When your Hyundai Malfunction Indicator Light stays on, you may be wondering what is going on with your vehicle.
After all, the MIL or check engine light monitors the emission system of your car. Thus, when the light switches on, it may be that this part of your vehicle is having some issues. After all, the emission control system and the engine are connected, which means if either one of them is in good condition, then there is nothing to worry about.
But what if the check engine light stays on? Could there be a serious problem, or should you just ignore this? Find out more as you keep reading below.
Hyundai Malfunction Indicator Light Stays On
There are a number of reasons why your Hyundai Malfunction Indicator Light stays on. These include:
- Catalytic converter issue
- Spark plug wire problems
- Oxygen sensor
- Mass airflow sensor
- False alarm
- Loose gas cap
Moreover, the light can also malfunction in some cases. This is why the very first thing to check if you notice the light turns on is the gas cap. Be sure that it is nice and tight, since a loose gas cap can cause your Malfunction Indicator Light to turn on.
Even after you have tightened the gas cap, the light may still stay on for a few minutes. Then, it will eventually turn off when this was indeed the issue and you had it fixed.
But there is also a possibility that the light was triggered to turn on because of humidity. In this case, the light should eventually turn off on its own in a matter of minutes.
It is worth noting that the check engine light is different from the service required light. Some drivers get these two lights confused, which is why it is important to know the difference between them. The latter, once switched on, means that you have to get your vehicle serviced for oil change or some other routine maintenance work.
Checking For the Issue
If you would rather check what’s causing the light to turn on instead of taking it to a mechanic, then you should have the right tools available.
First, plug in the device right into the standardized OBD or Onboard Diagnostics port and check for a code that appears. This port is found underneath your steering column, and you should not have any issue with accessing it. Once you have gotten the code, search online for the issue corresponding with the code.
But do keep in mind that it is important not to jump to conclusions and apply some fixes yourself. For instance, when the code indicates a broken sensor, it is possible that your sensor is fine, yet the wires connected to it are in bad shape. This is why you need to consult your manual to really determine what is wrong.
Should You Be Concerned?
Always remember that warning lights indicate there is something off in your vehicle. The Malfunction Indicator Light is one of these things, and you need to attend to the possible issue when you see it.
Basically, the Malfunction Indicator Light warns you of any critical malfunction to your vehicle. This is a tell-tale sign alerts you when there are issues in the emissions control system or the engine. Sometimes, it may also be your electronic engine control system that may be having some problems.
Thus, you should have a look at the probable affected parts right away. Or you can seek professional help and not delay any further.
But when you notice the light turns on, do not panic. Yet, at the same time, do not simply ignore it. The cause may simply be a minor issue, although it is also possible that there is a bigger problem that needs to be addressed sooner than later.
Depending on what the issue may be, it can be a flashing light or a fixed light that stays on. So, if the light does not disappear, then a major problem may be about to get even worse.
In most cases, a steady light could indicate an issue with your emission system or ignition. This is why you need to have your vehicle checked right away before things get even worse.
Other issues linked with a Malfunction Indicator light that stays on include a disconnected plug, bad fuel quality, or a loose gas cap. And in other cases, it may simply be a false alarm.
When you notice the light is on, pull over on the side of the road and turn your engine off. Open your hood and inspect the systems we have mentioned above. Also, be sure to check for any unusual noises or smells. These usually indicate something wrong with the components.
The worst case that can happen if you do not stop your driving even when the lights are on would be a fire, or something going really bad under the hood. This is why you should never turn a blind eye to this problem.
We recommend that you use an OBD II device,then check for an error code that shows up. This should give you a clearer picture of what is happening and what you can do about it.
Otherwise, if everything seems to be fine and there are no burning smells, vibration, or noises, then it could be nothing but a false alarm. But the most important thing is to get all related components checked to make sure it is all good.
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Conclusion
When your Hyundai Malfunction Indicator Light stays on, it can be unnerving and concerning. After all, you are perfectly aware that a malfunction may be occurring, which triggers the light to turn on – and stay on. With that in mind, you should make it a point to check possible components that may be having some issues, thus triggering the light.
It is best to stop your driving and turn the engine off, then inspect under the hood when the light turns on and continues to stay on. This way, you can have peace of mind as you stay safe and prevent existing issues from getting worse.