Forester 2003 2.5L 160K--  This has happen for about third time and usually goes out after <> 6 times driving car .  It bugs my wife to see it on ,  Is there a way to cure it quicker -like disconnecting the battery for few minutes?  The last time it happened I topped of tank more after the auto-shut off.   Anybody else experienced  this and any tips?.

Pull the code to learn what the check engine light is trying to tell you. Auto parts stores will pull the code at no expense in the parking lot in front of their store. I wouldn't be surprised if the code relates to the fuel system. The rubber seal on the gas cap can deteriorate. Often replacing the gas cap will fix the problem.

Or even simpler: Is the gas cap screwed on properly?

Or even simpler: Is the gas cap screwed on properly?

 

 

This ^. A loose gas cap can set a code.

The last time it happened I topped of tank more after the auto-shut off. Anybody else experienced this and any tips?.

This is bad! It floods the evaporative emissions canister with liquid fuel and damages the structure of the carbon in the canister. When the ECU commands the purge of the canister it will then pull liquid fuel into the engine at an uncontrolled rate, causing a highly rich AF mixture. This will foul spark plugs, and damage the catalytic converters when loads of fuel that are not burned properly are exhausted from the engine.

 

There is a warning sticker inside the gas door that says "Do not top off", and you should pay attention to and follow what that sticker says, because it will cost you thousands of $$$$ to fix the problems caused by repeatedly topping off the tank.

 

No more top-offs, first and foremost.

 

Next, as said before, run it by an auto parts store and ask them to scan it for codes.

Write down the P0XXX code and post it here and we can offer more help.

+2^

Listen to Fairtax. Also, you shouldn't top off any car for that matter.

I've been told to rub oil onto the gasket to hopefully soften it up to create a better seal. II think it's a band-aid approach. But might be enough to do the trick.

2 codes  P1443   #3   Failed vent solenoid-- Don't hear "Whoosh" when opening cap  -Did swap out for another one Swapped cap

                            #2  Poor elec connection

                            #1  open or short cir condition

 

              Po420    #1 RichA/F ratio

                             #2 ignition system malfunction

                             #3 Faultly Cat Converter

P1443

 

Check the evap system and look for rusted filler tube.

 

 

P0420

 

Check your O2 wiring and check the ohms of the O2 sensor. Check preheater and element. Google how-tos. Check MAF sensor. Check plug wires and spark plugs. If wires are 5 year old, just replace. New plugs should be done routinely anyways. Check ignition coil. All these things can throw that type of code. Also, if the 1443 IS a short circuit, it could be causing the 420 code.