Hyundai Getz
Four-cylinder turbodiesel with common-rail. Frugal and pulls well from low revs — just keep an eye on the DPF.
Surprisingly peppy
The Getz 1.6 is a genuine surprise — light body and direct steering make it properly entertaining on back roads.
Engine Weaknesses 5
D4FA uses a timing belt. Belt failures from 128,000 km with severe engine damage are documented. Replacement every 90,000 km strongly recommended; check immediately on older examples.
Symptoms: Squealing, belt flutter before breakage; then sudden engine stop with severe valve damage.
The hyundai-forums.com forum documents D4FA injectors with increased return flow (backflow), accelerated by sulphur-containing fuel. Difficult cold start is the typical sign.
Symptoms: Difficult cold start in cold weather; rough idle; power loss; black smoke.
The variable turbocharger on the D4FA can stick due to soot deposits on the VGT actuator. Result: reduced boost pressure and power loss. Professional cleaning can avoid full replacement.
Symptoms: Power loss at full load; turbo whistle absent; limp mode; increased fuel consumption.
Some D4FA vehicles show start difficulties in sub-zero temperatures due to insufficient pressure build-up in the fuel rail. Defective high-pressure pump identified as a common cause.
Symptoms: Engine cranks poorly or not at all in frost; multiple start attempts required; possibly no fault code.
Classic CRDi problem: the D4FA intake manifold and throttle body fill with soot deposits from the EGR circuit. Cleaning with brake cleaner is widely used as a forum fix.
Symptoms: Poor throttle response; limp mode; check engine light; increased consumption; black smoke.
