2019 Kia Sedona Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Kia Sedona: 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 2019 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 2019 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light issue in a 2019 Kia Sedona?

When diagnosing the check engine light issue in a 2019 Kia Sedona, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by visually inspecting the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as ensuring the gas cap is securely fastened and in good condition, as this is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner to connect to the vehicle's OBD port, allowing you to retrieve the specific error code associated with the light. This code is crucial as it directs you to the potential problem area. Once you have the error code, interpret it by consulting the vehicle's manual or reliable online resources to understand its implications. This will guide you in inspecting related components, such as the oxygen sensor or spark plugs, that may be linked to the error code. After identifying the issue, take the necessary steps to repair or replace the faulty component, ensuring that you address the root cause to prevent future occurrences. Finally, use the diagnostic scanner to clear the error code and reset the check engine light, confirming that the problem has been resolved. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and remedy the check engine light issue in your Kia Sedona, empowering you to tackle vehicle maintenance with confidence.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Kia Sedona, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light due to its impact on the vehicle's evaporative emissions system. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, as this component is essential for reducing harmful emissions. Another area to investigate is the mass airflow sensor, which affects the air-fuel mixture in the engine; a faulty sensor can disrupt performance. Worn or faulty spark plugs and ignition coils are also common culprits, as they can lead to engine misfires, prompting the light to turn on. By addressing these issues promptly, DIYers can maintain their vehicle's performance and efficiency, ensuring that minor problems do not escalate into more significant concerns.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Kia Sedona?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Kia Sedona, it signals a need for immediate attention, as neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences. The light may indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to significant engine problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring the light not only risks decreased fuel efficiency but can also result in costly repairs down the line, as unresolved issues may escalate into more severe engine damage. For DIY enthusiasts, the good news is that modern vehicles are equipped with onboard diagnostics systems that can help you identify the specific problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide you with error codes that guide you in troubleshooting the issue. However, while some problems may be manageable at home, it is crucial to recognize when to consult a qualified mechanic, especially if the symptoms suggest a safety risk or complex repair. Addressing the check engine light promptly ensures that your Kia Sedona remains reliable and safe on the road, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.

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2019 Kia Sedona Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions