2023 Subaru Legacy Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 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 2023 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 2023 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 2023 Subaru Legacy?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or irregularities that might indicate other underlying issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to read the specific error codes associated with the check engine light, providing valuable insights into the problem. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs for any signs of wear or damage, as faulty plugs can contribute to engine performance issues. Don't forget to check the fluid levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Finally, examine the wiring and connections under the hood for any visible damage, as compromised wiring can lead to sensor malfunctions. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action towards resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 Subaru Legacy?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2023 Subaru Legacy, it can indicate several common issues that may require your attention. One of the simplest problems could be a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the warning light. More complex issues might involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which affects the air-fuel mixture and can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also illuminate the check engine light, signaling a need for immediate inspection. Other potential culprits include worn-out spark plugs that can cause engine misfires, or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor that disrupts the engine's air intake readings. Ignition coil problems can lead to misfiring as well, while an overall engine misfire can stem from various fuel system or ignition component issues. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's performance and preventing further damage, so if your check engine light is illuminated, consider having your Subaru Legacy checked by a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Subaru Legacy?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Subaru Legacy, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates that there may be underlying issues with your engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this signal can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage, decreased fuel efficiency, and compromised vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, while it may be tempting to delay addressing the check engine light, doing so could result in costly repairs down the line and even pose safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnostic check as soon as possible, either through an OBD-II scanner or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to identify the root cause of the issue. Taking prompt action not only helps maintain the reliability of your Subaru Legacy but also ensures a safer driving experience.

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