Check Engine Light And Cruise Control Flashing Subaru Outback: Troubleshooting Guide

When the check engine light and cruise control light are flashing on a Subaru Outback, it indicates that the cruise control has been disabled and there may be a problem with the vehicle’s stability control system. This can be caused by various issues such as a faulty sensor, wiring problem, or engine malfunction.

It is important to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired to resolve the issue and ensure the proper functioning of these systems. Driving with the check engine light on is safe for minor issues, but if there is a noticeable change in the vehicle’s performance, it may indicate a more serious problem.

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Possible Causes

Potential causes for a flashing Check Engine Light and Cruise Control in a Subaru Outback may include an engine or transmission issue triggering the ECU to disable non-essential systems like cruise control. Faulty sensors, wiring problems, or an engine malfunction could contribute to this warning.

Taking prompt action is essential to address the underlying problem.

When you see your check engine light and cruise control flashing in your Subaru Outback, it indicates that there are underlying issues that need to be addressed. Here are some possible causes:

Loose Gas Cap

A loose gas cap is one of the common causes when your check engine light and cruise control start flashing. The gas cap is an important part of your vehicle’s fuel system, and if it is not properly tightened, it can trigger the check engine light and affect the cruise control functionality. Make sure to check your gas cap and tighten it securely to see if that resolves the issue.

Faulty Sensors Or Wiring

Another potential cause of the check engine light and cruise control flashing is faulty sensors or wiring. Your vehicle’s sensors play a crucial role in monitoring various systems and components. If any of these sensors are malfunctioning or if there is a wiring issue, it can trigger the warning lights. Proper diagnosis and inspection by a professional technician may be required to identify and resolve these issues.

Engine Or Transmission Malfunction

The check engine light and cruise control flashing could also indicate a more serious issue with your engine or transmission. Problems such as engine misfires, transmission issues, or other malfunctions can trigger these warning lights. These issues require immediate attention from a qualified mechanic to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Prompt diagnosis and repairs are essential to ensure the proper functioning of your Subaru Outback.

If you encounter the check engine light and cruise control flashing in your Subaru Outback, it is important to address the underlying causes promptly. Ignoring these warning lights can lead to potential damage or further complications. Consult with a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issues in order to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Impact On Cruise Control

When the check engine light flashes, the cruise control may be disabled to avoid further issues. This highlights a safety measure to protect the vehicle’s systems from potential damages caused by underlying engine or transmission problems. Ensure prompt diagnosis and repair to restore full functionality.

Automatic Disabling

When the check engine light is illuminated and the cruise control light begins to flash in your Subaru Outback, it indicates that the cruise control has been automatically disabled. This happens because the engine control unit (ECU) detects a problem with the engine or transmission that could potentially affect the vehicle’s performance. As a precautionary measure, the ECU disables certain systems, including the cruise control, to prevent further damage until the underlying issues are addressed.

Preventing Further Damage

The automatic disabling of the cruise control when the check engine light is lit and flashing serves as a protective measure for your Subaru Outback. By disabling the cruise control, the ECU ensures that the vehicle operates under normal driving conditions, reducing the risk of exacerbating any existing issues. This prevents further damage to the engine or transmission, allowing you to address the underlying problem without causing additional complications. In situations where the check engine light is on and the cruise control light is flashing, it is crucial to prioritize diagnosing and resolving the underlying issue. Continuing to use the cruise control with a disabled check engine light can potentially worsen the problem, leading to more expensive repairs in the future. Therefore, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible to identify and rectify the cause of the issue. In conclusion, when the check engine light is illuminated and the cruise control light is flashing in your Subaru Outback, it signifies an automatic disabling of the cruise control to prevent further damage. By resolving the underlying problem promptly, you can ensure the safe and efficient functioning of your vehicle’s cruise control system.

Troubleshooting Process

When your Subaru Outback’s check engine light and cruise control are blinking, it indicates that there is a potential issue that needs attention. Understanding the troubleshooting process can help you diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.

Code Reading And Clearing

One of the first steps in troubleshooting the flashing check engine light and cruise control in your Subaru Outback is to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner. This will provide specific information about the potential issues affecting the vehicle’s performance. Once the codes are retrieved, clearing them allows you to monitor if the same codes reappear after the troubleshooting process.

Identifying Cylinder Misfires

Since cylinder misfires can trigger the check engine light and affect the performance of the cruise control, it’s essential to identify any misfiring cylinders. This can be done by using the OBD-II scanner to pinpoint the exact cylinder(s) experiencing misfires. Identifying the specific cylinders will aid in targeting the root cause of the issue.

Potential Ignition Coil And Spark Plug Issues

Issues related to the ignition coil and spark plugs can be a common cause of the check engine light and cruise control flashing in a Subaru Outback. Inspecting the condition of the ignition coils and spark plugs, including checking for signs of wear, deterioration, or damage, is crucial in determining if these components are contributing to the problem.

Credit: www.subaruoutback.org

Credit: www.subaruoutback.org

Frequently Asked Questions Of Check Engine Light And Cruise Control Flashing Subaru Outback

Why Is My Check Engine Light And Cruise Control Blinking Subaru Outback?

When the check engine light blinks in your Subaru Outback, it disables the cruise control. This indicates a problem in the engine or transmission that needs attention. Driving may be safe for minor issues, but noticeable vehicle performance changes should prompt further investigation.

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

The traction control and check engine lights on your Subaru can come on due to various issues. It could be a faulty sensor, wiring problem, module fault, or engine malfunction. When the check engine light is on, the cruise control light will blink and both systems will be disabled.

It’s important to get your vehicle checked to determine the specific problem.

Can I Drive My Subaru Outback With The Check Engine Light On?

Yes, you can drive your Subaru Outback with the check engine light on, but it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. If it is a minor issue like a loose gas cap, it should be safe to continue driving.

However, if you notice a difference in the vehicle’s performance, it may indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.

Does Check Engine Light Affect Cruise Control?

Yes, a check engine light can affect cruise control, as the ECU may disable it to prevent further damage until the issue is fixed.

Conclusion

If you’ve experienced a flashing check engine light and cruise control in your Subaru Outback, it’s crucial to address it promptly. This warning often indicates potential engine or transmission issues that require immediate attention. By having a professional diagnose and resolve the problem, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle.