Why Did My Engine Light Come On?

Your check engine light can indicate any number of issues and problems, some easy to fix and some more serious.

Here are some of the common things that can set off your check engine light:
  •         A failing oxygen sensor
  •         A loose gas cap
  •         An engine leak
  •         An issue with your emissions system
  •         Fuel system issues
  •         Issues with your electronic control system
  •         Problems with your catalytic converter
  •         Spark plug problems
If you have questions about your check engine light, especially for a Hyundai model, call us at 833-836-2758 so we can help.

What Should I Do If My Engine Light Comes On?

First, check your dashboard lights and gauges to look for any obvious problems. Are there signs of low oil pressure or an overheating engine?

If you notice anything, pull over and turn off your engine as soon as you find a safe place to stop. This is especially true if your light flashes or turns red.

Then get your car towed to the Hyundai Of Kirkland Service Center so we can fix the underlying issues causing the problem.

If you don't see any serious problems, try removing and replacing your gas cap. This will sometimes resolve the issue, although your light may not turn off until you've driven a few more times.

If your car gives you an engine light code, check that code online for your particular model to see if you can find a description of the issue. Then follow directions to correct the problem, including taking your car to a good auto service center in Kirkland so they can fix it for you.

Whatever you do, don't go for a Washington state emissions test. In most cases, your check engine light is a sure sign that your car won't pass. We can help with that too. 


Can I Drive With My Check Engine Light On? 
It's not unusual to see your check engine light come on when you're driving. If this hasn't happened to you, you've surely heard a friend or family member ask about it. Your engine light may or may not be a sign of something serious.

What does it mean when your check engine light comes on? Is it dangerous, and what should you do about it?

Keep reading, and we'll answer all your questions. 
What Does It Mean When My Check Engine Light Flashes?

In modern cars, computers often try to compensate for a problem when they find one. But if they can't, they may turn on your check engine light to warn you that you need some routine maintenance.

Even "small" issues may mean you're getting bad gas mileage or giving off unacceptable levels of pollution (even if you don't notice it). Why pay more for gas and pollute the environment? Get your car fixed sooner rather than later so it drives more efficiently.

If your check engine light comes on, your problem is probably not an emergency, but you should still get your car checked out by a reputable mechanic in Kirkland.

On the other hand, if it flashes, get to your mechanic as soon as you can. A blinking light can indicate that unburned fuel is getting into the exhaust system, where it can quickly damage the catalytic converter. That is one expensive repair, and one which you'll want to avoid.

Whether you want us to repair a major or a minor problem, let our Hyundai Service Center diagnose and fix it before it gets worse.

What Does It Cost to Diagnose and Fix?

It's hard to say exactly how much a diagnosis will cost. Often the diagnosis itself will be less than $100. The repairs you need may cost more…but they can also potentially save you a LOT of money in the long run.

On the other hand, there may be a nominal charge for us to fix a minor problem. And we'll charge you competitive rates to fix any problem we find.

So if your check engine light is on or flashing, and you need us to diagnose the source of the problem and fix it, whether it's serious or just costing you more money at the pump, schedule a service appointment today.

We're happy to get your car driving great again, and make that pesky check engine light turn off so you can drive worry-free. And remember: we're the largest-volume Hyundai dealer in the Pacific Northwest, so you know you can trust Hyundai Of Kirkland to do work right the first time...and every time.

Sources: www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/what-does-check-engine-light-mean, www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/repair/engine-repair/check-engine-lightÂ