Hyundai drive mode
This page holds Hyundai Drive Mode Indicator symbols. The list of drive modes on our original page is growing so large it became apparent that a separate page would be appropriate. And Hyundai uses a ton of these modes.
Note that if you are surprised to see one of these it is likely a drive mode has been accidently activated via one of the buttons on the steering wheel.
ESC (Electronic Stability Control) can be manipulated to enhance the driver’s control over the car. In this case, the ESC is turned off, hence the yellow/amber/orange color, likely for very aggressive driving or drifting. If it appears when the option has not been chosen, it indicates a fault that will require a qualified service shop.
Similarly, the Drift Mode indicator is also seen in yellow/amber/orange for very much the same reason. Stability control must be turned off in order to drift a car around corners. Again, this is used for very aggressive driving and should only be used by experienced drivers on closed courses.
Sport mode automatically adjusts the engine speed to match the selecting gear ratio while changing gears. It will downshift an automatic transmission when engaged and enables performance shift features when spirited driving is detected, maintaining lower transmission gears to increase available engine braking and improve acceleration response.
SPORT+ mode is for track use only and is not intended for use under any other driving conditions.
ECO mode is a driving mode that improves energy efficiency by controlling motors and gear. The acceleration response may be slightly reduced if the accelerator pedal is depressed moderately. Air conditioner performance may be limited as well. ECO+ takes all those elements to the next level.
In Custom mode, drivers can set the two types of CUSTOM modes, CUSTOM 1 and CUSTOM 2, for different drivers or driving conditions. Drive modes can be set for each component they prefer on the infotainment system screen.
- Engine, transmission, suspension, steering and exhaust sound choices are NORMAL, SPORT or SPORT+.
- Electronic Limited Slip Differential choices are NORMAL and SPORT.
- Electronic Stability Control choices NORMAL, SPORT or OFF.
- And CREEP START can be turned on or off.
UTIL mode, short for Utility mode is found in Hyundai electric vehicles (EVs) and allows the high voltage battery to be used instead of the 12 V auxiliary battery for purposes other than driving. You can use the audio and lights of the vehicle without discharging the 12 V auxiliary battery and even use the indoor V2L feature.
Hyundai uses the symbol on the left to indicate N mode, which is seen as a stylized letter N. It actually controls the vehicle’s SPORT modes, and thus makes little sense. There is no explanation for what the N actually stands for. It is activated by pressing a flag button on the steering wheel. N mode manages the driving dynamics by automatically adjusting the steering effort, and the engine and transmission control logic for enhanced driver performance.
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The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY