Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?

• Check for obvious issues first: a loose or damaged charging connector, recent charging interruptions, or a low 12V auxiliary battery — any of these can trigger a warning.
• Review the vehicle’s information display for messages or reduced-power modes that indicate the severity of the issue.
• Document when and how often it occurred (after charging, in rain, during acceleration) to help technicians diagnose faster.
• Bring the car to our dealership if the light persists; repairs under warranty must be performed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage.
• Working with Courtesy Kia of Brandon often costs less than independent shops when you factor in accurate diagnosis, genuine parts, and warranty protection — immediate and long-term savings.

How much does a check engine light diagnostic cost for a 2024 Kia Niro EV?

• Diagnostics typically range from a complimentary scan with repair to a flat-fee diagnostic of about $89–$199, depending on testing needed.
• If a repair is needed, the diagnostic fee may be applied toward the repair cost, which reduces your immediate out-of-pocket expense.
• Our certified technicians use factory software to identify EV-specific issues quickly, which often saves money compared with extended troubleshooting at independent shops.
• Warranty-covered repairs must be completed at a certified dealership to maintain coverage — this protects your long-term value and can prevent costly failures later.
• We prioritize transparent estimates and explain immediate and long-term savings when choosing dealership service.

What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 2024 Kia Niro EV?

• The light signals that the vehicle’s onboard systems detected a fault in powertrain, battery management, charging, thermal control, or emissions-related monitoring systems.
• For an EV, causes range from software or sensor faults to charging-system or thermal-management issues; the light does not always mean immediate danger.
• A thorough scan at the dealership will read EV-specific codes and determine whether driving is safe or if towing is required.
• Addressing issues promptly at our dealership often results in lower total costs, since accurate diagnosis prevents unnecessary parts replacement and protects warranty coverage.
• Repairs covered under warranty must be performed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage and ensure factory-approved repair procedures.

How long does a check engine light service take?

• Initial diagnostic scans commonly take 30–90 minutes; the time depends on the fault and whether road tests or extended battery checks are needed.
• Minor sensor repairs or software updates can often be completed the same day; more complex battery, inverter, or thermal system repairs require additional time and parts.
• When you choose Courtesy Kia of Brandon, factory tools and direct access to Kia service information speed the process and reduce repeat visits.
• We provide clear time estimates before work begins and explain how dealership service delivers immediate and long-term savings versus repeated attempts elsewhere.
• Warranty work performed at our certified facility ensures proper documentation and continued coverage.

What is the most common reason for check engine light on a 2024 Kia Niro EV?

• Common causes include sensor faults (temperature, voltage, or current sensors), charging-system interruptions, and software or communications errors between modules.
• Occasional issues stem from the 12V auxiliary battery, which supports control modules—low voltage can trigger warnings even though the traction battery is fine.
• Ignoring warning signs can lead to reduced range, performance limitations, or more costly repairs; prompt dealership diagnosis prevents escalation.
• Our certified technicians use OEM diagnostic procedures to pinpoint the root cause quickly, which often lowers repair costs compared with trial-and-error fixes.
• Warranty-covered repairs must be done at a certified dealership to maintain protection and ensure correct, long-lasting repairs.