The Hyundai 3.8 Lambda II RS MPi engine made its debut in the 2009 Genesis and Genesis Coupe. In 2012, Hyundai introduced the Lambda II GDI variant. The 3.8L V6 offers a respectable 286-348 horsepower and 264-295 lb-ft. It’s also an efficient engine that delivers solid fuel economy and reliability. No engine is perfect, though, and no exceptions apply here. In this article, we discuss Hyundai Genesis 3.8 Lambda engine problems, reliability, specs, and more.
What Cars Use the 3.8 GDI & MPI?
It’s important to differentiate the two primary variants of the Lambda II 3.8L V6 engine. The switch to the 3.8 GDI engine is a great change, but does come with one potential flaw – carbon build-up. Carbon deposits are a topic we’ll talk about in-depth shortly. For now, let’s simply lay out the two Hyundai Genesis engines.
Hyundai 3.8 MPI
MPI engines are the original variant of the Lambda II RS engines. MPI stands for multi-point injection. This 3.8 Lambda engine is in the following years and models:
- 2009-2011 Hyundai Genesis
- 2009-2015 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- 2013-2018 Kia K9
Hyundai MPI engines deliver 286-312 horsepower depending on model. The Genesis Coupe actually offers a bit more power than the sedan models.
3.8 Lambda II GDI
Next is the Hyundai 3.8 Lambda II GDI engine where GDI stands for gasoline direct injection. It’s excellent fuel injection technology that allows for better performance and fuel economy. As such, compression increases to 11.5:1. This variant is in the following Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia models:
- 2016-2020 Genesis G80
- 2015-present Genesis G90
- 2012-2015 Hyundai Equus
- 2012-2016 Hyundai Genesis
- 2012-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- 2012-present Kia K9
Genesis Coupe models come with up to 348 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Very good performance for a NA 3.8L V6 engine. A lot of the power increase is thanks to direct injection. However, carbon build-up is a flaw of the 3.8 Lambda GDI engine that we’ll discuss later.
Genesis 3.8L V6 Specs
Specs for the 3.8 Lambda II MPI and GDI engines are as follows:
| Engine | Hyundai Lambda II RS GDI/MPI |
| Displacement | 3,778 cc (3.8L) |
| Configuration | V6 |
| Aspiration | Natural |
| Head/Block Material | Aluminum |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 24 vavle |
| Bore x Stroke | 96mm x 87mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.4 : 1 (MPI), 11.5 : 1 (GDI) |
| Horsepower | 286-348 HP |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 264-295 TQ |
Both variants of the Hyundai 3.8 share the same basic design. The MPI and GDI are both 3.8L V6 engines with aluminum heads and blocks. They also share the same 96mm x 87mm bore and stroke and DOHC 24-valve design.
The main difference is simply port fuel injection versus direct injection. The change did enable a compression ratio increase for the 3.8 Lambda GDI engine. Together the updates allow the GDI to produce up to 348 horsepower in the Genesis Coupe.
Common Hyundai 3.8 Engine Problems
A few of the most common problems on Hyundai Genesis 3.8 MPI & GDI engines include:
- Carbon build-up
- Oil leaks
- Transmission
Through the rest of the article we will discuss the above Genesis engine problems in-depth. Though, it’s necessary to add some housekeeping notes before moving along. We’re calling these among the most common issues for good reason. It doesn’t mean they’re truly common in the actual sense of the definition. Rather, when Hyundai 3.8 problems occur these are a few of the most common areas.
That said, the 3.8 Lambda II RS engines do offer pretty good reliability overall. All cars and engines are prone to issues, though. Anyways, we will circle back to the Genesis 3.8 reliability topic at the end of the article.
1) 3.8 Lambda II GDI Carbon Build-Up
First up we have a topic unique to the newer 3.8L GDI engines. Carbon build-up is a topic we address often for direct injection. It’s awesome technology, but carbon build-up is a minor drawback. All engines produce some oil blow-by. That oil makes its way onto intake ports and valves. The MPI engine sprays fuel into the intake ports and detergents wipe away any oil deposits.
