🟠

C0242 on SUBARU OUTBACK

Q: "What does C0242 mean on a Subaru Outback?"

"It points to traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power. FixIt found 1 NHTSA reports for this exact code/vehicle pair, so confirm with an enhanced scan and the OEM service procedure."

Q: "What are common symptoms of C0242 on Subaru Outback?"

"Reduced Engine Power message; Service ESC or Service Traction warnings; Loss of acceleration, stalling, or limp mode."

Q: "What should I do first for C0242?"

"Scan both powertrain and ABS/ESC modules and record companion codes. Then inspect wiring/connectors, verify voltage/ground, and check VIN-specific recalls or campaigns where applicable."

Traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power

NHTSA Reports

Severity

High

Most Affected

2012

Crashes / Fires

0 / 0

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012

Last reviewed: Jun 3, 2026 Last updated: Jun 3, 2026

Methodology: We combine code standards with complaint and reliability patterns, then review for clear, vehicle-first diagnosis steps.

Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).

Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.

What C0242 Means on Your SUBARU OUTBACK

C0242 on Subaru Outback points to traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power. FixIt matched 1 NHTSA owner reports for this exact code/vehicle pair, so use this page to prioritize the most likely symptoms, components, and next checks before replacing parts.

1 Subaru Outback owners have reported this code/reference in NHTSA complaints across 2012-2012. Chevrolet reports often describe reduced engine power, ESC/traction warnings, and throttle/engine-control behavior.

Real SUBARU OUTBACK Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"MY CAR OFTEN GETS STUCK WITH THE PARKING BRAKE ON AND I CANNOT MOVE THE CAR FORWARD OR BACKWARD. MOST TIMES I HAVE A CARLOAD OF GROCERIES AND NEED TO GET THEM TO THE FREEZER OR REFRIGERATOR. COMPUTER ENGINE ANALYSIS...... ABS C0054 BRAKE SWITCH ON MALFUNCTION C0057 ECM CONTROL...... EPB C0252 MOTOR MALFUNCTION DETAIL C"

— 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK owner · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES · Filed 12/10/2019

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

'12

Common Causes on SUBARU OUTBACK

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES 100%

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C0242 mean on a Subaru Outback? ▾

It points to traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power. FixIt found 1 NHTSA reports for this exact code/vehicle pair, so confirm with an enhanced scan and the OEM service procedure.

What are common symptoms of C0242 on Subaru Outback? ▾

Reduced Engine Power message; Service ESC or Service Traction warnings; Loss of acceleration, stalling, or limp mode.

What should I do first for C0242? ▾

Scan both powertrain and ABS/ESC modules and record companion codes. Then inspect wiring/connectors, verify voltage/ground, and check VIN-specific recalls or campaigns where applicable.

C0242 on Other Vehicles

→ All codes reported on SUBARU OUTBACK