Readiness Code Set Procedure; On-Board Diagnostic System I/M Check During State Emission Test – 2005-2015 Subaru

NHTSA ID Number: 10083914

Manufacturer Communication Number: 11-120-12R

Summary

THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO SUBARUeBay logo STATE I/M PROGRAM ADVISORY BULLETIN # 11-98-10R. ABOUT 30 STATES HAVE IMPLEMENTED REGULATIONS FOR INSPECTING THE VEHICLEย’S ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC (OBD) SYSTEM AS PART OF THEIR STATE EMISSIONS INSPECTION PROGRAM. EPA GUIDANCE RECOMMENDS NO MORE THAN ONE UNSET READINESS CODE MONITOR FOR 2001 AND NEWER MODEL VEHICLES. A STATE EMISSION INSPECTION MAY NOT PASS A VEHICLE IF THE NUMBER OF OBD SYSTEM READINESS MONITORS ย“NOT READYย” OR ย“INCOMPLETEย” IS GREATER THAN STATED ABOVE. UNDER THIS CONDITION, THE VEHICLE OPERATOR SHOULD BE INSTRUCTED TO DRIVE HIS/HER VEHICLE FOR A FEW DAYS TO SET THE MONITORS BEFORE RETURNING FOR AN EMISSION TEST RE-INSPECTION. 2005MY AND NEWER VEHICLES

 


NUMBER: 11-120-12R
DATE: 09/20/12
REVISED: 02/02/16

STATE I/M PROGRAM ADVISORY BULLETIN

APPLICABILITY:2005MY and Newer Vehicles
SUBJECT:Readiness Code Set Procedure;
On-Board Diagnostic System I/M Check During State Emission Test

 

This bulletin provides additional information to SubarueBay logo State I/M Program Advisory Bulletin # 11-98-10R.

About 30 states have implemented regulations for inspecting the vehicleโ€™s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system as part of their state emissions inspection program. EPA guidance recommends no more than one unset readiness code monitor for 2001 and newer model vehicles. A state emission inspection may not pass a vehicle if the number of OBD system readiness monitors โ€œNot Readyโ€ or โ€œIncompleteโ€ is greater than stated above. Under this condition, the vehicle operator should be instructed to drive his/her vehicle for a few days to set the monitors before returning for an emission test re-inspection.

 

Below is the recommended readiness code set procedure for 2005MY and newer SubarueBay logo vehicles (excluding the vehicles listed on page 2):

1. Ensure the fuel level in the fuel tank is between ยผ and ยพ level. The recommended fuel level for this procedure is ยฝ fuel tank level.

2. Start the engine from cold condition and idle for more than 20 seconds (2011MY Impreza Turbo (STIeBay logo & WRXeBay logo) and Forester Turbo only) and drive the vehicle for more than 15 minutes at a speed greater than 50 mph in order to ensure proper warm-up of the engine. Avoid sudden acceleration, hard braking, and sudden lane change during the warm up.

3. The vehicle should be driven at a steady-state speed of 55 mph with minimal throttle angle change for more than 3 minutes.

4. Verify the condition of readiness codes using a generic scan tool (GST).

Owners of rejected or failing vehicles may be instructed by the State I/M Program to contact their SubarueBay logo Dealer (and/or independent service provider) for service.

The generic scan tool (GST) used for OBD I/M Check inspection varies by State I/M Program. The proper scan tool communication protocols for all 2011MY model year and newer SubarueBay logo vehicle is โ€œISO 15765-4โ€.

 

Below is the recommended readiness code set procedure for the listed vehicles:

MODEL YEARSUBARUeBay logo MODEL
2013-2015BRZ
2011-2015Forester 2.5X
2013-2015Forester XT Turbo
2012-2015Impreza 2.0L
2012-2015WRXeBay logo
2012-2015STIeBay logo
2013-2015XV Crosstrek 2.0L
2013-2015Legacy / Outback  2.5i
2013-2015Legacy / Outback  3.6
2013-2014Tribeca

 

IMPORTANT:  For vehicles newer than those listed in the table above, please follow the readiness code set procedure supplied in the applicable vehicle / model year Service Manual.