However, the Hyundai 3.8 GDI engine doesn’t have that benefit. Fuel sprays directly into the cylinders, so there is nothing to wipe away oil deposits. Over time, the oil blow-by sticks to valves and ports and forms what’s known as carbon build-up.
It’s true that modern GDI engines are much better at minimizing blow-by and build-up. However, without fuel washing over intake valves and ports there’s no perfect solution. Expect carbon build-up on Genesis 3.8L V6 engines to be an issue around 100,000 to 120,000+ miles.
Carbon build-up doesn’t pose any major threats to reliability or longevity. However, as deposits form they begin restricting air-flow. This can lead to a number of symptoms and drivability issues. It’s not absolutely required, but we think walnut blasting is a good idea every ~100,000 miles.
Genesis 3.8 GDI Carbon Build-Up Symptoms
Some symptoms of carbon build-up problems on the Hyundai 3.8 Lambda II RS GDI engine may include:
- Misfires
- Rough idle / stuttering
- Poor performance / power loss
As carbon build-up occurs it can cause inconsistent air-flow into the cylinders. This may lead to misfires which in turn can cause rough idle and/or stuttering while accelerating. Poor overall performance is possible when carbon build-up becomes severe.
Power loss is a major symptom of 3.8L Lambda carbon build-up. However, it can be the hardest symptom to notice. Deposits build over the course of years and years and tens of thousands of miles. The gradual loss of power and performance can make it tough to notice.
3.8L V6 GDI Walnut Blasting
Walnut blasting remains the most effective way of removing carbon build-up from intake valves. It’s a process that involves removing the intake manifold. Walnut media shells are then blasted into the intake ports with a shop-vac. Walnut blasting the Hyundai 3.8 V6 engine is a few hour process, and labor will likely run about $350-600.
There are also various intake sprays designed to help clean intake valves. If used consistently these sprays may help slow the build-up of carbon deposits on the 3.8 GDI Lambda engine. However, once build-up is excessive they usually aren’t an effective solution.
2) Hyundai 3.8 Oil Leak Problems
Oil leaks on the Hyundai 3.8L Lambda II engine is a general topic. It’s likely not even fair to call a true issue for a couple reasons. One, there aren’t any frequent design flaws that cause the MPI or GDI engines to leak. Two, all cars and combustion engines are prone to oil leaks as they accrue age and mileage.
That said, a number of Hyundai/Kia/Genesis 3.8 Lambda engines have run into issues with oil filter parts. These oil leaks are typically simple fixes due to poor filter installation. It’s usually something to do with a washer, o-ring, or drain plug. Not a major issue but it’s a good idea to check for any leaks after any oil change.
Our main focal point is a few oil leaks that become more common at 8+ years and 100,000+ miles. Look for valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and main seal oil leaks. This isn’t an exhaustive list of all possible leaks on the Lambda GDI & MPI engines. However, those are a few common areas for leaks as these engines continue to age.
V6 Lambda II RS Oil Leak Symptoms
A few possible symptoms of oil leaks on the Hyundai Genesis 3.8L engine include:
- Visible leaks
- Burning oil smell
- Light smoke
Visible oil leaks are a dead giveaway. If you’re noticing drops of oil on the ground then the 3.8 V6 likely has an oil leak somewhere. Check the oil filter, oil pan, and main seal areas. Valve cover gaskets lie towards the top of the Hyundai 3.8 Lambda engine. They may leak oil onto hot components and oil burns off before reaching the ground.
As such, burning oil smells or light smoke from the engine bay are possible symptoms. Some oil may still drip to the ground, but small leaks will likely burn off first.
Hyundai 3.8 Oil Leak Fix
The exact fix and repairs for an oil leak obviously depend on the origin. Fortunately, most oil leaks are inexpensive o-rings, gaskets, seals, etc. They’re parts that usually only run about $10-50 for the 3.8L Lambda II motor. It makes oil leaks a cheap repair for the DIY crowd.
