Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing – Quick Fixes

If your Subaru’s cruise control light starts flashing, it’s a sign of a problem. The cruise control system makes long drives easier.

But, a flashing light means you need to check it out. This guide will help you fix Subaru cruise control issues, keeping your car safe and running well.

Subarus from 2005 on have a flashing light for the cruise control. Knowing why it flashes and how to fix it can prevent big repairs.

Subaru cars have 196 diagnostic codes, so finding the problem is doable with the right steps.

What’s The Subaru Cruise Control System?

The Subaru cruise control system helps you keep a steady speed on long drives. It has key parts like the cruise control switch, electronic controls, and speed sensors.

Knowing how it works is key to spotting any problems. In Subaru cars, the cruise control system is easy to use. Just set your speed, and the car will keep it without your foot on the gas.

Knowing how it operates helps you notice if something’s off, like a flashing light. Starting from 2005, Subaru cars have a light that flashes when there’s a problem.

This light is part of a system that checks many car functions. Each Subaru has special codes that tell you about any issues or when it’s time for a check-up.

Common Causes of Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing

A flashing Subaru cruise control warning light can mean several things are wrong with your car. Knowing what these issues are helps you fix them fast.

Here are some common reasons for this warning light:

• Gas Cap Issue: A loose or broken gas cap can cause the cruise control light to flash. This is because it affects the fuel pressure readings.
• Faulty Speed Sensors: These sensors are key for checking your car’s speed. If they don’t work right, the cruise control might turn off, showing the warning light.
• Electrical Problems: Issues with your car’s electrical system can mess with the cruise control. This includes damaged wiring or blown fuses, which show up as a flashing light.
• Engine Performance Issues: Engine problems often cause the Subaru cruise control warning light to flash. This is because the engine’s diagnostic codes are involved.

Fixing these problems quickly is important to prevent more issues. You might see a check engine light (CEL) on too, which means there’s a problem with the engine.

If both lights are flashing, it usually means the engine is misfiring. But if the CEL is steady and the cruise control light is flashing, it’s a common sign.

Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing – Quick Fixes

If your Subaru’s cruise control light is flashing, act fast to avoid bigger problems. A few quick checks can solve the issue without needing expensive repairs.

Look at several parts to make sure everything works right.

Inspecting the Gas Cap Tightness

Start by checking the gas cap. A loose cap can make the cruise control light blink. This easy problem might lead you to check the cruise control system more closely.

Always check the gas cap tightness after filling up. Make sure it’s tight to prevent trouble codes that can hurt your car’s performance.

Checking For Faulty Sensors

Checking for faulty sensors is key to finding Subaru cruise control problems. Look at speed sensors first.

An OBD-II scanner can show you diagnostic codes and find sensor issues. If sensors aren’t working right, replace or fix them quickly to get your cruise control working again.

Subaru Cruise Control Issues: Recognizing Warning Signs

It’s important to know the warning signs of Subaru cruise control problems. The first sign is usually the cruise control light flashing on your dashboard.

Also, watch for other warning lights that come on at the same time. These lights can mean you have a bigger issue that needs fixing right away.

Identifying Additional Warning Lights

Look out for other warning lights too, not just the cruise control one. The Check Engine Light (CEL) is very important. If you ignore it, you could face expensive repairs and more problems.

Here are some other warning lights to keep an eye on:

• Check Engine Light (CEL) – May signal engine inefficiency and costly repairs if ignored.
• Battery Light – Indicates problems with the electrical system, potentially affecting performance.
• Oxygen Sensor Warning – Can impact both fuel economy and emissions compliance.
• Transmission Light – Signals problems with engine performance and could turn on the CEL.

If you see these lights, it might mean your Subaru’s cruise control problem is part of a bigger issue. Fixing these problems early can save you money and keep your car running well.

Troubleshooting Subaru Cruise Control Problems

Fixing Subaru cruise control issues can save you time and money. Knowing how to find the problem is important.

This guide will help you diagnose and fix issues, including using an OBD-II scanner and checking the electrical system.

Using an OBD-II Scanner

An OBD-II scanner is a great tool for finding cruise control problems. It connects to your car’s diagnostic port and shows fault codes. These codes can tell you why the cruise control light is on.

Getting these codes takes just a few minutes. They help you find and fix specific problems. This makes fixing your Subaru’s cruise control easier.

Checking Vehicle’s Electrical System

Electrical issues can affect your cruise control. It’s important to check the electrical system. Look for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections in the wiring and connectors.

