why is my cruise light blinking

Why Is My Cruise Control Light Blinking?

By: Author Zach Reed

Seeing the light on your dashboard start to blink is always concerning, especially if you don’t know what it means.

If you see your cruise control light blinking on your dashboard, you’ll probably start to worry about what it means and what you’ll have to do to get it fixed.

Heck, what does it even mean when your cruise control light is on but not flashing? Does that just mean that the system is working properly, or does that mean it’s faulty?

If your cruise control light is blinking, this typically means that something is faulty within the system and could mean that the cruise control itself might need to be repaired.

More often than not, this is usually to do with the electronics, such as a speed sensor. If you have a faulty system, you should refrain from using cruise control until it’s fixed.

Today, we’re going to talk about what the cruise control light looks like on most cars, and what it means when it starts blinking.

We’ll also discuss what to do if the light is on but not blinking, and whether or not you can safely drive your car in that state.

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What Does the Cruise Control Light Look Like?

Before we go through this entire article talking about the cruise control light in your car, let’s make sure you know what the cruise control light actually looks like.

After all, there are all sorts of lights on your dashboard, and seeing any one of them turn on unexpectedly can be a bit confusing. So knowing what certain ones look like will help you figure out what’s going on more quickly.

The cruise control light usually looks like a miniature speedometer with the analog indicator set in place, indicating that the speed of your car is set as well.

This light is usually found on the lower right side of your dashboard, near where the speedometer and odometer are. If you can’t find it there, it might be located on the steering column. 

It’s important to know where this light is so that if it does turn on while you’re driving, you’re not scrambling to figure out where it is and what it means.

Now that we know what the cruise control light looks like, let’s talk about what it means when it starts blinking.

What Does it Mean if Your Cruise Control Light is Blinking?

There are a few different things that could be going on if you see the cruise control light blinking while you’re driving. The first thing you should do is check to see if your cruise control is working at all.

A general rule of thumb about most lights on your dash is that if they’re flashing, it usually means that something is faulty with that particular system and it’s not working as it’s expected to .

To check to see if cruise control is working, you can simply try to engage it. If the light is blinking, that’s usually an indication that the system is turned on but not working properly.

This could be for a number of reasons, such as a problem with the speed sensor or cruise control servo. In most cases, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic to get it checked out and repaired.

Why is My Cruise Control Light On But Not Blinking?

The vast majority of the time, if you see a light illuminated on your dashboard, it typically means that there’s an issue of some sort going on.

But cruise control is one of the few exceptions to this rule. When you see your cruise control light illuminated on your dash, that’s actually a good sign. It’s exactly what you want to see!

If the light is on but not blinking, that usually means that cruise control is engaged and working properly. This should be easy to verify since you’ll be able to feel the car maintaining its speed without you having to do anything.

The light being on is simply there to let you know that the system is engaged and working.

It’s important to note that even if the light is on and cruise control is working, you might still have some issues with the system.

For example, you might notice that your car is having trouble maintaining speed on hills or in stop-and-go traffic.

If this is happening, it’s usually an indication that your cruise control system needs to be adjusted. But as long as the light is on, you know that the system is engaged and working.

Can You Drive Your Car With a Faulty Cruise Control System?

If you’re driving and you see the cruise control light start blinking, the best thing to do is to disengage cruise control and drive without it until you can get your car into a mechanic.

In most cases, it’s not safe to continue driving using cruise control if you know that the system is having issues or that something is faulty within the sensors and electronics of the system.

The reason for this is that cruise control relies on sensors to help maintain speed.

If something is wrong with the sensor or the system itself, your car might not be able to properly gauge its speed.

This could lead to you unintentionally speeding or, even worse, not being able to slow down in time if someone cuts you off or if there’s an obstacle in the road.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your car. So if you see the cruise control light blinking, make sure to disengage the system and drive without it until you can get your car into a mechanic.

Summing Up Why Your Cruise Control Light is Blinking

If your cruise control light is not only on, but blinking, it usually indicates that there is something wrong with the device itself.

It’s important to stop using cruise control as soon as you see the light blinking and take it into a mechanic to get it fixed. Otherwise, it could lead to accidents if you’re not able to stop in time.

Blinking cruise control lights aren’t generally too much cause for concern, but be diligent about any light that starts blinking on your dashboard!

Hi, I'm the founder of VehicleAnswers.com! Having owned a wide variety of vehicles in my life, I was astounded at how hard it can be to find answers to common automotive questions. Rather than sit idly, I decided to create this website to help others!

Why is Subaru Cruise Control Light Flashing on My Car Dashboard?

Driving can be fun, but long-distance driving can be fatiguing as you keep pressing the gas pedal to keep the car going at your desired speed. Thankfully, cars now feature cruise control — a system that lets drivers set a desired speed and relaxes their feet when traveling a long journey.

