2003 Hyundai Tiburon

Introduction

The 2003 Hyundai Tiburon is a sporty coupe that was available with various engine and transmission options. The 2.0L inline-4 engine produces 140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.7L V6 engine generates 172 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The Tiburon was offered with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Overall, the Tiburon is known for its affordable price, sporty handling, and comfortable interior. However, it has also been reported to have some issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Engine

• Head gasket failure: Blown head gasket leading to coolant and oil leaks, overheating, and misfires. Solution: Replacement of the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: N/A
• VVT solenoid problems: Malfunctioning Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid causing rough idling, stalling, and reduced engine performance. Solution: Replacement of the VVT solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A
• Oil leaks: Leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gasket and rear main seal. Solution: Replacement of leaking seals and gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ Recalls: N/A

2.7L V6 Engine

• Timing belt failure: Broken or worn timing belt leading to catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Regular replacement of the timing belt and tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+ (including labor) Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 04V142000
• Intake manifold gasket leak: Leaking intake manifold gasket causing vacuum leaks, reduced engine performance, and misfires. Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear grinding or difficulty shifting: Worn or damaged synchronizers, shift linkage, or clutch issues causing gear grinding or difficulty engaging gears. Solution: Replacement or repair of affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: N/A

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping or erratic shifting: Faulty transmission solenoid, torque converter, or valve body causing slipping gears, delayed shifting, or hard shifts. Solution: Repair or replacement of transmission components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 03V200000

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: Worn or damaged strut mounts causing clunking or knocking noises, reduced ride quality, and misalignment. Solution: Replacement of strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: N/A
• Rear sway bar end links: Loose or worn sway bar end links causing knocking or rattling noises, reduced stability, and poor handling. Solution: Replacement of sway bar end links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Faulty alternator leading to charging system issues, battery drain, and electrical problems. Solution: Replacement of the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ Recalls: N/A
• Power window failure: Malfunctioning power window motor, switch, or wiring causing slow or inoperative power windows. Solution: Repair or replacement of affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Rust on rear fenders: Corrosion and rust formation on the rear fenders, particularly around the wheel arches. Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of rust Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Climate control issues: Malfunctioning climate control system, including AC compressor failure, blower motor problems, or blend door actuator issues. Solution: Repair or replacement of affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ Recalls: N/A
• Door lock actuator failure: Faulty door lock actuators causing difficulty locking or unlocking doors. Solution: Replacement of door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A

Summary

Overall, the 2003 Hyundai Tiburon has been reported to have some potential issues, including engine head gasket failure, timing belt failure, transmission problems, and various electrical and interior issues. While some of these issues can be minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider the estimated cost to fix before making a purchase decision.