the oil when the engines left the plant. Routine maintenance doesn't really play a factor in this recall. It's a machining process design issue.

[@dr2644]

@@MrDadMoo Appreciate your reply, however, the scenario you describe would be extremely unlikely.

[@rickbackous1041]

I had a 2014 Kia Optima with 130,000k on it and I got to say it was one of the best cars I have ever owned. Cruising in a Mazda CX-5 now which is the best car I've ever owned. When it comes time for replacement, I will consider both these brands. Good job on the video. I've seen several and you do a great job.

[@speedkar99]

Mazda is a good choice.

[@alnakba]

As a hyundai lube tech I witness this everyday. This is super helpful for my apprenticeship

[@speedkar99]

Sadness

[@Mrdubomb]

One of our customers had his engine replaced under warranty years ago, now this engine is failing (sets knock code and goes into limp mode thanks to software update) and dealer wont replace that motor. I would stay far away from this car company so you dont get screwed like him.

[@ut90J]

Hello, I just subbed so I am new here. Which engines are the best in your findings and which transmissions are the best in your findings. Which cars are the most reliable. I think these would make great video ideas. Thank you for your work!

[@95TurboSol]

That would be a great video! I know for GMC their trucks from the early 2000's had an engine and tranny that would go 250k+, I forget the exact engine code though. The Toyota Tundra of the late 2000's up to today is the same and the Toyota camery for most years is known as extremely reliable.

[@speedkar99]

If I'm judging by just engine and transmission alone (not including the car) I vote for a Honda K-series engine and probably it's manual transmission. Those are so strong and I have seen many with high mileage. Unfortunately the rest of the car tends to fall apart and nickel and dime you when things get old. The 1ZZ Toyota Corolla is a good motor too but you have to feed it alot of oil.

[@ut90J]

@@speedkar99 thank you for the reply! I think this would be a good video series. Maybe do top 5 most reliable engines, top 5 most reliable manual, automatic, etc., and top 5 most reliable overall. Love your content.

[@95TurboSol]

@@speedkar99 Good point, not only are K-series reliable, several versions of that engine can handle 500+ hp with stock internals, very well designed engine!

[@Redkit34]

02:10 Thanks I appreciate it and am binge watching your videos. I couldnt understand the ventilation valve here. If there is a PCV what ventilation valve is for and where ventilation connects to??????

[@EdDemonium]

I have that car and engine and couldn't be happier with it. I change the oil every 3 months and after going pass 115000 I've started adding "Engine Restore" to the oil and it still runs like new. Actually I've had the least problems with this car than any other car I've owned. 2012, over 115000 miles and not a single issue yet. "Knock On Wood." Thanks for the video though. Always good to know.

[@pingpong9656]

3 months seems super excessive - I do my oil changes every 5000km.

[@ThePrairieDogChannel]

Great engines, very consistent, blew right at 100000

[@kagoatleonard4019]

Lmaooo

[@karrenleonard8653]

@Kagoat Leonard I almost thought that was my reply at first glance but I knew it wasn't. .not wanting to be mean but I'm not sure about your first name.. do you know the meaning??

[@c4rn199]

I'd like to see how much metal is in the oil pump/balance shaft assembly. I've heard that is part of the issue aside from machining defects.

[@caribougoo349]

The metal shavings get stored in the oil passages by design lol

[@speedkar99]

I didn't get that with this engine unfortunately

[@c4rn199]

@@speedkar99 that sucks. I have a 2012 2.0T that's modified and been beaten every time I drive it. Amsoil 5w40 and wix xp filter every 7k miles. Have a 3 port catch can with pcv delete and do induction cleanings. The car is running full bolt ons, has been tuned since 45k miles and is running a bigger 22T turbo (original blew up at 190k. Still on it's original engine and trans and has 205k miles now. I also have a Mishimoto drain plug that has a neodymium magnet on it and I'm always pulling a small amount of metal shavings out of the engine. It still runs like a beast though.

[@moephufnik7547]

I pull apart the oil pump/balancer with every Hyundai 2.4 engine rebuild. There usually is little debris in the pump/balancer itself but the bearings are often impacted with some debris. Shell bearings have a softer surface specifically to absorb such particles and the shaft bearing surfaces are seldom scored.

[@Columbus1152]

We bought a 2015 Optima new, our Theta 2 went at about 65K miles, no warning at all and I was on the thruway when it happened. Sudden loss of power, dash was lit up with warning lights, but fortunately I was able to limp to an exit I was familiar with, it finally quit as I just pulled off, and we coasted to a final stop. KIA replaced the engine, absolutely no hassle at all, we had our car back in a little over a week, they towed it and gave us a loaner at no cost to us. So that was about 5 months ago, my only complaint is, the new engine (as in brand new), is a dog, nothing like the original. I was impressed with the power the original engine had for a non turbo 4 cyl, but I guess that power came at a cost. I spoke with the service manager about it, but all I get from him is, it's the same engine and it checks out with no issues. In my estimation it's down 15 HP or more. One other "rumor" I heard may be the Achilles heel on the Theta was that the main bearings weren't hefty enough for an engine making nearly 200 HP. So my guess their solution was to drop the compression ratio, hence, less HP.

[@danbush1249]

My Santa Fe engine locked up in the middle of an intersection , in the pouring rain . An A hole in a BMW was behind me just honking his horn for 5 minutes. I had to put a tow strap on the Santa Fe, and tow it the last 4 miles to the dealer with my Prius which never lets me down. You should of seen the guys standing around at Hyundai when I pulled in with my Prius with a Santa Fe a rope. lol

[@curbozerboomer1773]

The best move..is to buy the 6cyl engine they offer!...no problems with those, and they are powerful, and efficient too.

[@wayne3340]

My wife's 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe with the 3.3 L engine was super reliable. Not a single problem other than one marker light. Traded it in with 290000 kms on a 2016 Kia Sorento. Terrific vehicle. I believe it's an updated version of the same 3.3 L V6.

[@speedkar99]

Yeah the 3.3 will hold up better

[@m.b5777]

Wait till it catches fire while parked. Hyundai sent letters to people advising them to park away from buildings