2000 Hyundai Tiburon

The 2000 Hyundai Tiburon, also known as the Hyundai Coupe in some markets, is a sporty front-wheel drive coupe. For the 2000 model year, it was available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing approximately 140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L V6 engine, producing approximately 185 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, depending on the engine. Owners generally appreciate the Tiburon for its sporty styling, affordability, and responsive handling. Common complaints include build quality concerns, reliability issues, and limited rear passenger space.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Check Engine Light - Faulty Oxygen Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the oxygen sensors are stored. Symptoms may include decreased fuel economy and rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor(s). It’s advisable to replace both upstream and downstream sensors for optimal performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfire - Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and a noticeable loss of power. A code reader will typically display misfire codes for a specific cylinder.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil. Inspect spark plugs and replace if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L V6 Cylinder

• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Lack of engine power, and in severe cases, catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: The timing belt must be replaced based on the maintenance schedule (usually every 60,000 miles). Failure to replace the timing belt can lead to more severe damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light - Faulty Oxygen Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the oxygen sensors are stored. Symptoms may include decreased fuel economy and rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor(s). It’s advisable to replace both upstream and downstream sensors for optimal performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (Both Engines)

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. It is advisable to resurface or replace the flywheel at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Start by checking and replacing the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, a valve body rebuild or replacement may be required. In severe cases, a full transmission rebuild may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts or shocks. It’s advisable to replace them in pairs (front or rear) for balanced handling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Bushings/End Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar bushings and/or end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows that fail to operate or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dim Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights that appear dim, even with new bulbs. Can be caused by corroded connections, a failing ground, or a failing headlight switch.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean headlight connections. Replace the headlight switch if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on various parts of the body, but it is more common near the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Remove the rust and repaint the surface. Depending on the severity, you may need to replace the damaged body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Door Handles (Interior)
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic interior door handles are prone to breaking, making it difficult to open the door from the inside.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Hyundai Tiburon, while offering sporty styling and decent performance for its price point, suffers from several common issues. The most prevalent engine issues revolve around the 2.0L Inline-4 and 2.0L V6. Transmission issues with both the manual and automatic can lead to costly repairs. Suspension wear is typical for a vehicle of this age. Electrical problems, along with interior and exterior concerns, contribute to the overall cost of ownership. While individual repair costs may seem manageable, the accumulation of these issues can make maintaining a 2000 Tiburon a costly endeavor.