2022 Subaru Impreza Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2022 Subaru Impreza: 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 Impreza 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 Impreza 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 2022 Subaru Impreza?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 Subaru Impreza, start by checking for visible issues, particularly the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the 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 can pinpoint the underlying problem. Pay attention to any additional symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as unusual noises or performance changes, as these can provide further clues. Additionally, consulting your owner's manual can offer insights into what the check engine light may signify and suggest appropriate next steps. If these initial diagnostics do not resolve the issue or if the problem appears to be more complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2022 Subaru Impreza, it can signal a range of common issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency; this may require a replacement if diagnosed correctly. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can lead to significant performance problems, and while this may be more complex to address, understanding its role can help in troubleshooting. Worn spark plugs are also a common issue that can impact engine performance, and replacing them is a manageable task for those with basic mechanical skills. Furthermore, problems with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while malfunctioning ignition coils can cause engine misfires, both of which may require further investigation. Lastly, a faulty thermostat can affect engine temperature regulation, prompting the check engine light to activate. By being aware of these potential issues, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve the underlying causes of the check engine light, ensuring their Subaru Impreza runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2022 Subaru Impreza?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2022 Subaru Impreza is not just a matter of convenience; it is essential for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of issues, from decreased fuel efficiency to severe engine damage, which can result in costly repairs. The check engine light is an early indicator that something may be amiss within your engine or emissions system, and while it may not signal an immediate emergency, the longer you wait to investigate, the more complicated and expensive the problem may become. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can help you identify the root cause of the issue, making it easier for DIY enthusiasts to tackle repairs themselves. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance its reliability and compliance with emissions standards, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience.

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2022 Subaru Impreza Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions