2024 Subaru Legacy Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2024 Subaru Legacy: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 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 2024 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 2024 Subaru Legacy?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2024 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. 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, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the problem. If these initial checks don’t resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner can be incredibly helpful; it connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that indicate specific malfunctions. Additionally, visually inspecting components under the hood, such as spark plugs and hoses, can reveal signs of wear or damage that may be contributing to the check engine light. Finally, don’t forget to consult your owner’s manual, which can provide tailored guidance for your vehicle and clarify the meaning of the warning light. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2024 Subaru Legacy, it signals that there may be underlying issues that require attention. One of the most common reasons for this alert is a loose gas cap, which can allow fuel vapors to escape and trigger the warning. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for immediate inspection. Spark plug or ignition coil issues can also disrupt engine performance, leading to misfires that activate the light. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can cause an incorrect air-fuel mixture, while a faulty EGR valve may lead to emissions complications. Issues within the evaporative emission control system, including leaks or malfunctions, can also be responsible for the warning light. Lastly, faulty sensors or wiring related to various engine components can trigger the check engine light as well. It is crucial to diagnose and address these problems promptly to ensure optimal vehicle performance and prevent potential damage.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2024 Subaru Legacy, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal can indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to serious engine problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring this light not only risks decreased fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant engine damage, which may result in costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, while it may be tempting to delay addressing the issue, it is crucial to utilize the advanced onboard diagnostics system in your Subaru to identify the specific problem. This proactive approach not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's efficiency but also ensures your safety on the road. Therefore, if the check engine light comes on, take immediate action to diagnose and resolve the issue, as timely intervention can prevent further complications and enhance your driving experience.

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