Subaru Impreza Check Engine Light Cruise Flashing
Have you ever experienced the check engine light and cruise control flashing simultaneously while driving your Subaru Impreza? This can be a nerve-wracking situation, especially if you don't understand what's happening. However, this occurrence is not uncommon, and it's crucial to understand what it means to rectify it promptly.
In this article, we'll discuss the possible reasons why your Subaru Impreza check engine light and cruise control are flashing and provide you with some tips on how to resolve the issue.
What Does the Check Engine Light and Cruise Control Flashing Simultaneously Mean?
The check engine light is an essential feature in your car that alerts you when there is a problem with the vehicle's performance. When illuminated, it indicates that the car's computer has detected a fault and has stored a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) to help you identify the problem.
The cruise control, on the other hand, is a system that enables the driver to set and maintain a constant speed, usually on highways or roads with a low traffic density. It works by regulating the engine's speed and exhaust system, preventing the car from going too fast or too slow.
When the check engine light and cruise control light are flashing simultaneously, it means that there's a severe issue with your car's engine and exhaust system, and it's unsafe to drive your Subaru Impreza.
Common Causes of Check Engine Light and Cruise Control Flashing in Subaru Impreza
Several factors could cause the check engine light and cruise control light to flash simultaneously in your Subaru Impreza. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor is an essential component that helps monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system. It enables the car's computer to adjust the air/fuel mixture to improve performance and reduce emissions. If the sensor's response time is slow, it could cause the check engine light to come on and trigger the cruise control light to flash.
2. Damaged Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is responsible for converting the harmful gases produced by the engine into less harmful ones before they exit the exhaust system. If the converter is damaged or clogged, it could cause the check engine light and cruise control light to flash simultaneously.
3. Loose Gas Cap
Sometimes, the check engine light and cruise control light could come on due to a loose or damaged gas cap. If the gas cap is not adequately fitted or damaged, it could cause the engine to lose pressure, leading to an imbalance in the system that triggers the lights to come on.
4. Faulty Ignition Coils
The ignition coils are responsible for supplying power to the spark plugs, which ignite the fuel in the engine. If the coils are faulty, they could cause the engine to misfire, leading to a drop in performance and a simultaneous flashing of the check engine light and cruise control light.
5. Failed Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor monitors the amount of air entering the engine and compensates for temperature and humidity to improve performance. If it fails, it could cause the engine to run lean or rich, triggering the check engine light and cruise control light to flash.
How to Fix Subaru Impreza Check Engine Light and Cruise Control Flashing
Here are some tips on how to fix the check engine light and cruise control light flashing simultaneously in your Subaru Impreza:
1. Check the Gas Cap
Ensure that the gas cap is adequately tightened and not damaged. If it's damaged, replace it with a new one.
2. Check the Oxygen Sensor
If the oxygen sensor is the problem, consider replacing it with a new one, and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
3. Check the Catalytic Converter
If the catalytic converter is clogged or damaged, consider replacing it with a new one.
4. Check the Ignition Coils
If the ignition coils are faulty, consider replacing them with new ones.
5. Check the Mass Airflow Sensor
If the mass airflow sensor is the problem, consider replacing it with a new one.
Conclusion
The check engine light and cruise control light flashing simultaneously in your Subaru Impreza is a severe issue that requires immediate attention. If you notice this occurrence, take your car to a qualified mechanic to diagnose the problem and fix it promptly.
Remember that regular maintenance and servicing of your car can help prevent such issues from occurring. It's also essential to use genuine parts and accessories when replacing any faulty components.