Get, Reset & Clear Subaru Check Engine Light Codes without Scanner or Disconnecting Battery.

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Last updated on August 1st, 2023 at 08:04 am

Are you looking to reset subaru check engine light codes or maybe you want to also learn how to get check engine light codes without scanner for Subaru and subaru forester check engine light reset? This post will guide you.

In this guide, below are the common questions we were getting after publishing this article on flashing and blinking check engine lights.

Feel free to move to the topic to which you are looking for the answer to by clicking the content table below..

read this also 5 reasons for Subaru Outback Flashing Brake Light & How to Fix It

how to reset check engine light without disconnecting battery

You should also read this article where cover more details on other topics relating check engine light.

Related Article: All About Flashing check engine light & Blinking cruise control light

When you notice the ‘check engine’ light is come on, the first thing you should do is to observe if there are any other symptoms, like the one below:

If your Subaru has any of these symptoms it indicates that it is not running as it should. To prevent additional damage, start looking for a good place to safely pull over and turn the engine off.

How to get subaru check engine light codes?

There two ways to retrieve subaru check engine light codes and they are:

  1. With an OBD2 scanner with you can get for cheap on Amazon here
  2. Second without a scanner

Mind you; you will have to be skilled for you to be able to retrieve Subaru check engine codes without a scanner.

And that is why we included a video demonstration so you can have a virtual demonstration of the steps.

For a detailed list of Subaru forester engine codes and their symptoms, please see this post. Let now move on to how to get check engine light codes with a scanner for Subaru

How to get check engine light codes with scanner Subaru

When trying to retrieve the Subaru check engine light codes with an OBD2 scan tool, proceed as follows:

Step To Retrieve  Subaru Check Engine Light Codes with Scanner

Step 1

 Start by Connecting the scanner to the 16-pin data link connector (DLC) located underneath the steering column. Most of the time the connectors will have a detachable cover.

Step 2

Then turn on the ignition.

Step 3

Proceed further with the OBD2 Scanner tool  for the manufacturer’s operating instructions on how to  access the DTC (i.e. Diagnostic Trouble Codes )

Remember, these are manufacturer-specific codes only.

You might want to refer to our Generic OBD2 code list for descriptions of all other Subaru codes.

Subaru Check Engine Light Codes & Problems that Caused the Subaru Codes to show up

