Why Is My Hyundai Check Engine Light On?

Is your Hyundai’s check engine light illuminated? If it is, this indicates that the onboard computer has detected an issue in your vehicle’s engine. The check engine light illuminates when there is a problem in your engine emission system. If you don’t know the root cause of the illuminated check engine light, there’s no need to panic.

In this blog article, we will provide information on eight common causes that can trigger the Hyundai check engine light and offer valuable guidance on how to resolve the issue.

1: Common Reasons for the Hyundai Check Engine Light On:

The check engine light in a Hyundai can come on for many reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:

1.1: Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor:

The Mass Airflow Sensor measures how much quantity of air enters the engine. If it fails, the engine can run too lean or too rich. This can cause poor gas mileage and bad performance. Replacing a faulty MAF sensor is necessary to fix the issue.

• Symptoms: You may experience a considerable decline in fuel efficiency when this happens. You may also experience engine stalls, poor acceleration, and the engine may run rough.
• Solution: The best solution here is to replace the mass airflow sensor. Ensure that you have correctly examined the part before replacing it. If it is still working, substitute the air filter and the intake duct if necessary.

1.2: Faulty Oxygen Sensor:

The Oxygen gauge checks how much oxygen there is in the exhaust system. A faulty sensor can affect fuel economy and cause the engine to run poorly. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can resolve the issue.

• Symptoms: You will notice either low gas mileage, bad emissions, or decreased power with this. If there is a problem with the oxygen sensor, it can eliminate the check engine light, and if this problem is not addressed promptly, This can damage the catalytic converter.
• Solution: The best solution here is to replace the faulty oxygen sensor. The sensor is responsible for monitoring the fuel to air ratio, making sure that the engine runs efficiently.

1.3: Fouled Spark Plugs or Spark Plug Wires:

Spark plugs initiate combustion in the engine by igniting the air/fuel mixture. Worn, dirty, or damaged spark plugs or wires can cause misfiring, loss of power, and increased emissions. Replacing the spark plugs or wires will fix the issue.

• Symptoms: Your car may lag or stall, experience rough idling, and may have a decline in gas mileage.
• Solution: The best solution is to replace the spark plugs and all the wires attached. Do a visual inspection of them, ensuring that they are not damaged.

1.4: Failing Catalytic Converter:

The catalytic converter is a part of the engine that cuts down on harmful pollution. A failing converter can cause decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and the vehicle to run poorly. Replacing the converter is necessary when this happens.

• Symptoms: The engine will start sounding louder, the car will be slower, and it may fail an emissions test.
• Solution: Replace the catalytic converter. A catalytic converter is instrumental in converting harmful emissions into less harmful gases, making it important to attend to this problem quickly.

1.5: Vacuum Leak:

A vacuum leak occurs when outside air enters the engine through a compromised seal or hose that is cracked or already damaged. It stops the engine from starting, or it fails, which causes fuel wastage, which wastes fuel. Repairing the leak will resolve this issue.

• Symptoms: This issue can cause the check engine light to come on, especially if it is a large leak. You may also notice a hissing sound beneath the hood.
• Solution: The best solution is to repair the vacuum leak. Your mechanic should examine the hoses connected to the intake manifold to detect the leak.

1.6: Loose or Damaged Gas Cap:

The gas cap seals your fuel system to help reduce fuel emissions. A loose or damaged cap can cause the check engine light to come on. Replacing or tightening the cap will fix the issue.

• Symptoms: A loose or broken gas cap can trigger the check engine light. You may also experience reduced fuel efficiency.
• Solution: Make sure the gas cap is tight. If the cap is broken, you should get a new one as soon as you can.

1.7: The Battery is Low or Dead:

A low or dead battery can cause the check engine light to come on. If your battery is old or doesn’t hold a charge, you might need to get a new one.

• Symptoms: If your car’s battery is short or dead, the check engine light may come on. You may also find it harder to start the car.
• Solution: Charge your battery or replace it if it is dead.

1.8: Issues with Aftermarket Items:

If you have added an aftermarket item, such as a performance upgrade or a new sound system, these can cause the check engine light to come on. Some of these gadgets mess with the computer systems in the car and cause them to break down.

• Symptoms: If the check engine light is illuminated a few days after installing aftermarket items
• Solution: Take off the aftermarket item and take the car to a mechanic to find out what’s wrong.

