Subaru BRZ Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your 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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Subaru BRZ

When troubleshooting the Check Engine light in your Subaru BRZ, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by observing whether the light is flashing or steadily illuminated, as this can indicate the severity of the issue. Next, locate the OBD plug, typically found under the dashboard, to connect an OBD-II scanner. This tool will allow you to read the trouble codes stored in your vehicle's system, providing valuable insights into the specific problems affecting your engine. Once you have the codes, research their meanings to identify potential fixes. If the issue is minor, such as a loose gas cap, addressing it may clear the light immediately. For more complex problems, it’s crucial to resolve the underlying issue before attempting to clear the light. After repairs, drive your vehicle for a short distance to allow the system to reset and confirm that the problem has been resolved. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the causes of the Check Engine light in your Subaru BRZ, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Subaru BRZ?

When the Check Engine light comes on in your Subaru BRZ, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems associated with this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose fuel cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the light. Additionally, issues such as excess vibration or a blocked cylinder can also lead to this alert, indicating that the engine may not be operating optimally. A bad fuel mix or excessive heat can further complicate matters, affecting performance and efficiency. It's important to note that the Check Engine light serves as a critical warning system; yellow typically signifies minor issues, while red indicates more serious concerns. If the light remains illuminated, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnosis or consult a professional to prevent escalating problems and costly repairs. Addressing these issues promptly not only ensures the longevity of your vehicle but also enhances your driving experience.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Subaru BRZ?

When the Check Engine Light illuminates in your Subaru BRZ, it serves as a critical warning that should not be ignored. While some triggers, like a loose gas cap, may seem minor and easily fixable, others could indicate serious engine problems that, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Ignoring a flashing Check Engine Light is particularly dangerous, as it signals severe issues that require immediate attention. In such cases, it is essential to pull over safely and seek professional help to avoid risking your safety and the integrity of your vehicle. By promptly diagnosing and addressing the root cause of the warning light, you not only ensure the longevity of your Subaru BRZ but also maintain optimal performance and safety on the road.

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