When your Kia’s Check Engine Light suddenly illuminates, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease. What’s going on under the hood? Is it a minor issue or a major problem? The good news is that modern Kia vehicles are equipped with an onboard diagnostic system that can provide valuable insights.
By retrieving Kia OBD/OBD2 codes using a scanner or code reader, you can uncover the root cause of the problem – but do you know what those codes really mean, and how to address them?
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Understanding Kia Trouble Codes
When you’re faced with a problem in your Kia, understanding the trouble code is the first step towards fixing the issue.
Kia trouble codes are used to diagnose and troubleshoot issues with your vehicle, and they can be retrieved using an OBD scanner or code reader.
These codes can indicate a range of problems, from a Sensor Open or Short in a circuit to a Stepper Motor Malfunction or Solenoid Valve Low System.
When the Check Engine Light comes on, it’s often accompanied by a trouble code that provides a diagnostic signal.
By understanding the meaning of these codes, you can quickly identify the problem and take corrective action.
Consult a code library or database to get detailed descriptions and repair information for each code, and get back on the road faster.
Common Kia Check Engine Light Causes
Now that you’ve retrieved the trouble code using an OBD scanner or code reader, it’s time to examine the common causes of the Check Engine Light coming on in your Kia.
One common cause is a faulty Oxygen Sensor, which can trigger a diagnostic trouble code and illuminate the Check Engine Light. A malfunctioning Pressure Sensor can also cause issues, as it monitors engine performance and adjusts fuel injection accordingly.
A stuck Open Valve or faulty Control Solenoid can also trigger the Check Engine Light. Voltage fluctuations or electrical shorts can also cause Kia Trouble codes.
Additionally, a loose or corroded gas cap can trigger a code, as can a malfunctioning sensor or faulty wiring. Identifying the root cause is vital to resolving the issue and restoring ideal engine performance.
Diagnosing and Repairing Kia Issues
Get to the root of the problem by diving deeper into the diagnostic trouble code.
When diagnosing Kia issues, you’ll want to start by running a diagnostic scan to retrieve the trouble code.
This code will point you in the right direction, helping you identify the specific problem area.
For instance, if the code indicates a problem with the transmission control solenoid, you’ll know to investigate further.
Check the Position Sensor Signal and Vehicle Speed data to see if they’re within normal ranges.
If you’re experiencing issues with the Clutch Pedal, inspect the pedal sensor and wiring for any signs of damage or malfunction.
Most Common Kia OBD-II Trouble Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P1102 | HO2S-11 Heater Circuit High Voltage |
| P1115 | Engine Coolant Temperature Signal from ECM to TCM |
| P1121 | Throttle Position Sensor Signal Malfunction from ECM to TCM |
| P1170 | Front Heated Oxygen Sensor Stuck |
| P1195 | EGR Pressure Sensor (1.6L) or Boost Sensor (1.8L) Open or Short |
| P1196 | Ignition Switch “Start” Open or Short (1.6L) |
| P1250 | Pressure Regulator Control Solenoid Valve Open or Short |
| P1252 | Pressure Regulator Control Solenoid Valve No. 2 Circuit Malfunction |
| P1307 | Chassis Acceleration Sensor Signal Malfunction |
| P1308 | Chassis Acceleration Sensor Signal Low |
| P1309 | Chassis Acceleration Sensor Signal High |
| P1345 | No SGC Signal (1.6L) |
| P1386 | Knock Sensor Control Zero Test |
| P1402 | EGR Valve Position Sensor Open or Short |
| P1449 | Canister Drain Cut Valve Open or Short (1.8L) |
| P1450 | Excessive Vacuum Leak |
| P1455 | Fuel Tank Sending Unit Open or Short (1.8L) |
| P1457 | Purge Solenoid Valve Low System Malfunction |
| P1458 | A/C Compressor Control Signal Malfunction |
| P1485 | EGR Solenoid Valve Vacuum Open or Short |
| P1486 | EGR Solenoid Valve Vent Open or Short |
| P1487 | EGR Boost Sensor Solenoid Valve Open or Short |
| P1496 | EGR Stepper Motor Malfunction – Circuit 1 (1.8L) |
| P1497 | EGR Stepper Motor Malfunction – Circuit 2 (1.8L) |
| P1498 | EGR Stepper Motor Malfunction – Circuit 3 (1.8L) |
| P1499 | EGR Stepper Motor Malfunction – Circuit 4 (1.8L) |
| P1500 | No Vehicle Speed Signal to TCM |
| P1505 | Idle Air Control Valve Opening Coil Voltage Low |
| P1506 | Idle Air Control Valve Opening Coil Voltage High |
| P1507 | Idle Air Control Valve Closing Coil Voltage Low |
| P1508 | Idle Air Control Valve Closing Coil Voltage High |
| P1523 | VICS Solenoid Valve |
| P1586 | A/T-M/T Codification |
| P1608 | PCM Malfunction |
| P1611 | MIL Request Circuit Voltage Low |
| P1614 | MIL Request Circuit Voltage High |
| P1624 | MIL Request Signal from TCM to ECM |
| P1631 | Alternator “T” Open or No Power Output (1.8L) |
| P1632 | Battery Voltage Detection Circuit for Alternator Regulator (1.8L) |
| P1633 | Battery Overcharge |
| P1634 | Alternator “B” Open (1.8L) |
| P1693 | MIL Circuit Malfunction |
| P1743 | Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Valve Open or Short |
| P1794 | Battery or Circuit Failure |
| P1795 | 4WD Switch Signal Malfunction |
| P1797 | P or N Range Signal or Clutch Pedal Position Switch Open or Short |
