1998 Forrester with 180K miles. Started getting a flashing At Oil Temp light (Check Engine light on constantly).

 

About a month ago, the car would rev at stop lights, like it was chomping at the bot to go. This was intermittant, as I would not get it, but my wife would. Two days ago, the At Oil Light started flashing constantly, issues with engine power and consistant stalling when the RPM got below 1200 or so.

 

Took it to Firestone this morning (my mechanic is not open on weekends), and got three diagnostic codes: RT10466, P0102 and P0103. I know the P codes as Mass Air Flow Sensor related, and I have yet to try and clean/check it. I cannot find anything on the RT10466 code. They (Firestone) also said that my transmission fluid was dirty (black) but not gritty.

 

Has anyone else had this similar problem? I can try to work on the sensor tomorrow with cleaner, etc. I have seen some mention of transmission issues on forums and posts, but don't know the extent of what these symptoms could mean for repair and cost.

 

Any help, input, and suggestions would be most appreciated. Thanks!

you have a overheating transmission(well it reckons it's too hot and by the sound of that oil I'd say the clutch is burnt and it is right), and that makes the motor rev high to circulate more oil through the cooler.

 

The MAf codes may be caused by the high idle, but I'm just guessing there.

 

It is a complcated situation and you should go to a dealer for a diagnosis, then get a second opinion.

Welcome to the USMB. It would help board members to help you if you could give us a bit of your history with this Forester. For instance:

 

Have you kept up the regular maintenance according to the book?

Have you ever changed the trans fluid?

If so, how often?

Have you ever dropped the transmissin pan to clean the screen?

Do you tow a trailer with your Forester?

Do you often travel with a fully loaded car (people, luggage, stuff & weight?

 

Any service or repair history you could provide might be very helpful in further diagnosing your situation.

 

I was drawn to you posting since I've got a '98 Forester with 174K on it. I change the front differential oil, the transmission fluid, and the rear differntial oil each year. These are great Subies with the potential for lasting 300K or more with good maintenance.

 

ScottG

 

 

ScottG