This is a problem I've had twice now. First the speedo died, the the check engine light came on. On the first occasion I pulled over, lifted the bonnet and looked (while the engine was ticking over). As I pulled away the speedo started to work again.
Last night, same symptoms so I pulled over and switched off. Restarted and it was still not working, so I pulled over, and lifted the bonnet while the engine ticked over. As I pulled away - it was still not working. Then a mile later it burst into life.
Anyone have any idea what's going on please?
The car is an STi IV, and was recently given its 15,000 service.

 

Top for a minute or two. Any ideas please?

 

Sounds like the speedometer sensor connection has come loose. It plugs into the side of the tranny on the left side (you'll have to get under the car to see it). It causes a "check engine" because the ECU uses vehicle speed in its calculations.

 

Opie,

Thanks for the info - I'll look tonight. I've looked at your site, you're clearly going to end up with a much-modified beasty! Which part of Florida are you from? I know the usual tourist traps!
What do your fellow Americans make of the pocket rocket?

All the best,

 

I had the same happen last year. The cable had a kink in it (poorly fitted) causing the check engine light and loss of power and then it eventually broke (not sure if was speedo gear reducer box or cable). After the replacement was fitted it was ok.

Gethin.
MY97 WRX

 

XRS - I live in Riverview, Florida - it's on the west coast, south of Tampa.

Thanks for the compliments on the site and the car! I've got several things done to the car already to improve the handling; adjustable struts, performance springs, front & rear upper strut tower bars & a larger rear sway bar. It is very fun to drive !

Hopefully the speedo problem will be an easy fix as it sounds like the harness may have just come loose during the last service.

BTW most other Americans don't even know what my car is! I get lots of compliments and when I tell them its a Subaru it blows them away!

Will
(a.k.a. Opie)

[This message has been edited by Opie (edited 10-05-2000).]