2024 Subaru Crosstrek Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and How to Resolve Them

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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 2024 Subaru Crosstrek 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 2024 Subaru Crosstrek 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 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning indicators that might offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide you toward the underlying issue. Additionally, inspect the engine bay for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections, which could be contributing to the warning. Finally, monitor your vehicle's performance for any irregularities like rough idling or decreased fuel efficiency, as these symptoms can help narrow down potential causes. By following these initial steps, you can effectively diagnose the issue and determine whether it's something you can resolve on your own or if professional assistance is needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest issues to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened to resolve the problem. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which, if faulty, can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and should be tested for proper function. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, often indicating a failure that may require professional attention. Spark plugs and ignition coils are also critical components; worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, while ignition coil issues can cause rough idling. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, further complicating engine performance. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's health, and while some problems may be manageable for a DIYer, others may necessitate a visit to a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a potential issue that could range from a minor sensor malfunction to a serious engine problem. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and may escalate into more significant mechanical failures, which could result in costly repairs. Moreover, some issues may pose safety risks, such as compromised braking or steering systems. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is advisable to first use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. However, even if you are comfortable with basic repairs, consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is recommended to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed before they lead to further complications. Taking prompt action not only preserves the performance and longevity of your Crosstrek but also ensures your safety on the road.

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2024 Subaru Crosstrek Check Engine Light: Causes & Repairs