Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Basic Diagnostic Procedure: Procedure: Engine
- CHECK ENGINE START FAILURE.
- Ask the customer when and how the trouble occurred using the interview check list. Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>CHECK LIST FOR INTERVIEW>CHECK .
- Start the engine.
Does the engine start?
Yes: Go to 2.
No: Inspection using "Diagnostics for Engine Starting Failure". Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>DIAGNOSTICS FOR ENGINE STARTING FAILURE .
- CHECK ILLUMINATION OF MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT.
Check the lighting condition of the malfunction indicator light.
Does the malfunction indicator light illuminate?
Yes: Go to 3.
No: Inspection using "General Diagnostic Table". Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>GENERAL DIAGNOSTIC TABLE .
- CHECK COMMUNICATION STATUS.
- Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
- Connect the Subaru Select Monitor or general scan tool to the data link connector.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON, and run the Subaru Select Monitor or general scan tool.NOTE:
- Subaru Select Monitor
For detailed operation procedures, refer to the "Subaru Select Monitor". Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>SUBARU SELECT MONITOR .
- General scan tool
For detailed operation procedures, refer to the general scan tool operation manual.
- Subaru Select Monitor
Does Subaru Select Monitor communicate with vehicle normally?
Yes: Go to 4.
No: Inspection using "Basic Diagnostic Procedure" of LAN system. Refer to LAN SYSTEM (DIAGNOSTICS)>BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE .
- CHECK DTC.
Read DTC using Subaru Select Monitor or general scan tool.
NOTE:- Subaru Select Monitor
For detailed operation procedures, refer to "Read Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)". Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>READ DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) .
- General scan tool
For detailed operation procedures, refer to the general scan tool operation manual.
Is DTC displayed on Subaru Select Monitor or general scan tool? (Current malfunction)
Yes: Record DTC, time stamp, and freeze frame data, then repair the trouble cause. Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>LIST OF DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) . after repair, go to the next step. Go to 5.
NOTE:- For the time stamp, refer to LAN information . Refer to LAN SYSTEM (DIAGNOSTICS)>GENERAL DESCRIPTION>CAUTION>TIME STAMP .
- Depending on DTCs, time stamp may not be stored.
No: Repair the related parts.
NOTE: If DTC is not shown on display although the malfunction indicator light illuminates, perform the diagnosis of malfunction indicator light circuit or combination meter. Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT . - Subaru Select Monitor
- PERFORM DIAGNOSIS.
- Perform the Clear Memory Mode. Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>CLEAR MEMORY MODE .
- Perform the Inspection Mode or Drive Cycle. Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>INSPECTION MODE . Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>DRIVE CYCLE .
Is DTC displayed on Subaru Select Monitor or general scan tool?
Yes: Inspect using "Diagnostic Procedure with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)". Refer to ENGINE (DIAGNOSTICS) (W/O STI)>DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) .
No: Finish the diagnosis.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.