2: Hyundai check engine light blinking:

If your Hyundai’s check engine light is blinking, it could be an indication of a number of potential issues with the vehicle’s performance. It may mean that there is a serious problem, or it could just be a false alarm. If you notice your Hyundai’s check engine light blinking, here are some steps to take:

1. Check the Owner Manual – It may be helpful to check your Hyundai’s owner manual for more specific guidance on what the blinking light could mean.
2. Monitor the Vehicle – Pay attention to any changes in the way your vehicle is running and how it is performing overall. 
3. Get a Diagnostic Test – If you don’t feel comfortable with the performance of your vehicle, have a professional perform a diagnostic test. 
4. Have Repairs Made – If the diagnostic reveals an issue that requires repairs, you should take your car to a certified mechanic and have the repairs made as soon as possible.

It’s important to remember when it comes to Hyundai check engine lights that blinking does not necessarily mean something is seriously wrong, so don’t panic. It is always best to take all necessary steps for troubleshooting and repairs as soon as possible if you notice any changes in the way your vehicle is performing. Follow these tips to ensure that your Hyundai is running safely and smoothly. 

3: How can I reset the check engine light on a Hyundai?

Once a mechanic has diagnosed and resolved the issue that illuminates the engine light, you can reset it yourself. First, you should take the battery out of the car for a few minutes. This will reset the computer in your car. After you reconnect the battery, start the engine and let it idle. This should reset the engine control unit and turn off the check engine light. If this doesn’t work, you can also try something else.

• OBD-II scanner:

You can buy an OBD-II scanner that can read the code that illuminates the engine light. Just plug the scanner in, start the car, and follow the instructions on the screen. The scanner will give you a code that you can use to find out why the check engine light is on. Once you have addressed the issue, You will use the scanner to clear the engine light.

• Manual reset:

A third way to reset the check engine light on a Hyundai is through a manual process. First, turn off the engine and then disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Wait a few minutes, then hook up the battery again and start the car. Step on the gas pedal three times in quick succession, then let go. This should reset

Related: Hyundai Check Engine Light Codes

5: Conclusion:

If your check engine light comes on, it’s important to find out why. Ignoring the warning can result in further damage to the vehicle or additional costs. Having a professional assess the problem is the best way to find out what’s going on. Once you know what’s making the check engine light come on, you can fix the problem and continue driving with trust. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent check engine light problems, so stay proactive and keep up with recommended maintenance schedules.

6: FAQs 

For further insights into situations where the Check Engine Light indicates, you might refer to the following answered questions

1: What does it mean if the check engine light is blinking?

A: If your check engine light is blinking, this indicates a more serious issue. It usually means that something is seriously wrong with your car’s powertrain and needs immediate attention. You should turn off your car and have it towed to a service center as soon as possible.

2:Why fix the check engine light?

A: While there may be reasons you’re not worried about the check engine light, it’s important to understand that ignoring it can be disastrous for your car. Some underlying problems, such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, can cause damage to other parts of your car’s engine. This could lead to costly repairs down the road. Staying on top of car maintenance is key.

3:Can I drive my Hyundai with the check engine light on?

A: This question doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. It depends on why the check engine light is on. In some situations, the problem could be small, like a loose gas cap, which won’t hurt your car if you keep driving it. In other cases, though, the check engine light could be a sign of a much bigger problem that could damage your engine or leave you stuck on the side of the road. 

4: What does the check engine light symbol look like?

A: The typical appearance of the check engine light symbol is that it resembles a circular shape in either yellow or orange color, with an exclamation point located at its center. If you’re not sure what it looks like, you can refer to search online for images.

5: What happens if I ignore the check engine light?

A: Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious problems and costly repairs. It might mean that something is wrong with your car’s powertrain and needs immediate attention. Without a diagnosis, you could be risking further damage to your vehicle as well as reducing its performance and fuel efficiency. It is always best to have a professional check your car and take care of any issues right away. Taking these steps can help you prevent expensive repairs and maintain the long-term health of your vehicle.

6: What safety precautions should I take when troubleshooting Hyundai Check Engine Light?

A: When troubleshooting the check engine light, it’s important to take safety precautions and seek professional help. Make sure you have the right tools and knowledge before attempting to diagnose or fix any issues related to your car’s powertrain. It is also recommended that you avoid driving your car until the issue has been correctly diagnosed and fixed, as this could cause further damage.