On a test-drive of a used model, you’ll want to be sure no ‘Check Engine’ or ‘Airbag / SRS’ lights are present in the instrument cluster. If they are, there may be an issue with one or more sensors relating to either system. Note that an airbag light may come on simply because the wiring harness under the driver’s seat has become unplugged. If this happens to you, just reach under the seat, look for a wiring connector, and make sure it’s securely plugged in.
Note the engine’s performance, particularly when accelerating from a stop. Some owners report inconsistent responses from the throttle, ranging from ‘lurching’ off the line to a lack of power. This may be accompanied by trouble codes or a check-engine light which indicates an electronic or sensor problem.
Check for any difficulty in starting the engine too, as this may indicate a problem with a fuel-metering sensor. Though these sensor problems are relatively inconclusive, they seem to have been rectified in newer model XGs. Other possible issues include a broken screen on the climate control system and worn-out trunk or hood struts.
Note that the XG350 uses a timing belt on its engine. This belt needs to be periodically changed in a preemptive fashion before it fails. If not maintained, the belt can fail and cause catastrophic engine damage with no warning. Be sure to assess the service history of any used XG350 to be sure it’s timing belt is still within its service life. Purchasing a used XG without knowledge of its history isn’t advisable—so you’ll probably want to find one from a reputable dealer that knows the car and its previous owner.
A Hyundai dealer can also help assess whether any recall work may be outstanding. The recall history of the XG350 mainly affects earlier models, which may have defective airbag hardware or a faulty fuel-tank valve.
The main draw to the XG350 as a used car is going to be its price. As a relatively unproven make and model at the time, resale values are low in spite of the generous amount of hardware and features on board.
Shop carefully, have the used vehicle inspected by a Hyundai mechanic, and spend a bit of the cost savings on the extended warranty if available. If in doubt, simply plan to spend more on one of the XG350’s more proven competitors.
photo:Hyundai
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| 2005 Hyundai XG350 |
Note the engine’s performance, particularly when accelerating from a stop. Some owners report inconsistent responses from the throttle, ranging from ‘lurching’ off the line to a lack of power. This may be accompanied by trouble codes or a check-engine light which indicates an electronic or sensor problem.
Check for any difficulty in starting the engine too, as this may indicate a problem with a fuel-metering sensor. Though these sensor problems are relatively inconclusive, they seem to have been rectified in newer model XGs. Other possible issues include a broken screen on the climate control system and worn-out trunk or hood struts.
Note that the XG350 uses a timing belt on its engine. This belt needs to be periodically changed in a preemptive fashion before it fails. If not maintained, the belt can fail and cause catastrophic engine damage with no warning. Be sure to assess the service history of any used XG350 to be sure it’s timing belt is still within its service life. Purchasing a used XG without knowledge of its history isn’t advisable—so you’ll probably want to find one from a reputable dealer that knows the car and its previous owner.
A Hyundai dealer can also help assess whether any recall work may be outstanding. The recall history of the XG350 mainly affects earlier models, which may have defective airbag hardware or a faulty fuel-tank valve.
The main draw to the XG350 as a used car is going to be its price. As a relatively unproven make and model at the time, resale values are low in spite of the generous amount of hardware and features on board.
Shop carefully, have the used vehicle inspected by a Hyundai mechanic, and spend a bit of the cost savings on the extended warranty if available. If in doubt, simply plan to spend more on one of the XG350’s more proven competitors.
 |
| 2005 Hyundai XG350 |
photo:Hyundai
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