Ensure the fuel level in the fuel tank is between the ยผ and ยพ level. The recommended fuel level for this procedure is ยฝ of the fuel tank level.

Note: The above listed SubarueBay logo model year vehicles will set the evaporative readiness to โ€œcompleteโ€ in a three step process:

1. Drive the vehicle (following Drive Cycle I, below) for more than 30 minutes.

2. P ark the car for 10ยฝ hours in an area or facility with an ambient temperature from 40ยฐ โ€” 113ยฐF.

3. The vehicle should be driven at a steady-state of speed of 55mph, with minimal throttle angle change for more than 5 minutes.

The Automatic or Forced test for the Evaporative Leak Control module (ELCM) must be completed with no DTCs before the Evaporative Readiness monitor driving pattern can be attempted. Please consult the applicable SubarueBay logo Service Manual for ELCM service diagnostics, which is available online at https://techinfo.subaru.com.

 

DRIVE CYCLE I

DTCITEMCONDITION
*P0455Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected (Large Leak)Engine coolant temperature: 5 โ€” 45ยฐC (41 โ€” 113ยฐF) Intake air temperature:

5 โ€” 50ยฐC (41 โ€” 122ยฐF)

*P0456Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Very Small Leak)
*P1451Evaporative Emission Cont. Sys.
*P2402Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Pump Control Circuit High
*P2404Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Pump Sense Circuit Range/ Performance
*P2420Evaporative Emission System Switching Valve Control Circuit High

 

CAUTION: Be careful of the state of the battery when performing the DRIVE CYCLE I consecutively. Performing the DRIVE CYCLE I consecutively without the engine running may cause a low battery voltage and battery discharge.

 

NOTE:

If it is necessary to perform DRIVE CYCLE I consecutively, drive the vehicle under the following conditions to release accumulated evaporating gas. Performing the DRIVE CYCLE I consecutively without starting the engine causes a large amount of evaporating gas to accumulate in the canister, which hinders an accurate diagnosis:

  • After engine is warmed up
  • Drive for 10 minutes or more at a speed of 48 km/h (30 MPH) or more (duration of drive can be an accumulation)

To obtain an accurate diagnostic result, perform the procedures according to the following points:

  • Do not refuel gas immediately before performing DRIVE CYCLE I. There will be a large amount of evaporating gas immediately after refuel, which may cause a less accurate diagnostic performance.
  • Do not shake the vehicle while performing DRIVE CYCLE I. Shaking the vehicle causes evaporating gas to increase inside the fuel tank, which may cause a less accurate diagnostic performance.
  • Do not perform any service operation including installation or removal of parts or connectors while performing DRIVE CYCLE I. Performing service operation could affect on the functions of related parts, which may cause a less accurate diagnostic performance.

1. Prepare the Subaru Select Monitor kit. <Ref. to EN(H4DO)(diag)-8, PREPARATION TOOL, General Description.>

Subaru Select Monitor

 

2. Prepare PC with Subaru Select Monitor installed.

3. Connect the USB cable to SDI (SubarueBay logo Diagnosis Interface) and USB port on the personal computer (dedicated port for the Subaru Select Monitor).

NOTE: The dedicated port for the Subaru Select Monitor means the USB port which was used to install the Subaru Select Monitor.

4. Connect the diagnosis cable to SDI.

5. Connect SDI to data link connector located in the lower portion of the instrument panel (on the driverโ€™s side).

CAUTION: Do not connect the scan tools except for Subaru Select Monitor and general scan tool.

data link connector

6. Start the PC.

7. Turn the ignition switch to ON (engine OFF) and run the โ€œPC application for Subaru Select Monitorโ€.

8. On ยซMain Menuยป display, select {Each System Check}.

9. On ยซSystem Selection Menuยป display, select {Engine Control System}.

10. Click the [OK] button after the information of engine type has been displayed.

11. On ยซEngine Diagnosisยป display, select {OBD System}.

12. On ยซOBD Menuยป display, select {Evaporative System Leak Test}.

13. On ยซEvaporative System Leak Testยป display, select {Evaporative System Leak Test}.

14. On ยซEvaporative System Leak Test is running. Press Cancel to exit this function.ยป display, click the [OK] button to perform evaporative system leak test.

15. When ยซConditions have been enabled to control this function. Turn the ignition switch off to terminate the test.ยป display appears, wait for 30 minutes without clicking the [OK] button.

CAUTION: Do not leave the vehicle for an extended period of time after the test is complete. This may cause early deterioration of the battery or discharged battery.

NOTE:

  • Clicking the [OK] button brings the ยซEvaporative System Leak Testยป display back, although the test is continuing.
  • The Subaru Select Monitor screen does not change after the evaporative system leak test is complete or when the test is aborted by turning off the ignition switch.
  • If ยซTest conditions are not correctยป display appears, check that the engine coolant temperature and intake air temperature are within the specified range using Subaru Select Monitor. If the conditions are satisfied, make the necessary preparation for the drive cycle again. <Ref. toย EN(H4DO)(diag)-47, PREPARATION FOR DRIVE CYCLE, PROCEDURE, Drive Cycle.>

16. After 30 minutes passed from the start of step 14), click the [OK] button to return to the ยซEvaporative System Leak Testยป display.

17. Click buttons until the ยซOBD Menuยป display appears, then select {Result of on-board    monitor test}.

18. In the {Result of on-board monitor test}, check TID $C1 โ€” $CA of MID $3C.

 

RESULT OF ON-BOARD MONITOR TEST

DISPLAYDETAILSREMARKS
$0000 is stored in all Val.During the evaporative system leak test, the test conditions were not met and the test was cancelled.Once the test conditions are met, perform the test again.
All Val. are stored with values and OK is set to all the results.Evaporative system leak test is completed correctly.While the ignition switch is ON, read temporary codes using the Subaru Select Monitor.
Some results were no good.The evaporative system leak test completed successfully but the results were faulty.While the ignition switch is ON, read temporary codes using the Subaru Select Monitor.

 

19. When the evaporative system leak test is completed correctly, read the temporary codes with the ignition switch turned to ON position. If the DTC is recorded, check the appropriate DTC. <Ref. to EN(H4DO)(diag)-41, OPERATION, Read Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).>

NOTE: The temporary code will be cleared by turning ignition switch to OFF.

 


1 Affected Product

Vehicle

MAKEMODELYEAR
SUBARUeBay logoSUBARUeBay logo9999

 


1 Associated Document

Service Bulletin Document

NUMBER: 11-120-12R
DATE: 09/20/12
REVISED: 02/02/16

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10083914

SB-10083914-0699.pdf 327.719KB

 


 

SaleBestseller No. 1
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
4,963 Reviews
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
  • [Easy to Useโ€”Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest softwareโ€”no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
  • [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note๏ผšThe device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
  • [5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When itโ€™s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
  • [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You donโ€™t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
  • [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you donโ€™t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
SaleBestseller No. 2
OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner with ABS SRS Transmission, Reset Fault Lights | Check Engine Code Reader with Full OBDII Functions | DLC Pin Test | Battery Voltage Check, Car Diagnostic Tool
170 Reviews
OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner with ABS SRS Transmission, Reset Fault Lights | Check Engine Code Reader with Full OBDII Functions | DLC Pin Test | Battery Voltage Check, Car Diagnostic Tool
  • ใ€Reset ABS/SRS/Transmission/Engine Lightsใ€‘ More than an check engine code reader, OBDMATE OM901 obd2 scanner performs comprehensive diagnostics for the 4 most-used systems (ABS/SRS/Engine/Transmission). It quickly clears fault codes, turns off warning lights, read data stream and auto VIN.
  • ใ€3.5" Handheld Scanner with 4 System Diagnoseใ€‘ 3.5" Super large TFT screen equipped displays an intuitive menu and clear readings of various sensors from ABS, SRS, ECM and TCMeBay logo systems. It arrived with a silicone protective case and hard-shell carrying case, ensuring long-lived durability and drop resistance. The car diagnostic tool is plug-to-play designed, plug it and get diagnosis started without any batteries or updates required.
  • ใ€One-Click I/M Readines&Full OBD2 Functionsใ€‘ Press F1 to get an intuitive corloured form about whether various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly. Help you get smog-check ready quickly. OM901 car scanner supports all essential OBD2 functions you need: read & clear codes, view freeze frame, read I/M readiness, retrieve VIN, live data stream (with graphing display), O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and EVAP leak test.
  • ใ€Battery Voltage Check&DLC Pin Testใ€‘ It allows you to monitor battery health by monitoring current battery voltage. Plus, this obd2 diagnostic tool features DLC 16-PIN test to check current voltage of every pin.
  • ใ€Automotive Scanner Diagnostic Kitใ€‘ The package comes with 1 car scanner, 1 USB-type c cable, 1 hard storage bag and 1 user manual(en). Free to update without any hidden fees. 5 languanges available in setting including English, French, Italian, German and Espanish. Valuable and Portable, making it a great tool kit for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics.
SaleBestseller No. 3
BlueDriver Pro Next Gen OBD2 Scanner โ€“ No Subscription, Bluetooth Car Code Reader for iPhone & Android โ€“ Diagnose 8000+ Issues, ABS SRS TPMS, Repair Reports, Vehicles 1996+
  • [Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro Next-Gen is a professional OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool that helps you scan, understand, and clear vehicle trouble codes with confidence. Turn your phone into a powerful car diagnostic scannerโ€”no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.
  • [Read and Clear More Codes Than Ever] Read and clear more codes than basic car code readers. Access enhanced diagnostics for Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag, TPMS, Transmission, and more on supported vehicles, including expanded coverage on newer model years.
  • [Verified Fixes and Real-Time Data] Get unlimited, technician-verified repair reports matched to your VIN, with definitions, causes, and confirmed fixes. Monitor live vehicle data as you drive, view freeze frames, check smog readiness, and analyze Mode 6 test results.
  • [Expanded Make & Model Coverage] Optimized for todayโ€™s vehicles with strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, Chrysler), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, SubarueBay logo, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and VW. Enhanced communication on select 2024+ Nissan and Mazda models (see compatibility chart).
  • [Gas Vehicles 1996+ & Select Light-Duty Trucks] Works with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer, plus select light-duty trucks and diesels, including F-250, RAM 2500, Silverado, and Sierra. Built for daily drivers, family vehicles, and real-world truck use.
SaleBestseller No. 4
FOXWELL NT614 Elite OBD2 Scanner for DIY Mechanics, Upgrade of NT604, 4 System Diagnostic Tool with 5 Resets (ABS Bleeding, EPB, Oil, SAS, Throttle), Read/Clear Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission Fault Codes
  • PAID FOR ITSELF ON FIRST USE - SAVE ON EVERY DIAGNOSIS: Avoid expensive shop fees and take control of vehicle repairs at home. The NT614 Elite delivers professional-level diagnostics for Engine, ABS, SRS Airbag, and Transmission systems, helping you quickly identify the real cause of warning lights and avoid unnecessary repairs. With 5 essential service resets including Oil Reset, EPB, ABS Bleeding, SAS Calibration, and Throttle Relearn, you can complete everyday maintenance and repairs without paying dealership visit. Features WiFi updates, no registration required, and plug-and-play setup with no extra power cord