Labor is the part that can be tough to swallow on oil leaks. Valve cover gaskets are a couple hours to replace and will likely be about $200-400 in labor. However, things like main seals can be tough to replace driving labor costs to $500+.
3) Genesis 3.8 V6 Transmission Issues
Although the transmission doesn’t qualify as a true engine problem it’s an important part of the drivetrain. In 2012 – along with the move to the 3.8 Lambda GDI engine – Hyundai also moved to their own 8-speed transmission. Previous 2009-2011 Genesis models use a ZF 6-speed, which is a reliable transmission.
However, the 2012+ 8-speed did have some early issues. As a side note – we’re simply out of stuff to write about for Hyundai 3.8 engine problems. The transmission issues are a pretty minor point. Most problems were on early 2012 models, and it makes sense there were some early kinks to work out.
The long factory warranty is a great thing to have here. Most early transmission failures occur under warranty, and it seems to be mostly a non-issue as of now. Sure, the fluky transmission failures still happen but they’re few and far between. All in all, the ZF 6-speed in older Genesis models and the newer 8-speed are both great auto trans all around.
Note – one complaint is that the factory transmission software isn’t the greatest. There are transmission tunes
3.8 Lambda II 8-Speed AT Symptoms
Symptoms that indicate the Hyundai Genesis 8-speed transmission is slipping include:
- Higher RPM’s than usual
- Rough shifts
- Hanging / slow shifts
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but these are a few of the most common symptoms. As transmission slip the RPM’s will jump higher than they should while accelerating. The Hyundai 8-speed transmission might also shift rough. Lastly, hanging shifts or slow shifts can indicate slipping.
Hyundai 3.8 Genesis Reliability
Is the Hyundai Genesis 3.8 Lambda II MPI and GDI engine reliable? Yes, we believe these cars and engines earn above average remarks for reliability. There really aren’t many major flaws or defects with the Hyundai 3.8L V6 Lambda engines. Carbon build-up is a minor concern on 3.8 GDI engines. However, it’s a small trade-off for direct injection which provides great performance and economy.
Otherwise, we didn’t have much to discuss with Hyundai 3.8 problems. Oil leaks become more common as the engines surpass 8 years and 100,000 miles. That’s true of most any car, though. The 8-speed AT on 3.8 GDI engines also had some issues, but it seems to be a great overall transmission.
Of course, maintenance is key to Hyundai 3.8 engine reliability. Use quality oils, change fluids on time, and fix problems if or when they occur. It’s basic stuff that should be done on any car. Do all of this and chances are the Hyundai 3.8 will provide great reliability for years to come. There are plenty over 150,000 miles with few issues along the way.
What’s your experience with the Hyundai 3.8 Lambda engine? Are you considering one?
Leave a comment and let us know!
Or check out our Hyundai 2.0T engine problems article
FAQs
Hyundai Genesis Coupe Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 16th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars.
Is the 3.8 V6 a good engine Hyundai? ›
While a proven engine with lots of power and torque, it has common problems, as most engines do. The Hyundai 3.8 MPI V6 engine delivers between 286 and 312 hp. It's a naturally aspirated DOHC 24 valve with between 264 and 295 ft-lb of torque.
How much HP can a Genesis 3.8 handle? ›
Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Turbo: 6 PSI for ~525 HP.
Is Hyundai Genesis engine reliable? ›
The average cost of maintaining a Hyundai Genesis year-round is $583 and is among the higher echelon of sedans with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.
Is Genesis more reliable than Audi? ›
While JD Power and Associates gave the 2020 Audi A4 a 3 out of 5 reliability rating, the 2020 Genesis G70 got a whopping 5 out of 5 rating! Put another way, Audi owners were about as happy and experienced about as many problems as the average car owner.
Which Genesis model is best? ›
Best Genesis Cars & SUVs
- 2023 Genesis GV80. Pros. Trendsetting design. ...
- 2023 Genesis GV60. Pros. Fresh design. ...
- 2023 Genesis GV70. Pros. Precisely tuned suspension gives it a sporty feel. ...
