The OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II) system in your 08 WRX monitors your car’s emissions system and alerts you to potential problems via the check engine light. To ensure accurate diagnostics, completing a drive cycle, sometimes called an OBD2 readiness cycle, is crucial after clearing codes or disconnecting the battery. This process allows the system to re-evaluate the emission components. While specific drive cycles vary by vehicle, a generic OBD2 drive cycle for a 08 WRX often works.
This guide outlines a common procedure for running an OBDII readiness cycle on a 08 WRX. Remember, always prioritize safe driving and adhere to traffic laws. This information is for general guidance only and may not be applicable to all situations. Consulting your owner’s manual for specific 08 WRX OBD2 readiness cycle instructions is highly recommended.
Understanding the 08 WRX OBD2 Readiness Cycle
The goal is to run your WRX through specific driving conditions, enabling the onboard computer to monitor various emission components, including:
- Oxygen Sensors: Measure the oxygen content in the exhaust.
- Catalytic Converter: Converts harmful pollutants into less harmful substances.
- EGR System: Recirculates exhaust gases to reduce emissions.
- EVAP System: Prevents fuel vapor leaks.
Generic 08 WRX OBD2 Readiness Drive Cycle Procedure
Before starting, ensure a “cold start,” meaning the engine has been off long enough for the coolant temperature to drop below 122°F and the coolant and air temperature sensors are within 11°F of each other. Avoid turning the ignition on before the cold start to allow the heated oxygen sensor diagnostics to run properly.
-
Idle: Start the engine and let it idle in Drive for 2.5 minutes with the A/C and rear defroster ON (if equipped).
-
Moderate Acceleration: Turn off the A/C and rear defroster. Accelerate smoothly to 55 mph, maintaining moderate, consistent acceleration.
-
Steady Speed Cruise: Hold a constant 55 mph for 3 minutes.
-
Deceleration: Coast down to 20 mph without using the brakes (or clutch if manual transmission).
-
Acceleration and Cruise: Accelerate back to 55-60 mph. Maintain this speed for 5 minutes.
-
Final Deceleration: Coast down to a complete stop without braking.
Confirming Completion
After completing the drive cycle, you can use an OBD2 scanner to check the readiness monitors. Each monitor will indicate “Complete” or “Incomplete” status. All monitors must show “Complete” for a successful OBD2 readiness cycle on your 08 WRX. If any monitors remain “Incomplete,” further driving or specific driving maneuvers may be required.
Important Considerations
-
Safety First: Always prioritize safe driving practices and obey all traffic laws.
-
Variations: This generic cycle may not work for all 08 WRXs. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
-
OBD2 Scanner: An OBD2 scanner is essential for verifying completion of the OBD2 readiness cycle.
Conclusion
Successfully completing an 08 WRX OBD2 readiness cycle is vital for ensuring accurate emission system diagnostics. By following the outlined procedure and adhering to safety guidelines, you can prepare your vehicle for emissions testing or troubleshooting check engine light issues. Remember, consulting your owner’s manual for specific instructions is always recommended.