P0011This indicates that the camshaft variable Timing solenoid has failed or gone bad. You may also see this code when your Subaru oil is low. And when your car engine is timing incorrectly. A worn timing Chain or when the car Manufacturer’s requirements are not met. Variable Valve Timing Actuator Failure. 
P0201Faulty Fuel injector Faulty or corrosion Fuel Injector. Wiring issue or connection. Plugged fuel Injector. Also, a dirty fuel Injector can cause this code to show on your dashboard.
P0200This code is triggered by the following issue, dirt in the Fuel Pump, defective Fuel injector, Faulty or corrosion Fuel Injector. Wiring and/or connection. Plugged Fuel Pump.
P0174Faulty MAF (MAF), Sensor, Faulty Fuel Filter or weak Pump, Plugged and dirty Fuel Injectors
P0135Faulty Oxygen/ air-fuel Ratio sensor, inoperative Oxygen Sen/air-fuel Ratio Circuit Heater Circuit Leak, Intake Air System leakage, Low Fuel Pressure.
P0128Faulty Cooling system, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Oil Coolant causing incorrect Coolant Temperature sensors readings, always running/defective Engine Cooling fan, Bad Motor Thermostat, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensitivity Sensor, Intake Air Temperature Sensor,
P0113Bad Intake Air temperature Sensor, Dirty Air filter, Defective Air Mass Flow Sensor. Faulty Intake Air Temperature sensor wiring or connections.
P0301Worn out ignition wire, spark plugs, coils, a damaged distributor cap and rotor when applicable, Incorrect ignition Timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low fuel pressure, improperly functioning electronic refueling system, Defective Mass airflow sensor, Crankshaft, and/or Camshaft sensors, Throttle position sensor, Mechanical engine issues (i.e.–low compression or leaking head gaskets(s), or valve problem)
P0202Malfunctioning fuel injector, Malfunctioning PCM Fuel Injector Driver Circuit, Defective wiring/connections to the Fuel Injector wiring harness, Defective fuel Injector power circuit(s).
P0205Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Fuel injector failure, and wiring problem
P0203Fuel injector, Powertrain Control Module failure, and wiring issue
P0300Wear to spark plugs, coils, ignition wires, coils, distributor cap and rotor when applicable, Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak gasoline pressure, improperly functioning electronic refueling system, Defective Mass airflow sensor, Defective crankshaft, or camshaft sensor, Defective throttle position sensors, Mechanical engine issues (i.e., low compression or leaking head gaskets(s), or valve problem)
P0506Sticky or defective Idle air control motor, Intake Manifold vacuum leaks, carbon buildup in the Throttle Body passages, and Defective Power steering pressure switch
P0601Damaged PCM ground circuit, PCM memory module failure, PCM control output device failure, and lack of proper voltage to PCM
P0304Wear to spark plugs, coils (when applicable), distributor cap and/or rotor, Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low fuel pressure, improper EGR system, defective mass airflow sensor, defective crankshaft or camshaft sensor, defective throttle position sensor, mechanical engine problems (i.e. low compression, leaking heads gasket(s) and valve problems)
P0505Damaged Idle Air Control Motor, Intake Vacuum Leaks and Carbon buildup in Throttle Body air passages
P0501Damaged Vehicle speed sensor, Defective Speedometer, and Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication Bus problems, Damaged Transmission, or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0500Damaged Vehicle speed sensor, Defective Speedometer, and Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication Bus problems, Communication (CAN), bus problems, bad transmission, or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0455Missing or damaged fuel caps, Distorted/damaged Fuel Tank Filler Necks, Torned Evaporative System Hose(s), Defective Tank Sending unit gasket, seal, split or damaged Carbon Canisters, Defective vaporative Vent Valve/or Evaporative Purge Valves, Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor, Fuel Tank Defective or Damaged
P0442Bad fuel cap or damaged fuel neck, Distorted/damaged Fuel Tank Filler Neck. Small tear/punch in the Evaporative hose(s). Small split in a Carbon Canister seam. Small defect in the Fuel Tank Sending unit gasket. Small leak Detection Pump
P0302Wear to spark plugs and ignition wires, coils and distributor cap (where applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak gasoline pressure, improperly functioning electronic refueling system, Defective mass airflow sensor, Defective crankshaft or camshaft sensor, Defective throttle position sensors, Mechanical engine problems (i.e. low compression, leaking head gasket(s) and valve problems)
P0303Wear to spark plugs and ignition wires, coils, coil(s), distributor caps and rotors (when applicable), Incorrect ignition Timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low fuel pressure, Poorly functioning EGR system, Defective mass airflow sensor, Defective crankshaft or camshaft sensor, Damaged throttle position sensors, Mechanical engine problems (i.e. low compression, leaking heads gasket(s), valve problems)
