2012 Subaru Forester Check Engine Light Cruise Flashing Traction Control: Ultimate Troubleshooting Guide

When the check engine light is flashing and the cruise control light is on in your 2012 Subaru Forester, it indicates a potential issue with the engine’s performance and the traction control system. This can be caused by various factors such as a faulty traction control system, road conditions, or engine and transmission malfunctions.

It is essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the specific problem, preventing further damage and ensuring safe driving. Ignoring these warning lights may lead to more severe issues or a decrease in overall vehicle performance.

Prompt attention to the problem is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of your Subaru Forester.

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Understanding The Issue

Experiencing a 2012 Subaru Forester issue with the check engine light, flashing cruise, and traction control? These lights may indicate a malfunction related to the vehicle’s stability control system, possibly linked to road conditions or sensor faults. It’s crucial to address these warnings promptly for safe driving.

Understanding the Issue If you drive a 2012 Subaru Forester and experience the puzzling combination of the check engine light, flashing cruise light, and traction control light, you’re not alone. This perplexing situation can be alarming, but understanding the potential causes of each issue can help provide clarity and possibly even resolve the problem. Let’s delve into the causes behind each of these warning lights and uncover what might be triggering them.

Causes Of Check Engine Light

When the check engine light illuminates, it’s often due to various issues that affect the engine’s performance. These may include faulty sensors, wiring problems, module faults, or engine malfunctions. Common culprits also encompass issues related to the exhaust system, fuel system, or emissions control system. It’s essential to promptly address this warning to prevent potential damage to the vehicle’s engine and sensitive emission control systems.

Causes Of Flashing Cruise Light

The flashing cruise light typically indicates that the cruise control has been disabled. This occurrence is commonly linked to the underlying cause triggering the check engine light. The issue could be related to a range of factors such as a loose gas cap, faulty sensors, or issues in the vehicle’s engine or transmission. Identifying the root cause is crucial to restore the proper functioning of the cruise control system.

Causes Of Traction Control Light

When the traction control light comes on, it often signifies problems with the vehicle’s traction control system, which is designed to enhance stability and prevent wheel spin. The light may illuminate due to issues such as faulty sensors, road conditions impacting the system’s functionality, or even more complex malfunctions. Addressing this warning is crucial to maintain optimal driving safety and vehicle stability. In summary, understanding the causes behind these warning lights is instrumental in addressing and potentially resolving the issue. Identifying and addressing the root cause can help restore the proper functioning of your 2012 Subaru Forester and ensure a safer and smoother driving experience.

Effects Of The Issue

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 Subaru Forester, it could be a sign of underlying issues. This may lead to the cruise control light flashing and the traction control light coming on. These indicators suggest that the cruise control and dynamic stability control have been affected, with potential implications for your vehicle’s performance and safety. Below, we explore the effects of these issues in detail.

Disabling Of Cruise Control

The flashing cruise control light signals that the system has been disabled. This could affect your ability to maintain a consistent speed, particularly on long journeys. Without functioning cruise control, you may experience fatigue more quickly as you need to manually regulate your vehicle’s speed.

Disabling Of Dynamic Stability Control

The illuminated traction control light indicates the disabling of the dynamic stability control. This can compromise your vehicle’s traction on slippery surfaces, reducing its ability to maintain grip and stability. It may also affect your handling and control of the vehicle, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Troubleshooting Steps

When you see the check engine light lit up and the cruise control light flashing on your 2012 Subaru Forester, it’s important to take action and troubleshoot the issue. Ignoring these warning lights can lead to further damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions. In this section, we will discuss the step-by-step troubleshooting process to identify the possible causes and solutions for these warning lights.

Checking The Gas Cap

The first step in troubleshooting the check engine light and flashing cruise control light is to inspect the gas cap. A loose or faulty gas cap can cause these warning lights to turn on. Follow these simple steps to check the gas cap:

1. Ensure that the engine is turned off and the vehicle is parked safely.
2. Locate the gas cap on the rear driver’s side of your Subaru Forester.
3. Gently twist the gas cap counterclockwise to loosen it.
4. Remove the gas cap and inspect for any signs of damage or debris.
5. Wipe the gas cap with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
6. Place the gas cap back on and tighten it until you hear a clicking sound.

