Subaru vehicles are equipped with a sophisticated system of warning lights designed to alert drivers to potential issues or malfunctions. Understanding these warning light symbols is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's health and ensuring your safety on the road. This comprehensive guide will help you decipher the meaning behind various Subaru warning lights, their significance, and the appropriate actions to take when they illuminate.

Modern Subaru models feature an array of warning lights on the dashboard, each serving a specific purpose. These lights are color-coded to indicate the severity of the issue: red typically signifies an urgent problem requiring immediate attention, while yellow or orange lights generally indicate less critical issues that should be addressed soon. Green or blue lights are usually informational and don't necessarily indicate a problem.

Light ColorMeaning
RedUrgent issue, immediate attention required
Yellow/OrangeLess critical issue, address soon
Green/BlueInformational, not necessarily a problem

It's essential for Subaru owners to familiarize themselves with these warning lights to ensure prompt and appropriate responses to potential vehicle issues. Regular maintenance and timely attention to warning lights can prevent minor problems from escalating into major, costly repairs. Let's delve into the most common Subaru warning lights, their meanings, and what actions you should take when they appear on your dashboard.

Critical Red Warning Lights

Red warning lights in your Subaru indicate serious issues that require immediate attention. These lights should never be ignored, as they often relate to critical systems that affect your vehicle's safety and performance.

Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

The engine oil pressure warning light resembles an oil can and illuminates when there's insufficient oil pressure in the engine. This could be due to low oil levels, a malfunctioning oil pump, or a severe engine problem. If this light comes on while driving, you should:

  • Pull over safely and turn off the engine immediately
  • Check the oil level using the dipstick
  • If the oil level is low, add oil as needed
  • If the oil level is normal, do not restart the engine
  • Contact a Subaru dealer or professional mechanic for assistance

Continuing to drive with this light on can cause severe engine damage, potentially leading to complete engine failure.

Battery Charge Warning Light

The battery charge warning light looks like a battery and indicates a problem with your vehicle's charging system. This could be due to a failing alternator, a loose or broken drive belt, or a dying battery. When this light illuminates:

  • Try to reach a safe location as soon as possible
  • Turn off all non-essential electrical components (radio, air conditioning, etc.)
  • If the light stays on, have your vehicle towed to a Subaru dealer or auto repair shop

Ignoring this warning could leave you stranded with a dead battery.

Brake System Warning Light

The brake system warning light typically appears as "BRAKE" or an exclamation point within a circle. It may indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a more serious brake system malfunction. If this light comes on:

  • Check the parking brake to ensure it's fully released
  • If the light remains on, pull over safely and check the brake fluid level
  • If the brake fluid is low, do not drive the vehicle
  • Have your vehicle towed to a Subaru dealer or brake specialist for inspection

Driving with compromised brakes is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

Important Yellow/Orange Warning Lights

Yellow or orange warning lights in your Subaru typically indicate issues that require attention soon but may not be immediately critical. However, these should not be ignored, as they can develop into more serious problems if left unaddressed.

Check Engine Light

The Check Engine light, often depicted as an engine outline or the text "CHECK ENGINE," can illuminate for various reasons. Common causes include:

  • Loose or faulty gas cap
  • Failing oxygen sensor
  • Catalytic converter issues
  • Spark plug or ignition coil problems

When this light appears:

  • Check if the gas cap is properly tightened
  • If the light persists, schedule an appointment with a Subaru dealer or certified mechanic
  • Use an OBD-II scanner to read the error codes for more specific information

While you can often continue driving with the Check Engine light on, addressing the issue promptly can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

The TPMS light looks like a tire cross-section with an exclamation point. It indicates that one or more of your tires have low pressure. When this light comes on:

  • Check your tire pressures as soon as possible
  • Inflate tires to the recommended pressure (found in the driver's door jamb or owner's manual)
  • If the light remains on after properly inflating the tires, there may be a system malfunction

Proper tire pressure is crucial for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Warning Light

Subaru's AWD warning light typically appears as "AWD" with a slash through it. This light indicates a problem with the all-wheel-drive system. When illuminated:

  • Reduce your speed and avoid harsh acceleration or braking
  • Schedule an appointment with a Subaru dealer as soon as possible
  • Continuing to drive may cause damage to the AWD system

Proper functioning of the AWD system is essential for Subaru's renowned handling and traction capabilities.

Informational Green/Blue Lights

Green and blue lights on your Subaru's dashboard are generally informational and don't indicate problems. However, it's still important to understand their meanings for proper vehicle operation.

Cruise Control Indicator

The cruise control indicator is usually green and appears when the cruise control system is activated. It doesn't indicate a problem but serves as a reminder that the system is engaged.

High Beam Indicator

The high beam indicator is typically blue and illuminates when your high beam headlights are on. This serves as a reminder to switch to low beams when approaching oncoming traffic or following other vehicles closely.

EyeSight System Indicators

Subaru's EyeSight system has several indicators that provide information about its status and operation. These may include:

  • EyeSight warning light (yellow)
  • Lane departure warning light (green)
  • Pre-collision braking system light (green)

These lights indicate whether the respective systems are active or if there's a malfunction requiring attention.

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular maintenance is key to preventing many issues that trigger warning lights. Follow these tips to keep your Subaru in top condition:

  • Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • Regularly check and change fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.)
  • Inspect and replace wear items like brake pads and tires as needed
  • Address any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance issues promptly
  • Use high-quality parts and fluids recommended by Subaru

By staying proactive with maintenance, you can minimize the occurrence of warning lights and ensure your Subaru remains reliable and safe.

FAQs About Subaru Warning Light Symbols and Meanings

  • What should I do if multiple warning lights come on simultaneously?
    Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and contact a Subaru dealer or professional mechanic immediately.
  • Can I reset warning lights myself?
    Some lights may reset after addressing the issue, but for persistent lights, it's best to have a professional diagnose and reset them.
  • Are all red warning lights in Subaru vehicles critical?
    Yes, red warning lights typically indicate serious issues that require immediate attention for safety reasons.
  • How often should I check my Subaru's warning lights?
    Check your dashboard lights every time you start your vehicle and address any illuminated warnings promptly.
  • Can weather conditions affect Subaru warning light sensors?
    Extreme temperatures or weather conditions can occasionally trigger certain sensors, but persistent warnings should be checked by a professional.

Understanding your Subaru's warning light symbols is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's health and ensuring your safety on the road. By familiarizing yourself with these indicators and responding appropriately when they appear, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems and enjoy a smoother, more reliable driving experience. Remember, when in doubt about any warning light or vehicle behavior, it's always best to consult with a certified Subaru technician or your local dealership for expert advice and service.