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2008 Hyundai Tiburon

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2008 Hyundai Tiburon, also known as the Hyundai Coupe in some markets, is a sporty two-door coupe that aimed to offer style and fun at an affordable price. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder engine producing around 138 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.7L V6 engine producing around 172 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the 2.0L engine, and a 6-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the 2.7L engine. Owners often praised the Tiburon for its sleek design, sporty handling, and value. Common complaints centered on the relatively weak base engine (2.0L), the outdated 4-speed automatic transmission, and some interior plastic quality.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

  • Rough Idle/Stalling
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may exhibit a rough idle, particularly when cold. Some owners reported stalling issues, especially at idle or when coming to a stop.
    • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body and Idle Air Control (IAC) valve can sometimes resolve this issue. In more severe cases, the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and the oil pan gasket, are relatively common on higher-mileage V6 Tiburons.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets and/or the oil pan gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Service
    • Description/Symptoms: The 2.7L V6 is an interference engine. The timing belt is recommended to be changed around every 60,000 miles. Failure to replace the timing belt could cause catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt breaks.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner to prevent engine damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission is known to exhibit harsh shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear. Some owners have also reported slipping issues, especially at higher mileage.
    • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change may help in some cases. More severe cases may require a rebuild or replacement of the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for a fluid flush; $1500 - $3000+ for a rebuild or replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out relatively quickly, especially if the vehicle is driven on rough roads. Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and noise from the suspension.
    • Solution: Replacing the struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle, depending on parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sway Bar Link Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise, especially when going over bumps or turning. The sway bar links are a common wear item.
    • Solution: Replace the sway bar links with new ones.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per link, depending on labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Failed Oxygen Sensors
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor fuel economy, rough running engine. Oxygen sensors can fail due to age and contamination.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor, depending on location and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent flickering or complete failure of the instrument cluster. Gauges may stop working or display incorrect readings.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the repair needed.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters or where salt is used on the roads. Common rust locations include the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and painting. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the severity and location of the rust.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Center Console Latch
    • Description/Symptoms: The latch mechanism on the center console lid is prone to breaking.
    • Solution: Replace the latch or the entire center console lid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become misaligned, leak, or fail to open/close properly. The motor or the tracks may be damaged.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, realign the sunroof, or replace damaged tracks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Hyundai Tiburon, while stylish and affordable, has some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues include oil leaks in the V6 and rough idling in the 4-cylinder. The automatic transmission can suffer from harsh shifting and slipping. Suspension components like struts and sway bar links tend to wear. Electrical issues include oxygen sensor failure and instrument cluster problems. Rust, especially in certain climates, is a significant concern. Interior issues include the center console latch and sunroof problems. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission work or extensive rust repair, can be costly. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the car and be prepared for potential maintenance.

Hyundai, Tiburon
Hyundai Tiburon 2008
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