Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing: Quick Fix Guide

Is your Subaru cruise control light flashing? This is an important warning sign. It shows there might be issues with your cruise control system.

By understanding what it means, you can prevent bigger problems. We’ll show you how to fix Subaru cruise control issues fast. You’ll have a smoother, safer drive.

Start by checking the gas cap’s tightness, looking for faulty speed sensors, and checking for electrical issues. These quick steps can save you time and money.

Sometimes, the cruise control light flashes with other warning lights. These can include the check engine light, parking brake, and vehicle dynamic control indicators.

It usually means there’s a deeper problem. This could be a failing sensor or something wrong with the engine. We’ll explain common reasons for the flashing light and how to fix them.

You’ll learn about your Subaru’s cruise control system. This will help you get back to driving confidently.

What is The Subaru Cruise Control System?

The Subaru cruise control system keeps your speed steady with little help from you. It’s great for long drives, making them more relaxing. Learning about its parts can help you fix any problems that might come up.

Key Components of The System

Your Subaru’s cruise control has several important parts. Knowing these helps when the cruise control light flashes.

The main parts are:

• Cruise Control Switch: This is where you set and change your speed.
• Electronic Controls: They handle how the system works and talks between parts.
• Speed Sensors: These track how fast you’re going to keep the speed just right.

How The Cruise Control Works?

Understanding Subaru cruise control means seeing how its parts work together. It uses speed sensor signals to adjust engine power and keep your speed.

When you turn it on, electronic controls manage the gas, so you can just steer. In Subarus made after 2005, a blinking cruise control light warns you to check the system.

Checking the system every 15,000 miles is a good idea. It keeps your cruise control working well. This makes your drives more comfortable and safe.

Common Causes of Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing

When the cruise control light on your Subaru starts flashing, it’s a sign of a bigger problem. It’s crucial to know about common issues that cause this.

Knowing them helps you fix problems before they get worse. Here are the main reasons why this light might start flashing.

Gas Cap Issues

Did you know a loose or broken gas cap can make your cruise control light flash? It messes with the fuel pressure readings, which affects the cruise control. Simply making sure your gas cap is tight can fix this issue most of the time.

Faulty Speed Sensors

Speed sensors play a key role in how cruise control works. When these sensors don’t work right, they mess up how your car tracks speed.

This can make your cruise control turn off by itself. It’s a sign there might be a problem with your Subaru’s cruise control.

Electrical Problems

Electrical issues can also cause the cruise control light to come on. Things like damaged wires or blown fuses are often to blame.

These problems can lead to bigger issues if not fixed quickly. It’s important to check any electrical parts connected to the cruise control system.

Engine Performance Issues

Problems with how your engine performs can make the cruise control light flash, too. Because the cruise control uses engine codes, any engine issues can affect it.

If you see the cruise control light flashing, check how your engine is doing to avoid more problems.

Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing – Quick Fixes

If your cruise control light starts flashing, deal with it quickly. You can try some easy steps first. Often, these simple fixes solve the cruise control light problem without needing big repairs.

Inspecting The Gas Cap Tightness

A gas cap that’s not tight might cause your cruise control light to blink. Make sure to tighten the cap well after adding fuel.

This keeps the fuel system working right and is an easy fix for cruise control issues. It’s a simple step but very effective in preventing bigger problems.

Checking For Faulty Sensors

Then, check the speed sensors because they’re key for the cruise control to work right. If these sensors aren’t working, they can turn on the warning light.

Using an OBD-II scanner to find out what’s wrong can be very helpful. Subaru cars have around 196 diagnostic codes. So, this scanner gives you a lot of info on what could be wrong.

Recognizing Warning Signs of Subaru Cruise Control Issues

Spotting Subaru cruise control issues early can avoid dangers and save time. The flashing cruise control light is a key sign. It needs your quick attention.

Seeing other warning lights on the dashboard along with it can point to bigger problems. Skipping these signs might cause major troubles, like engine or electrical issues.

• Flashing cruise control light
• Check engine light appearing concurrently
• Loss of control over cruise acceleration or braking
• Inconsistent speed maintenance

Taking quick action when you see these signs is important. It helps avoid bigger problems and keeps you safe while driving. Knowing these signs lets you keep your car running well.

Identifying Additional Warning Lights

As a Subaru owner, paying attention to all dashboard indicators is very important. Beyond the cruise control light, you’ll see others like the check engine light.

They can warn you about serious problems that need quick attention. Knowing what these lights mean helps you avoid big repair bills and keep your car running smoothly.

Check Engine Light (CEL)

The check engine light is crucial to watch out for in your Subaru. A steady light means something small might be off, while a blinking light is a big deal.

It could mean something like engine misfires, which needs to be looked into right away. If you ignore a blinking check engine light, you could end up harming important engine parts.

Battery Light and Other Indicators

The battery light is also key, showing possible electrical issues. If this light comes on, it might mean your battery is dying or there’s a charging problem.

Plus, don’t ignore other warnings like oil pressure and tire pressure. Keeping an eye on these and acting fast ensures your Subaru stays safe and lasts a long time.

Troubleshooting Subaru Cruise Control Problems

Fixing Subaru cruise control problems can be done effectively with an OBD-II scanner. This tool plugs into your car’s diagnostic port. It lets you see important fault codes.

By Knowing these codes, you can find out why the cruise control light is flashing. Figuring this out can make fixing Subaru cruise control easier.

Using an OBD-II Scanner

For Subaru troubleshooting, an OBD-II scanner is a top choice. This scanner can show up to 196 diagnostic codes. These codes can point out issues with the cruise control.

