2010-2021 Hyundai P1326 Engine Bearing TSB

Hyundai has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 22-01-023H-2 to address issues in various models manufactured between 2010 and 2021. This bulletin, identified as Service Campaign T6G, focuses on the inspection and potential replacement of engine bearings. It supersedes TSB 22-01-023H-1 and includes additional information regarding Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) compatibility for certain 2016 model year Sonata Hybrid/Plug-in (LF HEV/PHEV) vehicles.

Owners of affected Hyundai vehicles may experience the "Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326" and/or an "engine concern/noise related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage." The TSB outlines a comprehensive procedure to inspect the vehicle and, based on the inspection results, either replace the engine or update the engine's Engine Control Unit (ECU) software if a new ROM is available.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2010-2021 Hyundai vehicles may notice the following symptoms:

• The "Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326" on the dashboard.
• An "engine concern/noise related to connecting rod bearing wear or damage."

These symptoms suggest a potential internal engine problem that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage.

Fault Codes / DTCs

The primary Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) associated with this issue is:

• P1326: Engine Bearing Inspection / Engine Replacement

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Diagnosing the root cause of the Hyundai P1326 engine bearing issue involves a multi-step process detailed in TSB 22-01-023H-2. Technicians begin by scanning for DTCs using a Global Diagnostic System (GDS) and capturing freeze frame data for Prior Approval (PA) documentation if any DTCs are present. This is followed by a visual inspection, which includes taking pictures of the dipstick, engine oil filler cap, and the inside of the valve cover oil filler opening. The VIN must be legible in all photographic evidence. Technicians also check for any external lower end damage to the cylinder block.

If no oil is found on the dipstick, an oil drain procedure is performed to measure the drained oil volume. The oil is drained into a 5-quart container (ULINE S-22984 or equivalent) with clear markings to indicate fluid levels. If the drained oil is below 1.5 quarts, additional documentation and PA submission are required. An engine rotation check is then conducted using a crank rotator Special Service Tool (SST) and a torque wrench. The crankshaft should rotate up to 720 degrees (2 full turns) with a torque of 94 lb-ft or less. If it requires more than 94 lb-ft of force or does not rotate, specific documentation and PA submission are necessary.

Finally, a Bearing Clearance Test (BCT) is performed using specialized bearing tools as outlined in TSB 21-EM-004H-1. This test assesses the condition of the engine bearings. The shop air supply must be at least 50 psi minimum, and the AP/VC pressures on the bearing tool must meet specific requirements (AP: 0.1~0.11MPa, VC Digital: -.073 ~ -.083MPa, VC Dial: -73 ~ -83kPa). Calibration procedures for the bearing tool are described in TSB 21-GI-009H.

Special Service Tools and Parts

Several specialized tools and parts are required for the inspection and repair process described in TSB 22-01-023H-2:

• Torque Wrench Socket (Part Number: 09314-3Q100-01): Required for GDI engines if engine replacement is necessary. Refer to TSB 19-FL-001H for detailed usage instructions.
• Injector Combustion Seal Ring Installer (Part Number: 09353-2B000): Replacements can be ordered through Bosch at 1-866-539-4248.
• 5 Quart Container (Part Number: ULINE S-22984): Required to drain oil if necessary. Can be ordered from ULINE at 800-295-5510 or ULINE.com. Alternative containers must have clear quart markings for PA approval.
• 17 mm 12-Point Metric Flank Drive® Reversible Ratcheting Box/ Speed Open-End Combination Wrench (Part Number: Snap-on SRXRM17): An optional tool for unfastening torque converter bolts if the engine cannot rotate.
• Bearing Clearance Tester Set (BEARING TOOL): Includes Test Hose, Main Hose, and Power Supply Cable. One set is provided to dealers, with additional units available for order.
  • Spark Plug Rod (M12) (Part Number: KQ231-2T112QQH): For GD and Theta II MPI Hybrid engines, features a smooth upper body.
  • Spark Plug Rod (M14) (Part Numbers: KQ231-2T101QQH, KQ231-2T107QQH): For MPI engines, features two machined identification grooves on the upper body.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Hyundai TSB 22-01-023H-2 contains several critical advisories for technicians and owners:

• Engine Oil Maintenance: "Poor oil maintenance reduces the engine oil lubrication and cooling capacities. As a result, internal engine parts can be damaged resulting in abnormal wear to internal engine parts, excessive carbon deposits, sludge, and other various conditions." Owners are reminded that "Engine oil changes and engine oil level checks are required on a regular basis for all engines." Regular oil level checks and top-ups are recommended prior to the end of an oil change interval.
• Prior Approval (PA) Required: "PA Approval is required for engine replacement." General engine replacement for conditions outside of those contained in this TSB (Service Campaign T6G) are not covered by the campaign.
• Documentation for PA: A picture of lower end damage is required if present. If the engine does not rotate normally, a STUI video including the VIN Plate (at windshield or door jamb) and an attempt to rotate the crankshaft with a torque wrench set to 94 lb-ft is required. The crankshaft rotation torque value must be saved.
• Engine Accessory Belt: If other engine accessory components are seized, technicians must "remove the engine accessory belt prior to completing the engine rotation check."
• Knock Sensor Torque: "Ensure the knock sensor is torqued to specification using a torque wrench. Improper installation can result in DTC codes."
• Torque Converter Installation (Automatic Transmissions): "If the torque converter has moved from the fully inserted position, carefully push inward and rotate the torque converter until the converter is recessed approximately 5/16" - 9/16" (8-14 mm) into the transaxle case when reinstalling the automatic transaxle." Failure to confirm full installation can lead to "oil pump damage resulting in transmission failure."
• Clearing DTC P1326: "Clear DTC P1326 with engine ON. P1326 may reset if it's not cleared with the engine running. Reset engine adaptive values."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure for the Hyundai P1326 engine bearing issue is detailed through a series of flowcharts within TSB 22-01-023H-2. The process generally involves:

