Check engine light

svxcess · #1 04-08-2003, 06:56 PM

Today the check engine light came on suddenly in my 96 SVX. It has continued to stay lit after turning off the engine and restarting. I have even momentarily disconnected the battery to sort of reset it but it refuses to go away.

I talked to larry III and he said his 97 did the exact same thing at 50,000 miles (mine has 52,000). The OBDII on his said it was the third O2 sensor. He said don't wotrry about it before the meet.

Is it that simple? Any help appreciated. It is under Subaru extended warranty.

Beav · #2 04-08-2003, 07:09 PM

It could be one of many things. Personally I'd stop by someplace, such as a parts store, that could link up and pull the code for you. At least that way you wouldn't be sweating all weekend, wondering what the problem might be.

Ron Mummert · #3 04-08-2003, 08:18 PM

John. I TOLD you I'd be glad to do the black electrical tape fix. Now you get to sweat bullets for a day or two. I think the code refers to excessive Dremel pressure applied to battery posts. Nonetheless, I think you'll make it to Reading, light or no light.

See ya - Ron.

svxcess · #4 04-09-2003, 12:26 PM

The dealer just called me and said that BOTH front O2 sensors were bad. Parts and labor were almost 600.00

I can't believe that both sensors went bad at exactly the same time since my check engine light came on once and stayed lit.Never any indications before this.

Of course they are not covered in the classic warranty. Aren't there other places I can get these sensors cheaper? Seems like I read something on this board.

#5 04-09-2003, 01:33 PM

There are places that sell universal sensors, although I cant remember where.

Sorry John. Hopefully someone else knows. Maybe try the search button?

Mike

subafan · #6 04-09-2003, 02:18 PM

2 O2 censors for 600????? eeks...

Beav · #7 04-09-2003, 03:35 PM

I'll do 'em for $500.

See this thread: http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/show...=oxygen+sensor

svxcess · #8 04-09-2003, 05:16 PM

Went to the dealer and talked to the service manager and the zone rep, who just happened to be there. Since I have taken all my cars there for service (and bought 2 new Outback VDC's in a three month period) they agreed to let me have the 2 O2 sensors, installation and diagnostics for a total of $370.00-10% or a final bill of $333.00.

svxcess · #9 04-09-2003, 05:19 PM

By the way, do the error codes or any part of the computer have to be reset by the dealer after installing the new oxygen sensors or will the computer automatically relearn the correct parameters as I drive?

vkykam · #10 04-09-2003, 05:44 PM

Man... I would've brought down Bosch O2 sensors and installed them for you at reading for $333...

Considering it takes all of 20 minutes to do both.

VK

Quote:

Originally posted by svxcess
Went to the dealer and talked to the service manager and the zone rep, who just happened to be there. Since I have taken all my cars there for service (and bought 2 new Outback VDC's in a three month period) they agreed to let me have the 2 O2 sensors, installation and diagnostics for a total of $370.00-10% or a final bill of $333.00.

subafan · #11 04-09-2003, 06:16 PM

wow..... that's like 40some percent off the original price man

Beav · #12 04-09-2003, 07:39 PM

They will only need to clear the code(s). As the computer receives the signals from the sensors in order to know how the mixture is being burnt there's really nothing new for it to adapt. Short term fuel trim adapts immediately and the long term trim will adapt within a few minutes. (Short term averages out from O2 sensor input, long term averages from short term trim levels.)

Ron Mummert · #13 04-09-2003, 09:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Beav
They will only need to clear the code(s). As the computer receives the signals from the sensors in order to know how the mixture is being burnt there's really nothing new for it to adapt. Short term fuel trim adapts immediately and the long term trim will adapt within a few minutes. (Short term averages out from O2 sensor input, long term averages from short term trim levels.)

So if John had used the less expensive black tape cure, what would the ultimate result be, & how soon?

Ron (I check the engine every time I open the hood - Yup, still there!)

Earthworm · #14 04-09-2003, 09:13 PM

Would you really be willing to take that chance though? Suppose there's another, more serious code? You won't know about it until it's too late.