Hi. I have a 1990 Legacy with a check engine light that is flashing a 1 short continually. Can anyone tell me what is going on or where I find the proper codes? Thanx.

check out my site www.surrealmirage.com/subaru/engine.html

 

You need to connect the black diagnostic connectors to check the codes.

According to the information posted on "surrealimages", the intermittent flashing of the cel is merely an "all clear" code. This would indicate that the computer is stuck in a check mode of some sort. None of the methods given for a '92 Legacy worked to get rid of the flashing cel. The only other clue is that when the key is turned on, without the motor running, the rad fan operates intermittently as well. Would anyone know how to properly reset the ECU on a 1990? Please?

Are the black connectors disconnected underneath the dash? You will be looking for a single black wire. I'd check that first. If they are not disconnected the CEL will keep flashing.

Just found the other end of the single black wire, it was taped back into the wiring harness and, as such, had never been connected. We have two other '90 Legacies here and they also have the same wire taped back and the green connectors normally connected. Cel is still flashing. Getting ready to yank a bulb, but that would still leave the computer stuck in a check mode of some sort. Still hoping.

take the battery cable off for a little bit,see if it comes back on. ed

Are you saying the D check connectors are hooked up? If they are, they should be disconnected too.

The D check wires had never been hooked up before. They are now. The local dealer says it's a hard code and should not be driven. However, it's been driven like this for the last 6 mos and also breezed through the emissions control test 2 weeks ago. Still don't know. Dealer says tow it in. What is he smoking and where can I get some?

Are you saying the D check connectors are hooked up? If they are, they should be disconnected too.

The instructions on my site are for all 90-94 legacies.

 

Both the green & black diagnostic connectors need to be disconnected normally!

Thanks guys! Left the battery cable off all night, in case the new stereo has some sort of power supply ( doubtful ), followed the reset procedure. At first, the cel stayed on continuously, then switched to the blinking again. I stand corrected; the blinking I was getting was one short flash every three seconds, not the even blinking of the 'all clear' code. The engine stalled as soon as I touched the gas. When I started it up again the cel went out, hopefully not to return. Thanks for all the help.