What to Do When Your Check Engine and Traction Lights Come On in a Subaru

If the Check Engine and Traction lights on your Subaru are illuminated, then it is likely that there is a problem with your vehicle’s engine or traction control system. The Check Engine light indicates that there is a problem with the engine, while the Traction Control light signals a problem with the traction control system. Depending upon the severity of the issue, either light may require immediate attention or may be able to be addressed after a few days. In any case, it is important to have a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle as soon as possible to ensure that the issue is corrected and your vehicle is safe to drive.

Automobile: Check Engine and Traction Light on Subaru

What is the Check Engine Light on a Subaru?

The check engine light on a Subaru is an indicator that alerts the driver when there is a problem with the engine’s systems. It is usually represented by an amber or yellow symbol, but some models may have different colors. The light typically appears when the vehicle’s computer detects a malfunction in the vehicle’s emission or ignition system. It may also appear if the vehicle has low oil pressure, or an issue with its fuel system.

Features

The check engine light usually turns on when there is an issue with one of the vehicle’s components. It could indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a more serious problem such as an engine misfire. In most cases, the light will remain illuminated until the issue has been resolved and the car has been taken to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

Symptoms of Malfunction

When the check engine light turns on, it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and strange sounds coming from under the hood. Depending on what type of problem has set off the check engine light, other warning lights may also appear such as those related to oil pressure, electrical system faults, or emissions irregularities. In some cases, it may be necessary to take your car in for professional diagnosis and repair to identify what is causing the issue and fix it correctly.

What is the Traction Light on a Subaru?

The traction light in a Subaru is an indicator that alerts drivers when there are issues with their vehicle’s traction control system. This system helps keep wheels from spinning out of control during acceleration or cornering maneuvers by using sensors that detect wheel spin and then apply brakes to slow down any wheel that’s spinning too quickly. The traction control system can help reduce skidding during wet weather conditions or icy roads as well as provide additional stability while cornering at high speeds.

Features

When this warning light appears in your car’s dashboard display panel, it indicates that something is wrong with your vehicle’s traction control system and should not be ignored – especially if you plan to drive in wet conditions or icy roads where traction can be lost very quickly if not properly monitored. The traction control indicator will usually remain illuminated until the issue has been resolved and your car has been taken in for professional diagnosis and repair if needed.

Symptoms of Malfunction

When this warning light appears in your dashboard display panel along with other symptoms such as reduced power while accelerating or decreased braking performance while cornering then you should take your car into your nearest service center for professional diagnosis and repair right away before attempting any further driving maneuvers that could put you at risk of losing control of your vehicle due to lack of proper traction control operation.

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in a Subaru

Various issues can cause your check engine light to turn on including fluid leaks or contamination in any part of your car’s fuel delivery system; electrical problems; malfunctioning sensors or connections; mechanical problems; ignition system issues; exhaust system issues; and fuel system issues such as clogged injectors or worn spark plugs just to name a few common culprits which should all be addressed promptly so as not to further damage any components within these systems which could lead to even more costly repairs down the line if left unattended for too long.

Common Causes for Traction Light in a Subaru

Low tire pressure/incorrect tire size; loss of traction control operation due to faulty wheel speed sensors; worn brake pads; faulty wheel bearings; worn suspension components like struts/shocks/bushings etc.; low levels of differential fluid all can cause this warning light to turn on indicating there are issues with your vehicle’s ability to maintain proper grip while driving which should all be addressed promptly so as not to put yourself at risk while driving under hazardous conditions like snow/ice etc..

First off it’s important that you visually inspect around areas like fluid reservoirs/reservoir caps etc., checking for any signs of leakage which could indicate where fluid might have leaked out from leading up to this warning lights turning on – this should always be done before attempting anything else so that you don’t accidentally cause more damage due to neglecting proper inspection methods prior starting repairs/maintenance work required hereunder Those findings should then help guide you into performing Electrical tests (using OBD scanners etc.) checking Sensors & connections making sure they are securely connected & properly functioning verifying Mechanical Components (belts/pulleys etc.) testing Ignition System components (plugs & wires) inspecting Exhaust System components (catalytic converter etc.) & finally evaluating Fuel System components (fuel injectors & fuel pump) which should all help determine more accurately what might be causing these two lights turn on simultaneously letting you know exactly what needs repairing before attempting further repairs yourself since some jobs require special tools only available at certified auto shops run by experienced technicians who know how these cars inside out helping get back onto road safely without risking further damage down line due too incorrect maintenance performed hereunder

When to Take Your Subaru to a Mechanic for Check Engine and Traction Lights

If your Subaru is displaying a check engine light or traction light, it is important to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible. These lights indicate that there is an issue with the vehicle that needs to be addressed. The check engine light indicates that there is an issue with the engine system, while the traction light indicates that there is an issue with the car’s ability to grip the road. Both of these lights can be serious, so it is important to get them checked out right away.

