2004 Hyundai Sonata Hesitates Then Kicks

2004 HYUNDAI SONATA
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BIGDADDY0330
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Helllo - I have a 2004 Hyundai Sonata. It's been running fine until a month or two ago, when it started having some issues. I would drive down a hill each day in the morning, applying the break while letting off the gas. When I am at the bottom of the hill and start applying the gas, nothing would happen. The car pauses and then literally kicks into gear. I noticed this problem mainly seemed to happen when it was cold outside. But now it's happened other times - it happened this morning, and then the engine malfunction light came on. I'm sure what the problem is....
Apr 5, 2006 at 1:09 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
First thing to do is to have the codes pulled. Some chain autoparts stores will even do this for free.

An OBDII handheld code reader will soon become the first tool in anyone's toolbox. Might not be a bad investment.

When you attempt to accelerate from a stop does the engine race and then kick into gear? If so check the transmission fluid level. Might also consider having it and the filter changed.

If the engine does nothing when the gas pedal is depressed consider replacing the fuel filter and testing the TPS (throttle position sensor).

Good luck and let us know. :)
Apr 5, 2006 at 5:13 AM

Suggested Repair

Pull the diagnostic trouble codes first. If the engine races and then engages, check the transmission fluid level and consider changing the fluid and filter. If the engine does nothing when the pedal is pressed, replace the fuel filter and test the throttle position sensor.

Conversation Summary

A 2004 Hyundai Sonata pauses and then kicks into gear after coasting downhill and reapplying the throttle, especially when cold. The malfunction light later came on. The expert advised reading the codes, checking transmission fluid if the engine races before engaging, and checking the fuel filter and throttle position sensor if the engine does not respond.

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