Diagnosing a Subaru Check Engine and Traction Control Light

Subaru check engine and traction control lights are warning indicators that alert the driver of an issue with their vehicle. The check engine light typically indicates an issue with the car’s engine performance or emissions system, while the traction control light typically indicates a problem with the car’s stability control system. When either of these lights come on, it is important to take your car to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. A mechanic will be able to tell you the exact cause of the issue and recommend repairs that need to be done in order for your car to run safely and efficiently.

Automobile: Subaru Check Engine and Traction Control Lights

Common Causes of Check Engine and Traction Control Lights in Subaru Cars

When it comes to diagnosing a check engine or traction control light on Subaru cars, the most common causes are diagnostic trouble codes, a low fuel level sensor, a loose or damaged gas cap, ignition coil problems, oxygen sensor issues, faulty catalytic converters, malfunctioning mass air flow sensors, bad spark plugs or wires, variable valve timing system malfunctions and exhaust gas recirculation valve faults. It is important to identify these issues in order to properly diagnose and resolve the problem.

Troubleshooting Check Engine and Traction Control Lights in Subaru Cars

In order to properly troubleshoot check engine and traction control lights on Subaru cars, it is important to first check for error codes. This can be done by connecting a scan tool or code reader to the vehicle’s diagnostic port. After this has been completed, it is then necessary to inspect the vehicle’s fuel system components such as fuel lines and fuel filters for any signs of damage or blockage. Additionally, the ignition coil and spark plug wires should be examined for wear.
The oxygen sensors should also be tested for proper operation as well as the catalytic converter which should also be inspected for any signs of wear or damage. The mass air flow sensor should also be checked for proper operation in order to ensure that the correct amount of air is being supplied to the engine at all times. Additionally, the variable valve timing system components should be analyzed in order to ensure that they are functioning correctly. Finally, the exhaust gas recirculation valve should also be inspected for any signs of damage or malfunctioning.

How To Reset Check Engine And Traction Control Lights On Subaru Vehicles

Once all of these components have been inspected and repaired as necessary it is then possible to reset check engine and traction control lights on Subaru vehicles using one of two methods. The first method involves disconnecting the car battery cables from their terminals which will cause all stored data within the vehicle’s computer system to be erased including any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been stored due to an issue with one of its components. The second method involves using a diagnostic scan tool which can connect directly into the car’s OBDII port in order to clear any stored error codes from within its computer system which may have caused either check engine light or traction control light issues.

Warning Signs Of A Bad Oxygen Sensor On Subaru Cars

When diagnosing an oxygen sensor issue on Subaru cars there are certain warning signs that can help identify possible problems with this component such as poor performance issues resulting in decreased MPG ratings as well as unusual smells coming from the vehicle’s exhaust system due to incomplete combustion of fuel within its cylinders. Additionally rough idling or stalling can also occur when an oxygen sensor has gone bad due to improper fuel mixtures being sent into its cylinders at idle speeds.

Symptoms Of A Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor On Subaru Cars

Symptoms associated with a faulty mass air flow sensor on Subaru cars include poor fuel economy resulting from too much air being supplied into its cylinders during combustion cycles along with rough acceleration due to incorrect amounts of air being delivered at higher RPMs than normal along with unusual vibrations coming from its engine due to incorrect amounts of air being supplied during acceleration cycles. Additionally hesitation when accelerating can occur along with poor idle quality which can also result from an issue with this component within its vehicle’s engine management system.

Regularly Check Your Vehicle’s Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure

It is important to check your vehicle’s fluid levels and tire pressure on a regular basis to ensure that your Subaru is running efficiently. This includes checking the oil levels, coolant levels, and brake fluid levels in order to avoid major engine problems. Additionally, checking the tire pressure will help ensure that the car is running smoothly and that the traction control system is functioning properly. Anytime there is a significant change in the fluid levels or tire pressure, it should be addressed immediately as this can cause issues with both the check engine light and traction control systems.

Change Your Oil as Recommended by Manufacturer

In order to maintain a healthy engine and ensure optimal performance, it is important to change your oil as recommended by Subaru’s manufacturer guidelines. Depending on your specific model of car, this may mean changing the oil every 3,000-5,000 miles or every six months. Regular oil changes can help prevent major engine problems and keep your check engine light from coming on due to low oil levels or poor lubrication. Additionally, regular oil changes will help keep your traction control system functioning properly as well.

Keep Up with Scheduled Maintenance Services

It is also important to keep up with scheduled maintenance services on your Subaru in order to maintain optimal performance and prevent any major issues from arising. This includes everything from checking spark plugs, air intakes, brake pads, belts, hoses, and more in order to ensure that all of these components are functioning properly. Scheduled maintenance services can also help prevent any issues with either the check engine light or traction control system from coming on unexpectedly due to a faulty part or worn-down component.

Have Vehicle Inspected for Potential Problems

Finally, it is always advisable to have your vehicle inspected for any potential problems that may be causing issues with either the check engine light or traction control system. Taking your car in for an inspection at least once per year can help identify any potential problems before they become serious issues that could lead to expensive repairs or replacements down the line. An experienced mechanic will be able to diagnose any potential problems quickly and accurately so they can be addressed immediately before they become costly issues in the future.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What are the common causes of check engine and traction control lights in Subaru cars?
A: The common causes of check engine and traction control lights in Subaru cars include diagnostic trouble codes, low fuel level sensor, loose or damaged gas cap, ignition coil problems, oxygen sensor issues, faulty catalytic converter, malfunctioning mass air flow sensor, bad spark plugs or wires, variable valve timing system malfunction and exhaust gas recirculation valve faults.

Q: How do I troubleshoot check engine and traction control lights in Subaru cars?
A: To troubleshoot check engine and traction control lights in Subaru cars, you should check for error codes, inspect the vehicle’s fuel system components, examine the ignition coil and spark plug wires, test the oxygen sensors and catalytic converter, check the mass air flow sensor, analyze the variable valve timing system components and inspect the exhaust gas recirculation valve.

Q: How do I reset check engine and traction control lights on Subaru vehicles?
A: There are two methods to reset check engine and traction control lights on Subaru vehicles – disconnecting car battery cables method or using a diagnostic scan tool method.

Q: What are the warning signs of a bad oxygen sensor on Subaru cars?
A: The warning signs of a bad oxygen sensor on Subaru cars include poor performance issues, decreased MPG rating, unusual smells from vehicle’s exhaust system and rough idling or stalling.

Q: What are the symptoms of a faulty mass air flow sensor on Subaru cars?
A: The symptoms of a faulty mass air flow sensor on Subaru cars include poor fuel economy ,rough acceleration ,unusual vibrations from engine ,hesitation when accelerating and poor idle quality.

In conclusion, the Subaru check engine and traction control lights are an important part of a vehicle’s safety system. They should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as possible. It is important to know why these lights come on and what to do when they do. In most cases, it is best to take the vehicle to a qualified technician for diagnosis and repair. Proper maintenance and inspection of the vehicle can help prevent these lights from coming on in the first place.