You can activate the system by pressing the cruise control button and the vehicle will keep you at the current speed. So you don’t have to depress the gas pedal to keep the car running. Cars with advanced cruise control systems use sensors at the front bumper to detect vehicles ahead of them and keep the car at a distance to prevent collision.

Like other system components, the cruise control does have issues. And these issues are common with Subaru cars. Most Subaru owners complain of Subaru cruise control light flashing on the dashboard as they drive.

Why does my Subaru cruise control light keep flashing?

The most common reason why the cruise control light is flashing on your Subaru is due to an electrical or mechanical problem. Remember, when the light is flashing, the cruise control system is disabled, so don’t try to turn it on because it won’t work.

In some other cases, the cruise control light may be flashing due to a defective or loose gas cap, a blown fuse for the cruise control, a failing brake pedal switch, or a defective vehicle speed sensor. Let’s have an in-depth look to see how these issues could cause cruise control light flashing on Subaru Outback and other Subaru models.

Blown fuses

The cruise control system consists of several electrical systems protected by a fuse. The fuse can blow up if there’s an electrical power issue, preventing the key components from failing. If that happens, it will disable the cruise control system. In some cases, the car computer will start flashing the cruise control light on the dashboard to notify you that there’s an underlying issue that needs urgent attention.

If you suspect the fuse is blown, replace it and see if that fixes the cruise control system and clear the blinking light on the dashboard.  If that resolves the problem but the fuse blows in no time and the light starts blinking again, you have other electrical issues. Contact your mechanic for a thorough diagnosis.

Defective speed sensor

The vehicle speed sensor is one of the essential components of the cruise control system. When you activate the cruise control, the onboard computer collects information from the speed sensor to know when to increase and decrease the engine speed.

The vehicle speed sensor is mounted at the tail end of your transmission, and if it malfunctions, the cruise control light will start blinking on the dashboard. The speed sensor is needed to ensure that the speedometer and the odometer work correctly, and without it, the cruise control system will be affected.

If you notice the cruise control light flashing and check engine light is on, check the vehicle speed sensor. A bad speed sensor triggers the check engine light and disables the cruise control system. This sensor cannot be repaired. So, if it is the root cause, the only solution is to replace it with a new one.

Loose gas cap

Believe it or not, the gas cap plays a crucial role in your vehicle’s overall functionality. The gas cap can affect the performance of the cruise control system. For instance, in Subarus, a loose gas cap can cause the cruise control light to blink as you drive. It can also trigger the check engine light to pop on the dashboard. So, a loose gas cap can cause the Subaru Forester check engine light with flashing cruise control to pop on the dashboard.

Faulty mechanical component

If you own an older Subaru car, the cruise control light could be flashing due to a faulty mechanical component. In older models, the cruise control system has a cable, connecting the throttle to an air actuator, which regulates the cable to keep the vehicle at the set speed settings.

If any of the mechanical components go bad, it can disable the system and trigger the blinking light on the dashboard.

Malfunctioning brake pedal switch

Under perfect conditions, the brake lights shine as you depress the brake pedal. There’s a component attached to the brake pedal — the brake pedal switch, which tells the brake lights to light up as you depress the pedal.

If the switch goes bad, the brake lights won’t know when you step on the brake pedal. But aside from this, a bad brake pedal switch can also affect the cruise control system.

When you activate the cruise control system, the system will deactivate and switch to manual mode whenever you step on the brake pedal. If the switch malfunctions, it may send wrong signals to the cruise control system, telling it the brake pedal is always depressed, preventing the cruise control system from turning on.

System malfunction

If your Subaru check engine light is flashing along with the cruise control light and the brake pedal switch, fuses, and vehicle speed sensors are good, you have a problem somewhere in the cruise control system.

To determine the root cause of the malfunction, you need a mechanic to diagnose the vehicle. The mechanic will inspect all cruise control components and may plug in a scan tool to pull out all the error codes in the vehicle.

It’s okay for the cruise control light to be on when you activate it, but if the light comes on when you are not using the cruise control, or the light starts blinking when you activate it, there’s a problem that needs to be addressed. In most cases, a flashing cruise control light on Subaru is accompanied by the engine warning light.

What to do if your Subaru cruise control light flashing?

Whenever the Subrau cruise control light starts flashing on the dashboard, the cruise control has malfunctioned or disabled. Hence, do not turn on the cruise control system. If the light starts flashing after getting gas, locate a safe spot and pull over. Check the gas cap and re-tighten it. It could be you did not secure the gas cap properly.

If that do not solve the problem, drive straight to your mechanic and have them diagnose and fix the problem.

