2020 Subaru Ascent Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Subaru Ascent: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Subaru Ascent has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Subaru Ascent has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2020 Subaru Ascent?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2020 Subaru Ascent, start with the simplest solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking for any additional warning lights on your dashboard, as these can offer valuable insights into the underlying issue. Next, inspect the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can trigger the check engine light. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system. These codes will guide you toward the specific problem. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as strange noises or performance issues, as these can help narrow down potential causes. Finally, consult your owner’s manual for specific guidance related to the check engine light, which may provide further clarity on the next steps to take. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue, ensuring your Subaru Ascent runs smoothly.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Subaru Ascent?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Subaru Ascent, it’s crucial to understand the potential issues that could be at play. A loose gas cap is often the simplest explanation, as it can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and is easily rectified. However, if the problem persists, a faulty oxygen sensor may be the next suspect; this component is vital for monitoring exhaust emissions and ensuring optimal fuel efficiency. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can trigger the warning light, indicating inefficiency or failure that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. Other common culprits include worn-out spark plugs and malfunctioning ignition coils, both of which can lead to engine misfires and decreased performance. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, affecting overall engine performance. If your check engine light is on, it’s advisable to diagnose the issue promptly, as early intervention can help maintain your Subaru Ascent's performance and longevity.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Subaru Ascent?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Subaru Ascent, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal can indicate a range of issues, from minor inconveniences like a loose gas cap to more severe engine malfunctions that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring this light can lead to escalating problems, potentially resulting in costly repairs and diminished reliability. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to understand that modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can assist in identifying the root cause of the warning. By promptly addressing the check engine light, you not only safeguard your vehicle's integrity but also enhance your understanding of its mechanics, allowing for more informed DIY repairs in the future. Therefore, taking immediate action when the check engine light appears is not just advisable; it is a necessary step in maintaining the health and safety of your Subaru Ascent.

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