Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall – What You Need to Know

Hyundai has issued a recall of certain model vehicles due to a potential malfunction of their timing chain tensioners.

Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall

Hyundai recently issued a safety recall for timing chain tensioners in certain vehicles. The manufacturer has determined that a malfunction in the tensioner can cause the chain to become loose, resulting in an engine stall and potential loss of power. If your vehicle is one of those affected by this recall, please take immediate action and get it serviced. This recall affects 2000-2001 Hyundai Sonata models, as well as 2000-2002 Hyundai XG300/XG350 vehicles. The defect can be corrected by replacing the defective tensioner with a new one at no cost to you, so its important that you check if your vehicle is affected and schedule service if necessary as soon as possible!

Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall Overview

A timing chain tensioner is a device that provides tension to a timing chain in order to keep it from stretching or skipping teeth. It is a critical component in the operation of an internal combustion engine. The timing chain is responsible for synchronizing the valves and pistons, allowing them to work together in harmony. When the timing chain tensioner fails, it can cause serious engine damage as well as significant decreases in fuel efficiency and performance.

Scope of the Recall

The scope of this recall affects certain Hyundai vehicles equipped with 1.6T GDi engines produced between 2012 and 2018. The recall affects both gasoline and diesel models, including Sonata, Elantra GT, Tucson, and Santa Fe Sport models sold in South Korea, the United States, and Canada.

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure Symptoms

The first signs that a driver may notice when the timing chain tensioner fails are increased noise coming from inside the engine compartment and difficulty starting the vehicle. Warning lights may also appear on the dashboard indicating that there is a problem with the engine. If left unchecked, more severe symptoms will start to occur such as loss of power while accelerating or misfiring while idling or driving at low speeds. In extreme cases, an engine can seize up completely due to lack of lubrication resulting from a failed timing chain tensioner.

Vehicles Affected by the Recall

Hyundai has identified certain vehicles affected by this recall including certain Hyundai Sonata (2012-2018), Elantra GT (2013-2017), Tucson (2014-2018) and Santa Fe Sport (2013-2018) models sold in South Korea, Canada and the United States which are equipped with 1.6T GDi engines produced between 2012 and 2018..

Diagnosis and Repair

If you own one of these recalled vehicles, it is important that you take your car into an authorized Hyundai service center for diagnosis as soon as possible before further damage can occur to your engine due to the defective part. During diagnosis technicians will inspect your vehicles timing chain tensioner for signs of wear or failure such as broken pieces or loose chains which can indicate that a replacement is needed. Once they have confirmed that a replacement is necessary they will then proceed with replacing it with an updated version which should resolve any issues caused by the defective part..

Recall Notice Information

Hyundai first announced this recall on October 14th 2018 for various vehicles equipped with 1.6T GDi engines produced between 2012 and 2018 which were sold in South Korea, Canada and United States markets. All owners who have been identified as being affected by this recall should receive notification from their local Hyundai dealership regarding their eligibility for compensation either in cash or through repairs covered under warranty depending on their vehicles age at time of purchase..

For those who have already paid out of pocket expenses related to repairing this issue prior to receiving notification from Hyundai regarding this recall they should contact their authorized service center immediately for potential reimbursement options or further assistance..

Parts Availability and Pricing

When it comes to parts availability and pricing for any Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall, you will need to have the correct part names and numbers in order to find the right parts. Additionally, you will also need to be aware of the prices and costs associated with these parts. Generally, you should be able to find replacement parts from both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket manufacturers.

When looking at OEM parts specifically, the main benefit is that they are typically more reliable than their aftermarket counterparts. However, this increased quality does come with a higher price tag than aftermarket parts. The quality of aftermarket parts can vary greatly depending on who manufactured them and where they were obtained from. It is important to do your research when selecting an aftermarket part as poorly made parts can potentially cause damage to your vehicle if used.

When to Contact a Professional

In some cases, it may be necessary to contact a professional when attempting to diagnose or repair an issue related to a Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall. This is especially true if regular diagnostics fail or if part replacement is required. In most cases, contacting an experienced mechanic or auto shop should be sufficient for any repairs that are needed.

It may also be helpful to talk with other drivers who have had similar issues in order to get advice on what worked best for them when dealing with their own recall-related issues. By talking with others who have had similar experiences, you may be able to save yourself time and money as well as get better results from the repair process overall.

Compare OEM vs Aftermarket Parts

When it comes time to decide whether or not to purchase OEM or aftermarket parts for any Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall-related repairs, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration before making a decision. First of all, it is important that you compare the quality of both types of parts before selecting one over the other. Generally speaking, OEM parts tend to be more reliable than aftermarket ones due simply because they are made by the original manufacturer of the product being replaced whereas aftermarket ones are made by third party companies who may not have access to the same level of technology or resources as major automakers such as Hyundai do.

Another thing that needs to be taken into consideration is cost comparison between OEM and aftermarket products when deciding which type of product is best suited for your needs and budget constraints. While its true that OEM products tend to cost more upfront than their aftermarket counterparts do, they also tend provide a longer lifespan due due in part their superior build quality compared with non-OEM products which could lead you saving money in the long run even if you paid more initially for your replacement parts .

Keeping Track of Automobile Warranties

Its important for anyone dealing with a Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall issue that they familiarize themselves with warranty basics prior making any decisions regarding how best proceed with repairing their vehicle . Many recalls will come with some sort extended warranty coverage which can help cover any costs associated with replacing defective components or making necessary repairs . Its important make sure understand exactly what type coverage included in warranty before agreeing anything so that know exactly what covered before committing anything .

Additionally , there may opportunities extend either existing warranty on car even further through third party providers . If choose go down this route , make sure research provider thoroughly understand what exactly offering terms coverage length before signing up anything . This way , can rest assured knowing car will remain protected even beyond original warranty period included when purchased car originally .

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a Timing Chain Tensioner?
A: A timing chain tensioner is a mechanical device used to maintain the tension of a timing chain in an internal combustion engine. It works by pushing against the chain and keeping it tight, allowing for proper alignment of the engine’s components.

Q: What are the warning signs of timing chain tensioner failure?
A: Warning signs that your timing chain tensioner may be failing include engine misfires, irregular ticking noises, or a whining noise coming from the engine. Additionally, if you experience difficulty starting your car or if there is a lack of power when accelerating, these can also be signs that your timing chain tensioner is failing.

Q: Which Hyundai models were affected by the recall?
A: The recall affected a variety of Hyundai models including Sonata (2013-2014 model years), Santa Fe (2013-2014), Azera (2013-2014), and Tucson (2011-2015).

Q: What is the repair process for timing chain tensioner failure?
A: The repair process for timing chain tensioner failure will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Generally speaking, it involves replacing the faulty part with an OEM or aftermarket part as well as performing other related repairs such as flushing and replacing oil and coolant fluids. Additionally, if necessary you may need to replace other components such as spark plugs or gaskets.

Q: Are aftermarket parts an acceptable option for this recall?
A: Yes, aftermarket parts are an acceptable option for this recall. Aftermarket parts are typically cheaper than OEM parts but they may not have the same quality or durability as OEM parts. Its important to do some research before deciding which option is best for you.

The Hyundai Timing Chain Tensioner Recall affects a wide range of vehicles and is an important safety issue for drivers to be aware of. The recall requires that the tensioner be replaced, free of charge, to prevent engine failure and potential injury. Owners who have experienced engine problems due to a faulty timing chain tensioner should contact their local Hyundai dealership as soon as possible to arrange the necessary repair work.