Does the cruise control stop working when check engine light is on?

If the onboard computer detects a problem with your transmission or the engine, it will display the check engine light and disable certain vehicle functions, like the cruise control system, to prevent further damage until you address the issue.

Let’s be clear here; this does not mean that the PCM must disable the cruise control whenever it detects an issue with the engine or transmission. It will only disable the system if the issue is causing unstable engine performance.

Subaru Outback check engine light flashing, cruise control, and traction control light blinking can all come up due to engine performance issues. Contact your mechanic to proffer solutions to the problem. 

Final Words

To be precise, the flashing Subaru cruise control light shows there is a mechanical or electrical problem in your car. The cruise control light should be green and steady when you turn on the system. But if the light is flashing, turn off the cruise control until you address the problem.

If you are a DIYer, you can fix the issue yourself. But if you are not, contact your mechanic or dealership. The solution can be easy, quick, and quite affordable.

Osuagwu Solomon

Osuagwu Solomon is a certified mechanic with over a decade of experience in the mechanic garage, and he has over five years of experience in the writing industry. He started writing automotive articles to share his garage experience with car enthusiasts and armature mechanics. If he is not in the garage fixing challenging mechanical problems, he is writing automotive repair guides, buyer’s guides, and car and tools comparisons.

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Subaru cruise control light is flashing. Possible causes

Have you ever noticed your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing? It can be quite disconcerting. Don’t worry, it’s probably nothing serious.

In this article, you’ll learn what could be causing the flashing light and how to fix it. We’ll also discuss some other issues related to cruise control, so you can be better prepared if something similar happens in the future.

Key Takeaways

• The flashing cruise control light in a Subaru could be caused by various issues such as a faulty brake switch, malfunctioning speed sensor, or blown fuse.
• Other potential causes include a failing brake pedal switch, traction control system issues, malfunctioning mechanical components, and failed control module, sensor, or switch issues.
• Throttle actuation problems and dirty or malfunctioning cameras (in the case of adaptive cruise control) can also lead to a flashing cruise control light.
• Before visiting a service center, there are a few solutions to try such as replacing the brake switch, replacing the gas cap, disconnecting the positive battery cable and stepping on the brake pedal, and using an OBDII reader for diagnostic information. However, if the issue persists, it is recommended to visit an authorized Subaru service center for professional diagnosis and repair.

A brief explanation of the issue

If you’re driving a Subaru with cruise control, you may have noticed that the light on the dashboard is flashing . The flashing cruise control light can be caused by a number of issues, including:

• A faulty brake switch
• An electrical fault in the vehicle
• A malfunctioning cruise control system
• A loose or faulty connection in the wiring harness.

Troubleshooting the issue requires an experienced mechanic to diagnose and repair.

Causes of Flashing Cruise Control Light

If your Subaru’s cruise control light is flashing, it may be due to a malfunctioning speed sensor. This sensor is responsible for detecting the speed of the vehicle and relaying that information to the cruise control system. If the sensor is not working properly, it can cause the cruise control light to flash.

Another potential cause of a flashing cruise control light is a blown fuse. The fuse that controls the cruise control system may have blown, preventing it from functioning properly. Checking and replacing the blown fuse can resolve this issue.

A failing brake pedal switch can also be a culprit behind a flashing cruise control light. The brake pedal switch is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is depressed, which is necessary for the cruise control system to disengage.

If the switch is failing, it may not properly detect when the brake pedal is pressed, leading to a flashing cruise control light.

Lastly, an issue with the traction control system can cause the cruise control light to flash. The traction control system is closely linked to the cruise control system, and if there is a problem with the traction control system, it can trigger the cruise control light to flash.

It is important to note that these are just potential causes and that a proper diagnosis should be done by a qualified technician to accurately identify the issue and determine the appropriate solution.

Malfunctioning speed sensor

You’re likely noticing your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing because the speed sensor is malfunctioning. This could cause a variety of issues such as:

• Reduced fuel economy
• Poor acceleration
• Unstable speed control
• Erratic RPMs.

It’s best to have the speed sensor inspected and replaced if necessary to ensure your car runs smoothly and efficiently.

Another possible cause of the Subaru cruise control light flashing is a blown fuse. A blown fuse is a sign that the circuit is overloaded and can’t handle the current running through it. In this case, the cruise control system may be shorting out and the fuse must be replaced in order to fix the issue.

Failing brake pedal switch

If the brake pedal switch has failed, it can also be the cause of the Subaru’s cruise control light flashing. The brake pedal switch is a safety feature that helps the cruise control system recognize when the brakes are being applied.

A malfunctioning switch can cause the cruise control system to not work properly, resulting in the light flashing.

