1996 Subaru Legacy Check Engine Light

SECONDSTRINGER

MEMBER
1996 SUBARU LEGACY
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

My local mechanic informs me that the fault codes show that the o2 sensors are bad and making the engine run rich, which in turn has damaged both catalytic converters. Total cost: $900.00 for original subaru parts

Questions: Could there be alternate reasons for the problem?

- the mechanic doesn't recommend after market catalytic converters - claims not of sufficient quality and I'll be getting more check engine lights soon.

- any other thoughts much appreciated.

walt

5 Replies

LEGITIMATE007

MECHANIC
5,121 POSTS

How long has the engine light been on for?

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Friday, January 4th, 2008 AT 11:19 AM

SECONDSTRINGER

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2 POSTS

Hmmm, about 10 days or so.

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Friday, January 4th, 2008 AT 11:39 AM

LEGITIMATE007

MECHANIC
5,121 POSTS

I don't know if thats long enough to damage two converters? You have to be careful some people are crooks get some more opinions. I ts hard for me to diagnose from here but you may just have to change the faulty o2 sensors. Does the car still seem to run good? Also get a second opinion don't be afraid you have that right. And don't be afraid to do some price quotes on parts o.K bud. Be very careful, don't just go by what one mechanic says.

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Friday, January 4th, 2008 AT 11:44 AM

LOSTINMARS

MECHANIC
222 POSTS

Hard to say w/o seeing the data. I'd be willing to bet the cats have degraded and need replacing. Imo its foolish to change them and not replace the o2 sensors. If they are still the original sensors there's no way they are still operating at full strength.

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Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008 AT 10:24 PM

LEGITIMATE007