Check Engine Light And Cruise Flashing Subaru Forester
Subaru Forester is a reliable car that has been around for quite some time. However, many Forester owners have reported a flashing check engine light and flashing cruise control light on their dashboard. This problem can be frustrating and concerning for Subaru drivers. In this article, we will explain what these lights mean, what causes them, and what you can do to fix the issue.
What Does a Flashing Check Engine Light and Flashing Cruise Control Light Mean on Subaru Forester?
The check engine light and cruise control light are connected in Subaru Foresters. If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates that there is a problem with the engine that needs immediate attention. When the engine is not working properly, it can affect the cruise control system and cause the cruise control light to flash as well. Therefore, if you see both lights flashing on your dashboard, it is important to take your Subaru Forester to a mechanic right away to avoid engine damage or other potential safety hazards.
Ignoring these lights can lead to more serious problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, engine misfires, and catalytic converter damage. In addition, the vehicle may enter into a "limp mode", which is a safety feature that reduces the engine's power output to prevent further damage.
What Causes a Flashing Check Engine Light And Cruise Control Light on Subaru Forester?
There are several reasons why the check engine light and cruise control light may flash on your Subaru Forester. Here are some of the most common:
- Loose Gas Cap: If the gas cap is not tightened properly, it can trigger the check engine light and cruise control light to appear on your dashboard.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: Oxygen sensors measure the amount of oxygen in exhaust gases and communicate with the car's computer to regulate the air-fuel ratio. If the oxygen sensor is faulty, the check engine light will come on and can cause the cruise control light to flash.
- Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions. If it is not working properly, the check engine light will come on and can cause the cruise control light to flash.
- Bad Ignition Coil: Ignition coils are responsible for creating the spark that starts the engine. A bad ignition coil can cause the engine to misfire, and the check engine light and cruise control lights to flash.
- Leaky Valve Cover Gasket: The valve cover gasket prevents oil from leaking from the engine. If it is damaged or worn out, oil can leak onto the spark plugs, causing misfires and flashing lights.
What Can You Do To Fix a Flashing Check Engine Light and Cruise Control Light on Subaru Forester?
While there are many factors that can cause the check engine light and cruise control light to flash, the most common solution is to take your Subaru Forester to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. They will connect a scanner to your car's computer to read the error codes and pinpoint the exact issue causing the lights to flash. Once they have identified the problem, they will provide you with a quote for the necessary repairs.
Some potential solutions include tightening the gas cap, replacing faulty oxygen sensors or ignition coils, fixing leaky valve cover gaskets, or replacing a malfunctioning catalytic converter. It is important to address these issues as soon as possible to avoid more expensive repairs in the future.
Conclusion
If you see the check engine light and cruise control light flashing on your Subaru Forester, it is important not to ignore them. These lights are warning signs that indicate there is a problem with your engine that needs immediate attention. Taking your car to an experienced mechanic for a diagnostic test can help identify the issue and provide you with a solution to fix it. Remember, addressing these problems early can prevent more serious, and costly issues down the road.