Subaru Check Engine Light: Causes & Fixes
The Subaru check engine light is a warning sign. It tells you there might be a problem with your engine.
Knowing what causes this light is key to keeping your car running well and avoiding expensive fixes.
Issues like a loose gas cap or problems with the emissions system can trigger this light. Even serious problems, like bad spark plugs or oxygen sensors, can cause it to light up.
About 20% of the time, it’s just a loose fuel cap. When the light comes on, check for an obvious problem first. Look for things like a loose gas cap.
If you can’t find anything, use a diagnostic tool to read the Subaru diagnostic codes. This will help find the real issue.
Getting a diagnosis at a service center can cost around $100. But, buying a diagnostic tool yourself can save you a lot of money over time.
Don’t ignore the check engine light. It’s a warning that something serious might be wrong. Fixing it early can prevent major engine damage and save you a lot of money.
By following our guide, you can keep your Subaru running smoothly for years.
What’s The Subaru Check Engine Light?
The Subaru check engine light is key to your car’s health. It checks many engine functions and turns on when it finds a problem.
If the light comes on, it means your car needs some care, but you can keep driving until you see a mechanic.
Knowing the difference between a steady and flashing light is important. A steady light means a small issue, but a flashing one is serious and needs quick action.
Not fixing a flashing light can harm your engine badly. Subaru engine diagnostics show many possible problems, from a loose fuel cap to serious issues like a bad catalytic converter.
Regular checks and services help keep your Subaru running well. Watch the dashboard lights closely, as they tell you a lot about your car’s health.
Common Causes For Subaru Check Engine Light
Knowing why the Subaru check engine light comes on is key for keeping your car in top shape. Many things can cause this light to turn on, from small problems to big ones.
Here are some common reasons:
Loose or Missing Gas Cap
A loose or broken gas cap can cause fuel pressure to drop and emissions to rise. It’s a common reason for the Subaru check engine light to come on.
If you find this problem, just tightening or replacing the gas cap might fix it.
Failing Catalytic Converter
With age, the catalytic converter can get clogged, which is common in cars with a lot of miles. This can hurt your car’s performance and make it fail emissions tests.
If you think your catalytic converter is failing, fixing it quickly is important to avoid more problems.
Fouled Spark Plugs and Ignition Wires
Bad spark plugs can really hurt your car’s performance and gas mileage. They’re key for the engine to work right.
Keeping spark plugs and ignition wires in good shape is important for your Subaru to run smoothly.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor checks the air-fuel mix in the engine. If it’s not working right, your car might use more fuel and damage the catalytic converter.
Fixing a bad oxygen sensor early can save you from expensive repairs later.
Malfunctioning Mass Air Flow Sensor
This sensor controls how much air gets into the engine. Problems with it can cause your engine to misfire and run poorly.
If your Subaru’s check engine light is on, check this sensor for any trouble codes.
What to Do If Your Subaru Check Engine Light Comes On?
When the check engine light on your Subaru turns on, it’s a sign you need to act fast. Knowing how to handle this situation can save you from expensive repairs.
Start by checking for simple problems and knowing when to get help from a Subaru service center.
Initial Steps to Take
First, check for obvious issues. A loose or missing gas cap can turn on the check engine light. If tightening it doesn’t fix the problem after driving for 20-40 miles, then:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to get diagnostic trouble codes.
- Look at the codes to understand the problem.
- Watch for signs like poor performance or strange noises while driving.
These steps can tell you if the problem is small or if you need a pro’s help.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If the light stays on after your checks or starts flashing, don’t ignore it. A flashing light means there’s a serious problem that could damage your engine.
Get help from a Subaru service center right away. A quick check by a pro can prevent big problems and save you money.
Regular checks by a trusted mechanic can also keep your car running well and avoid future issues.
Subaru Diagnostic Codes Explained
The OBD-II system in your Subaru is key to checking how well your vehicle is running. When the check engine light comes on, it sends out specific codes.
These Subaru diagnostic codes help spot problems that might not be obvious. With an OBD-II scanner, you can pull these codes and learn about the issues.
Learn How To The OBD-II Trouble Codes
OBD-II trouble codes are a mix of letters and numbers that point to specific engine and system problems.
These codes differ by manufacturer but mostly follow a standard pattern. Knowing the right Subaru OBD code lets you understand the problem’s severity and what steps to take next.