Regular inspections of the switch can help identify any problems before they become dangerous. Replacing the switch when necessary can help ensure the cruise control system is working correctly and the flashing light isn’t a cause for alarm.

Traction control system issues

Besides a failing brake pedal switch, another potential cause of the Subaru’s cruise control light flashing is a malfunctioning traction control system. Here are four common culprits:

• Faulty wheel speed sensors
• Worn control unit
• Low tire pressure
• Damaged brake pedal switch.

A malfunctioning traction control system can cause the cruise control light to flash, so it’s important to have it checked by a professional to ensure safe driving .

Malfunctioning mechanical components

Apart from a faulty brake pedal switch, malfunctioning mechanical components can also be responsible for your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing. This includes a problem with the throttle control motor, the cruise control switch, the brake light switch, the cruise control actuator, and the ECU.

Malfunctioning of any of these parts can lead to a flashing cruise control light, and it’s important to get the issue resolved quickly as it can adversely affect the performance of your vehicle.

Failed control module, sensor, or switch issues

Aside from the mechanical components, a failed control module, sensor, or switch can also cause your Subaru cruise control light to flash. If any of these components fail, the cruise control light will start to flash. Here are a few common sources of this issue:

• Electrical connections wearing away
• Corroded wiring
• Malfunctioning switches
• Burned out control module.

It’s important to have your car checked by a qualified mechanic to determine the exact cause of the flashing light.

Throttle actuation problems

Frequently, issues with throttle actuation can also be the culprit behind a Subaru’s flashing cruise control light. When the cruise control light is flashing, it usually means the throttle actuator is in need of service. It can be caused by a malfunctioning throttle position sensor , a bad throttle body, or a faulty electronic throttle control unit.

In any of these cases, the throttle needs to be repaired or replaced. Proper troubleshooting is essential to identify the source of the issue and to ensure a proper repair.

Dirty or malfunctioning cameras (adaptive cruise control)

Continuing on from issues with throttle actuation, dirty or malfunctioning cameras can also be a cause of Subaru’s flashing cruise control light. Reasons include:

• Obstructions blocking the camera’s view
• Damaged camera lens
• Malfunctioning of the camera’s hardware
• Problems with the car’s software.

Dirt, grime, and corrosion can also be factors in camera failure. Be sure to have a professional check the camera’s condition to avoid further issues.

Solutions for Flashing Cruise Control Light

If you’re having trouble with your Subaru’s flashing cruise control light, don’t worry. There are several solutions you can try to get your car back to normal.

• Hook up an OBDII reader to get valuable information.
• Visit the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer.
• Check or replace the brake switch.
• Even disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute.

Hook up an OBDII reader to get valuable information

Once you’ve hooked up an OBDII reader to your Subaru, you can start to get some valuable information that can help you solve why the cruise control light is flashing. It can:

• Show any trouble codes
• Help you diagnose electrical problems
• Diagnose the engine light
• Provide you with data about your vehicle’s performance.

With this information, you can get a better idea of why your cruise control light is flashing and how to fix it.

Visit the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer

If you’re still unsure what the issue is after hooking up an OBDII reader, then you may want to consider visiting the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer.

The staff at the center have the expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with your vehicle, and they’ll be able to provide you with insight into why the cruise control light is flashing.

They may even be able to suggest a repair or adjustment that can resolve the issue.

Taking your car to the service center is the best way to get the right advice and a quality repair.

Check/replace brake switch

Carrying on from the previous suggestion, the next solution might be to check or replace the brake switch, as it can sometimes be the source of the cruise control light flashing.

To do this, here are 4 steps to follow:

• Find the brake switch and disconnect the wires.
• Check the continuity of the switch with a multimeter.
• If the switch is defective, replace it with a new one.
• Reconnect the wires to the switch and test the cruise control light.

Disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute

Once the gas cap has been replaced, another solution to try if the cruise control light is still flashing is to disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute.

To do this:

• Find the positive battery cable.
• Unhook the cable and wait 10 minutes.
• Re-connect the cable.
• Step on the brake pedal for a minute.

This should reset the cruise control light and get your Subaru back on the road.

Final Words

It is important to check why your Subaru’s cruise control light is flashing in order to avoid any potential issues.

Taking the time to diagnose the cause of the flashing light will ensure that your car runs smoothly and safely.

Importance of checking the issue

It’s essential to get your Subaru checked as soon as possible if the cruise control light is flashing. Ignoring the issue could potentially lead to a more serious problem, such as:

• A malfunction in the car’s braking system.
• Damage to the car’s electronic components.
• An unexpected increase in fuel consumption .
• Unintended acceleration.

If you notice the cruise control light flashing, don’t hesitate to take your car to the nearest mechanic. Failing to address the issue can have costly consequences.