P0A0Ffailure of hybrid transaxle assembly or internal engine, and Power management control system module failure
P0505Defective Idle Air Control Motor, Intake Vacuum Leaks and Carbon buildup in Throttle Body air passages
P0501Defective Vehicle speed sensor, Defective Speedometer, and Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication Bus problems, Defective Transmission, or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0500Defective Vehicle speed sensor, Defective Speedometer and Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication Bus problems, Communication (CAN), bus problems, Defective transmission, or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0455Missing or damaged fuel caps, Distorted/damaged Fuel Tank Filler Necks, Torned Evaporative System Hose(s), Defective Tank Sending unit gasket, seal, split or damaged Carbon Canisters, Defective evaporative Vent Valve/or Evaporative Purge Valves, Fuel
P0442Defective fuel cap or damaged fuel neck, Distorted/damaged Fuel Tank Filler Neck. Small tear/punch in the Evaporative hose(s). Small split in a Carbon Canister seam. Small defect in the Fuel Tank Sending unit gasket. Small leak Detection Pump.Tank Pressure Sensor, Fuel Tank Defective or Damaged
P2122Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Throttle control motor failure, wiring issue and also can be caused due to Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure,
P2101Accelerator Pedal Position, PCM , Throttle control motor failure, wiring issue
P2006Intake manifold actuator failure, Powertrain Control Modul (PCM) failure, and Restricted Valves
P2004the Subaru IMRC actuator failed or there is an issue with the intake manifold linkage, Wiring issues
PP2002Diesel Particulate Filter failure, Intake Air leak, Mass Airflow sensor is dirty/loss or calibration.
P2000Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, and wiring problem also can be due to failed Throttle Position Sensor (TPS).
P0A7FIntake Air leak, Mass Airflow sensor is dirty/loss or calibration, and Diesel Particulate Filter failure,
P0A80Failed high voltage battery assembly
P0B22Battery contactor assembly and Battery Energy Control Module Failure (BECM)
P0B26Failure of the Battery Energy Control Modules (BECM), High-voltage battery assembly failure, or Wiring issue
P0B24Failure of Battery Energy Control Modules (BECM), High-voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0C15Coolant system leakage, Motor generator power inverter module failure, Engine cooling fans failure, Water pump failure
P0C11Coolant system failure, Drive motor generator power control module failure. Engine cooling fan failure. Failure of the water pump
P0C14Your Coolant system failure, Drive motor generator power control module failure. Engine cooling fan failure. Failure of the water pump
P0C09failure of the Drive motor generator assembly.
P0C00Drive motor generator control module failure
P0B30Failure of Battery Energy Control Modules (BECM), High-voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0B28Failure of the Battery Energy Control Modules (BECM), High-voltage battery assembly failure, or Wiring issue
P2135Failed Powertrain Control Module, Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) failure or wiring issue
P2138Failure of the Powertrain Control Module PCM, Transmission Control Module TCM, Transmission range sensor failure, Transmission controller module (TCM), Transmission range sensors are out of adjustment, Wiring problem.
P2181Can be due to vacuum leaks, a bad intake air boot, and a bad PCV Hose. Defective intake manifold gaskets. Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), Mass Air Flow Sensor circuit, and or wiring problems. Defective Barometric Pressure Sensor. Dirty Mass Air Flow Sensing wire or filament. PCM software should be updated.
P2210NOx sensor or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure and Wiring problem
P2213NOx sensor failure, PCM failure, and wiring issue
P2237Exhaust leakage, Oxygen sensor malfunction, Powertrain Control Modul (PCM), failure, and Wiring problem
P2238Exhaust leakage, Oxygen sensor malfunction, Faulty Powertrain Control Module, and Wiring problem
P2251Powertrain Control Module, Ignition coil failure, and Wiring Problems
P2302Powertrain Control Module, Ignition coil failure, and wiring problem
P2305Powertrain Control Module, Ignition coil failure and Wiring Problems
P0010Your PCM has gone bad or failed; the PCM means Powertrain Control Module. This code could also mean that your Subaru has a Wiring issue or the Variable valve timing actuator has failed.
P0102This has to do with the Mass Airflow Sensor either discounted, unplugged or broken.
P0101You may also see this code when your Subaru Powertrain Control Module has failed, or a failure of your Subaru variable valve timing actuator and, Wiring issue.
P0012This could be a result of a camshaft variable Timing solenoid Failure, low Subaru oil level, wrong engine timed, worn timing chain, and a bad variable valve timing actuator.
P0014Damaged Oil level sensor, Bad Powertrain Control Module, and Wiring issue
