2023 Hyundai Tucson Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 Hyundai Tucson: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 2023 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 2023 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 initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2023 Hyundai Tucson?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2023 Hyundai Tucson, 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 is in good condition, the next step involves utilizing a diagnostic scanner. Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port, typically located under the dashboard, to retrieve any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer system. Once you have the codes, take the time to interpret them, as they will provide insight into the specific issues affecting your vehicle. Research these codes using your vehicle's manual or reputable online resources to gain a deeper understanding of the potential problems. Additionally, don’t overlook basic maintenance checks; ensure that your oil, coolant, and other fluid levels are adequate, as neglecting these can also lead to the check engine light illuminating. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the underlying issues causing the check engine light to activate.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 Hyundai Tucson?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2023 Hyundai Tucson, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is securely tightened. If the light persists, consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in maintaining fuel efficiency. A faulty sensor can lead to increased emissions and reduced performance, making it essential to address promptly. Additionally, keep an eye on the catalytic converter, as any damage or inefficiency can not only illuminate the check engine light but also affect your vehicle's emissions system. Spark plugs are another critical component; worn or faulty plugs can cause engine misfires, leading to the light turning on. Lastly, the mass airflow sensor is crucial for regulating the air-fuel mixture in your engine, and any malfunction here can significantly impact performance. By being aware of these common issues and addressing them early, you can maintain the health of your Hyundai Tucson and avoid more serious problems down the road.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Hyundai Tucson?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Hyundai Tucson, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that there may be a significant issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this alert can lead to escalating problems, including severe engine damage that could result in costly repairs. Additionally, driving with the check engine light on can compromise your vehicle's fuel efficiency and overall performance, leading to increased emissions that are harmful to the environment. To avoid these potential pitfalls, it is advisable to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic or dealership as soon as possible. By taking prompt action, you can ensure your Tucson remains in optimal condition, safeguarding both your investment and your safety on the road.

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