Why is My Hyundai Check Engine Light On?

The Hyundai check engine light is one of the most useful service lights — also called dummy lights — in existence. It can tell you when something is seriously wrong with your engine, necessitating immediate service. But sometimes, it also illuminates for other reasons, like when your car needs more minor repairs. So, why exactly is your Hyundai Elantra check engine light or Hyundai Sonata check engine light on? Regardless of the Hyundai model you drive, there are a few common potential causes. Read about them all below, or schedule service for an exact answer!

Common Causes of the Hyundai Check Engine Light Turning On

The Hyundai check engine light is kind of a “catch-all” light for vehicle maintenance problems. From faulty gas caps to engine oxygen sensor issues, here are some common causes for your Hyundai CEL illuminating:

• Loose Gas Cap: An unsecured gas cap or gas cap with a failing seal is the most common issue for CEL lights illuminating, so make sure you check that first! If you have an OBDII code reader, you can also reset the CEL afterwards.
• Mass Airflow Sensor: The Mass Airflow Sensor (AKA the MAF), measures how much air is flowing through the engine so the correct amount of fuel can be added to the mixture. If your MAF is malfunctioning, your check engine light will usually turn on. Why is this important? Mass airflow sensor issues may lead to stalling, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency. Changing your Hyundai’s air filter could remedy the issue.
• Oxygen Sensor: The oxygen sensor in a car is used to detect how much oxygen is in the exhaust to measure how much fuel is being used. If not fixed, your vehicle’s catalytic converter could malfunction. More commonly, you’ll notice a big dip in fuel efficiency.
• Spark Plugs that Need Replacing: Faulty spark plugs can cause your engine to misfire, which can trigger the Hyundai check engine light.
• Bad Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter converts carbon monoxide into safer compounds to create less pollution. If you have an issue with the catalytic converter, your gas mileage could be affected or you could experience diminished acceleration.

How Can I Fix My Hyundai Check Engine Light?

You may be able to fix certain minor issues that are triggering your Hyundai check engine light (CEL). Once these issues are remedied, the light should go off automatically. But if your check engine light needs to be reset manually, or you’re not sure why it’s turning on, it’s best to take your vehicle to our service center to be on the safe side!

Here are some steps to take if your Hyundai check engine light comes on:

• Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual: Reading it can help you learn all about the various Hyundai service lights, including the Hyundai Sonata check engine light, Hyundai Elantra check engine light, and just about any other Hyundai dashboard light.
• Most Hyundai service lights, including the CEL, have a color code to them that tells you more about the potential issue: Yellow lights, for instance, tell you about an issue that should be checked soon. On the other hand, red lights indicate an issue that needs immediate attention.
• Is your check engine light on? Be sure to check for any signs of engine overheating or low oil pressure. In these instances, you should shut off your engine and call 833-577-0822 right away.
• If you’re unsure why your CEL is coming on, we highly recommend taking your vehicle to the expert Hyundai-trained technicians at Luther Burnsville Hyundai, who will be able to read your engine’s code, diagnose the problem, and fix it quickly!

What to Do if Your Hyundai Check Engine Light is On

Now that you’ve read more about the check engine light in Hyundai models popular near Eagan and St. Paul like the Elantra and Sonata, you may be wondering what to do. We invite you to give us a call at 833-577-0822 or contact our service pros online for immediate assistance or to schedule an appointment to get your Hyundai check engine light fixed. If your vehicle is stalled on the side of the road near Inver Grove Heights, Hyundai Roadside Assistance can help.

Hyundai Service Coupons in Burnsville