2022 Subaru Legacy Has A Check Engine Light

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

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 Subaru Legacy, 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. Next, utilizing an OBD-II scanner can be incredibly beneficial; by connecting it to the vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the underlying problem. Additionally, pay attention to any other symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as unusual noises or performance issues, as these can provide further clues. Consulting the owner's manual can also offer insights into what the check engine light may signify and suggest troubleshooting steps tailored to your model. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, or if the problem appears to be more complex, it may be wise to consult a qualified mechanic who can provide a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively address the check engine light issue and potentially save on repair costs.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2022 Subaru Legacy, it can be concerning for any driver. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the exhaust and ensuring optimal fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to inefficiencies that trigger the warning light. Spark plug or ignition coil failures are also significant contributors, as they affect the engine's ability to ignite fuel properly. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Lastly, issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system can also cause the check engine light to illuminate. While some of these problems can be addressed through DIY methods, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair to ensure your Subaru Legacy runs smoothly.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2022 Subaru Legacy, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals that there may be underlying issues with your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. While some triggers, like a loose gas cap, may seem minor, others could indicate serious problems that require immediate attention. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, compromised performance, and even significant engine damage over time. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to act quickly by using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue. However, if the problem appears complex or beyond your expertise, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure that your Subaru Legacy remains in optimal condition and to prevent further complications.

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