2022 Subaru Forester Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2022 Subaru Forester: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2022 Subaru Forester 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 2022 Subaru Forester 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 in a 2022 Subaru Forester?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light in your 2022 Subaru Forester, start with a thorough visual inspection. Begin by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem, providing a clearer direction for further investigation. Pay attention to any additional symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as unusual noises or performance issues, as these can offer crucial clues about the underlying cause. Additionally, consulting your owner's manual can provide valuable insights into the check engine light's meaning and recommended troubleshooting steps. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue or if the problem appears to be more complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or Subaru dealership is advisable to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the check engine light in your Subaru Forester.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2022 Subaru Forester?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2022 Subaru Forester, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; if it’s loose or damaged, it can lead to fuel vapors escaping, which will trigger the warning light. Another common culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but also impacts emissions, making it essential to address promptly. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to illuminate, often indicating a failure or inefficiency that requires attention. Worn-out spark plugs can also lead to engine performance issues, resulting in the light turning on. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while a failing ignition coil may cause misfiring cylinders, both of which are critical to monitor. If you encounter the check engine light, it’s wise to conduct a thorough inspection of these components, as addressing these common problems can often be managed with some basic automotive knowledge and tools.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2022 Subaru Forester?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2022 Subaru Forester, it’s crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it serves as a vital indicator of potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this signal can lead to more severe problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue at hand. While some problems may be minor and easily fixable, others could indicate serious concerns that require immediate attention. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's efficiency and performance but also prevents further damage that could compromise safety and lead to more significant repair costs down the line. Therefore, taking action as soon as the light appears is essential for the health of your Subaru Forester.

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