2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light On in 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe 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 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT or Coupe, the first step is to determine the type of light you are dealing with. A steady light suggests a minor issue that requires attention, while an intermittent light may indicate specific driving conditions that trigger the warning. A flashing light, however, signals a serious problem, necessitating immediate action to prevent further damage. Begin your diagnostic process by checking basic issues, such as ensuring your gas cap is secure, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. If the light persists, utilize an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes from your vehicle's onboard computer, which will provide valuable insights into the underlying issues. Analyze these codes carefully, as they can point to specific problems like cylinder misfires. Additionally, pay attention to any changes in your vehicle's performance, such as unusual noises or vibrations, as these can further guide your diagnosis. If you find the situation overwhelming or the codes unclear, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable, as they possess the expertise and tools necessary for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe, it can be a source of concern for any driver. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose or faulty gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and reduced fuel efficiency. Another common issue is related to the oxygen sensors; if these sensors malfunction, they can cause the check engine light to activate, often resetting after a few days if the problem is intermittent. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, particularly in higher mileage vehicles, can severely impact performance and fuel economy, triggering the warning light. Engine misfires due to fouled spark plugs or damaged spark plug wires are also significant concerns, as they can lead to further complications if not addressed promptly. The EVAP system, responsible for managing fuel vapors, can also malfunction, causing the check engine light to come on. Other potential issues include dirty mass airflow sensors and cylinder misfires, which can stem from various engine-related problems. If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates a more serious issue that requires immediate attention, and it is advisable to refrain from driving the vehicle until it can be inspected. Understanding these common problems can empower DIY enthusiasts to diagnose and address issues effectively, ensuring their vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe?

When dealing with the check engine light in a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for any DIY enthusiast. A blinking check engine light is a clear signal that immediate action is required, as it often points to serious issues like engine misfires that can lead to costly damage, such as a damaged catalytic converter. In such cases, it’s advisable to stop driving and seek professional help to avoid further complications. Conversely, a steady check engine light suggests that while the vehicle may still be operational, there is an underlying problem that should not be ignored. Even if the car seems to run fine, postponing repairs can lead to more significant issues down the road, potentially affecting performance and safety. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, using an OBD-II scanner can help identify specific trouble codes, allowing for targeted troubleshooting. However, if symptoms like performance issues arise, such as hesitation or loss of power, it’s essential to address these promptly to prevent escalation. Ultimately, being proactive about the check engine light not only ensures the longevity of your vehicle but also enhances your safety on the road.

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2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Check Engine Light Guide