Subaru Loyale Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your Subaru Loyale and How to Resolve Them

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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 Subaru Loyale 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 Subaru Loyale 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Subaru Loyale

When faced with a Check Engine Light in your Subaru Loyale, start by utilizing an OBD-II scanner, which is an essential tool for any DIY mechanic. This device connects to the vehicle's OBD-II port, allowing you to read diagnostic trouble codes that indicate the nature of the problem. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, locate the self-diagnostic connectors typically found under the steering wheel. By bridging these connectors and turning the ignition key to the ON position (without starting the engine), you can observe the flashing codes on the dashboard light. Each code corresponds to a specific issue, and understanding these codes is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Begin with the simplest fixes suggested by the codes before delving into more complex diagnostics, ensuring a systematic approach that can save time and resources. By following these steps, you can confidently address the underlying issues causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate, making your DIY repair journey more manageable and successful.

What Common Problems Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Subaru Loyale?

When the check engine light comes on in your Subaru Loyale, it can signal a range of issues that may require your attention. One of the most frequent culprits is the emission system, which can be affected by faulty components like the catalytic converter or oxygen sensors. Additionally, problems within the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or ignition coils, can also trigger this warning light. Fuel system malfunctions, including clogged fuel injectors or a failing fuel pump, are other common reasons for the light to illuminate. Electrical issues, such as a weak battery or corroded wiring, can lead to false alerts or genuine concerns. Lastly, the failure of various sensors, including the mass airflow sensor or throttle position sensor, can also cause the check engine light to activate. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding these potential issues can help in troubleshooting and resolving the problem before it escalates, ensuring your Subaru Loyale remains in optimal condition. Regular maintenance and timely attention to warning lights are key to avoiding more significant repairs down the line.

Why is the Check Engine Light Important in a Subaru Loyale?

The Check Engine Light in a Subaru Loyale is not just a simple warning; it serves as a critical alert system for drivers regarding the health of their vehicle. Ignoring this light can lead to severe consequences, including engine damage or compromised safety on the road. When the light is illuminated, it often indicates that the vehicle's engine or emissions system is experiencing issues that require immediate attention. For instance, a flashing light signals a more urgent problem, necessitating that drivers pull over, turn off the engine, and seek professional assistance. Neglecting these warnings can result in costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions, as unresolved issues may escalate into more significant problems. Therefore, it is essential for Subaru Loyale owners to monitor the Check Engine Light closely and act promptly to ensure their vehicle remains safe and reliable.

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