Stupid question: Is CEL with no code possible?

[xtlady]

Still trying to figure out what's wrong with my car... Is it possible to get a CEL and no error codes? If so, does that point to specific types of problems, or problem areas?

Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!

[plain OM]

Not a stupid question -- especially if it's happening!

Simple answer -- yes.

When did it come on? While driving, or on start up?

It could happen if the CEL connection between the ECM and the combination meter (instrument panel) is grounded (short to ground). In this case, the light will be on whenever the ignition switch is in the ON position. Not a likely scenario (I don't recall it being reported here) but possible. It's mentioned in the Subaru service manual.

But, it could also be a glitch in the ECM software. As there are no codes indicated (I presume using a code reader) so there's no apparent codes to clear, but if the reader can be set to clear all codes regardless, I would try it. Perhap that would clear the symptom. Nothing to lose.

Another possible solution would be to disconnect the battery for a few minutes to remove the "always on" power to the ECM. This will cause the ECM to, in effect, boot up clean. If it's a software issue, it might reset correctly.

[xtlady]

The CEL came on while driving. The majority of the details on the car's problems can be found in this thread: http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/...y-choking.html

The question is the result of someone at the dealer telling me, after I received the CEL, that there was a cylinder misfire code. I then involved SOA and since that time, nobody at the dealer seems willing to admit that the code existed. In fact, they say that CEL is not on, no codes have ever registered, and the car drives fine.

I have a photo of the CEL and the odometer that proves that it did exist (and it happened after driving 18.5 miles from the dealer), but am trying to understand why there seems to be confusion regarding the code (or lack thereof).

My husband drives an STI. This is our 5th new Subaru purchase in 10 years (haven't owned anything else in that time). I understand the basics of how a car works - Dad taught me how to change my oil, I helped him rebuild motorcycles, I'm a huge race fan, etc., but I am completely stumped by this current issue. I get that fixing these kind of issues is not easy, but it's also not entirely impossible.

It's day 31 of the problem and I can't express how much your response means to me. Seriously, thank you. I am at wits end.

[plain OM]

Didn't initially recognize the connection to the other thread. Perhaps best to stay with that one so that all the info is in one continuous thread.

[xtlady]

Thanks, that makes sense. I've updated the original thread with the latest info.