Activation Of Malfunction Indicator Light

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When the ignition switch is turned to ON (engine OFF), the malfunction indicator light (A) in the combination meter illuminates.
NOTE: If the malfunction indicator light does not illuminate, perform diagnostics of the malfunction indicator light circuit or the combination meter circuit. < Refer to MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT DOES NOT COME ON , Malfunction Indicator Light. >
- Normal meter
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Malfunction Indicator Light (Normal Meter)
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Luminescent meter
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Malfunction Indicator Light (Luminescent Meter)
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
After starting the engine, the malfunction indicator light goes out. If it does not go off, any of the engine and emission control system has malfunction.

Fig 3: Malfunction Indicator Light Waveform
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
If the diagnostic system detects a misfire which could damage the catalyst, the malfunction indicator light will blink at a cycle of 1 Hz.

Fig 4: Malfunction Indicator Light Blinking Pattern (1 Hz Cycle)
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Turn the ignition switch to OFF and connect the delivery (test) mode connector (A).

Fig 5: Identifying Delivery (Test) Mode Connector
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
1. When the ignition switch is turned to ON (engine OFF), the malfunction indicator light illuminates.
2. After the engine starts, malfunction indicator light blinks in a cycle of 0.5 Hz. (During diagnosis)
3. Malfunction indicator light blinks at a cycle of 3 Hz after diagnosis if there is no trouble. Malfunction indicator light illuminates if faulty.
  
  Fig 6: Malfunction Indicator Light Blinking Pattern (3 Hz Cycle)
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.