Flashing CEL

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Jan 10, 2004 | 03:18 PM

frog2000

Guest

Posts: n/a

Flashing CEL

I got flashing CEL this morning, when I started my car. Then I recycle the ECU and started the engine again, the flashing CEL is gone. I usually got a steady CEL light but this is my first time I got the flashing CEL. Anyone know what is the different between steady CEL and flashing CEL?

Jan 10, 2004 | 04:00 PM

Mulder

VIP Member

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 1,646

From: NYC

Car Info: 02 WRX WRB

A flashing CEL means there is a misfire being detected in real time, while a steady CEL means a problem has been detected by the ECU at some point in the past and a code stored. The flashing CEL is more urgent and should be attended to right away, resetting the ECU is no fix even if it temporarily clears the light.
You need to find out what caused the misfire to occur, start by checking your plugs and coils for any signs of fouling/arcing.
This assumes your car is stock, if you have mods they may have something to do with it.

Jan 12, 2004 | 01:06 AM

AzN121184

Registered User

iTrader: (17)

Joined: Apr 2003

Posts: 6,249

From: Downtown oakland

Car Info: civic

either way, ushould bring it to the dealer if u dont have a lot of mods and have them pull the code, it'll be the safest way to ensure no problems in the future.