Common Subaru Diagnostic Codes
| Diagnostic Code | Description | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| P0131 | Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1) | Poor fuel economy, increased emissions |
| P0016 | Crankshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1) | Engine misfires, rough idling |
| P0244 | Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid Range/Performance Problem | Loss of power, engine performance issues |
| P0122 | Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor Low Input | Reduced performance, possible limp mode |
| P0300 | Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected | Engine performance degradation, possible severe damage |
Dealing with Subaru Engine Light Troubleshooting
Fixing the Subaru engine light needs a careful plan to find the real problem. First, use an OBD-II scanner to get the subaru check engine codes.
These codes help understand what’s wrong with your car. Look at:
- Oxygen Sensor
- Spark Plugs
- Mass Airflow Sensor
- EGR Valve
- Fuel Cap
The Subaru’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) checks the engine’s health with sensors. If it finds a problem, the check engine light turns on.
Knowing the subaru check engine codes helps figure out if it’s a big deal or a small one. A steady light means it’s not too serious, but a flashing light warns of a big problem.
Once you know what’s wrong, fix it fast to avoid expensive fixes. A check engine light diagnosis and test cost between $88 and $111.
After repairs, it might take 20 to 40 miles for the light to go off. Regular subaru engine diagnostics keep your car running well and save money in the long run.
How to Read Subaru Dashboard Lights?
Knowing Subaru dashboard lights is key to keeping your car in top shape. Each light tells you something different.
Some lights, like the check engine light, mean you need to act fast. Others might be less urgent.
Here’s a guide to help you understand the various warning lights on your Subaru dashboard.
Different Warning Lights Explained
| Warning Light | Indication |
|---|---|
| Check Engine Light | Indicates the need for maintenance; visit a certified mechanic soon. |
| Oil Pressure Warning Light | Signals low oil pressure, suggesting improper lubrication; driving is not advised. |
| Low Tire Pressure Warning Light | Warns of under-inflated tires or a tire pressure monitoring system fault. |
| Battery Warning Light | Indicates possible issues with the battery or charging system, often related to the alternator. |
| ABS Warning Light | Indicates a malfunction within the anti-lock braking system; do not overlook this light. |
| Brake System Warning Light | Signals possible brake issues; prompt attention is required. |
| SRS Airbag System Warning Light | Signals possible problems with the airbag system or sensors. |
| All-Wheel Drive Warning Light | Indicates unbalanced conditions, possibly due to mismatched tires or a puncture. |
| Windshield Washer Fluid Warning Light | Indicates the need to refill windshield washer fluid. |
| LED Headlight Warning Light | Indicates a malfunction with one or more headlights, affecting visibility. |
There are over 70 Subaru dashboard lights, each with its own message. Knowing what they mean helps you take care of your car. This way, you can avoid expensive repairs later on.
Subaru Service Center: When to Visit?
The Check Engine light is your car’s warning system. It turns on when something’s wrong. Taking your car to a Subaru service center quickly is key to avoid big problems.
Listen for strange noises like thumping or squealing. These sounds mean your car needs a check-up. If your car doesn’t handle well or stops hard, get it serviced right away.
Shaking or vibrations while driving could mean your transmission is failing. A pro should look at it fast.
Regular visits to the service center keep your Subaru running smoothly. This way, you catch issues early and keep your car in top shape.
DIY Methods For Subaru Engine Light Issues
If you like to fix Subaru engine light problems yourself, there are good DIY ways to do it. First, check for loose or missing parts, like the gas cap.
A loose gas cap can turn on the subaru check engine light because the engine control system sees a fuel leak.
Checking for these small problems can save you a lot of time and money. Use an OBD-II scanner to find any trouble codes linked to the subaru engine light troubleshooting.
This tool plugs into the OBD2 port, found under the dashboard on the driver’s side. It can tell you about any problems, from small to big.
After fixing the problem, it might take 10 to 20 drives for the check engine light to go off. If the light stays on, try disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes.
This can reset the car’s electrical system and might turn off the light. But, be careful not to overstep your limits.
If the check engine light blinks, it means there’s a big problem, like an engine misfire, that needs quick help.
If you’re not sure what to do or if the problem doesn’t go away, it’s best to get a professional mechanic.
| Method | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Check Gas Cap | Inspect for tightness or damage to prevent fuel leaks | High |
| OBD-II Scan | Utilize a scanner to read trouble codes | Very High |
| Battery Disconnect | Reset electrical system for light reset | Moderate |
| Consult Mechanic | Seek professional help if problems persist | Critical |
Importance of Regular Engine Diagnostics
Regular engine diagnostics are key to keeping your Subaru running smoothly. They help spot problems early, before they get worse.