A mechanic can diagnose both of these issues and determine what needs to be done in order to fix them. It may involve replacing a part or making adjustments, but it could also involve more extensive repairs such as engine rebuilds or transmission replacements. A mechanic will be able to assess the situation and let you know what needs to be done in order for your vehicle to run safely and properly again.

What are the Cost Estimates for Repairs on Subarus with Check Engine and Traction Lights?

The cost of repairs on Subarus with check engine and traction lights can vary depending on the severity of the issue. If it is simply a matter of replacing a faulty part or making an adjustment, then the cost may not be too expensive. However, if more extensive repairs such as an engine rebuild or transmission replacement are necessary then the cost could range anywhere from several hundred dollars up into thousands of dollars depending on how much work needs to be done.

It is always best to consult with a professional mechanic before beginning any repair work in order to get an accurate estimate of how much it will cost upfront so that you can budget accordingly.

How To Prevent Further Damage from Check Engine and Traction Lights in Subarus?

The best way to prevent further damage from check engine and traction lights in Subarus is by getting them checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as they appear. Ignoring these lights can lead to bigger problems down the line if left unchecked for too long, such as complete engine failure or transmission damage.

It’s also important to make sure that your Subaru receives regular maintenance including oil changes and other fluid top ups in order keep all parts functioning properly over time which will help prevent further issues from occurring in general.

How Technology Can Help Diagnose Check Engine and Traction Lights on Subarus?

Technology has become increasingly helpful when it comes diagnosing check engine and traction lights on Subarus. There are now many sophisticated diagnostic tools available which allow mechanics to quickly pinpoint what exactly is causing these issues without needing hours of labor-intensive diagnostics work like they used too in past decades.

These tools use advanced algorithms which analyze data from all systems within your vehicle’s computer system which helps identify problems quicker than ever before saving both time and money for everyone involved in the repair process.

Tips for Maintaining Your Subaru so it Does Not Have More Issues with its Check Engine and Traction Lights’

In order maintain your Subaru so that you don’t have any more issues with its check engine and traction lights, there are several things you can do:

• Make sure you keep up with regular scheduled maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, spark plug replacements etc., as outlined by your vehicle’s manufacturer’s specifications;

• Keep an eye on dashboard warning indicators such as low oil pressure or low coolant levels;

• Drive cautiously – avoid speeding or hard braking;

• Inspect your brakes regularly;

• Be aware if any new parts have been added recently – they could have compatibility issues;

• Keep up-to-date records of any previous repairs made – this will help when diagnosing potential future issues;

• Have any recalls or service bulletins performed immediately – even if they seem minor;

• Replace any faulty parts immediately rather than trying “band-aid” fixes which might not last long-term; And finally, stay vigilant about checking for signs of wear & tear – this includes checking all fluids & belts regularly! Following these tips should help ensure that your Subaru runs smoothly without any further issues related its check engine or traction light indicators!

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the Check Engine Light on a Subaru?
A: The Check Engine Light on a Subaru is an indicator that something is wrong with the vehicle’s engine, emissions, or other components. It can be triggered by anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. It is important to have it checked out as soon as possible by a professional mechanic.

Q: What is the Traction Light on a Subaru?
A: The Traction Light on a Subaru indicates that there is an issue with the vehicle’s traction control system. This system helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle on slippery surfaces or during sudden changes of direction. Common causes of this light include low tire pressure or incorrect tire size, loss of traction control operation, and wheel speed sensor malfunction.

Q: What are common causes for the Check Engine Light in a Subaru?
A: Common causes for the Check Engine Light in a Subaru include fluid leaks or contamination, electrical problems, malfunctioning sensors or connections, mechanical problems, ignition system issues, exhaust system issues, and fuel system issues.

Q: What are common causes for the Traction Light in a Subaru?
A: Common causes for the Traction Light in a Subaru include low tire pressure/incorrect tire size, loss of traction control operation, and wheel speed sensor malfunction.

Q: How to prevent further damage from Check Engine and Traction Lights in Subarus?
A: To prevent further damage from Check Engine and Traction Lights in Subarus it is important to have them checked out as soon as possible by an experienced mechanic who can diagnose and repair any underlying issues that may be causing them. It is also important to maintain your vehicle regularly with oil changes and other preventative measures so that it does not have more issues with its check engine and traction lights down the road.

In conclusion, the check engine and traction lights on Subaru vehicles are important indicators of potential problems with the vehicle’s systems. It is important to have these lights diagnosed by a qualified technician in order to determine the cause of the problem and make any necessary repairs. Failure to do so can lead to further damage and increased repair costs. Taking proper care of your vehicle is essential for its longevity, so it is important to keep an eye on these warning lights.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

Similar Posts