2020 Kia Stinger Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Kia Stinger and How to Resolve Them

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 2020 Kia Stinger 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 2020 Kia Stinger 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 2020 Kia Stinger?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Kia Stinger, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. If the gas cap appears secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will provide specific error codes that can guide you toward the underlying issue. Additionally, check the levels of essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Don't overlook the battery; inspect the terminals for any signs of corrosion and ensure the battery is functioning properly, as a weak battery can contribute to the problem. Finally, pay attention to any other warning lights or unusual symptoms your vehicle may display, as these can offer further clues to the issue at hand. By following these initial steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and determine whether further professional assistance is needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Kia Stinger?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Kia Stinger, it can signal a range of issues that may require attention. One of the most straightforward problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and trigger the warning light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to consider the oxygen sensor; a faulty sensor can negatively impact fuel efficiency and emissions. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can also cause the light to illuminate, often indicating a failure or inefficiency in the exhaust system. Misfires due to faulty spark plugs or ignition coils are another common culprit, as they disrupt engine performance. The mass airflow sensor is crucial for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction here can lead to significant engine issues. Other potential problems include a malfunctioning EGR valve, vacuum leaks, or a faulty thermostat, all of which can affect engine operation and efficiency. By understanding these common issues, DIYers can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the check engine light concern in their Kia Stinger.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Kia Stinger?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Kia Stinger, it is crucial to act swiftly rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning signal indicates that there may be an underlying issue with your engine or emissions system, which, if left unchecked, could escalate into more severe problems. Ignoring this alert can lead to costly repairs, decreased vehicle performance, and even safety risks while driving. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, it is essential to recognize that some problems may require professional expertise to resolve effectively. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also prevent potential damage that could compromise your safety on the road. Therefore, taking immediate action is not just advisable; it is vital for maintaining the longevity and reliability of your Kia Stinger.

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.