- 2023 Genesis G80. Combined Mileage: 19 - 26 mpg. Overview. ...
- 2023 Genesis G70. Pros. ...
- 2023 Genesis G90. Pros. ...
- 2023 Genesis Electrified G80. Pros.
In box stock form, the 3.8L Essex V-6 produces 145-150 hp at the crankshaft.
What is the strongest V6 engine? ›
1/10 Ferrari 296 GTB (820 hp, 545 lb-ft)
The 296 GTB is fitted with a brand-new twin-turbo V6 engine, mated to two electric motors to produce a combined 820 hp and 545 lb-ft of torque. This is much higher than any other V6 on the market, exceeding most V8s and rivaling the most powerful V12s.
Who builds Genesis engines? ›
Who Owns Genesis? Genesis, or Genesis Motors, LLC., is the luxury vehicle manufacturing division of the Hyundai Motor Group. So, the Hyundai Motor Group is the owner of Genesis Motors.
Does Genesis 3.8 need premium gas? ›
Genesis Service Center
Premium Gas is recommended for Genesis vehicles for optimal performance. However, you can also use regular gas in your Genesis, which can result in an average of 20-25 cents of savings a gallon at the pump.
No matter which type of Genesis model you drive, we suggest using premium fuel for your vehicle, especially if you drive a 2021 Genesis G70 Sedan.
What is the most reliable Genesis car? ›
All three land in the top five for dependability, with Kia the most dependable overall brand and Genesis the most reliable luxury marque.
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Rank by Manufacturer:
| Rank | Manufacturer | Problems per 100 Vehicles |
|---|
| 1. | Kia | 145 |
| 2. | Buick | 147 |
| 3. | Hyundai | 148 |
| 4. | Genesis | 155 |
27 more rows11 Feb 2022
Overall, the 2021 Genesis G80 has a better value overall when compared to its rivals, including the 2021 Lexus ES 350. The Genesis is less expensive than many other midsize luxury sedans on the market, but it also comes loaded with more features and amenities than most.
Is Lexus more reliable than Genesis? ›
Proven Reliability
Of the 28 brands taking part in the survey (which include both mainstream and luxury brands), Lexus ranked highest in reliability3. Compared to Genesis which earned a rank of 25th out of 28 brands, Lexus is the obvious choice.
Is Genesis better than Lincoln? ›
Whether one chooses the 2021 Genesis GV80 or 2021 Lincoln Aviator may come down to one simple difference: capacity. The Genesis is best for five, with a relatively useless optional third row, while the Aviator seats seven adults in comfort.
Is Genesis a high maintenance car? ›
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Hyundai Genesis is $565, compared to an average of $976 for luxury fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Is Genesis high maintenance? ›
With your new Genesis, you can expect maintenance to cost you around $565 per year, which is much lower than the average for luxury cars. That doesn't mean you shouldn't still try to save money where you can, though, and your car insurance is one place where saving money doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality.
Is the Genesis comparable to a BMW? ›
Further, the BMW has the more pleasing and assertive engine sound, as well as an advantage in paddle-shift response and speed, versus the Genesis. The BMW offers superior highway driving range as well, more easily handling longer trips with fewer stops to refuel.
What is comparable to the Genesis? ›
The gutsy Audi A4, the sporty BMW 2-Series, and the elegant Volvo S60 are just some of the competitors you should take a look at if you're thinking of buying a Genesis G70.
Which Genesis gets the best gas mileage? ›
The 2021 Genesis G80 is the most fuel-efficient Genesis model, as it offers 32 highway mpg. However, it's a close contest, as the 2021 Genesis G70 offers up to 30 highway mpg.
GM built and installed more than 25 million of the 3800 model V6 engines in its vehicles between 1975 and 2008. The V6 was one of the company's most popular engines for many years and is included on the WardsAuto's list of the best engines of the 20th century. Less than 6 percent are listed in the recall.
