2019 Kia Rio Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Kia Rio and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2019 Kia Rio 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 2019 Kia Rio 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 diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2019 Kia Rio?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Kia Rio, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning indicators that might provide further insight into the problem. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any visible damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could affect vehicle performance. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner can be invaluable. This tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the problem, allowing you to consult your owner's manual for detailed explanations and potential solutions. Lastly, keep an eye on your vehicle's performance for any unusual signs, such as strange noises or difficulty starting, as these can offer additional clues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Kia Rio?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Kia Rio, it can signal a range of common issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest fix and can easily trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, consider examining the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to incorrect readings and illuminate the light. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, may also be at play, requiring further inspection. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can malfunction, affecting engine performance and triggering the warning light. Worn-out spark plugs or a defective ignition coil can cause engine misfires, which are serious issues that should be addressed promptly. Lastly, don’t overlook the EGR valve, as problems here can also lead to the check engine light illuminating. By systematically checking these components, you can potentially identify and resolve the issue without needing to visit a mechanic, ensuring your Kia Rio runs smoothly.

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2019 Kia Rio?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Kia Rio, it serves as a critical warning that should not be ignored. Ignoring this signal can lead to severe consequences, including costly repairs and potential safety hazards. If the light is flashing, it indicates a serious issue that requires immediate action; reducing speed and avoiding sudden maneuvers is essential to prevent further damage. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily be fixed. Next, inspect your vehicle's fluid levels, including engine oil and coolant, since low levels can also trigger the light. If these simple checks do not resolve the issue, it is advisable to schedule a diagnostic test at a local mechanic or auto parts store to pinpoint the problem accurately. Once you have identified the issue, take prompt action to address it, as neglecting the check engine light can lead to more significant problems down the road. Regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's schedule is also crucial in preventing future occurrences, ensuring your Kia Rio remains in optimal condition. By taking these steps seriously, you can safeguard your vehicle's health and your safety on the road.

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