P0013Ignition coil, PCM damage, and wiring problem
P2303This can be due to Your camshaft variable timing solenoid problem and low Subaru oil level. Wrong Subaru engine timing and a failed Variable timing actuator or an old Timing chain
P2432Problems with wiring, Air control solenoid, Powertrain Control Module, Secondary Air System pressure sensor failure, 
P2500Alternator Battery and PCM failure, issues with wiring 
P2501Wiring issue, Alternator, Battery, Powertrain Control Module failure, 
P2509Powertrain Control Module, Evap Leak detection pump failure, and Wiring issue
P2503Faulty or dead Batterie, damaged Alternator, and Wiring Problems
P250CFailed Powertrain Management Module (PCM), Powertrain Management Module (PCM), Wiring issue, and Malfunction of the power relay.
P2402Evap Leak detection pump failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2431Air control solenoid failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Secondary Air System pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P2422EVAP vent valve failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2401Powertrain Control Module, Evap Leak detection pump failure and Wiring issue
P2310Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2308Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2601Failure of Coolant Heat Storage (CHS), Coolant Storage (CHS), water pumps relay, Powertrain Controller Module (PCM) failure, and Wiring issue
P2607Poor connections at the HV battery, A problem in the HV battery or ECU
P2609Failure of Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Intake air heaters, and Wiring issues
P2706Transmission Control Module Failure, Transmission Fluid Level is Low, Transmission Shift Solenoid Failure, Wiring Issue
P0171Mass flow sensor, Fuel filter or weak fuel tank, Filtered fuel, and dirty fuel injectors.
P2803Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission range sensor failure, Wiring issue
P2806Restricted EGR passages due to carbon accumulation.
P2723Transmission Control Module Failure, Transmission Fluid Level is Low, Transmission Shift Solenoid Failure, Wiring Issue
P2714Failed Transmission Control Module (TCM), Low Transmission fluid, Transmission shift solenoid failure, Wiring problem
P2716Transmission Control Module Failure, Transmission Fluid Level is Low, Transmission Shift Solenoid Failure, Wiring Issue
P2614A damaged and broken tone ring, Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue 
P2711Internal transmission failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2610An internal PCM problem or a problem with the ground circuit.
P0401Damaged catalytic converter or internal engine damage and/or high oil consumption has led to a defective Catalytic converter conversion.
P0440Damaged or missing fuel cap
P0441Damaged or Missing fuel cap. Stuck open or closed purge valve.
P0430A damaged catalytic converter or internal engine damage and/or high oil consumption has led to a defective Catalytic converter conversion.
P2809Transmission Control Module Failure, Transmission Fluid Level is Low, Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure, Wiring Issue
P2810Faulty Transmission Control Module.  Low transmission fluid, Wiring issue and faulty transmission pressure control solenoid.
P2815Failure of the Transmission Control Module, Transmission fluid level is too low, Transmission pressure control solenoid problem, Wiring issue
P2A00Oxygen sensor issues/problem, PCM failure, Wiring issue or disconnection, and an Exhaust leakage.
P2A01Exhaust leakage, malfunction of the Oxygen sensor, Powertrain Control Module failure, Wiring problem
P2A03Leaking of the Exhaust pipe, damaged Powertrain Control Modul, Wiring issue or Issues on the Oxygen sensor,
P2A04Exhaust leakage, Oxygen sensor malfunction, Powertrain Control Modul (PCM), failure, Wiring problem
P2BA8Damaged NOx Sensors, Shorted or NOx Sens Harness, Poor Electrical Connection of the NOx Circuit, Faulted Diesel Partiate filter (DPF).
P3400Faulty Cylinder Deactivation Systems
U0121A faulty Subaru ABS Module or ABS module circuit issues, a CAN bus problem, and a dead battery.
U0107This could also be due to a dead battery, a faulty TAC module, circuit issues, and a problem with the CAN bus
P3100Failed high voltage powertrain control modules
P3000Low fuel level. High voltage battery assembly fails—insufficient voltage battery charge.
U0073CAN bus failure or issues and a faulty Subaru control module. 
U0001Subaru ABS module issues or failure. A faulty wheel speed sensor, a wheel speed circuit sensor problem, and your Subaru Reluctor issues.
U0100A failed PCM. Problem with the control circuit.
C0040A defective wheel speed sensor, A problem within the circuit for the wheel speed sensor, Reluctor issues, Subaru ABS module issues.
B0081Airbag issues or sometimes problems with the control module or wiring.
P3401The P3401 in Subaru is an indication of an engine oil level too low. Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Bad Variable Valve Timing solenoid. Wiring issue
P0420This P0420 code is most due to an inefficient or bad Catalytic Converter(s), faulty or damaged Front and Rear Oxygen Sensor(s), and sometimes due to failing engines

