1996 Impreza has FWD Light on Dash?Whats Wrong?

bikeluver43 · 08-11-2008, 09:48 AM

Hey guys, new here and New to Subaru's. I've picked this car up cheap and it has some flaws but hopefully it'll be reliable transportation. I started the car up for a drive and the FWD light is on in the dash, it is an AWD model Impreza. Does this mean something is wrong with the AWD or is this normal?

It also has a check engine light on (runs great) which I will pull codes on later-how do I pull codes on this car? Its not an OBDII so I don't think you can just plug in a scanner. Any help is appreciated.

Jay! · 08-11-2008, 02:07 PM

The FWD light is telling you the AWD system is not engaged. There's a fuse somewhere (can't recall if it's under hood or under dash, but it's marked on the lid) that need to be pulled back out to go back to AWD mode.

For OBD1, I'm told the code-read procedure is to look under the dash for the two green plugs, and plug them together. This puts the ECU into diagnostic mode, and the Check Engine light itself will flash out in a pattern that is the code. Make sure you disconnect the test plugs before driving again.

bikeluver43 · 08-11-2008, 03:24 PM

Wow, there was a cap in the engine compartment labelled FWD- I opened it and there was a fuse there, which I removed and now the light is off. I put the fuse in the glove compartment since there were no more spots in the fuse block. I still haven't checked the CEL code but will later tonight.

What is the function of the FWD fuse? Why would someone disconnect that and could it do damage?

Thanks again for the help.

Jay! · 08-11-2008, 06:58 PM

I've heard two stories -

1. OBD1 still had to be smogged on rollers in some states (California), and smog stations only have 2-wheel rollers.
2. It can be used when the spare tire is on, or when the car is being towed, to avoid damage to the differentials.

himie298 · 08-15-2008, 06:43 PM

The 15 amp fuse when installed disengages the four wheel drive. I know people that drive around all the time like this and they claim it improves gas milage. you only have front wheel drive then. It never saved much gas for me.My 96 is an OBD II so get a reader and plug it in the connection is on the bottom of the driver dash under the stearing wheel its a small door that pops off. Autozone will read it for free. but I have found there reader is too general.

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