2015 Hyundai Tucson Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2015 Hyundai Tucson: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2015 Hyundai Tucson 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 2015 Hyundai Tucson 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 2015 Hyundai Tucson?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2015 Hyundai Tucson, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes. Start by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily rectifiable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure and the light remains illuminated after a few driving cycles, the next step is to read the trouble codes using an OBD-II diagnostic tool. This tool will provide specific error codes that can help pinpoint the underlying problem, whether it be a faulty oxygen sensor or an engine misfire. By following this methodical process, you can efficiently identify and address the issue, potentially saving on costly diagnostic fees while ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2015 Hyundai Tucson?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2015 Hyundai Tucson is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that should be prioritized. When this warning light illuminates, it signals that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a potential issue that could escalate if left unaddressed. A flashing check engine light, in particular, indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention to avoid severe engine damage or safety hazards. Ignoring this warning can lead to costly repairs and may compromise your vehicle's performance and reliability. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any fuel system issues can help mitigate risks and keep your Tucson running smoothly. Therefore, if you notice the check engine light, it is essential to diagnose and resolve the underlying issue as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient on the road.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2015 Hyundai Tucson?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2015 Hyundai Tucson, it can be a source of concern for any driver. Understanding the common issues that trigger this warning can empower you to address potential problems before they escalate. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and trigger the light. Engine misfires and stalling are more serious concerns that can indicate deeper mechanical issues, while excessive oil consumption and engine knocking may suggest significant engine wear or damage. Regular maintenance and staying informed about any recalls can help mitigate these issues, ensuring your Tucson runs smoothly and efficiently. By being proactive and knowledgeable about these common problems, you can take the necessary steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues yourself, saving time and money in the process.

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.