Genesis G90 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your Genesis G90: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Genesis G90 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Genesis G90 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Genesis G90

When faced with a check engine light in your Genesis G90, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by inspecting the gas cap; a loose or missing cap can trigger the light, especially after refueling. If the light persists, pay attention to its behavior—if it’s flashing, this indicates a serious misfire that could damage critical components like the catalytic converter, necessitating immediate attention. Next, consider common culprits such as ignition cylinder problems or faulty spark plugs, which can lead to engine misfires. If you suspect spark plug issues, check for any visible damage, such as cracks in the porcelain. As you delve deeper, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which will guide you in identifying whether the problem lies within the emission system, ignition system, or elsewhere. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the underlying issues, ensuring your Genesis G90 runs smoothly and efficiently.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Genesis G90?

When the check engine light comes on in your Genesis G90, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the simplest fixes is to check the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light. If that’s not the issue, consider inspecting the emissions system components, as failures here are frequent culprits. Sensor malfunctions, particularly with the oxygen sensor, can also lead to the light illuminating, so checking these sensors for faults is advisable. Additionally, engine misfires can cause significant problems, including damage to the catalytic converter, which is another area to investigate. Low oil levels or pressure can also trigger the light, so ensure your oil is at the correct level. Lastly, issues with the mass airflow sensor can affect engine performance and should be examined. Addressing these common problems promptly can help prevent further damage and save on costly repairs, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to stay informed and proactive.

Why is the Check Engine Light Important in a Genesis G90?

The Check Engine Light in a Genesis G90 is not just a benign warning; it serves as a critical alert that should never be ignored. When this light illuminates, it signifies that the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected a problem that could escalate if left unaddressed. For instance, a flashing light often indicates a severe issue, such as a misfire that could damage the catalytic converter, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Additionally, neglecting the light can result in decreased fuel efficiency, as underlying problems like a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can hinder engine performance. By promptly addressing the issues indicated by the Check Engine Light, drivers can avoid more serious complications, ensuring their Genesis G90 remains safe and efficient on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to treat this warning with the urgency it deserves, as timely intervention can prevent significant damage and enhance the longevity of the vehicle.

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Genesis G90 Check Engine Light Causes & Repairs | RepairPal