Hyundai Trajet: A Comprehensive Guide
The Hyundai Trajet is a seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Hyundai Motor Company from 1999 to 2008. Aimed at families needing flexible space and seating, the Trajet offered a blend of practicality and affordability, competing against rivals like the Renault Espace, Chrysler Voyager, and Kia Carnival. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle on the road, its functional design and relatively low running costs made it a popular choice for many.
Generations
The Trajet only had one major generation throughout its production run, though there were running changes and facelifts.
First Generation (1999-2008)
- 1999: Launch of the Hyundai Trajet. Initial engine options included 2.0-liter gasoline and 2.0-liter diesel engines.
- 2000: Introduction of a 2.7-liter V6 gasoline engine.
- 2004: Mid-cycle facelift included revised front and rear styling, including new headlights, taillights, and bumpers. Interior updates also occurred.
- 2007: Minor trim and equipment updates. Some markets saw the phasing out of certain engine options.
- 2008: Production ended.
Reliability & Common Issues
The Hyundai Trajet, like any vehicle of its age, is susceptible to certain common issues. Thorough inspection before purchase is crucial.
Engine Issues:
- 2.0-liter Gasoline (G4GC): This engine is generally reliable but can suffer from oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover and crankshaft seals. Pay attention to the timing belt interval (typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years) as neglect can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Check for signs of head gasket failure (milky oil, overheating).
- 2.7-liter V6 (G6BA): More powerful but also more complex. This engine is prone to timing belt tensioner failure, which can also lead to severe engine damage. Oil consumption can be an issue on higher mileage examples. Listen for any unusual noises from the engine bay, especially rattling or ticking.
- 2.0-liter Diesel (D4EA): Relatively robust but prone to injector issues, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. Symptoms include rough idling, poor performance, and excessive smoke. Check for turbocharger wear, listen for whining noises, and inspect for oil leaks around the turbo. The diesel particulate filter (DPF), if equipped (market dependent), can become clogged, leading to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption.
Transmission Issues:
- Automatic Transmissions: Check for smooth shifting and listen for any slipping or harsh engagement. Fluid leaks are common, especially around the seals. Ensure the transmission fluid has been regularly changed.
- Manual Transmissions: Ensure smooth gear changes and listen for any grinding noises. Clutch wear is typical, especially on vehicles used primarily in urban environments.
Suspension and Steering:
- Suspension: Check for worn suspension components, such as ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers. Listen for clunking noises, especially over bumps. The rear suspension can sag over time, particularly when heavily loaded.
- Steering: Check for play in the steering wheel and listen for any power steering pump noises. Fluid leaks are common in the power steering system.
Electrical Issues:
- Central Locking: Central locking systems can be prone to failure, particularly due to faulty actuators.
- Electric Windows: Window regulators can fail, preventing the windows from operating properly.
- Dashboard: Check all dashboard lights and gauges are functioning correctly.
Other Issues:
- Rust: Check for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and underbody. Rust can be a significant issue, particularly on vehicles that have been exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Air Conditioning: Ensure the air conditioning system is functioning correctly and blowing cold air. Refrigerant leaks are common.
Driving Experience
The Hyundai Trajet prioritizes practicality over outright driving pleasure. It's designed to transport people and cargo comfortably, rather than offering sporty handling.
Pros:
- Spacious Interior: Offers ample space for seven passengers and a generous amount of cargo room, especially with the rear seats folded down.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, even on less-than-perfect roads.
- Affordable: Used Trajets are generally available at a lower price point than comparable MPVs.
- Practicality: Flexible seating arrangements allow for various configurations to suit different needs.
Cons:
- Handling: The handling is somewhat ponderous, with noticeable body roll in corners.
- Performance: The 2.0-liter engines can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. The V6 offers better performance but at the expense of fuel economy.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is not a strong point, particularly with the V6 engine.
- Dated Interior: The interior design is dated and lacks the sophistication of more modern vehicles.
Buying Advice
When buying a used Hyundai Trajet, keep the following in mind:
Years to Look For:
- 2004-2008 Facelift Models: These models offer improved styling and potentially fewer problems due to being newer. The revised interior is also a plus.
Years to Avoid (Potentially):
- Early Models (1999-2001): These may be more prone to rust and suffer from more accumulated wear and tear.
Key Things to Check:
- Service History: A full service history is crucial, particularly regarding timing belt replacements.
- Rust: Thoroughly inspect for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and underbody.
- Engine: Listen for any unusual noises and check for oil leaks. Pay particular attention to the timing belt tensioner on the V6 engine.
- Transmission: Ensure smooth shifting and check for fluid leaks.
- Suspension: Listen for clunking noises and check for worn suspension components.
- Electrics: Test all electrical components, including the central locking, electric windows, and air conditioning.
- Mileage: High mileage vehicles may require more maintenance and repairs.
Ultimately, buying a used Hyundai Trajet is a trade-off between affordability and potential maintenance costs. A thorough inspection and careful consideration of its history are essential to making an informed decision. If well-maintained, it can be a practical and budget-friendly option for families needing a spacious MPV.
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