2019 Subaru Legacy Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Subaru Legacy: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 2019 Subaru Legacy 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 2019 Subaru Legacy 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 2019 Subaru Legacy?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to adopt a methodical 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 lights or messages that might indicate a more specific problem. A visual inspection under the hood can also be beneficial; look for any obvious signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner is a crucial next step. This tool will help you retrieve the specific error code associated with the check engine light, providing insight into the underlying problem. Don't forget to consult your owner's manual for detailed information on the error code and recommended actions. Lastly, keep an eye on your vehicle's performance for any unusual behaviors, as these can offer additional clues to the issue at hand. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the cause of the check engine light, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Subaru Legacy?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Subaru Legacy, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is fine, the next likely culprit could be a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. Worn-out spark plugs are another common problem that can lead to engine misfires, resulting in the light turning on. Furthermore, issues with the mass airflow sensor, which measures the amount of air entering the engine, can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and trigger the warning light. Lastly, a defective ignition coil can prevent the engine from starting properly, making it essential to check this component as well. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's performance but also prevents potential damage, making it crucial for DIY enthusiasts to stay vigilant when the check engine light appears.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2019 Subaru Legacy is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's overall health and safety. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to severe engine damage. The check engine light often signals issues with the engine or emissions system, and while it may sometimes indicate something as simple as a loose gas cap, it can also point to more serious concerns that require immediate attention. Delaying diagnosis and repair can result in decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potentially hazardous driving conditions. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic as soon as the light illuminates. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also ensure your safety on the road.

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Common Causes of Check Engine Light in 2019 Subaru Legacy