Hi everyone - perhaps someone out there can help me?

2 weeks ago I purchased a MY94 WRX (japanese import) Impreza. I'm very happy with it, but...
Today, whilst driving through some pouring rain, I noticed that the dashboard light 'check engine' had come on! I pulled over into a nearby mechanic, and we inspected it - it seemed ok. (oil level, anyway) However, restarting the engine, the car idled at about 1300 rpm, and sounded like it was both surging or missing. The 'check engine' light came on again after a few moments.
Has anyone else had this problem? I thought to check the spark plugs / distributor, but to my horror could find neither! (I'm mechanically proficient on a mark II cortina, but not under the bonnet of a WRX!)

Any ideas, anyone?
Thanks very much,
dave

 

i have the same problem with my 93 wrx, the check engine light comes on at various times, and under different driving conditions, ie full boost - no boost, 80 mph - 30 mph. there are no HT leads only coil packs, i have replaced all of these and the spark plugs to no effect, but i have been advised its a good place to start
today the car goes into power engineering to be examined i will keep you informed

 

Hi again.
I've now done an ECU diagnostic (thanks to some useful information found elsewhere on scoobynet!) and the error is number 24, which is "Idle air control solenoid".
I know where this is, but does anyone know the safest/easiest way to clean it or to verify its operation?
Thanks,
dave