2022 Subaru WRX Has A Check Engine Light

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

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 Subaru WRX, 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, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any obvious signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could indicate a problem. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner can be a game changer. This tool allows you to retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the underlying problem. Finally, don’t forget to consult your owner’s manual, as it can provide valuable information regarding the error codes and suggest potential solutions. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and determine the best course of action for your Subaru WRX.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2022 Subaru WRX, it serves as a crucial alert that something may be amiss with your vehicle. One of the most common culprits is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened to potentially resolve the issue. Another frequent cause is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects the vehicle's emissions but can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency, making it essential to address promptly. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for immediate attention to avoid further complications. Issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can result in engine misfires, while a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, both of which can significantly impact performance. Lastly, an engine misfire, stemming from various factors, can also illuminate the check engine light. Given the range of potential issues, it is vital to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to pinpoint the exact cause and ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Subaru WRX.

What are the potential risks of ignoring the check engine light on a 2022 Subaru WRX?

Ignoring the check engine light on your 2022 Subaru WRX can lead to serious and costly consequences that every DIY enthusiast should be aware of. First and foremost, neglecting this warning can result in significant engine damage, which may escalate repair costs or even lead to complete engine failure. Additionally, unresolved issues indicated by the check engine light can severely impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more at the pump. Environmental concerns also arise, as failing to address these issues can lead to increased emissions, potentially resulting in failing emissions tests. Safety is another critical factor; certain problems linked to the check engine light can compromise your vehicle's performance, including braking issues or engine misfires, which pose serious risks on the road. Lastly, ignoring this warning could void your vehicle's warranty, leaving you responsible for any repairs that arise from unaddressed issues. Therefore, it is crucial to take the check engine light seriously and address any underlying problems promptly to ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your Subaru WRX.

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2022 Subaru WRX Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions