Joseph Weaver If you own a 2016 Subaru Impreza and have noticed the check engine light on your dashboard, you may be wondering if it is possible to reset it. The answer is yes, you can reset the check engine light on a 2016 Subaru Impreza, but it is important to diagnose and fix the underlying issue before doing so.
The check engine light is a warning indicator that comes on when there is an issue with the car’s engine system. It could indicate a minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, or a more serious issue, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter.
Ignoring the check engine light could cause further damage to your vehicle, and may eventually lead to more expensive repairs. It is important to address the underlying issue before attempting to reset the check engine light.
Diagnosing the problem
Before attempting to reset the check engine light, you should diagnose the issue causing the light to come on. You can use an OBD-II scanner or code reader to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in your vehicle’s onboard computer.
These codes can help you identify the issue, and determine whether it is a minor or major problem. Some auto parts stores offer free diagnostic scans, or you can purchase an OBD-II scanner or code reader online.
Fixing the issue
Once you have identified the underlying issue causing the check engine light to come on, it is important to fix the problem before attempting to reset the light. This will help ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly, and prevent further damage to the engine and other systems.
Depending on the issue, you may be able to fix it yourself, or you may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic for repairs. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to prevent issues from occurring in the first place.
Resetting the Check Engine Light
Once you have diagnosed and fixed the underlying issue causing the check engine light to come on, you can reset the light. Here are the steps to reset the check engine light on a 2016 Subaru Impreza:
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Turn off the ignition and remove the key from the ignition switch.
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Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery terminal. Use gloves and eye protection while doing so.
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Wait for 15-20 minutes to allow the car’s electrical system to reset.
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Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal, and tighten the nut securely.
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Turn the ignition switch to the "on" position, but do not start the engine.
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Wait for a few seconds, and then turn the ignition switch back to the "off" position.
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Turn the ignition switch back to the "on" position, and check to see if the check engine light is still on. If it is not, then you have successfully reset the light.
It is important to note that resetting the check engine light without fixing the underlying issue can cause further damage to your vehicle, and may lead to more expensive repairs in the future.
FAQ
Q: What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Subaru Impreza?
A: The check engine light indicates an issue with the car’s engine system. It could be a minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, or a more serious issue, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter.
Q: Can I reset the check engine light without fixing the issue?
A: It is not recommended to reset the check engine light without fixing the underlying issue. Doing so could cause further damage to your vehicle, and may lead to more expensive repairs in the future.
Q: What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2016 Subaru Impreza?
A: You should diagnose the underlying issue causing the light to come on, and then fix the problem before attempting to reset the light. This will help ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly, and prevent further damage to the engine and other systems.
