2002 Hyundai XG350

2002 Hyundai XG350

Overview

The 2002 Hyundai XG350 was a mid-size luxury sedan that aimed to offer premium features at a competitive price point. While generally considered a decent value, like any vehicle of its age, it has certain areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior components. Understanding these potential issues can help owners anticipate and address them proactively, ensuring the longevity and smooth operation of their XG350.

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Engine

3.5L V6 (G6CU)

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, loss of power, ticking or rattling noises from the engine.
• Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys. In case of failure, potential valve and piston damage may require more extensive engine repair.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, crankshaft seal).
• Cost: $300 - $800

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (F5A51)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping out of gear, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or in severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement.
• Cost: $500 - $3000+

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Strut Mount Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights illuminating without cause.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the Body Control Module.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, dead battery, electrical components malfunctioning.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

Clear Coat Peeling / Fading

• Symptoms: Paint losing its shine, developing a chalky appearance, or clear coat flaking off, particularly on horizontal surfaces.
• Solution: Professional repainting or touch-up work.
• Cost: $500 - $3000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding / Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy or yellowed appearance of the plastic lenses.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents, regardless of fan speed setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor and/or blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Leather Upholstery

Cracking / Tearing

• Symptoms: Visible cracks, tears, or wear on leather seats, especially on driver’s side.
• Solution: Leather repair kits, professional upholstery repair, or seat cover installation.
• Cost: $100 - $800

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Summary Verdict

The 2002 Hyundai XG350, while offering a comfortable and feature-rich experience for its time, exhibits some common reliability concerns typical of vehicles of this age. The 3.5L V6 engine can be susceptible to timing belt issues if maintenance is neglected, and oil leaks are not uncommon. The automatic transmission may develop shifting problems over time. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts are also reported to wear out. Electrically, the Body Control Module can cause various gremlins, and alternators have a finite lifespan. Exteriorly, paint degradation and headlight hazing are aesthetic issues to watch for. Interiorly, HVAC blower motors and leather upholstery wear are the most frequently cited problems. Proactive maintenance, especially regarding the timing belt and fluid changes, is crucial for mitigating major issues.