2024 Subaru Impreza Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2024 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 2024 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 2024 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 2024 Subaru Impreza?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2024 Subaru Impreza, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as a loose or damaged gas cap, which is a common trigger for this warning. If everything appears normal, the next step involves using an OBD-II scanner to read the specific error codes associated with the light. These codes are crucial as they provide insight into the underlying problem. After retrieving the codes, consult your owner’s manual to decode their meanings and explore the manufacturer’s recommended solutions. It’s also important to pay attention to any changes in your vehicle’s performance, such as unusual sounds or smells, as these could indicate more serious issues that need immediate attention. If you find yourself unable to pinpoint the problem or if the situation seems beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified mechanic or dealership. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose the check engine light and take appropriate action to ensure your Subaru Impreza remains in optimal condition.

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

When the check engine light comes on in your 2024 Subaru Impreza, 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 the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is securely fastened. If the gas cap is not the culprit, consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency; a faulty sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also illuminate the check engine light, often indicating a failure that needs attention. Spark plugs are another common issue; worn or faulty plugs can affect engine performance and should be replaced if necessary. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to engine issues, while faulty ignition coils can cause misfiring, which will also trigger the light. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, so if you're unsure, consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis is always a wise choice.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2024 Subaru Impreza, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and performance degradation, which may ultimately result in costly repairs. The sophisticated onboard diagnostics system in modern vehicles, including your Impreza, is designed to help identify the specific issue causing the light to activate. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can guide you in troubleshooting the problem. However, it’s crucial to understand that while some issues may be minor, others could pose safety risks or lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, even if you feel confident in your DIY skills, it’s advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis, ensuring that your vehicle remains in optimal condition and safe to drive.

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