Who makes the 3.8 engine? ›
Chrysler 3.3 & 3.8 engine
| 3.3 & 3.8 engine |
|---|
| Manufacturer | Chrysler Corporation (1989-1998) DaimlerChrysler AG (1998–2007) Chrysler LLC (2007–2009) Chrysler Group LLC (2009-2011) |
| Production | 1989–2011 |
| Layout |
| Configuration | Naturally aspirated 60° V6 |
21 more rowsThe VR is a series of twin-turbo DOHC V6 automobile engines from Nissan with displacements varying from 3.0 to 3.8 L (2,997 to 3,799 cc).
What is the best 6 cylinder car to buy? ›
- These Are The Best Cars With V6 Power. ...
- 2022 Ram 1500. ...
- 2023 Lincoln Navigator. ...
- 2022 Audi A7. ...
- 2023 Honda Odyssey. ...
- 2022 Porsche Panamera. ...
- 2023 Ford F-150. ...
- 2022 Porsche Cayenne Hybrid.
So here we are to show you the most reliable engines ever made.
- 8/10 Honda B Series Engine.
- 7/10 Honda K Series Engine.
- 6/10 Lexus 1UZFE Engine.
- 5/10 Lexus 2UR-GSE Engine.
- 4/10 BMW M57 Diesel Engine.
- 3/10 Nissan RB26DETT Engine.
- 2/10 Mercedes-Benz OM617 Diesel Engine.
- 1/10 General Motors LS Engine.
As for V6 disadvantages, aside from not being as well-balanced as a straight-six and more difficult to maintain, it's also a harder engine to work on if you're the type of person who enjoys getting your hands dirty as a hobby.
Is Genesis a Japanese motor? ›
Genesis Motor, LLC, commonly referred to as Genesis (Korean: 제네시스, romanized: Jenesiseu), is the luxury vehicle division of the South Korean vehicle manufacturer Hyundai Motor Company.
Does Genesis use Hyundai engines? ›
Early models include a choice of four engines (Lambda 3.0 GDi, Lambda 3.3 GDi, Lambda 3.8 GDi, Tau 5.0 GDi), rear or all-wheel-drive.
...
Second generation (DH; 2013)
| Second generation (DH) |
|---|
| Model years | 2015–2016 2017–2020 (as Genesis G80) |
18 more rowsThe 2022 Genesis G90 AWD, a powerful luxury sedan that runs on its 5.0L GDI DOHC 32-Valve V8 D-CVVT engine, can accelerate with 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque.
What kind of gas does 3.8 V6 Genesis Coupe take? ›
However, remember this: when a premium fuel engine runs on regular fuel, there's a risk of combustion of the fuel mix before the spark plug even lights up. This causes a phenomenon called knocking, which is likely to damage the engine. Although Mazda recommends using premium fuel, they don't require it.
What happens if you put regular gas in an engine that requires premium? ›
Because regular has lower octane, it is more prone to detonation. Burning regular in an engine designed for premium on a long-term basis or under heavy loads can cause engine knock, and that in turn can damage the pistons, valves or spark plugs.
Is premium gas good for a V6 engine? ›
Some owners of vehicles with a V6 engine may swear on only filling up with premium gas. However, there is no need to use premium at the pump. What is this? Save some cents and still enjoy quality performance and horsepower from your V6 engine with regular gas.
Is premium gas better for your engine? ›
Higher octane allows engines to have higher compression ratios (for a more energetic explosion), more advanced ignition timing or forced-air induction like turbochargers or superchargers. They perform best when fed premium fuel.
Should I pump regular or premium gas? ›
The octane rating of gas your car runs best on depends on how the engine is designed. Typically, high-performance cars require premium, because their engines have higher compression ratios, while other cars can run just fine on lower octane gas.
Do Hyundai Genesis have transmission problems? ›
It's a type of car problem that's not hard to notice. 2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe transmission problems could include shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, a feeling of shakiness, or whistling noises and a burning smell coming from under the hood.
What problems do Genesis have? ›
The most common problems owners of the 2022 Genesis GV70 are complaining about to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) relate to the powertrain. But there are also complaints about the GV70's windshield cracking, brakes malfunctioning, as well as suspension problems.
