The technological advancement in the car industry has significantly improved vehicle function and performance. One such innovation is the Hyundai hybrid system. This hybrid system ensures there is a smooth interaction between the gasoline-powered engine and the electric motor of your car. However, this system can fail for various reasons, which is why it has a warning light. When this light comes on, the performance of your car can be impaired.
Negative Effects of the Hybrid System Warning Light on Performance
A failure in the component of the hybrid system causes the warning light to come on, and when this happens, the car can stop running. Here are some ways in which the hybrid system warning light can indicate there’s a problem with your car’s performance.
- Reduced Power: When the warning light comes on (showing a fault in the hybrid system,) the system switches to “limp mode” to protect the engine and other electrical components of the car. This reduces the car’s power, leading to reduced acceleration and performance.
- Increased Fuel Economy: If the root cause of the warning light has to do with a problem in the electric motor of the hybrid system, the car automatically switches to gasoline. When this happens, your car will need more fuel to provide the power that should have been provided by the electric motor. You may then notice that you use more fuel than usual for the same distance.
- Engine Stalling or Sudden Stops: In some cases, a hybrid system malfunction will cause the car to stall or lose its speed, especially when driving at high speed. This not only affects your driving experience, but it also puts the car and its occupants at a safety risk.
- Strain on Other Car Components: A problem in the hybrid system may cause a strain on other car systems like the transmission and cooling system. For example, when the hybrid cooling system is not working properly, it could cause the inverter or electric motor to overheat, which then causes further damage to surrounding components.
- Inefficient Brake Function: An illuminated hybrid system warning light could mean a failure in the hybrid steering system. When this happens, the car will rely solely on mechanical braking instead of regenerative braking, leading to a change in the brake feel and overall brake efficiency.
Common Reasons for Illuminated Hyundai Hybrid System Warning Light
The Hyundai hybrid system warning light can be triggered for several reasons:
- Blown Fuses: High voltage fuses are installed in Hyundai Hybrid system cars to protect components like the battery pack and electric motor. However, due to aging, improper use, and faulty wire connections, these fuses can blow. When this happens, the warning light can be triggered to come on.
- Faulty Inverter: The Hyundai hybrid system inverter keeps the electric motor running by converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). In a situation where the inverter is faulty, the hybrid system warning light will illuminate.
- Defective Batteries: Hyundai hybrid system uses huge long-lasting batteries for optimal car performance. When these batteries get faulty, due to natural wear and damage and continuous use, the warning light will be triggered to come on.
Like other warning lights on the dashboard, the hybrid system warning light should not be ignored. Once it appears, come to our shop for proper diagnosis by our certified technicians to resolve the problem and prevent further damage.
The Best Hyundai Specialists for Your Hyundai Hybrid System Warning Light Issues
To fix your car’s hybrid system warning light issues, you need the help of qualified technicians with brand-specific experience and training. Finding such a mechanic helps to ensure that your car is getting the best care from a professional who knows your model.
At Bruce Cox Imports, we offer exceptional maintenance and repair services for import vehicles. We also have factory-grade equipment and the latest diagnostic tools to get to the root cause of your car’s problem and provide you with options for a fix. For over 25 years, we have been serving drivers in Bellingham, WA, and surrounding areas like Ferndale and Lynden. So, bring your car to us today to return it to top condition!