  • 5 ESSENTIAL RESETS FOR REAL DIY MAINTENANCE: More than just a diagnostic tool, the NT614 Elite gives you the service functions DIYers actually need to avoid expensive shop visits. Perform Oil Reset, EPB brake service, ABS bleeding, steering angle calibration, and throttle relearn to fix common maintenance issues at home with confidence. Reset warning lights, replace brake pads, restore throttle performance, and complete essential maintenance without paying dealership labor costs. Note: Function availability varies by vehicle make, model, year, engine type, and system configuration. Please confirm compatibility before purchase.
  • SAME 4-SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS AS NT604: Built on the trusted NT604, the NT614 Elite delivers full diagnostics for Engine, ABS, SRS Airbag, and Transmission systems-helping you identify the root cause behind warning lights instead of guessing. Read and clear codes, view live data graphs, monitor engine temperature, wheel speed sensors, transmission temperature, and more for accurate troubleshooting at home
  • LIVE DATA GRAPHING - FIND PROBLEMS BEFORE THEY GET EXPENSIVE: See what basic scanners miss with real-time data displayed in easy-to-read graphs. Monitor fuel trims, oxygen sensors, engine load, RPM, battery voltage, and transmission temperature to detect intermittent or hidden problems before they become costly repairs. Diagnose faster and make smarter repair decisions with visual data insights
  • AUTO VIN + LIFETIME WI-FI UPDATES + WIDE COVERAGE: AutoVIN instantly identifies your vehicle for faster setup and fewer errors. Generate professional vehicle health reports for maintenance tracking, used car inspections, or sharing with mechanics. Stay updated with lifetime free Wi-Fi updates-no subscriptions or hidden fees. Supports 90+ brands and 10,000+ models including Ford, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Nissan, Volkswagen, Hyundai, SubarueBay logo, and more for long-term reliable use
SaleBestseller No. 5
BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool, 12 Reset Services, Oil/TPMS/EPB/BMS/SAS/DPF/Throttle Reset, ABS Bleeding, Battery Test, Auto VIN, Free Update
  • [All System Diagnostics, Professional-Level Scanner] - BLCKTEC 460T is the ultimate OBD2 diagnostic tool for home mechanics and professionals. It supports all 10 OBD2 modes, reads and clears Engine/Transmission/ABS/SRS codes, performs All-System Diagnostics, offers workshop reset tools, and provides real-time live data. It helps you pinpoint issues, assess your car's condition, and prepare for SMOG checks with ease. NOTE: Function availability depends on your vehicle. Before you buy, be sure to use the Compatibility Checker on BLCKTEC website or contact our customer support to verify that the features you need are supported for your vehicleโ€™s specific year, make, and model.
  • [12+ Most Popular Reset Functions] - BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 scanner offers 12+ dealer-level service functions, including Oil Maintenance Reset, ABS Bleeding, EPB Reset, SAS(Steering Angle Sensor) Recalibration, DPF(Diesel Particulate Filter) Reset, Throttle Body Relearn, Battery Reset/Initialization, TPMS Relearn, Transmission Reset, Fluid Change Reset, Maintenance Reset and more, enabling you to perform workshop services like a pro. NOTE: Function availability depends on your vehicle. Be sure to use the Compatibility Checker on BLCKTEC website to verify that the features you need are supported for your vehicle.
  • [Real-Time OBD2 and OEM Live Data, Freeze Frame Data] - BLCKTEC 460T helps diagnose vehicle issues when warning lights like Check Engine Light or ABS/SRS Light appear. It offers detailed DTC info, ECU Freeze Frame Data, and real-time OBD2 and advanced OEM live data, including Engine, Transmission, ABS, SRS, and more, making it easy to diagnose and resolve vehicle problems. You can view, graph, record, replay, and overlay up to four live data streams in a single graph for better analysis.
  • [AutoVIN, AutoReLink, AutoScan, 3X Faster] - Equipped with AutoVIN technology, 460T automatically retrieves the VIN to save you time. Its AutoScan and AutoReLink features scan all of the vehicle's ECUs and detect any fault codes immediately after you plug the scanner into the vehicle's OBD2 port - no button presses required. Additionally, it regathers DTC and I/M readiness information every 30 seconds, simplifying monitor tests. 460T's advanced technology makes it 3X faster than other products.
  • [Get RepairSolutions2, the #1 Auto Repair App for Free] - When paired with RepairSolutions2(RS2) App, 460T becomes even more powerful. RS2's Verified Fix Database built by master technicians, provides the parts needed for the repair. Additionally, RS2 gives you access to OEM warranty info, maintenance schedules, TSB, and dealership recall info, making car care easier than ever. RS2 is free with no subscription fees and it stores your car scan reports in the cloud, allowing you to access, share, or print them anytime and anywhere.

Last update on 2026-06-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

 


This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

2 thoughts on “Readiness Code Set Procedure; On-Board Diagnostic System I/M Check During State Emission Test – 2005-2015 Subaru”

Leave a Comment

Share to...