2020 Subaru WRX Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2020 Subaru WRX

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2020 Subaru WRX 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 2020 Subaru WRX 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 2020 Subaru WRX?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Subaru WRX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. 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 unusual readings that might offer further insights into the problem. A visual inspection under the hood can also be beneficial; look for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or damaged hoses, which could indicate a more significant issue. To delve deeper, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the specific error code associated with the check engine light. This code is crucial as it directs you to the exact problem area. Don't forget to consult your owner's manual for detailed explanations of the error codes and recommended actions. If, after these steps, the cause remains elusive or the issue appears complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable to ensure your vehicle is properly diagnosed and repaired. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolution.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Subaru WRX?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Subaru WRX, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is tightened properly. If the light persists, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the light to illuminate, often indicating a failure that may require professional attention. Spark plugs and ignition coils are other critical components to examine, as misfires due to these parts can lead to engine performance issues. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, further complicating the situation. Addressing these common problems promptly not only helps in diagnosing the issue but also prevents potential damage to your vehicle, ensuring it runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Subaru WRX?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Subaru WRX, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could escalate if left unaddressed. While some triggers, like a loose gas cap, may seem minor, they can mask more serious problems that could lead to decreased fuel efficiency, performance issues, or even engine damage over time. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, it is crucial to remember that while some problems may be easily fixable, others may require professional expertise. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to significant repair costs and safety risks, making it imperative to diagnose and resolve the issue as soon as possible to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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2020 Subaru WRX Check Engine Light Causes & Solutions