Quite simply, the check engine light being on in a 2009 Kia Optima is a signal from the cars engine computer that something is wrong. If the light begins flashing, it indicates a more serious problem such as a mIS Fire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter. Do not drive Your car if the light is flashing. The problem can be anything from a momentary hiccup, something like a loose gas cap or a change in humidity, to the failure of a major component like a bad catalytic converter. The list of things that can trigger the check engine light is pretty lengthy. First things first, if the light comes on, You should first check to see if the gas cap is loose. If the gas cap is loose, tighten it and continue driving. Even after tightening, it will take some time for the light to go off.
Ida S
July 16, 2020
If the check engine light on the 2009 kia optima is on then you may have a couple off different issues. Realistically it can come on anytime the ecu detects and error and stores a trouble code. To check the code you will need to hook the vehicle up to a obd scanner and read the code. The light can also come on when you are approaching a service milestone. Issue that cause it can include a loose gas cap, leaks in the vacuum seals, engine misfires, low oil pressure, bad spark plugs, or really anything else. The check engine light is a catch all to alert you that something is wrong, but that something can cover nearly anything on the vehicle. Often it is minor, but it should not be ignored.
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