1996 Subaru Outback Engine 'jerks' back and fourth at idle

Tiny
JEDIJORDOS
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 SUBARU OUTBACK
  • 4 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 137,000 MILES
I just bought this car used last week. The check engine light came on the day after I bought it. Also when I come to a stop light (half the time) it feels like the engine is jerking back and fourth shaking the car a bit. I am just really worried I purchased a lemon. Also there is a volt meter the previous owner installed. When the engine does this 'jerking around' the volt meter jumps around too? Any thoughts on this would be great. Thanks
Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 1:38 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MHPAUTOS
  • MECHANIC
  • 31,937 POSTS
Hi there,

This could be a low base idle problem, but with the check light on you will have to get a scan done to read the set fault code, this will be an indication as to what the problem is, start here.

Mark (mhpautos)
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Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 2:15 AM
Tiny
JEDIJORDOS
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  • 2 POSTS
I thought this too originally, but the rpm's don't dont change at all when this is happening. Just the volts
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Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 6:00 PM
Tiny
MHPAUTOS
  • MECHANIC
  • 31,937 POSTS
Check the engine mounts, check that the electrical connection at the battery and alternator are sound and tight, do you know what the idle speed actually is?

Mark (mhpautos)
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Friday, May 14th, 2010 AT 6:29 AM

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