Inspecting The Spark Plugs

Another common cause of the check engine light and flashing cruise control light is faulty spark plugs. To inspect the spark plugs, follow these steps:

• Open the hood of your Subaru Forester and locate the engine.
• Identify the individual spark plug wires connected to the engine.
• Carefully disconnect each spark plug wire by pulling on the boot.
• Inspect the spark plugs for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
• If the spark plugs appear worn or damaged, it is recommended to replace them with new ones.
• Reconnect the spark plug wires securely and ensure they are properly seated.

Examining The Ignition Coils

In some cases, the check engine light and flashing cruise control light may be due to faulty ignition coils. Follow these steps to examine the ignition coils:

Steps	Description
1	Open the hood of your Subaru Forester and locate the ignition coils.
2	Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors attached to each ignition coil.
3	Inspect the ignition coils for any signs of physical damage or burning.
4	If you notice any issues with the ignition coils, it is recommended to replace them.
5	Reconnect the electrical connectors securely to each ignition coil.

Checking Cylinder Compression

In some cases, low cylinder compression can trigger the check engine light and flashing cruise control light. To check the cylinder compression, follow these steps:

1. Ensure that the engine is turned off and the vehicle is parked safely.
2. Remove the spark plugs using a spark plug socket and extension.
3. Connect a compression gauge to the first cylinder and crank the engine for a few seconds.
4. Record the compression reading and repeat the process for the remaining cylinders.
5. Compare the compression readings to the manufacturer’s specifications.
6. If the compression readings are below the recommended range, it may indicate a cylinder or piston issue.
7. Please consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

Testing Fuel Injectors

Faulty fuel injectors can also contribute to the check engine light and flashing cruise control light. Follow these steps to test the fuel injectors:

• Open the hood of your Subaru Forester and locate the fuel injectors.
• Disconnect the electrical connectors attached to each fuel injector.
• Using a specialized fuel injector testing tool, measure the spray pattern and pressure of each fuel injector.
• If any fuel injector fails the test, it may need to be cleaned or replaced.
• Reconnect the electrical connectors securely to each fuel injector.

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When To Seek Professional Help

If your 2012 Subaru Forester has the check engine light flashing and the cruise control light blinking, it is recommended to seek professional help. These lights may indicate a faulty traction control system or other engine performance issues that should be addressed by a trained technician.

Signs Of Serious Engine Or Transmission Problems

Identifying warning signs such as unusual noises, vibrations, or performance issues is crucial. Any indication of engine or transmission problems should prompt immediate attention from a professional.

Safety Concerns While Driving

Driving with the check engine light, flashing cruise control, or traction control lights on can pose safety risks. Seek professional help promptly to address underlying issues for a safe driving experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions For 2012 Subaru Forester Check Engine Light Cruise Flashing Traction Control

Why Is My Subaru Check Engine Light On And Cruise Control Flashing?

When the Subaru check engine light comes on, the cruise control light blinks, indicating a disabled cruise control system. This is due to a fault in the vehicle’s dynamic stability control, typically caused by a malfunctioning traction control system. Get it checked by a professional.

Why Is My Check Engine Light Flashing And Traction Control Light On?

The flashing check engine light and traction control light can indicate a faulty traction control system due to road conditions. It’s best to have a professional address this issue promptly to avoid potential performance problems with the engine and transmission.

Why Did My Traction Control And Check Engine Light Come On Subaru?

The traction control and check engine light on your Subaru may come on due to various issues. It could be a faulty sensor, wiring problem, module fault, or engine malfunction. These lights indicate that there is a problem affecting the engine or transmission.

It is recommended to take your vehicle to a shop for proper diagnosis and repair. Avoid driving the vehicle except to the shop.

Is It Safe To Drive With Engine Light And Traction Control Light On?

Driving with engine light and traction control light on is not safe. Visit a shop immediately for inspection and repairs.

Conclusion

If you notice your 2012 Subaru Forester’s check engine light flashing and the cruise control and traction control lights are also illuminated, it could indicate a problem with the traction control system or other engine-related issues. It is crucial to address these problems promptly by consulting a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix any underlying issues.

Ignoring these warning lights could potentially lead to further damage or safety concerns. Ensure the overall health and performance of your vehicle by taking action as soon as possible.