Quote:
Originally Posted by Books
Remember that issues on a forum magnify issues.
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Bingo. The problem does exist but we're all blowing it out of proportion as it affects only a small (and very frustrated) group of owners. The problem seems huge to us, because every time we log onto the forums, we're inundated with "CEL this" and "CEL that" and "OMG my idle dipped once I shouldn't have bought this POS first gen".
Typically, people who experience problems tend to want tell everyone about it. This is an innate need to seek help, support, camaraderie, and warn and protect each other. Some just like to complain and cast blame. Those who experience no issues may tell a few to share their excitement, but the dissatisfied few will certainly make their plight known.
Someone did some math comparing the number of unique users on the forums who are experiencing the CEL compared to the number of 86's sold in the US, and it was something like less than 1%. Granted, this doesn't take into consideration the 86 owners who aren't registered forum users or who are but simply haven't made a post about it... But still, it's pretty telling.
Society these days is so focused on the consumer, "the customer is always right", instant gratification, smart phones help us get things done now now NOW, and with an unforgiving "get it done yesterday" mentality. Some feel the need to seek compensation for being inconvenienced. This puts us at odds against the dealers and manufacturers when they don't hand us an instant solution on a silver platter. Even then, it wouldn't be good enough for some people. Patience is a dying virtue.
We all want answers, and Toyota/Subaru ARE working on a fix. We may never know the exact details. Subaru is apparently releasing an ECU reflash for dealers to try as a first-effort fix. Many with parts/ECU replacements have verified the problems appear resolved, but time will tell.
Whatever the case may be, the conditions surrounding the CEL seem in no way capable of causing physical engine damage beyond speculation and paranoia.