2021 Hyundai Kona Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2021 Hyundai Kona

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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 2021 Hyundai Kona 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 2021 Hyundai Kona 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 first steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2021 Hyundai Kona?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2021 Hyundai Kona, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Begin by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a loose or faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. If the gas cap appears fine, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which can be easily purchased or borrowed. By connecting the scanner to the vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve error codes that provide valuable insights into the underlying issues. Once you have the error codes, take the time to research their meanings, either through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources. This will help you understand the specific problems that may need addressing. If the diagnostics seem overwhelming or if the error codes indicate a more complex issue, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified mechanic who can provide expert assistance. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose the check engine light and take the necessary steps toward resolution.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Hyundai Kona?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2021 Hyundai Kona, it can be a source of concern for any driver. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and is easily fixable by simply tightening or replacing the cap. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to poor fuel efficiency and requires a replacement if malfunctioning. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, often indicating a more serious issue that may need professional attention. Worn-out spark plugs can also affect engine performance, leading to misfires and the check engine light turning on. Similarly, issues with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while malfunctioning ignition coils can cause engine misfiring. Lastly, a faulty thermostat can impact engine temperature regulation, prompting the check engine light to activate. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it advisable for DIY enthusiasts to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a mechanic if the light remains illuminated.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Hyundai Kona?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Hyundai Kona, it signals an urgent need for attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious repercussions, including extensive engine damage and costly repairs. The check engine light often indicates issues with the engine or emissions system, which, if left unaddressed, can escalate into more significant problems that compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Additionally, continuing to drive with the light on may result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, negatively impacting both your wallet and the environment. Given that modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems, it is advisable to have your Kona inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying the root cause of the issue but also ensures that your vehicle remains in optimal condition, safeguarding your investment and enhancing your driving experience.

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2021 Hyundai Kona Check Engine Light: Causes & Repair Costs