2014 Hyundai Elantra GT Has Rough Idle

Troubleshooting Causes of Rough Idle in Your 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
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 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT has rough idle?

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.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a rough idle in a 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT?

When faced with a rough idle in your 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex issues. Start by connecting an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle to check for any trouble codes, as these can provide immediate insight into potential problems like misfires or vacuum leaks. If the check engine light is illuminated, addressing these codes should be your first priority. Next, inspect and clean the throttle body, as a buildup of dirt can significantly affect engine performance. Following this, examine the ignition coils and spark plugs; faulty coils can lead to misfires, while worn spark plugs may need replacement to ensure proper ignition. Additionally, look for any vacuum leaks by visually inspecting hoses and connections, as these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and cause rough idling. Don't forget to assess the quality of your fuel, as stale or contaminated fuel can exacerbate idle issues. If these initial steps do not resolve the problem, consider performing a compression test to evaluate the health of the engine's cylinders. By methodically working through these diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the rough idle in your Elantra GT.

What are the common causes of a rough idle in a 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT?

When diagnosing a rough idle in your 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty ignition coil, which can lead to misfires and uneven engine performance. If you suspect this, you can easily test it by swapping the coils between cylinders to see if the issue shifts. Additionally, worn or damaged spark plugs are notorious for causing rough idling; replacing them at regular intervals, typically around 100,000 miles, can prevent this problem. Another area to investigate is the fuel injectors, as dirt or clogs can disrupt fuel delivery, particularly under load. Cleaning or replacing these injectors may restore smooth operation. The throttle position sensor (TPS) is also critical; a malfunction here can lead to erratic idling and should be checked if other components seem fine. Furthermore, carbon deposits can accumulate in the idle port holes, especially in colder weather, and using a cleaning spray can help clear these obstructions. While vacuum leaks are often cited as a cause of rough idling, they may not always be present, but checking for them is still a wise step in your diagnostic process. Lastly, consider the crankshaft position sensor, as a failure here can lead to stalling or rough idling, particularly when the engine is cold. By systematically examining these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the rough idle issue in your Elantra GT, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in my 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT?

When dealing with a rough idle in your 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT, the urgency of addressing the issue cannot be overstated. A rough idle can be indicative of underlying problems such as throttle body malfunctions, worn spark plugs, or sensor failures, all of which can lead to more severe engine issues if left unattended. If you notice symptoms like stalling, particularly when the engine is cold or under load, it is crucial to act quickly to prevent being stranded or causing further damage to your vehicle. Ignoring these symptoms may result in increased wear on engine components, decreased fuel efficiency, and ultimately, more costly repairs. Additionally, a car that stalls unexpectedly poses a significant safety risk, especially in traffic or adverse driving conditions. Therefore, conducting a diagnostic check and ensuring that routine maintenance is up to date is essential for both the longevity of your vehicle and your safety on the road.

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