Attn: Hyundaitech, CEL

HT,

I have a 2006 Sonata V6 auto with 31K miles. I had my 30K maintenance
done at 30K.

This morning the CEL came on. It wasn't on last night when I parked
the car.

I checked the oil, tranny fluid, water, belt, everything I could get
easily to, and everything looks, feels, and sounds fine.

I pulled the negative battery cable for 30 seconds, and the CEL is now
off. (I think Hyundai calls it the MIL, malfunction indicator light).

Based on your experience with the 2006 Sonata V6, could you give me 2
or 3 of the most likely suspects? I know these things can be quirky
and often harmless, but I don't want to push it. It may take me a few
days to get it down to the dealer.

Many thanks,,,

Bob A.

 

Check your gas cap. Make sure it is on properly. Next time do not pull
your battery cable. Go to the parts store and pick up a $30 code reader and
read the code. You're in the dark now, but you would have had something to
work with if you had plugged in a code reader.

 

Our local parts stores will read your code for free. If yours will do the
same, don't remove your terminal and take it to get the code read...then you
know.

 

I tried the gas cap, as I've heard of it throwing a code. No joy.

Are readers getting that cheap? I gotta get me one!

The CEL never came back on, so I guess it's just a hiccup. (fingers
crossed)

Thanks Mike!
-

Bob

 

The ones that read the codes are as low as $30. I don't know if they
also erase the codes. I bought mine for about $100 at Pepboys as paid
for itself after a few readings.

 

Most check engine lamps on the '06s have been oxygen sensor related issue
as long as there is no performance change or ABS/TCS lamp as well.

As others have said, don't clear the code the next time. It'll preven
diagnosing and repairing the issue, which is likely covered unde
warranty.

I just bought a CAN compatible code reader as a gift for my brother fo
about $60. CAN is the current communications protocol, so you'll want t
purchase a reader with this compatibility to ensure the longest futur
use

 

CEL came back on.

Took it to the dealer, it was the brake light switch.

The failed switch was causing not only the CEL, but an ABS/ESC warning
light to come on. In addition, the cruise control was intermittent
and the trip computer not working correctly. Hard to believe the brake
light switch was causing all that, but it's working 100% for 2 days
now. Ironically, the brake lights worked fine.
-

Bob