Many drivers don’t know the check engine light is a warning, with about 20% of cars showing it at any time.
Regular Subaru engine checks can save you up to 30% on repair costs. Also, about 70% of big repairs could be avoided with early detection.
A diagnostic test costs between $100 and $200, which is much less than emergency repairs that can cost over $1,000.
Not paying attention to the check engine light can raise repair costs by 10%. It can also cut down your fuel efficiency by 10-20%.
This can harm the environment and might even lead to fines if you don’t follow emissions rules. Regular diagnostics also make your car more reliable by up to 40%.
This means fewer unexpected breakdowns. With 60% of drivers worried about car problems, regular checks give you peace of mind.
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Timely Diagnostics | Can avoid repairs that could cost up to 60% more if left unaddressed. |
| Check Engine Light Ignored | Average repair costs can increase due to further damage. |
| Cost of Diagnostics | Ranges from $100 to $200; minor investment compared to emergency repair costs. |
| Vehicle Reliability | Improves by up to 40%, reducing likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. |
Potential Risks of Ignoring The Engine Light
Ignoring the Subaru check engine light can lead to big problems. Many drivers don’t take this warning seriously. It’s meant to alert you to possible issues early on.
Not paying attention can cause serious engine damage. For example, ignoring a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can harm the catalytic converter.
These repairs can cost thousands of dollars, and replacing the engine might cost over $5,000. Ignoring the light can also make your car use more fuel.
This can increase fuel costs by 10-20%. Problems like engine overheating or misfires can be dangerous on the road. They can put your safety and others at risk.
Cost Implications of Delayed Repairs
Waiting to fix your Subaru’s engine light can make repairs more expensive. Ignoring the light can increase repair costs by 10% to 20% each month.
Cars with ongoing issues are 30% more likely to fail emissions tests, making registration harder. Ignoring the light can also lower your car’s trade-in value by 20-30%.
Not fixing the issue can also void your warranty. This means you’ll have to pay for repairs that might have been covered.
Getting your car checked regularly can save you money and keep your warranty intact.
The Role of Subaru Repair Shops
Knowing when to visit a Subaru repair shop is key to keeping your car running well. Local Subaru repair shops have the skills for diagnostics and repairs.
They are essential for fixing issues that make the check engine light come on. When your Subaru’s dashboard lights up, it means there’s a problem.
It could be something simple like a loose gas cap or a serious issue like a failing catalytic converter. That’s when the experts at a Subaru service center step in.
Finding a Trusted Subaru Mechanic
Finding the right Subaru repair shop is important for your car’s reliability. Look for mechanics who are certified for Subaru vehicles.
Their knowledge helps them diagnose and fix problems accurately. Having a good relationship with a service technician gives you peace of mind.
It also means your car is in good hands. A reliable Subaru repair shop can also understand OBD-II codes well. This helps fix problems quickly, saving you time and money.
FAQs
What does it mean when my Subaru check engine light comes on?
The check engine light means your Subaru’s onboard diagnostics system found a problem. It could be something simple like a loose gas cap. Or it might be a serious issue that needs quick attention.
How can I diagnose the issues related to my Subaru’s engine light?
Use an OBD-II scanner to get diagnostic codes. This helps figure out what’s wrong. Also, check for loose parts before you get professional help.
What are some common Subaru diagnostic codes I should be aware of?
Look out for codes like P0420 (catalytic converter issue), P0300 (misfire), and P0131 (oxygen sensor problem). Knowing these codes helps you fix engine issues.
When should I take my Subaru to a service center?
Go to a Subaru service center if the light is flashing or if your car’s performance drops. Also, if you hear strange sounds. Quick help can stop more damage.
What should I do if my Subaru’s engine light is flashing?
If the light flashes, it’s a serious problem that could harm your engine. Stop driving and get your car towed to a Subaru repair shop for a check-up.
Can I troubleshoot the engine light issues myself?
Yes, you can do basic checks like looking for loose parts and using an OBD-II scanner. But, if you’re not sure or problems keep coming back, get professional help.
What are the risks of ignoring the Subaru engine light?
Ignoring the light can cause serious engine damage and high repair costs. It can also make your car unsafe and less reliable. Fixing problems early is key to avoiding bigger issues.
How often should I get engine diagnostics for my Subaru?
Get engine diagnostics at least once a year, or sooner if the light comes on. Regular checks help find problems early and keep your car running well for longer.
