2014 Hyundai Sonata Car Idling Rough

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your 2014 Hyundai Sonata and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
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 Sonata 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 Sonata 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 2014 Hyundai Sonata that is idling rough?

When faced with a rough idle in your 2014 Hyundai Sonata, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking for any warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the check engine light, as this can indicate serious engine issues that require immediate attention. If the light is flashing, it often points to a severe misfire that could damage critical components like the catalytic converter. Next, perform basic checks such as ensuring the gas cap is securely tightened, as a loose cap can trigger warning lights and contribute to idling problems. Inspect the spark plugs for wear or dirt, as faulty plugs can lead to misfires and rough idling.

Moving on, examine the throttle body for carbon buildup, which can cause it to stick and disrupt airflow, leading to rough idling. Cleaning the throttle body can often resolve this issue. Additionally, check the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a malfunctioning valve can introduce oil fumes into the intake system, further complicating the idle issue. Don't forget to inspect the gaskets between the throttle body and intake manifold, as well as the intake manifold gasket itself, for any leaks that could allow unmetered air into the engine.

A dirty or malfunctioning Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor can also disrupt the air-fuel mixture, so it's wise to check and clean or replace it if necessary. Lastly, look for vacuum leaks in the system, as these can cause erratic idling and high RPMs. If you've gone through these steps and the problem persists, using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes can provide valuable insights into more complex issues that may require professional attention. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve rough idling in your Sonata.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2014 Hyundai Sonata to idle rough?

When diagnosing a rough idle in your 2014 Hyundai Sonata, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. A dirty throttle body is often a primary culprit, as carbon buildup can prevent it from functioning correctly, leading to unstable idling. Additionally, a malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can exacerbate this problem by introducing oil into the intake system, further contributing to dirt accumulation. Leaking gaskets, particularly around the intake manifold, can also disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing erratic idling. If the intake runner flaps are sticky due to carbon deposits, they may need cleaning or replacement to restore proper function. Furthermore, issues with the idle motor or throttle body motor can lead to rough idling, as can misfires from faulty fuel injectors. While vacuum leaks are less common in newer models, they can still occur and should be checked if other symptoms are present. Lastly, carbon buildup in engine components, especially in Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines, can be addressed with specialized cleaners. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and resolve the underlying issues contributing to your Sonata's rough idle, often with straightforward DIY solutions.

How urgent is it to address the rough idling in my 2014 Hyundai Sonata?

Addressing rough idling in your 2014 Hyundai Sonata is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When your vehicle experiences rough idling, it can lead to engine stalling, particularly at stoplights or during low-speed maneuvers, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this issue can result in severe engine damage over time, as components like spark plugs and fuel injectors may suffer from misfires or inefficient operation. This not only compromises your vehicle's performance and fuel economy but also diminishes your overall driving comfort. Common culprits such as dirty throttle bodies or faulty PCV valves can often be resolved with straightforward DIY repairs, making it essential to act quickly. If basic troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, seeking professional assistance is crucial to prevent further complications. In summary, the urgency of addressing rough idling cannot be overstated; prompt action can safeguard your safety and preserve the integrity of your vehicle.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2014 Hyundai Sonata Rough Idle: Causes & Repair Costs