How to get check engine light codes without scanner Subaru?

To retrieve check engine light codes without a reader is not very easy, and you might have to try the process multiple times before seeing the code display.

 So if you still want to go this route, then here is my suggested process that works on most cars.

This will also reduce your mistakes when recording and reading the codes manually.

Step 1

So first thing, be that sure you have car battery power to ensure it can power up when needed.

At least it should be able to turn on all the dash lights with the car key switch switch in position.

Step 2

The next step is for you to get ready for your recording device.  You can use a camcorder or digital camera that is able to record a 30-second or more video clip.

And if you don’t have that, use your mobile phone.  

So the main idea here is to record the engine light blips that will pop up so you can play it back or even fast-forward and rewind as many times as you want until you complete the codes.

Step 3

Using the camera, set it to record and point it at the engine error light on the dashboard.

Then turn the key rapidly to on, then off, turn it on and off, then on again and then off, then on the position in five seconds or less.

This should look like this.

On-Off-On-Off-On-Off-On (for 4 times)

Now you have to wait for when the engine light starts flashing the error codes in 2-digit flashes. So the number 31 would be “flash-flash-flash, pause, flash.”

Try to record the entire event, for it’s rare for only one code to be set.  There are usually several.

What the video above for more instructions.

Subaru check engine light reset ( Subaru forester check engine light reset)

Subaru checks engine light shows up if there is an issue with the Subaru computer emissions control system.

Then the Subaru’s computer, which is usually called ECU, will produce error codes that relate specifically to the particular sensor affected in the car.

If anyone of these sensors fails, it will prompt a fault or an error code. The error code is then kept in the computer until a proper diagnostic scan is run on the ECU to diagnose the issue.

After fixing the problem, it is important that you reset your car check engine light and to do so, follow the steps below for a Subaru check engine light reset.

Or you can also watch the video above for a more practical and virtual guide.

The video shows 3 ways to reset Subaru check engine light.

Items you will need for the reset

How to clear check engine light without a scanner?

  • Step 1

Open the hood of your Subaru and loosen the nut that holds the cable clamp to the negative battery terminal.

  • Step 2

Then try to slide the cable off the negative battery terminal.

  • Step 3

You now have to wait 4 to 5 minutes before you then reconnect the cable and tighten the retaining nut.

  • Step 4

Finally, start the car engine and wait for the vehicle  Subaru’s computer to reset the check engine light.

How to Reset Check Engine Light Without Disconnecting Battery

You might like to also to see how to reset check engine light without disconnecting battery

In that case, you can watch the video below.

Conclusion on HOW TO GET SUBARU CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CODES

I hope this post helped you find what you are looking for.

We have looked at How to get subaru check engine light codes, how to get check engine light codes without scanner Subaru, how to clear subaru fault codes and even how to Reset Check Engine Light Without Disconnecting Battery.

If like to see a full detailed post how causes and symptoms of blinking and flashing check engine light, then be sure to check out this blog post here.

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