CEL - Check Engine Light not coming on?

@3030la I see this is your first forum post, so welcome to the forum from Oregon! :biggrin:

The CEL is an LED, soldered onto the combination meter - instrument cluster circuit board.

Why do you think the CEL is not turning on?

Bobby...

['07 FSXT MODding Journal] ['03 X MODding Journal]

3030la said:

Is there a replaceable bulb for the check engine light on 04 forester, or is it part of the printed board?

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When you turn your ignition key to RUN, is the Check Engine Light illuminated?

Most of the dash lights should also be on (e.g. seat belt warning, oil pressure) - it's a check. When you start the car, the lights should go out.

Be careful what you wish for. Subarus have a habit of throwing CELs for lots of reasons - maybe too many reasons. It can become a real aggravation.

The CEL does not turn on and new york state it wont pass inspection without the CEL turning on when you turn the key

@3030la As @2.5x_sleeper noted, it's an LED soldered to the dash panel. It's possible, but unlikely, that the LED is bad. You might try disconnecting and reconnecting the wire harness to the dash - maybe corrosion on the contacts. Do this several times. The same could be done to ECU connectors - there are two big ones, as I recall.

Just as a test, try connecting the two green connectors under your dash, near driver's left knee - the diagnostic connectors. Then, turn the key to RUN. All the lights should start flashing and fans turn on and off, as it goes through a kind of self test. Does the CEL come on? Disconnect them after this test.

Ok thanks will try in the daylight and let you know