2017 Kia Sedona Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Kia Sedona and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2017 Kia Sedona 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 2017 Kia Sedona 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 2017 Kia Sedona?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Kia Sedona, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to effectively 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, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings, as these can provide further insights into potential problems. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any signs of wear or damage to wires and hoses that could affect vehicle performance. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, utilizing an OBD-II scanner can be invaluable. This tool will allow you to retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem, guiding your next steps. Finally, consulting the owner's manual can offer tailored advice and troubleshooting steps specific to your vehicle model, ensuring you have all the necessary information to address the check engine light effectively. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and potentially resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2017 Kia Sedona?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Kia Sedona, it can signal a range of common issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced to resolve the warning light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency; while replacing this part may require some mechanical knowledge, it is a feasible DIY task with the right tools. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can arise, often indicated by unusual noises or decreased performance, and while this may be more complex, understanding the symptoms can guide you in seeking professional help if needed. Spark plug wear is another issue that can trigger the light, and replacing spark plugs is a straightforward task for those comfortable with basic engine maintenance. Furthermore, the mass airflow sensor and ignition coil can also lead to the check engine light activating; both components can be tested and replaced with some research and effort. Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause overheating, which is critical to address promptly. By familiarizing yourself with these common problems, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues that may be causing the check engine light to activate in your Kia Sedona.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2017 Kia Sedona?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2017 Kia Sedona, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it serves as a critical indicator of potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this signal can lead to a cascade of problems, ranging from minor inconveniences like decreased fuel efficiency to severe engine damage that could result in costly repairs. While some triggers for the check engine light, such as a loose gas cap, may seem trivial, others could indicate significant mechanical failures that require immediate attention. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnostic check as soon as possible, either through an OBD-II scanner for DIY enthusiasts or by consulting a qualified mechanic. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also ensure your safety on the road, making it a crucial step in responsible vehicle maintenance.

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