2022 Subaru Outback Has A Check Engine Light

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

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 Subaru Outback, 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 observe the dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, which may indicate underlying problems. Inspecting the engine bay for visible damage to wires, hoses, or connectors can also reveal potential issues that need attention. If these initial checks do not resolve the light, using an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that provide insight into the problem. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can help you interpret these codes and suggest possible solutions tailored to your Subaru. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose the cause of the check engine light and determine the best course of action.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2022 Subaru Outback, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. Understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning light is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily cause the light to illuminate. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to consider the oxygen sensor, which monitors the air-fuel mixture and can fail over time, leading to increased emissions and reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can also trigger the check engine light, as can worn-out spark plugs that affect engine performance. Another potential culprit is the mass airflow sensor, which measures the amount of air entering the engine; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the engine's air-fuel ratio. Lastly, issues with the ignition coil or an engine misfire, often caused by faulty spark plugs or fuel injectors, can also illuminate the check engine light. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle's performance, making it advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis if the light persists.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2022 Subaru Outback, it is essential to act swiftly to prevent further complications. This warning signal can indicate a range of issues, from minor concerns like a loose gas cap to more serious problems that could affect your engine's performance and emissions system. Ignoring the light may lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potentially costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue triggering the light. However, while some problems may be easily fixable at home, others may require professional expertise. Therefore, it is advisable to assess the situation carefully and seek a mechanic's assistance if the codes indicate a more serious concern. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only ensure the longevity of your vehicle but also maintain its safety and efficiency on the road.

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