Changing spark plugs - check engine light?

arc1847

Hi All,

Need some advice here. I changed the spark plugs on my 2008 Outback, looking to save a little money on the 30K maintenance. It wasn't terribly difficult and the plugs seemed to go in great.

I started it up and it runs fine, but immediately afterward I started getting a Maintenance required light on and the traction control light is on.

The only thing I unplugged in the process (other than the plug wires) was the sensor on the air intake.

Can anyone offer any advice as to what might have happened here?

Thanks,

Al

edit: the "cruise" light is flashing as well and the cruise doesn't work.

ateixeira

Could the plug be reversed? i.e. wires backwards?

Make sure no vacuum hoses are loose, too.

arc1847

Checked all connections, nothing loose. I only took the wires off as I replaced each plug so I know they aren't out of order. I had someone on another forum suggest that when I unplugged the sensor that it caused the problem and only need the computer reset. I hope that's the case.

xwesx

Check the intake system very carefully for loose hoses. Usually when replacing the plugs, you have to move the air cleaner box and the intake line out of the way on the passenger side, so it is possible that a vacuum line or some other wiring was pulled loose inadvertently. I am pretty sure there are a couple lines on the bottom of the intake that may be hard to spot, so take a close "360" look at it.

Also, double-check that MAS plug you removed to be sure it is fully seated.

arc1847

Interestingly enough, as I drove my son to daycare the condition was the same. AFter dropping him off and I started the car the lights were all off and the cruise operated normally.

Anything I need to worry about?

ateixeira

Just keep an eye out.