2004 Hyundai XG350

The 2004 Hyundai XG350 is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. It came equipped with a single engine option, the 3.5L V6, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5L engine produced approximately 194 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the XG350 for its value and smooth ride, but common complaints include issues with the car’s reliability as it ages, specifically related to electrical components and suspension wear.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the location of the leak.
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 3.5L V6 is an interference engine. A broken timing belt can cause catastrophic engine damage as valves collide with pistons. Symptoms include engine not starting, loud clicking or grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys. If the belt has already broken, the engine may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ for timing belt replacement; $2,000 - $5,000+ for engine repair/replacement if the belt breaks.
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall or not start at all. There may be a check engine light on the dash with a code for the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or erratic shifting, especially between gears. This can be accompanied by clunking noises.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 for fluid flush; $500 - $1500+ for valve body repair/replacement; $2,000 - $4,000+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
• Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip, especially during acceleration or when shifting gears. The engine RPMs may increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Typically requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts. May also require replacing the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle.
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose handling, wandering steering, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per control arm.

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working, work intermittently, or move slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dim headlights, difficulty starting the engine, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting. Clicking noise coming from the starter.
  • Solution: Replacing the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light may be on. The horn, steering wheel controls, and/or cruise control functions may not be operational.
  • Solution: Replacing the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the undercarriage and suspension components in areas with salt and moisture exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, rust converter, or component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the severity. $100 - $1000+

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2004 Hyundai XG350 presents a range of potential issues as it ages. Engine and transmission problems, such as oil leaks, timing belt failure, and harsh shifting, can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues, like strut mount failure and power window problems, are also common. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite substantial, potentially making maintenance a significant factor to consider when purchasing or owning this vehicle.