Be sure to get your car checked out as soon as possible.

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Flashing cruise light?

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So.......... I ran out of fuel (don't ask) going down a big hill, with cruise on. When coming up the other side, I forgot I had cruise engaged, and the fuel must have ran to the other end of the tank, so the car started running again. When it kicked in, it was revving 4500rpm, so I hit the cancel switch on the wheel. Car finally died, out of gas. When I got fuel, started car, now cruise light is flashing, and cruise doesn't work. My check engine light is also on. Any suggestions? I haven't checked fuses or anything yet, this just happened on my way to work, and I'm here now. I'll get looking later today.  

Gotta find out why the CEL is on. Cruise doesn't work if the CEL is on.  

I had the same problem twice while in cruise control. The shop says that the car every so often runs a test of the fuel vapor system and if it finds a leak or anything else, the Cruise light flashes and the check-engine light comes on. The first thing they check is if the gas cap is on correctly. After two days of testing and help from the factory they could not find anything wrong. So, a case number was opened with the factory and they gave me a new gas cap.  

Could be a loose evap hose. Get the code checked out and that will point you in a better direction.  

Funny, I got in my car started it, adjusted the seat way forward to make room for dude in back and I must of hit cruise while not moving anywhere or maybe bumped it with my leg and I noticed it flashing. I drove a bit trying to set it and cancel it to no avail. At a stop light I shut the car off and turned it back on and it stopped flashing. Haven't tried to use cruise yet again but will see if it still works now. I think it started flashing because it thought I was trying to set it without actually moving anywhere..No CEL or anything either..(knock on wood)..  

Cruise control indicator light The cruise control indicator light illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position and turns off after approximately 3 seconds. This light illuminates when the “CRUISE” main switch is pressed. If you press the main switch button while turning the ignition switch “ON”, the cruise control function is deactivated and the “CRUISE” indicator light flashes. To reactivate the cruise control function, turn the ignition switch back to the “Acc” or “LOCK” position, and then turn it again to the “ON” position.​ Click to expand...

NOTE *If (the CRUISE) indicator light and the CHECK ENGINE warning light/malfunction indicator lamp flash simultaneously during driving, have the vehicle checked by your nearest SUBARU dealer.​ Click to expand...

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• Camry 5th and 6th Gen '02-'11, Solara '04-'08

Cruise Control light blinking

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This has happened only once the other night. I was cruising about 50MPH, hit the brakes for a red light, while I was at the red light the Cruise Control light started flashing. The cruise control would not engage at any speed during the flashing stage, and I didn't think it would as a flashing light usually means a malfunction. I went a few miles turned the car off, restarted it and haven't had a problem since. Any ideas? Or just chalk this up to a 1 time glitch?  

"If the cruise control indicator light flashes: Turn the “ON-OFF” button off once, and then reactivate the system. If the cruise control speed cannot be set or if the cruise control cancels immediately after being activated, there may be a malfunction in the cruise control system. Contact your Toyota dealer and have your Toyota inspected." Read Page 3 (3rd page down) of THIS  

That's in my owners manual too, but I tried that. The light just continued to flash every time I tried to turn it on again. It was only after I shut off the car and restarted it that the cruise would work again. And it has been working for the last 3 days since it happened.  

Pvt-Public said: Thanks for the info, but I tried that. The light blinked every time I tried to turn it on again. It was only after I shut off the car and restarted it that the cruise would work again. And it has been working for the last 3 days since it happened. Click to expand...

Glad you were able to reset it, but I wonder what caused it? ABS or speed sensor maybe malfunctioning, or just a glitch :dunno: Did you slam on brakes for that light, or just slow down normal? Last time I encountered something like this (on a different vehicle), one of my front abs/speed sensor wires was snapped/stretched. The fault was permanent until that wire was fixed though.  

Any or all brake light bulbs out? That is supposed to cause the CC to fail (Fail-safe mode?). JAT  

Did you slam on brakes for that light, or just slow down normal? Click to expand...

Any or all brake light bulbs out? Click to expand...

Could be an indication of your brake pedal sensor beginning to fail. Make sure that it is operating the rear lights correctly, you can check its signal to the computer with a professional scan tool. Also, the Cruise Control switch could be starting to act up / fail... you can also check this with a scan tool, as well as history codes from the last failure within 60 or so ignition cycles... I believe the CC goes into "fail-safe" mode when it sees a signal from the switch that last longer than a predetermined time more than once in a given timeframe.  

It's been 5 days with no further problems. Brake and CC switch seem to be working. I am just keeping my fingers crossed for now. Thanks for the suggestions.  

