Frequently Asked Questions

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

• Verify the gas cap is tight — a loose or damaged cap is a common, inexpensive cause.
• Look for other dashboard warnings (battery, oil, traction) to assess urgency.
• If the light is flashing, stop driving and have the vehicle inspected immediately.
• Schedule a diagnostic at our dealership—repairs covered under warranty must be performed at a certified dealership to remain valid.
• Choosing Courtesy Kia of Brandon often yields immediate and long-term savings versus independent shops thanks to precise diagnostics, OEM parts, and service plans.

What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 2026 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid?

• It means the vehicle’s onboard computer detected an emissions, engine, or hybrid-system fault that needs evaluation.
• Severity ranges from minor (loose gas cap) to serious (misfire or catalytic converter damage).
• For a plug-in hybrid, codes can also relate to charging or hybrid battery subsystems; trained technicians are required to diagnose high-voltage systems safely.
• Diagnostics at our dealership protect warranty coverage and often cost less overall when factoring accurate repairs and OEM parts.

How much does a check engine light diagnostic cost for a 2026 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid?

• Typical diagnostic fees range from about $80 to $150, depending on complexity; some promotions or warranty situations may reduce or waive the fee.
• If the issue is covered under warranty, repairs must be completed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage.
• While an independent shop may appear cheaper at first glance, our dealership often delivers lower total ownership cost through accurate diagnosis, OEM parts, and longer-term reliability.
• We provide transparent estimates before any repair, so you see immediate and long-term savings.

How long does a check engine light service take?

• Initial diagnostics typically take 30–90 minutes; the exact time depends on fault complexity and whether road testing or live-data analysis is needed.
• Simple repairs (gas cap, sensor replacement) can be completed within a few hours the same day.
• Major repairs (catalytic converter, hybrid system components) may require parts ordering and longer service time—our team provides clear timelines up front.
• Using our dealership often shortens return visits and avoids repeated fixes because factory-trained technicians diagnose with OEM tools the first time.

What is the most common reason for check engine light on a 2026 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid?

• Common causes include a loose or faulty gas cap, oxygen sensor faults, engine misfires, or fuel trim issues leading to a lean condition.
• On plug-in hybrids, charging system faults or hybrid battery management alerts can also trigger engine-related warnings.
• Ignoring codes can degrade fuel economy, increase emissions, or damage the catalytic converter — leading to higher long-term costs.
• Bring the vehicle to our service center so certified technicians can diagnose accurately and protect warranty coverage.