What does it mean when the engine malfunction light comes on?

What does it mean when the engine malfunction light comes on?

The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp — is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.

How do you reset the check engine light on a 2008 Subaru Impreza?

How to Reset a Subaru Check Engine Light

  1. Open the hood of your Subaru and loosen the nut that holds the cable clamp to the negative battery terminal.
  2. Slide the cable off the negative battery terminal.
  3. Wait 5 minutes, then reconnect the cable and tighten the retaining nut.

How do you fix engine malfunction light?

What to Do About the Check Engine Light

  1. Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating.
  2. Try tightening your gas cap.
  3. Reduce speed and load.
  4. Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.

What causes an engine to malfunction?

Some other typical reasons engines fail to start include: Ignition switch failure. Faulty fuel pump. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. Neglecting oil and filter changes.

How long can I drive with the malfunction indicator light on?

Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. You should also have the dealer inspect your car if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving. If you keep driving with the malfunction indicator lamp on, you can damage your car’s emissions controls and engine.

Where are the trouble codes on a Subaru?

There are self-diagnositic connectors on all models, when connected with the key ON (engine off), flash trouble codes on the LED light of the oxygen moniter of the ECU. Images used with permission Copyright © 2001 ALLDATA LLC.

What is the OBD code for a Subaru Impreza?

Manifold vacuum sensor or circuit/coolant temperature sensor or circuit on 1984 models)/float chamber vent solenoid valve or circuit (1983 to 1985) Fuel injector no. 2 (Legacy, Impreza, Justy, SVX); Fuel injector 3 and 4 (Loyale, GL, DL); Fuel injector 5 and 6 (XT6)

Why does my Subaru check engine light keep showing up?

Subaru check engine light shows up if there is an issue with the Subaru computer emissions control system. Then the Subaru’s computer which is usually called ECU will produce error codes that relate specifically to the particular sensor affected in the car. If anyone of these sensors fails, it will prompt a fault or an error code.

Where are the test connectors on a Subaru imprenza?

Imprenza models have the ECU and test connectors located behind the right side of the dash, instead of the left. On SVX models the connectors are located behind the driver’s side kick panel.