1. Initial Inspection: Scan for DTC P1326 using the GDS, capture freeze frame data, and photograph the dipstick, oil filler cap, and engine block for external damage. Ensure the VIN is legible in all photos.
2. Oil Drain Procedure: If no oil is on the dipstick, drain and measure the engine oil into a 5-quart container. If the drained oil is below 1.5 quarts, submit PA with required STUI pictures.
3. Engine Rotation Check: Attempt to rotate the crankshaft with a crank rotator SST. If it rotates normally (up to 720 degrees), proceed to Flow Chart A. If it requires more than 94 lb-ft of force or does not rotate, proceed to Flow Chart B for further inspection and PA submission.
4. Bearing Clearance Test (BCT): Perform the BCT as outlined in TSB 21-EM-004H-1. The results ("Pass," "No Pass," or "No BCT") determine the subsequent steps.
   • If the test result is "Pass": Save a screenshot, follow remaining inspection steps, reinstall components, check for DTCs, update the Engine ECM (Campaign 966) if new software is available, and use the appropriate Op Code for "ENGINE INSPECTION."
   • If the test result is "No Pass": A PA and Engine Diagnosis Worksheet will be auto-generated and saved in DRAFT. Submit PA for engine replacement approval, follow remaining steps to replace the engine, check for DTCs, update ECM (Campaign 966), and use appropriate Op Codes for "ENGINE INSPECTION" and engine replacement.
   • If the test result is "No BCT": This may occur if cylinders were skipped. Save a screenshot, record the error code, follow "Skipped Cylinder STUI Video Submission" steps from TSB 21-EM-004H-1, submit PA for engine replacement, follow remaining steps, check for DTCs, update ECM (Campaign 966), and use appropriate Op Codes.

Engine Replacement Procedure

If engine replacement is required and approved by PA, technicians must follow the published Service Information from the applicable Shop Manual. Key steps include:

• Transferring Components: Take special care when transferring original engine parts, such as the engine knock sensor, to the new engine. The knock sensor must be torqued to 21Nm (15.5 lb-ft).
• GDI Engine Components: For GDI engines, follow TSB 19-FL-001H to remove and reinstall high-pressure fuel system components (GDI High Pressure Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Rail). Replace newly supplied parts from Service Kits, including mounting flange O-rings, various O-rings, seals, and fuel pipes.
• Crankshaft Drive Plate: For certain engines with drill-through type drive plate mounting holes, apply a low/medium strength thread-locking adhesive (e.g., ThreeBond 2403, LOCTITE 200, LOCTITE 204, or LOCTITE 243) to prevent oil seepage. For 2011-2012MY Sonata Hybrid (YF HEV), drive plate bolts must be replaced with P/N 23231-25200 due to crankshaft design changes.
• Required Replacement Parts: If a Service Kit is applicable, replace the Oil Level Rod & Oil Level Guide Assy., Intake Manifold Gasket(s), Exhaust Manifold Gasket, and Fuel Pipe Assembly.

Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) Compatibility

For 2016MY Sonata Hybrid/Plug-in (LF HEV/PHEV) vehicles produced before April 2015, the Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) mounting boss type at the cylinder block must be checked. If the existing engine has the "Old" style cylinder block, a new style HSG (P/N 37390-2E930-SJ) compatible with the replacement long block (P/N 21101-2EG15FFF) must be installed. If the existing engine already has the "New" style cylinder block, the existing HSG should be transferred to the replacement long block.

Post-Repair Procedures

After engine replacement, several critical steps ensure proper vehicle operation:

1. Cooling System: Reinstall and connect cooling system components, then fill with 50/50 to 70/30 (Water/Anti-Freeze) coolant mixture.
2. Engine Crankcase: Fill with the specified initial dry fill engine oil capacity. Temporarily disable the fuel system and crank the engine for several seconds to prime the lubrication system. Recommended oil specifications include 5W-30 Full Synthetic type with API SN/SN+/SP, ILSAC GF4/GF5 or higher service grade.
3. Engine Warm-up: Start the engine, warm it up, and begin the cooling system air bleeding process. Check for leaks and adjust the engine oil level to near the "F" mark once warm.
4. ECM Update: Refer to TSB 21-01-023H-4 (or later) to update the Engine ECM if new software is available.
5. Final Checks: Set customer's audio station presets, relearn the Steering Angle Sensor using the GDS, and "Clear DTC P1326 with engine ON." If not cleared with the engine running, P1326 may reset. Check for other DTCs and perform diagnostic service to ensure no warning lights are present. Reset engine adaptive values using the GDS and perform a short road test to confirm normal vehicle drivability.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10230232