bobolinko

The CEL is a "flag" indication that there is something "not right" with the engine, thus the term Engine Check Light... If the motor misses for 3 firings, it throws a code to the ecu to indicate a POSSIBLE problem and the problem can be analysed with looking up the code. The code usually stays there untill cleared, or 13 or so restarts with no recurrence, then it would clear by itself. If it is a misfire, it could simply have been a moisture droplet that was in the fuel system, and not a serious problem at all. If after clearing the code and it IMMEDIATELY re-appears, then, I might be a little more concerned. otherwise, I would not. If it came on when I was 20 miles into a 500 mile trip, I would keep an ear to the motor's smootheness, but would not scuttle the trip unless the engine runs really bad. I have found someimes, while the motor is missing, turning off (reboot the ECU) the engine for a few seconds and restarting corrects the miss, but the ECL has to be reset with a tool. I installed a scanguage in my car, and it easily can analyze and clear all the CEL notifications. Ha ha maybe this now will be more to think about for you .... There are inexpensive OBD-II (OBD2) check tools that might be useful for you ... Got mine from E-Bay. Check that it's usable on your vehicle before you purchase. I spent $35 on mine, just for peace of mind. Aloha !

Wow! All good points. I'll see if I can incorporate all in my next design on the auto door locks. I know the on-off feature is simple enough, and I suspect the speed factor might be a little hard, but I can also do the unlock when engine not running, and that oughta cover the issue 1 Lucky Texan has... Right on Guys, I just need the wiring diagrams of the car, and I'll be good to go! Again, Mahalo !

Now That, Nipper, is something I can certainly chase down! Great idea. Thank you, I'll follow up on this and see if there is a possibility here. Thank you again for your input. Aloha!

Yes, it probably would, however the car already has a factory installed alarm system. It would be a terrible waste of funds to throw $300+ for a $15 mod that would correct this overlooked safety issue that would prevent carjacks when the perpetrator just opens a door to hijack the car when my daughter is driving it. Thank you for you input though! Aloha

The 2012 Outback I just bought, to my surprise, has no auto-locking doors! My kid's cheapie corolla has.... I purchased a new 08 Scion XD that also did not have that feature, so I ended up Designing/building/installing one that locked the doors when the car moved over 3mph. The doors unlocked when either of the front doors were opened or when the key was turned off. I also built mods for it to have the radio stay on till a door was opened, Power windows adjustable till a door opened, etc. Here is a link if anyone wants to see the diagram: http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt107/bobolinko/AutoDoorLocks6-23-10.png I will build and install one for my Outback, and it would be very much easier if I could get a wiring diagram of the car. If anyone has, or can point me to a downloadable wiring diagram, I'd be able to start on it right away... Please either reply in this thread, or pm me. Whatever your pleasure! Wen completed, I will post a How-To in this forum if an interest is there for such a mod. Mahalo, and Aloha From Hawaii !!