When you drive a Subaru and suddenly see the Check Engine Light together with a blinking cruise control light, it can feel confusing and stressful. These warning lights appear for many reasons, from simple sensor errors to more serious engine problems. Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, but like any car, they sometimes need attention. Understanding what these lights mean and how to respond can save you time, money, and prevent bigger issues down the road.
This article explains why the Check Engine Light and blinking cruise control light come on in Subaru cars, what you should do, common causes, and how to fix or prevent these problems. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to handle these warnings and avoid unnecessary panic.
What Do The Check Engine Light And Blinking Cruise Mean In Subaru?
In Subaru vehicles, the Check Engine Light (CEL) is a warning that something is wrong with the engine or emissions system. When the cruise control light starts blinking at the same time, it usually means the car’s computer has detected a problem that affects how the engine runs, so it disables cruise control for safety.
This pairing of lights is unique to Subaru. Many other brands show a check engine light only, but Subaru links the cruise control system to the engine’s health. If the engine isn’t working perfectly, cruise control is automatically turned off to prevent unsafe driving conditions.
Why Does Cruise Control Blink Instead Of Staying On?
Subaru’s cruise control system is designed to blink when there’s an engine issue. This is a clear signal that you shouldn’t use cruise control until the problem is fixed. If you try to turn cruise control on, it won’t work, and the blinking light will remind you.
How Subaru’s Warning System Differs
Other car brands sometimes just show a check engine light with no extra alerts. Subaru’s system is more direct, telling you not only about the engine issue but also removing a driving feature (cruise control) for safety. This approach helps drivers pay attention to problems sooner.
Main Causes Of Check Engine Light And Blinking Cruise In Subaru
There are many reasons for these lights to appear. Some are minor, while others require urgent attention. Here are the most common causes:
1. Loose Or Faulty Gas Cap
A loose or damaged gas cap can trigger the check engine light. The car’s computer detects a leak in the fuel system, which is important for emissions control. This is one of the simplest issues to fix.
2. Oxygen Sensor Failure
The oxygen sensor measures the air and fuel mixture in the exhaust. When it fails, the engine may run less efficiently, increase pollution, and trigger the warning lights.
3. Mass Air Flow Sensor Issues
The mass air flow sensor controls how much air enters the engine. If it’s dirty or broken, the car may run rough, stall, or use more fuel.
4. Catalytic Converter Problems
The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions. If it’s blocked or failing, the engine can lose power and the check engine light will turn on.
5. Ignition Coil Or Spark Plug Failure
These parts help start the engine and keep it running smoothly. If one fails, the engine may misfire, causing both lights to appear.
6. Vacuum Leak
A leak in the engine’s vacuum system can change how the engine runs. This can trigger the check engine light and disable cruise control.
7. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (egr) Valve Issues
The EGR valve helps control emissions. If it’s stuck or broken, the warning lights may turn on.
8. Sensor Or Wiring Faults
Modern cars use many sensors and wires. If one is damaged or disconnected, the car’s computer will notice and alert you.
Less Common Causes
- Engine temperature sensor failure
- Transmission issues
- Faulty fuel injectors
- Problems with the computer itself (ECU)
What Should You Do When These Lights Appear?
Seeing both lights can be worrying, but you don’t need to panic. Here’s what you should do:
1. Check For Obvious Issues
Stop in a safe place and check the gas cap. Make sure it’s tight and not damaged. This solves the problem in many cases.
2. Restart The Car
Sometimes, turning the engine off and on resets the warning lights if the issue was temporary.
3. Do Not Use Cruise Control
Even if you try, cruise control will not work when the light is blinking. Avoid using it until the problem is fixed.
4. Check For Engine Symptoms
Listen for strange noises, look for smoke, or notice if the car drives roughly. If you see these signs, drive carefully and get help soon.
5. Get A Diagnostic Scan
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes. This tool plugs into the car and tells you what the problem is. Many auto parts stores will scan for free.
