2003 Hyundai HMD 230

The 2003 Hyundai Tiburon (also known as the Hyundai Coupe in some markets, and designated as the HMD 230 internally by Hyundai) is a sporty coupe offering decent handling and a stylish exterior for its time. Engine options typically included a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder engine (G4GC) producing around 138 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7L V6 engine (G6BA) producing around 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual (V6 only), or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Tiburon’s sporty styling and affordability but often cite concerns about build quality, interior materials, and long-term reliability.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder (G4GC)

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls intermittently, check engine light illuminates with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, especially at idle. The engine may surge in RPM.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the Idle Air Control Valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6 (G6BA)

• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, potential engine failure if the belt snaps.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and water pump according to the maintenance schedule (typically every 60,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell, visible oil on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, especially between gears. Transmission may slip or not engage properly.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, the transmission may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $100-200+, Rebuild/Replacement $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, particularly into 2nd or 3rd gear. Difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Check and replace the transmission fluid. If the issue persists, the synchros in the affected gears may be worn and require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $50 - $150+, Repair/Replacement $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noise from the suspension, loose steering, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushings $100 - $300+ per arm, Control Arm Replacement $200-$600+ per arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminates, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and around body panels, especially in regions with salted roads.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dash Cover $50-150+, Dashboard Replacement $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the roof, sagging down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Hyundai Tiburon can be a stylish and affordable choice for a sporty coupe. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly those related to the engine (timing belt, valve cover gaskets), transmission (especially with the automatic), and suspension (strut mounts, bushings). Electrical problems like window motors and alternators are also frequently reported. The cost of repairs can range from relatively minor for sensor replacements and fluid flushes to significant for engine or transmission overhauls. Rust is also a major concern, especially in areas with harsh winter conditions. Addressing these potential issues proactively through thorough inspections and regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the vehicle.