Why are Genesis cars not popular? ›
Their sales started tanking, and there were conspiracy theories everywhere. Some people even attributed their bad sales to the fact that the brand didn't have an SUV in their lineup. While SUVs have a high sale margin, there's not much they would have done for Genesis back then.
Does Hyundai Genesis have timing belt or chain? ›
Newer models use timing belts made of polyurethane and Kevlar for long life and durability. They can go as long as 100,000 miles although it's always a good idea to change it before then. Belt failure can cause extensive damage to the valves, pistons and other internal parts of the engine.
Where does Genesis rank in reliability? ›
On the heels of our consecutive U.S. Initial Quality Study coups in 2018 and 2019, J.D. Power deemed the Genesis brand #1 overall in their 2020 Vehicle Dependability study.
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Service Desktop Hours.
Rankings & Research. The 2023 Genesis G80's #2 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize Cars category. Currently the Genesis G80 has a score of 8.5 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Is Genesis just a fancy Hyundai? ›
Genesis Motors is the luxury division of Hyundai. Known for its standout styling and performance-minded engineering, Genesis may be a newer luxury brand but it's certainly made a name for itself.
How long do Genesis Motors last? ›
A Genesis G70 should typically last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles with proper maintenance and conservative driving habits. If you drive 15,000 miles per year, this equates to 13 to 17 years of normal use before requiring expensive repairs.
Is the Hyundai Genesis 3.8 fast? ›
The Power And Efficiency Of The Engine
The car and its engine can hit a top speed of 149 mph, which would leave its younger siblings way behind. The original 2010 models of the Genesis Coupe would struggle to come close to 140 mph.
Are Genesis cars good quality? ›
We find the latest Genesis models impressive in their ride and handling balance, nice levels of fit and finish, and lots of standard advanced driver assistance systems. Unfortunately the once easy to use controls have become more complicated. The brand's overall reliability has improved as of late.
Does Genesis have high maintenance? ›
The Hyundai Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 4th out of 32 for all car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models. The average annual repair cost for a Hyundai is $468, which means it has above average ownership costs.
Is Lexus or Genesis more reliable? ›
Proven Reliability
Of the 28 brands taking part in the survey (which include both mainstream and luxury brands), Lexus ranked highest in reliability3. Compared to Genesis which earned a rank of 25th out of 28 brands, Lexus is the obvious choice.
Is Genesis better than Lexus? ›
Overall, the 2021 Genesis G80 has a better value overall when compared to its rivals, including the 2021 Lexus ES 350. The Genesis is less expensive than many other midsize luxury sedans on the market, but it also comes loaded with more features and amenities than most.
Is Kia better than Genesis? ›
The 2022 Genesis G70 is refined, with nicer cabin materials and a comfortable ride. But it's still a blast to drive, especially when equipped with the twin-turbo V6. Despite the higher price in top trims, the 2022 Kia Stinger hasn't quite reached that level of luxury refinement or cachet you expect in this class.
What Genesis has the most HP? ›
The 2022 Genesis G90 AWD, a powerful luxury sedan that runs on its 5.0L GDI DOHC 32-Valve V8 D-CVVT engine, can accelerate with 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque.
Genesis G70: The G70 comes with a standard 2.0L turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine that produces 252 hp. There's also an available 3.3L twin-turbo GDI V6 365-hp engine, which carries earns a Genesis 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. The G70 is speedy, too, with a top speed of 170 mph.
Is BMW or Genesis better? ›
Further, the BMW has the more pleasing and assertive engine sound, as well as an advantage in paddle-shift response and speed, versus the Genesis. The BMW offers superior highway driving range as well, more easily handling longer trips with fewer stops to refuel.
Do Genesis cars have problems? ›
The most common problems owners of the 2022 Genesis GV70 are complaining about to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) relate to the powertrain. But there are also complaints about the GV70's windshield cracking, brakes malfunctioning, as well as suspension problems.