6. Visit A Mechanic
If you can’t fix the issue yourself or the car is running poorly, go to a trusted mechanic.
When Is It Safe To Keep Driving?
If the car drives normally, it’s usually safe to drive to your destination or a repair shop. If the engine runs rough, stalls, or there are other serious symptoms, stop driving and get help.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring the lights for too long
- Using cruise control even after the light blinks
- Trying to fix complex issues without proper tools
- Not checking the gas cap first
Diagnosing The Problem: Tools And Steps
Understanding the exact cause of the warning lights requires some tools and steps.
Using An Obd-ii Scanner
The OBD-II scanner is a small device that plugs into a port under your dashboard. It reads error codes from the car’s computer. These codes help identify the problem.
| Code | Possible Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| P0442 | Evaporative emission leak (gas cap) | Tighten/replace gas cap |
| P0171 | System too lean (vacuum leak, sensor) | Check for leaks, clean sensors |
| P0301–P0304 | Misfire (spark plugs, coils) | Replace spark plugs/coils |
| P0420 | Catalytic converter efficiency | Check/replace converter |
Steps To Diagnose
- Plug the scanner into the OBD-II port.
- Read the error codes and write them down.
- Search for the meaning of each code.
- Decide if you can fix the issue yourself or need a mechanic.
Example: Gas Cap Issue
Many Subaru owners find the gas cap is loose, causing the lights. Tighten it, clear the codes, and drive a few miles. If the lights stay off, the problem is solved.
Credit: www.youtube.com
Fixing Common Problems
Depending on the cause, you may be able to fix the issue yourself or need professional help.
Gas Cap Replacement
A damaged or loose gas cap is easy to fix. Buy a new cap (usually $10–$20), replace it, and clear the error codes.
Sensor Cleaning Or Replacement
If the oxygen or mass air flow sensor is dirty, cleaning it can solve the issue. Replacement costs vary ($50–$150 for parts).
Spark Plug And Coil Replacement
These parts are essential for engine performance. Replacing them improves fuel economy and prevents misfires.
Catalytic Converter Replacement
This is a more expensive fix, often $800–$1,200. It’s best done by a professional.
Wiring And Connector Repairs
If a wire or connector is damaged, it needs proper inspection and repair. This can be simple or complex, depending on the location.
Resetting The Lights
After fixing the problem, clear the error codes with the scanner. If the lights don’t return, you’ve solved the issue.
Preventing Warning Lights In The Future
Prevention is always easier than repair. Here are ways to avoid these lights appearing again:
1. Check Gas Cap Regularly
Make sure it’s tight every time you refuel.
2. Service The Car On Time
Follow Subaru’s maintenance schedule. Change oil, spark plugs, and filters as recommended.
3. Use Quality Fuel
Poor-quality fuel can cause engine problems and trigger warning lights.
4. Clean Sensors Periodically
Dirty sensors affect performance. Clean them every 20,000–30,000 miles.
5. Inspect Wiring And Connectors
Look for damaged wires during oil changes or other service.
6. Don’t Ignore Small Issues
Address minor problems before they become bigger.
7. Avoid Overfilling Gas Tank
Overfilling can damage the evaporative emissions system.
Subaru Maintenance Schedule Example
| Mileage | Service | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 mi | Oil change, tire rotation | $80–$120 |
| 30,000 mi | Spark plugs, filters, fluids | $350–$500 |
| 60,000 mi | Major service, sensors | $800–$1,200 |
Subaru Models Most Affected
While all Subaru models can show these warning lights, some are more prone to certain issues.
Subaru Outback And Forester
These models often show the check engine and blinking cruise lights due to gas cap or sensor issues. Owners report frequent gas cap problems, especially with older models.
Subaru Impreza And Legacy
Impreza and Legacy tend to have ignition coil and spark plug issues, which trigger the warning lights.
Subaru Crosstrek
Crosstrek’s newer models have fewer issues, but sometimes experience sensor failures that cause both lights.
