Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ)
Hyundai/Kia · 2.4L GDI I4
2009–2020
"MASSIVE recall. Rod bearing failure, engine seizure, fire risk. Multiple class-actions. Worst modern engine disaster."
Mileage Risk Timeline
When problems typically appear — enter your mileage to see your risk zone
Known Issues 2
Rod bearing failure — class-action, fire risk
▸Knocking, sudden engine seizure, engine fire — no warning
$1.3B settlement. 3.9M vehicles. Rod bearing machining debris causes bearing failure, seizing, fire. AVOID entirely.
Do not buy any Theta II GDI in Greece regardless of price or condition.
Recall compliance — verify before purchase
▸Engine fire risk if unrecalled
Multiple recalls issued. Verify completion at Hyundai/Kia dealer by VIN before any consideration.
AVOID verdict stands regardless of recall status. Fire risk too high.
Models with Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) 2
Other Hyundai/Kia Engines
Gamma 1.6 MPI (G4FC)
1.6L NA I4
View details → Compare: Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) vs Gamma 1.6 MPI (G4FC)Gamma 1.4 MPI (G4FA)
1.4L NA I4
View details → Compare: Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) vs Gamma 1.4 MPI (G4FA)U/U2 1.6 CRDi (D4FB)
1.6L Diesel I4
View details → Compare: Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) vs U/U2 1.6 CRDi (D4FB)G6DH 3.5 V6
G6DH 3.5 V6 Lambda III
View details → Compare: Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) vs G6DH 3.5 V6Tuning Potential
Not recommended - too risky
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) reliable?
The Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) scores 25/100 with a verdict of AVOID. It has 2 documented issues with total repair costs between €5,000 and €20,000.
What are the common problems with the Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ)?
The most common issues are:
- Rod bearing failure — class-action, fire risk — critical, repair cost €5,000–€20,000, 50,000 km–150,000 km
- Recall compliance — verify before purchase — critical, repair cost €0–€0, 0 km–∞
What cars use the Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ)?
The Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) is found in:
- Santa Fe 2.4 GDI (2012–2018)
- Sorento 2.4 GDI (2014–2020)
How much does it cost to repair the Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ)?
Total potential repair costs for all 2 known issues range from €5,000 to €20,000. The most expensive issue is typically .
What years was the Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) produced?
The Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.4 GDI (G4KJ) was produced from 2009 to 2020. It is a 2359cc I4 petrol na engine.
Verdict and scores are editorial opinions based on aggregated data. Learn about our methodology. Not a substitute for professional inspection.