Why Is My Subaru’s Check Engine Light On?

If a little yellow light illuminates on your Subaru’s dashboard when you are driving, you should get your car checked out as soon as possible. The yellow check engine warning light can mean anything from a loose gas cap to critical engine problems. While you may not need immediate service, never ignore the light. Ignoring the light can seriously damage the components of your engine and leave you stranded on the side of the road. Our team here at Competition Subaru of Smithtown is here to help you understand your Subaru’s check engine light.

What Does My Subaru’s Check Engine Light Mean?

Our team here at Competition Subaru is here to break a few things down for you to help you best understand your Subaru. There are several systems in your Subaru that are run by computers. This includes the automatic transmission, ignition timing, fuel timing, fuel mixture, and engine speed.

The “check engine” light is part of your Subaru’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) system. When it finds a problem in the electronic control system that it can’t correct, the yellow light will illuminate to warn you that there is a problem. The light may vary from a picture of an engine to the words like “service engine soon” or “check engine.” In some Subaru models, when the check engine light turns on your Subaru may turn on other warning lights such as cruise control, VDC, Hill Holder, X-Mode, etc.

The computer will store a “trouble code” in its memory that identifies the source of the problem. The light may also indicate dangerous gas emissions from carbon monoxide to hydrocarbon pollutants. Your Subaru’s monitoring system watches for escaping gasoline vapors due to a leak or missing gas cap, as well as exhaust emissions as they leave the engine and catalytic converter.

What Should I Do When My Check Engine Light Comes On?

Our team here at Competition Subaru highly recommends knowing and understanding what the lights on your dashboard mean. You can read your Subaru’s owner’s manual to learn the symbolism of each gauge to help determine the severity of the issue. Whether the light remains on or starts to blink, you’ll need to get your car checked by a certified Subaru technician as soon as possible. Schedule a service online or stop by our Express Service Center where no appointment is needed.

What Does A Blinking Check Engine Light Mean?

A blinking check engine light means there is a serious issue that needs immediate attention. We highly recommend pulling over in a safe area and getting your vehicle towed to a Subaru Service Center.

What Does A Constant Lit Check Engine Light Mean?

A lit check engine light may not be an emergency, but we highly recommend having your vehicle serviced sooner rather than later. This can help save you from paying for expensive repairs.

Head to our blog and check out other helpful car tips like car battery tips and tire tips! Schedule a service online at our Subaru Service Center or stop by our Express Service Center where no appointment is needed! Be sure to also check out our service specials and parts & accessories specials! Stop by Competition Subaru of Smithtown and explore our large inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles. Take advantage of our new Subaru lease specials! Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to seeing you at our Subaru dealership located at 601 Middle Country Road, Saint James, NY!