Hey brining back this old topic Just got in a 2010 Camry (to be clear, I am a Toyota freak... have had over 20 personally and own a classic JDM Toyota, but FREQUENTLY get Toyotas for our car business - I am a Toyota enthusiast but not every one that I write about is mine) SAME issue, and when I bought it from auction, it had a check engine light for the brake switch which had been cleared (on its own) from the system before it made it to me via shipping. CANNOT be a coincidence. The local junk yard has many Siennas which, second gen, use the same switch. About to see if that fixes it. Best Drew  

My 2000 CE had a bad Brake light switch a few months ago. I noticed my car wouldn't shift into gear (automatic) or maintain cruise control but blink when activated. Then I noticed my brake lights were out. So after changing the BLS (brake light switch) and adjusting it, My brake lights came back and I was able to shift gear normally. BUT< to this day my cruise control system is not working. It turns on but once I set the speed it doesn't do its thing but blinks. So thinking to check the actuator...read someone say theirs did the same thing and it a was a small connecting brush inside that wore down.... anyone had the same experience?  

Hello, did you end up figuring this out? I have the same issue on my 2002 Toyota Rav4. I replaced the brake light switch but it did not fix the issue.  

Shoot that I’m not sure about, and the car is gone. I hope it works out for you  

Yikes! Not sure what else it could be!  

can someone help me with my mystery, Camry 2010 cruise control not working only blinks even when I changed the brake light switch. Maybe its the speed sensor?  

My 06 does the same, a bump in the highway can knock it back to blinking, sometimes i can slow down to 50mph and i can re engage it , sometimes its out for days sometimes it works for days i got new brake light switch for brake lights but it still does the same so im thinkin the stretched or loose wire somehow might be the issue, sux a bump never makes it able to coome back on tho lol 06 camry, turnin it on and off never works for me either  

Jus slowed down to 40 to go thru town and it worked lol  

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Why Is My Check Engine Light Flashing?

• Updated: February 17, 2023

Your car’s dashboard is equipped with many warning lights to tell you when something is wrong. The Check Engine Light might be one of the most recognizable, but most people see it come on as a solid light. In the rare times when the Check Engine Light is flashing, you need to know what to do next.

Throughout this guide, we discuss the main concerns to be aware of when you see a flashing Check Engine Light. We further discuss some steps you can take to resolve the issue. When you reach the end of our article, you will find answers to your top questions, such as if you should keep driving once the Check Engine Light starts flashing. 

What Does A Flashing Check Engine Light Mean?

When there’s a concern with the engine or vital car systems, the Check Engine Light comes on to get your attention. The Check Engine Light can come on for hundreds of different reasons or trouble codes. Seeing a flashing Check Engine Light is much rarer. 

When the Check Engine Light flashes, it designates that the problem is severe and must be dealt with immediately. There are only a handful of concerns that would lead to a flashing light, so it’s often easier to diagnose.

While it might be easier to figure out, the problems are normally much more difficult to deal with, often pointing to some level of failure that could be catastrophic if allowed to continue. 

Causes of a Flashing or Blinking Check Engine Light

The most common cause of flashing or blinking check engine light is a misfiring engine, which can be caused by several different engine issues. Ideally, you will want to troubleshoot the vehicle and check the DTCs to find out what’s causing the issues.

For now, here are four possible causes worth considering. 

1. Misfiring Engine

When an engine misfires , one or more of the cylinders doesn’t produce the power it should. A misfire can be caused by numerous problems, many of which can also lead to a flashing Check Engine Light. For example, you might be dealing with fouled-out spark plugs , a faulty oxygen sensor or a vacuum leak.

When the engine misfires, you notice a decrease in acceleration. The car can also start shaking when you try to go faster. It may feel like the vehicle loses power for a period. When it’s idling, the engine might feel like it’s vibrating more than normal. The trouble with a misfire is that it can occur intermittently or only when the engine is at a certain temperature. 

It’s never wise to continue driving with a misfiring engine. At any time, the engine can quit working on you. Plus, you are allowing additional wear to other parts of the car. If that’s not enough, the engine is going to use more fuel and emissions will be increased during this time. 

2. Low Fuel Pressure

The combustion chamber needs to have the right balance between fuel and air to ensure proper operation. If the fuel pressure is too low and the engine is starved of fuel, there could be serious problems. Low fuel pressure can be caused by bad injectors, a failing regulator, a broken pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a defective sensor. 

When the fuel pressure is low, you might notice trouble accelerating. The engine could also misfire or stall as a result. Plus, it’s common to hear a whining noise with fuel problems. Allowing fuel pressure to remain low can put further wear on the engine and vital components. 

3. Faulty Engine Sensor

Within the engine, there are a number of sensors working together to feed information to the computer. The computer takes this information to make decisions for better operation. If one of the sensors is bad, the computer is receiving faulty information. This problem can cause the computer to make decisions that shouldn’t be made, which leads to an imbalance and serious performance problems.

Some of the most common sensor failures include both the oxygen sensor and the mass airflow sensor. However, you could also be looking at a problem with the coolant temperature sensor or any one of the other high-tech features. The only way to know for sure which one is the problem is to scan the codes. 

RELATED: 15 Types of Car Sensors (& What They Do)

4. Low Compression

For the engine to run, air and fuel must be present in addition to compression. The compression must reach an exact amount of pressure or there will be performance issues. With a lack of compression, the car can jerk, lose power and fail to accelerate.

Some of the top causes for compression issues include damaged piston rings , worn pistons, valve problems or faulty head gasket . However, the problem could also stem from a bad timing belt or chain. 

How to Fix a Flashing Check Engine Light

It’s imperative that you stop driving immediately when the Check Engine Light starts flashing. Once you are pulled over, you can run through these steps to get to the heart of the issue. 

1. Scan Trouble Codes

To fix a flashing check engine light, you need to read the trouble codes first. With your professional code scanner , you can read the DTCs that are set in the computer. You can use a variety of OBD-II scanners to figure out what’s going on, but some read more codes than others. 

Additionally, if you don’t have your own scanner, there are other options. You can go to an auto parts store that offers free scanning services. When you find the trouble codes, you should continue the troubleshooting depending on which codes you find. We have a library here on Mechanic Base to research different trouble codes.

2. Inspect Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils

If the codes lead you to believe that the ignition system is to blame, you should take a look at the spark plugs . When carbon builds up on the plug, it can fail. The only solution is to replace the spark plug.

Additionally, if the code shows a problem with the ignition coils , you will need to replace these. The defective coil should be indicated by the trouble code. 

3. Check Fuel Pressure

To check the fuel pressure, you can use a special gauge. Evaluate the normal reading through your service manual to see where it is supposed to be. 

You can also use some advanced scanners to check the fuel pressure. If it is too low, you must diagnose what part is causing the problem and replace it. 

4. Inspect Engine Sensors

You can’t physically examine every engine sensor on your car. However, the code scanner should help you determine which one might be to blame. 

Once you pinpoint the sensor that’s bad, there’s a chance you can simply clean it off and reinstall it. Otherwise, a replacement will be necessary. 

5. Contact A Professional

It’s important that you take the flashing Check Engine Light seriously. This warning light indicates that something major is occurring. For this reason, it’s sometimes best to consult with a professional. 

You don’t want to take chances with something as important as your car engine. Whether you need help with diagnostics or repair, take time to search for a reputable repair shop that you can trust. 

Can I Drive With A Blinking Check Engine Light?

While it might be okay to drive with a solid Check Engine Light, once it starts flashing, it’s time to stop. Continuing to drive could cause irreversible damage to the engine, which is why many cars will also go into a Limp Mode during this time. Pull over on the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so. 

Is It Worse If Your Check Engine Light Is Flashing Or Solid?

It’s never good to see a Check Engine Light. However, the solid warning light is often less troublesome than the flashing light. A blinking Check Engine Light typically indicates imminent failure that could destroy the car engine. For that reason, you should stop driving immediately. 

Why Is My Engine Light Flashing And My Car Shaking?

Most of the problems that lead to a Check Engine Light flashing can also cause performance issues, such as shaking. Proper diagnosis will indicate if there’s a spark problem, trouble with the fuel delivery, low pressure or a malfunctioning sensor that is to blame. 

Can Bad Spark Plugs Cause Check Engine Light To Blink?

As spark plugs start to foul, the Check Engine Light might not flash. There’s normally time to change the plugs before the problem gets that bad. However, if you let the plugs go unchecked, the engine will eventually misfire, which can cause the Check Engine Light to flash. 

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Flashing Engine Light?

The cost depends on what needs to be repaired. For example, new spark plugs might only cost $100, while low fuel pressure could range anywhere from $50 to $750 to repair. Additionally, malfunctioning sensors tends to cost $50 to $650, while low compression repair can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. 

With a flashing Check Engine Light, you know there’s a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately. It could be caused by a misfiring engine or low fuel pressure. It can also be due to a faulty engine sensor or low compression . Either way, you should stop driving immediately.

There’s no room to hesitate because seconds could make the difference as to whether your engine becomes damaged or not. When the light starts to blink, find a safe place to pull over and turn the engine off immediately. 

By taking swift action, you have the chance to prevent further damage. With a code scanner or through the help of a professional mechanic, you can figure out what went wrong and begin the repair.