Look for codes about electrical issues or bad speed sensors. They often cause warning lights to turn on.

Checking Vehicle’s Electrical System

It’s also key to check your car’s electrical system along with using an OBD-II scanner. Look for any damaged wires, rusted connections, or blown fuses.

These can all affect how your cruise control works. Fixing these electrical problems helps get your Subaru’s cruise control working right.

Remember to do regular checks every 15,000 miles or during service visits to catch any issues early.

Subaru Cruise Control Not Working: Possible Solutions

If your Subaru’s cruise control stops working, start by checking a few simple things. It’s possible that a small fix might solve your problem. Before you look into complicated repairs, try the basic steps first.

On-Off Switch Check

First, look at the cruise control’s on-off switch. It might have been switched off by accident. Make sure the switch is set to “on.” If you find it was off, flipping it back on could make everything work again.

Inspecting Fuses and Sensors

Then, check the fuses that link to the cruise control. A blown fuse can make it stop working. Also, examine the system’s sensors.

If speed sensors fail, they can turn off the cruise control and trigger a warning. Check for any signs of harming or rusting too.

By doing these checks, you might quickly fix the cruise control issues. If the problem doesn’t go away, it may need more looking into. This ensures your car stays safe and running properly.

Importance of Professional Diagnostics For Subaru Cruise Control

When it comes to fixing cruise control in Subaru cars, starting with basic attempts is common. Yet, the true value lies in professional Subaru diagnostics.

Professionals use advanced tools for a deep look into the cruise control system. These tools spot problems that basic checks might miss.

Since the 1970s, cruise control has changed a lot. Modern Subarus with On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD II) allow for precise problem finding.

The cost for professional diagnostics of cruise control issues is between $145.99 and $170.00. Spending on expert help can accurately fix issues, prevent expensive repairs later, and better your car’s performance.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) shows how tech has improved in cars. It uses radar to keep a safe distance from other cars by braking when needed.

This shows how tech helps in making driving safer. Keeping this system in good shape is important because it depends on sensors that need regular cleaning and servicing.

This highlights why diagnostics are key to staying safe on the road. Warning signs like beeps and flashing lights tell drivers about dangers, making quick diagnostics essential.

Not paying attention to these signals can lead to big repair bills, sometimes more than $1,000 for serious engine issues.

Adding professional diagnostics to regular car care ensures your Subaru’s cruise control works well. Knowing your car is in great shape boosts your confidence while driving.

Maintaining Your Subaru’s Cruise Control System

To ensure your Subaru’s cruise control works well, you must put in consistent effort. Regularly checking its components is crucial to fix any issues early. This approach not only boosts performance but also makes driving safer.

Regular System Checks

It’s important to check your cruise control often, as part of your car’s upkeep. Inspect it every 15,000 miles or at each service visit.

Focus on these parts:

• Cruise control module: Ensure there are no visible signs of wear and tear.
• Wiring integrity: Look for any damage or frayed wires that could affect functionality.
• Speed sensors: Test to ensure they provide accurate readings; faulty sensors can deactivate cruise control.

There are about 196 diagnostic codes for Subaru vehicles that can help find problems. Using an OBD-II scanner lets you quickly spot and fix cruise control errors.

Paying Attention to Maintenance Alerts

Always pay attention to your car’s maintenance alerts. A blinking cruise control light usually means there’s a problem. Ignoring these signs can end up costing more in repairs.

Notice if the check engine light (CEL) and cruise control light blink together, as it might suggest an engine misfire.

Talking to a skilled mechanic helps avoid unnecessary part replacements by finding the actual problem.

Keeping your Subaru’s cruise control system well-maintained improves its reliability and your enjoyment of the car.

Conclusion

Fixing a blinking cruise control light on a Subaru means you need a good grasp of how your car works. If your Subaru was made after 2005, the cruise control light is key for spotting issues.

It’s crucial to check your car every 15,000 miles to stop problems like bad sensors or loose gas caps early. Fixing cruise control issues fast can keep repair costs down.

Tools like an OBD-II scanner pinpoint problems by reading specific Subaru codes. For harder problems, it’s best to get help from a pro to ensure your cruise control works well for a long time.

By using the tips from this write-up, you can tackle many cruise control problems. Always pay attention to car maintenance. It makes your drive better and keeps you safer on the road.

FAQs

Why is my Subaru cruise control light flashing?

A flashing cruise control light usually means there’s a problem. Issues could range from a loose gas cap to faulty speed sensors. It’s key to fix this soon for safe driving.

How do I troubleshoot my Subaru cruise control issues?

Begin with the gas cap, ensuring it’s on tight. Then, use an OBD-II scanner to check speed sensors. Look over the car’s electrical system for any broken wires or blown fuses too.

What should I do if my Subaru cruise control is not working?

First, make sure the cruise control switch is turned on. Next, look for any damaged fuses or sensors. Doing these steps can often fix the problem.

Could a flashing cruise control light be linked to engine problems?

Yes, it can. Since the cruise control uses engine data to work correctly, flashing lights could mean engine trouble.

How can I reset my Subaru’s cruise control system?

There’s no direct reset for the cruise control. But, fixing issues like faulty sensors or replacing fuses may get it back working.

Should I seek professional help for cruise control issues?

Definitely. If problems keep happening, see a professional technician. They have the right tools to find and fix the issues.

What maintenance should I perform on my Subaru’s cruise control system?

Keep an eye on the cruise control module. Check its wiring and sensors regularly. Pay attention to maintenance alerts to stop problems before they start.