Hyundai & Kia
OBD codes explained
The codes Hyundai and Kia owners actually see — KSDS knock detection, VVT, misfires and catalysts — with clear causes and fixes.
Hyundai / Kia check engine light codes
Hyundai and Kia use standard OBD-II engine codes, readable by any scanner. Their GDI (direct injection) engines also report specific codes like P1326, the famous knock-sensor detection system fault linked to engine-recalls.
Here are the codes most reported on Elantra, Tucson, Sportage, K5, Rio, Kona and more.
OBD-II code decoder
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Most common Hyundai / Kia
Classic Hyundai/Kia faults behind these codes.
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0011 | "A" Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1) |
| P0128 | Coolant Thermostat Below Regulating Temperature |
| P0171 | System Too Lean (Bank 1) |
| P0172 | System Too Rich (Bank 1) |
| P0300 | Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire |
| P0420 | Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1) |
| P0442 | EVAP System Small Leak Detected |
| P1326 | Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) |
Common Hyundai / Kia faults
Classic Hyundai/Kia faults behind these codes.
P1326 KSDS — a known concern on GDI Theta engines; follow recall notices and check engine condition.
VVT timing (P0011) — low oil or a clogged oil control valve.
Misfires (P0300) — coils and plugs on GDI engines.
Catalyst efficiency (P0420) — aging converter on higher-mileage models.
EVAP leaks (P0442) — fuel cap or purge valve.
Hyundai / Kia FAQ
What is P1326 on Hyundai/Kia?
Why does my Kia show P0011?
Are Hyundai and Kia codes the same?
Is P0420 expensive on Hyundai/Kia?
Can a cheap scanner read Hyundai/Kia codes?
Codes vary slightly by model, year and engine. Always confirm with a proper diagnosis. Manufacturer-specific codes (P1xxx/P2xxx) may differ from generic descriptions.
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