The Elantra is a subcompact car that Hyundai began making in 1990. A four-cylinder, 2.0-liter engine with a double overhead camshaft is one of the most common engines for a late-model Elantra. The typical method of synchronizing the crankshaft and camshaft movements is with a timing belt, which wears out at regular intervals. Hyundai recommends checking the timing belt at 60,000-mile intervals.
Disconnect components as required to access the timing belt cover for your Elantra and remove the timing belt cover with a socket wrench.
Turn the crankshaft clockwise to align the timing mark on the crankshaft with the timing mark on the crankcase. Align the timing mark on the camshaft with the timing marks on the cylinder head.
Remove the timing belt tension and idler pulley from the engine with a socket wrench. Mark the timing belt to indicate the direction of rotation and detach the timing belt from the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets.
Inspect the timing belt for signs of wear. This includes a rubber backing that is glossy or has cracks. The timing belt may also need replacement if the canvas is peeling away from the rubber backing or if the timing belt is missing teeth. The sides of the timing belt will be sharp if it does not require replacement.
Turn the crankshaft again to align the timing marks, if necessary. Install the timing belt tensioner and idler pulley. Tighten the mounting bolt for the idler pulley to between 32 and 41 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
Place the timing belt onto the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets. Tighten the timing belt tensioner to apply tension to the timing belt. The timing belt is at the correct tension when you apply 5 lbs. of pressure to the longest span of the belt, and it deflects about 0.2 in. Tighten the bolt for the tensioner pulley to between 32 and 41 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
Turn the crankshaft clockwise by one turn, and align the timing marks once again. Adjust the tension on the timing belt if necessary, and replace the timing belt cover. Install any additional components you removed in step one to access the timing belt.
