2016 Subaru BRZ Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Subaru BRZ and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2016 Subaru BRZ 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 2016 Subaru BRZ 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 diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Subaru BRZ?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Subaru BRZ, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit for triggering the light. Ensuring it is securely tightened can often resolve the issue without further intervention. If the light persists, the next step involves identifying the specific problem by retrieving the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner. This tool will help you pinpoint the underlying issue, allowing you to address it directly. After making any necessary repairs, it’s important to drive the vehicle for a short period to enable the onboard diagnostic system to recognize that the problem has been resolved. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the various warning signals on your dashboard, as understanding these can provide valuable insights into your vehicle's health. If you're uncertain about the meaning of the check engine light or the codes retrieved, consulting the Subaru check engine light guide can offer further clarity and guidance on potential issues that may require professional attention. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed actions to maintain your Subaru BRZ's performance.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2016 Subaru BRZ?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2016 Subaru BRZ, it’s essential to understand the common issues that could be causing this alert. One frequent culprit is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and trigger the warning light. However, more serious concerns may arise, such as severe engine misfires that allow unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system, necessitating prompt attention to avoid further damage. Additionally, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) often point to problems with ignition coils or other ignition system components, including wires and spark plugs, all of which are vital for maintaining optimal engine performance. The onboard sensors in your Subaru are designed to detect a variety of issues, underscoring the importance of conducting a thorough diagnostic check. By recognizing these common triggers, you can take proactive measures to troubleshoot and resolve the issues, ensuring your Subaru BRZ operates efficiently and reliably.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Subaru BRZ?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2016 Subaru BRZ is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety and maintenance issue that requires immediate attention. When the check engine light illuminates, it signals that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system has detected a malfunction within the engine or emissions system. Ignoring this warning can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage or increased emissions, which could result in costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s essential to understand that a persistent check engine light can indicate anything from a minor issue, like a loose gas cap, to a serious malfunction that could compromise vehicle safety. If the light is red, it’s a clear indication of a serious problem, and you should pull over immediately to prevent further damage. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only ensure the longevity and efficiency of your Subaru BRZ but also maintain safety on the road. Therefore, taking the time to diagnose and resolve the issue is crucial for any DIY repair effort.

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Check Engine Light Causes for 2016 Subaru BRZ