Comparison Of Common Warning Light Causes By Model
| Model | Frequent Cause | Repair Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Outback | Gas cap, oxygen sensor | Easy |
| Forester | Mass air flow sensor | Medium |
| Impreza | Spark plug, coil | Medium |
| Legacy | Vacuum leak | Medium |
| Crosstrek | Sensor, wiring | Hard |
Real-life Examples And Data
Many Subaru owners share their experiences online. For example, a 2015 Outback owner reported both lights after refueling. Tightening the gas cap solved the problem. In another case, a 2018 Forester had a blinking cruise light and check engine light due to a failed oxygen sensor.
Replacing the sensor fixed the issue.
Statistics show that gas cap issues cause about 20% of check engine lights in Subaru vehicles. Sensor failures account for another 15%. These numbers highlight how common and fixable these problems are.
Credit: www.reddit.com
Non-obvious Insights For Subaru Owners
- Subaru’s computer disables cruise control not because the system is broken, but to prevent unsafe driving with engine issues.
Many owners think the cruise control is broken, but it’s actually a safety feature.
- Clearing the warning lights without fixing the problem may cause them to return quickly.
Some drivers use scanners to turn off lights, but if the root cause isn’t fixed, the warning will reappear.
- Sometimes, cold weather or sudden changes in driving conditions can trigger false alarms.
If the lights come on after a big temperature change, wait a day and see if they reset before visiting a mechanic.
When To Visit A Dealer Vs. Independent Mechanic
Subaru dealers have specialized tools and knowledge, but charge more. Independent mechanics can handle most issues, especially common ones like gas cap or sensor replacement.
If your car is under warranty, visit the dealer. For older cars or simple fixes, independent shops are a good choice.
Credit: www.reddit.com
Cost Of Repairs And What To Expect
Repair costs range from $10 for a gas cap to over $1,000 for a catalytic converter. Most sensor replacements cost $100–$200. Labor rates vary by location, but the average is $80–$120 per hour.
Typical Subaru Warning Light Repair Costs
- Gas cap: $10–$20
- Oxygen sensor: $150–$300
- Spark plugs/coils: $120–$250
- Catalytic converter: $800–$1,200
- Diagnostic scan: Free–$100
How Subaru Owners Can Save Money
1. Check Simple Issues First.
Many warning lights are caused by easy-to-fix problems.
2. Use Free Diagnostic Scans At Auto Parts Stores.
Stores like AutoZone offer free scans, saving you money.
3. Shop For Parts Online.
Buying parts online is often cheaper than at a dealer.
4. Ask For Detailed Repair Estimates.
Compare prices before agreeing to any service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does The Check Engine Light And Blinking Cruise Mean In Subaru?
It means the car’s computer found a problem with the engine or emissions system. The blinking cruise control light shows that cruise control is disabled for safety.
Can I Drive With The Check Engine And Blinking Cruise Lights On?
If the car drives normally and there are no strange noises or smells, it’s safe to drive to a repair shop. Avoid using cruise control and get the problem checked soon.
How Do I Reset The Lights After Fixing The Problem?
Use an OBD-II scanner to clear the error codes. If the issue is fixed, the lights should stay off. If they return, more repairs are needed.
Is It Always A Serious Problem When Both Lights Appear?
No, sometimes it’s a minor issue like a loose gas cap. But if the car runs poorly or there are other symptoms, get help quickly.
Where Can I Find More Information About Subaru Warning Lights?
The official Subaru website has detailed guides and resources. You can also visit Subaru’s official site for more information.
Final Thoughts
Seeing the Check Engine Light and blinking cruise control light on your Subaru can be stressful, but most problems are simple and easy to fix. Start by checking the gas cap and use a scanner to find error codes. Don’t ignore the lights, but don’t panic either. Regular maintenance and quick action prevent bigger issues. By understanding what these lights mean, you keep your Subaru running smoothly and safely for years to come.