My "Check Engine", (S), and "Cruise Control" lights are blinking in my 2008 Subaru

Asked by Sean Apr 02, 2013 at 12:28 PM about the 2008 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L. Bean Edition

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Dear Car Guru team- my 2008 Subaru outback yesterday had its "Check Engine" light go on steadily, and the "S" Drive and "Cruise Control" lights are blinking.  The vehicle passed it's state emissions test last month- any thoughts on what is wrong?

6 Answers

48,615

have the codes checked and see what turned the light on.

9 people found this helpful.
176,035

X2 - get the codes read. Write down the trouble code number and post it.

5 people found this helpful.
365

The cruise control is always disabled and will blink when the "check engine" light is on. All 2008-09 Outback/Legacy/Foresters are recalled for a faulty cat converter. You should have gotten a notice in the mail. The dealer will replace it for free. That is most likely why the light is on.

21 people found this helpful.
60

My mechanic ran a smoke test through the vacuum system and found a small hose had pulled loose...probably from ice build up. Problem solved for about $80 and it was worth it to me.

6 people found this helpful.
90

my 2007 Subaru Impreza engine light is on and my cruise control is flashing I took it to the auto store they cannot read it because it's a Subaru I unplug the hot terminal wait a minute or two plug it back on the light goes out stays out for a week week and a half then comes back on

9 people found this helpful.

My '08 Subaru has the same problem. I had it in to repair twice (does not hold). According to a Mechanical Engineer I talked to; for about 5 years all Subaru Outbacks have the same problem. Subaru chose not to recall or repair them. When I called them they gave me the brush off. Engineer said a new sensor would do no good. Too bad, I know another person with the same problem. Will I ever have another Subaru? NOT LIKELY.

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