What your Kia Check Engine Light is Telling You

When you see your Kia check engine light brighten on your dashboard, it’s easy to fall into a panic. But worry not, the team at Edwards Kia is here to help! Your dashboard actually has 29 different alert lights in total. While some of these lights indicate a need for a service, others simply indicate that a feature is active – like your cruise control or high beams. In this guide, we’ll go through some of the most common Kia check engine light codes to help you navigate Bellevue, NE with total peace of mind. 

Kia Dashboard Light Meanings

Correctly identifying your Kia dashboard lights can help you save time and effort on the La Vista, NE roads. While your Kia check engine light generally requires a trip to the service department, other dashboard lights are no cause for concern. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most common Kia dashboard lights codes that indicate a need for a service:

• Master Warning Light: If you notice an exclamation and triangle, this means the Master Warning light has been triggered. This could be an issue with anything from the washer fluid to the TPMS to the Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system or even your fuel cap
• Malfunction (Engine Malfunction) Indicator Lamp: This is more commonly known as the Kia check engine light, which indicates an engine or emission issue that needs service.
• Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light: This warning light signifies that your engine oil has dropped to a low level. You’ll need to add more oil to prevent damage and overheating.
• Electric Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light: When you see this alert light, your power steering system has malfunctioned and you’ll likely notice slowed response when you turn the wheel.
• ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) Warning Light: When your ABS system has an issue, you’ll see an ABS symbol surrounded with a circle and parentheses. This means your braking system needs attention from a service technician to ensure your safety on the La Vista, NE roads.
• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Malfunction Indicator: If you see a horseshoe symbol with an exclamation mark, this means your TPMS can no longer measure your tire air pressure reliably.
• Airbag Warning Light: The “AIRBAG” light will either stay steady or blink to highlight an issue with the airbag system. Because this is a vital safety feature, we recommend scheduling a service appointment as soon as possible.
• Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light: This warning light requires immediate attention. It means your engine is overheating and is no longer safe to operate. Pull over and call roadside assistance or a tow service.

We’ve only covered a portion of the most common Kia warning lights, but if you run into something you can’t identify, feel free to get in touch with us at Edwards Kia. Our team can translate these symbols into terms you can easily understand, and we can diagnose and resolve the issue in no time!

Schedule Your Service in Council Bluffs!

Whether you want more information about Kia check engine light codes or you’re ready for your next oil change, allow our service center to take expert care of your car. Schedule service with any questions about your Kia or get more service tips and tricks from our technicians!