These problems can cause your cruise control to work only sometimes. Checking the electrical system can help you understand why it’s not working right.

Subaru Cruise Control Not Working: Possible Solutions

If your Subaru cruise control isn’t working, there are a few things you can try. First, check the on-off switch. It might have been turned off by mistake.

This simple mistake can make it seem like the system isn’t working. Then, look at the vehicle’s fuses. A blown fuse can stop the cruise control from working.

Replacing the fuse is easy and might fix the problem. Don’t forget about regular maintenance. Check the throttle and accelerator pedal sensors often.

These parts are key for the cruise control to work right. If these steps don’t work, it’s time to see a mechanic. They can do a deeper check to find the problem.

They might also look at engine codes to understand what’s wrong. Trying these solutions can help you get your Subaru back on the road safely.

Fixing these problems quickly can prevent bigger repairs later on.

The Role of Cruise Control Diagnostics

Knowing cruise control diagnostics is key to keeping your Subaru’s system running smoothly.

If the cruise control light is flashing, detailed diagnostics can uncover hidden problems. Getting professional help for Subaru diagnostics can uncover issues that might not be obvious.

Importance of Professional Diagnostics

Professional Subaru diagnostics are vital for spotting issues in your vehicle’s cruise control system. They use advanced tools and methods to check components thoroughly.

Subaru cars, built after 1996, have On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD II) for precise checks. A loose gas cap can turn on the check engine light, even if your car seems fine.

Problems with the catalyst system can also light up warning lights without affecting your drive. Experts can pinpoint these issues with component and conditional fault codes.

After fixing a problem, the emissions system needs specific driving conditions to reset. This means fault codes might not show up right away.

Getting help from Subaru repair experts ensures accurate and quick fixes for your car’s issues.

Maintaining Your Subaru’s Cruise Control System

Keeping your Subaru’s cruise control system in top shape is key. Regular checks help ensure all parts, like sensors and electrical connections, work right.

This way, you avoid problems that could mess up your drive.

Regular System Checks

For Subaru cruise control maintenance, do system checks often. Check the cruise control module and its wiring. Look for:

• Worn-out sensors that may affect system performance.
• Loose or corroded connections that could interrupt power flow.
• Proper functioning of other related systems, such as the throttle and brake modules.

Compromise Maintenance Alerts

Your car’s onboard diagnostics system alerts you to cruise control issues. Pay attention to these alerts. Ignoring them can cause bigger problems and cost a lot to fix.

Learn about the diagnostic codes for your Subaru to understand any alerts.

When to Seek Professional Subaru Cruise Control Repair

Many cruise control problems can be fixed with simple steps. But, some issues need a pro’s touch.

If you’ve tried easy fixes but the problem stays, or if many warning lights come on, it’s time to call for help.

Ignoring these signs can cause bigger problems that might risk your safety and make driving less fun. Experts in Subaru cars have the right tools and know-how to fix complex problems.

Issues like engine management, like camshaft phasing and bad sensors, can really mess up your cruise control. A detailed check and error code scan are often needed to get your car running right.

Getting help from a pro makes your cruise control work better and keeps your car safe from damage.

It’s smart to fix problems fast with an expert’s help. This way, your Subaru stays in top shape, and you can drive without worry.

FAQs

What does a flashing cruise control light in my Subaru mean?

A flashing cruise control light usually means there’s a problem with the system. This could be faulty speed sensors, electrical issues, or engine problems.

How can I troubleshoot my Subaru cruise control light flashing?

First, check if the gas cap is tight. Then, use an OBD-II scanner to look at the speed sensors for any codes. Also, check the electrical system for damage or blown fuses.

What are common causes for Subaru cruise control issues?

Common problems include a loose gas cap, faulty speed sensors, electrical issues, and engine problems. These can all trigger warning lights.

Why does my Subaru cruise control stop working completely?

The system might stop working if the on-off switch is flipped, if there are blown fuses, or if there are problems with the throttle and accelerator sensors.

How often should I maintain my Subaru’s cruise control system?

It’s important to check the system regularly. Do this every 15,000 miles or during routine service. This helps keep it working well and catches problems early.

When should I seek professional help for cruise control repairs?

If the light keeps flashing after you’ve tried to fix it, or if you see other warning lights, get professional help. They can do advanced diagnostics and repairs.

What tools do I need for Subaru cruise control diagnostics?

You’ll need an OBD-II scanner to find and fix issues. You might also need basic tools for checking electrical connections or replacing parts.