Subaru XV Crosstrek Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your Subaru XV Crosstrek: 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 Subaru XV Crosstrek 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 XV Crosstrek 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 XV Crosstrek

When faced with a Check Engine Light in your Subaru XV Crosstrek, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking for simple issues, such as ensuring the gas cap is securely tightened, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to read any trouble codes that may provide insight into the underlying problem. This tool is invaluable for identifying specific issues, such as faulty oxygen sensors or ignition cylinder problems. Once you have the codes, research their meanings to prioritize your troubleshooting efforts. If the codes point to more complex issues, such as emission-related faults or engine misfires, consider consulting repair manuals or online resources for detailed guidance on addressing these problems. Remember to reset the Check Engine Light after making repairs to confirm that the issue has been resolved. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the issues causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate, saving time and money in the process.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Subaru XV Crosstrek?

When the check engine light comes on in your Subaru XV Crosstrek, it can be concerning, but many common issues are relatively easy to diagnose and fix. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; if it’s loose or not properly secured, it can trigger the light due to fuel vapor leaks. Simply tightening the cap until it clicks can often resolve the issue. If the light persists, consider inspecting the emission system, as problems here can also lead to the check engine light illuminating. Additionally, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is crucial for monitoring various vehicle systems, and any faults within it can cause warning lights to activate. Other potential culprits include faulty oxygen sensors or issues with the catalytic converter, both of which can affect engine performance and emissions. Lastly, keep an eye out for any unusual smells or changes in fuel economy, as these can indicate underlying problems that may need further investigation. By addressing these common issues, you can often resolve the check engine light without needing professional assistance.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Subaru XV Crosstrek?

When the Check Engine Light activates in your Subaru XV Crosstrek, it serves as a crucial warning that should not be ignored. The light can signify a range of issues, from minor problems like a loose gas cap to more serious concerns such as sensor failures or catalytic converter issues. Ignoring this warning can lead to further complications, including decreased vehicle performance and potential safety hazards, such as the disabling of essential functions like cruise control. It is vital to diagnose and resolve the underlying cause of the illuminated light as soon as possible to avoid escalating repair costs and ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can help you maintain your Crosstrek's reliability and longevity.

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Subaru XV Crosstrek Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions