Whenever you see several warning lights and messages in your Subaru, it may disappoint you. Usually, it means that you are going to spend some money. But when it's the combination of the Eyesight system warning and check engine light, it may be cured much easier and cheaper than you think. This problem is very common and has several common reasons.
Eyesight disabled message highlights
- Common reasons:camera blocked, bad weather, camera broken, software issues
- How to fix:clean the camera area, defog windows, wait for better weather, disconnect the battery for some time
- Possible consequences:a lot of smart functions won't work
- Priority level:Medium
- Can you drive?Yes
- DIY repair:Possible
- Repair price range:$0-$450
When does the Eyesight warning come on with the check engine light?
A lot of you will take this for the sensor and radar problem. Eyesight is the system that has a lot of automation in your Subaru and relies completely on the sensors and radars as well as on lots of other units and modules in your car. It may malfunction and throw the Eyesight error message on the dash when almost anything happens with the vehicle.
So, when you see the check engine light and there also may be other lights and warnings like RAB disabled, it's not about the radars. It's about some issues with the vehicle that can be decoded by using the scanner. There is an error code behind the check engine light and by reading it, you can easily find the answer to your question.
However, not all of us have the scanners with us and sometimes decoding those codes is not that easy. So, let's check the reasons for this issue.
What can trigger the Eyesight error and the check engine light?
Usually, you can deal with this problem by addressing the following issues:
1) Fuel cap isn't tightened
When the fuel cap lets in more air than it should, the tank system and EVAP system won't work properly. This can affect the fuel supply and emission system in your Subaru. So, make sure that the fuel cap is tightened up to the click.
Also, you should know that this will not solve the problem immediately. After you tighten the cap, you may need to drive for some time or even reset the code to get rid of it. But if the problem reappears, you will need to think about other issues.
2) Engine coolant bypass valve
Well, your Eyesight system isn't connected with engine cooling, but it will go off at any time when the check engine triggers kind of limp mode. The same will happen with the cruise control. Actually, Subaru probably made this to ensure that people would go to the dealership and repair their cars. Otherwise, they would just keep driving till the car dropped.
Engine coolant bypass valve is one of the super common problems with Subaru cars that triggers the P26A3 code and has been a nightmare for many Subaru owners. Actually, the entire cooling system needs revision when this happens. There is no way you can deal with this without servicing your car in the dealership.
3) Engine sensors or fuel supply
Whenever your ECU decides to put the car in limp mode, your Eyesight and cruise control functions will be disabled. Also, some other functions may go down, too. So, your primary task is to check what kind of code triggered the check engine light. This will help you find the initial problem and deal with it.
In most cases, you will need professional help for this. Subaru dealers are good at diagnosing these cars. But if you are out of warranty, you may want to choose an independent shop for repairs as this will cost you two or three times cheaper.
Can I drive like this?
You can drive with your Eyesight warning and check engine light on the dash. In most cases, it's not a really serious issue and you won't damage your engine. But it's not really wise to ignore the problem because it may grow into something bigger and more expensive, eventually.
I strongly recommend inspecting your Subaru as soon as possible. This will allow you to solve the initial problem and avoid driving with your dash resembling the Christmas tree.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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