MIL ON – Mo.gov

Learn more:

• Check Engine Light After Oil Change – Causes & How to Fix
• Check Engine Light On But No Codes – Causes & How To Fix It
• How to Reset a Check Engine Light (5 Easy Methods)

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08 Check Engine, Cruise Control, Traction Control Lights On

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I have a 2008 Outback. My check engine light just came on yesterday, and along with it, the traction control light is light solid and the cruise control light is flashing. Neither the cruise control nor traction control will engage when I press the buttons. My first thought was that a fuse blew, but I could be wrong. No other noticeable changes in driving or electronics function. Any thoughts or similar experiences?  

Check Engine light on usually means there's a code, or more than one, that explains what caused the light to come on. Have the trouble codes read, or do it yourself using the procedure in http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums...9-how-read-diagnostic-trouble-codes-dtcs.html . Then search for the code(s) in these forums (if it's been discussed before), do a Google search, or post here for help defining what it means and perhaps help in resolving it.  

just curious is your airbag indicator also lit?  

Airbag indicator is not lit. I should say that I had the passenger airbag replaced for the recall several months ago, but no issues there. I'll see if I can get the error code to show up.  

After getting the codes, two appeared: P0037 (Rear O2 sensor): probably not related to the lights I see C0071 (Steering angle sensor): This would make sense with the lights I see on the dashboard. I also have the well-known power steering whine. Could this be related?  

I have just had the same lights appear on my dash. Were you able to remedy the situation?  

Get the codes read.  

P0026, c0029 & c0071  

so you have a 2008 leather limited H4 which has VDC in that year, ....or maybe a H6 with VDC in that 2008 year. (plain H4 with cloth did not have it in 2008,...although maybe by month could) C0071 = steering angle sensor (on the VDC cars,..possibly related to a ABS sensor). C0029 = a ABS sensor code P0029 = a exhaust valve solenoid, not related tot he other 2. anyone work on the steering rack, steering column, ABS sensors? or did you hit anything,? brakes and wheel bearings can also heat up so much on cars that have real problems that they bake the ABS sensors. _____ exhaust valve solenoid sounds like something important though. does the engine run bad too?  

P0026 is for the right side variable valve lift system. The actual code description is DTC P0026 INTAKE VALVE CONTROL SOLENOID CIRCUIT RANGE/PERFORMANCE (BANK 1) However, this fault code can often be caused by a faulty VVL Oil Pressure Sensor switch. The pressure switch and solenoid are next to each other and work together. There's a good number of threads/posts here on the P0026 code, and on the P0028 code for the VVL system on the left side. The pressure switch can fail due to tarnish/corrosion on its internal switch contacts, or because of oil leaking. Here's an example from just a few days ago: http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums...ing-something-else-intake-valve-solenoid.html If you replace the switch, read the linked threads and note the cautions relating to over-tightening.  

I'm seeing the same lights on my 08' Outback but the only code I'm getting is P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Bank 1. Which should be unrelated to the TCS and the cruise control. In the past, the issue has been a wheel sensor, but normally I get a code to tell me which one. Any ideas on where to start my troubleshooting?  

P0420 Diagnosis

Any CEL causes those.  

The Check Engine Light is on but the only code I'm reading is the P0420. Nothing for steering or speed sensors.  

P0420 is related to your catalytic converter: The downstream O2 sensor is indicating your front cat isn’t doing its job efficiently. The light show on your dash is just Subaru’s way of alarming you enough to drive immediately to the dealership so they can take your money. Rest assured alI those systems are unaffected. It could be caused by several things. If you’re not mechanically savvy then you should probably find a trusted mechanic who can help you diagnose. In my case, my front cat completely disintegrated and blocked the rear cat, resulting in loss of power. But your issue might be different. If you have a capable scan tool you can monitor certain engine parameters and O2 curve traces to narrow down the issue.  

P0420 is mostly related to engine performance which eventually affects the cat function. Too rich, too lean, lots of detonation, bad grounds and erroneous feedback is seen by the ECM, weak battery, bad thermostat, clogged PCV valve, the gas that's in the tank, ......... Read the first part of the P0420 Diagnosis thread. After that there's data showing the problems and it's not always a bad cat.  

It’s been my experience that “catch-all” codes like 0420 are often accompanied by other more specific codes. If that is the only code, then it’s likely cat-related. Sure, thinks like excessive oil consumption can degrade cat performance. But once normal stiff like that is ruled out, an 0420 by itself usually points to a cat failure, either with the substrate itself or via contamination.  

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Home & renters insurance, car repair estimates, read car content, jerry data & research, why is my cruise control light flashing on my nissan.

I had a weird thing happen on the way home from work yesterday. I was driving home in my Nissan Murano and went to put on the cruise control, but the cruise control light just kept blinking. Why is my Nissan’s cruise control light flashing?

• Cruise control system malfunction
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• Engine or transmission problems
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