How a Subaru Ignition Coil Works
The ignition coil in a Subaru plays a crucial role in the engine’s operation. Here’s how it works:
– Function: The ignition coil converts 12-volt DC current to high voltage current, often producing 30,000 volts or more. This high voltage current is then delivered to the spark plugs, which use it to ignite the fuel in the cylinder.
– Importance: Ignition coils are essential for the proper functioning of the engine. Neglecting to replace a bad ignition coil can lead to long-term damage to the engine and exhaust system, as well as decreased fuel economy, stalling, rough idle, and a loss in power and acceleration.
– Replacement: When replacing a bad ignition coil, it’s important to use a genuine OEM replacement ignition coil. This is something that can be easily done at home with a socket, wrench, and flathead screwdriver.
– Diagnosing Problems: Diagnosing Subaru ignition coil problems involves a simple and straightforward process. It’s recommended to inspect the spark plugs and wires while testing the ignition coils, and a digital multimeter is needed to measure resistance.
– Number of Coils: The number of ignition coils varies depending on the car model and year of production. Older cars may have one coil covering all engine cylinders, while newer cars may have a coil-on-plug type arrangement, where each cylinder has its own dedicated ignition coil.
In summary, the ignition coil in a Subaru is responsible for converting low voltage to high voltage current, which is essential for igniting the fuel in the engine cylinders. It’s important to promptly replace a bad ignition coil to avoid long-term damage to the engine and exhaust system.
If you need to replace the ignition coil in your Subaru, it’s recommended to use a genuine OEM replacement ignition coil for optimal performance and longevity.
Contents
- How long do Subaru ignition coils last?
- What happens to car when ignition coil goes bad?
- How do I check if my ignition coil is bad?
- How does the ignition coil work?
- What is the easiest way to check an ignition coil?
- What does an ignition coil do Subaru?
- How do you test a Subaru ignition coil?
- What are symptoms of bad ignition coil?
- How do I know if my ignition coil is bad?
- How do I know if my Subaru coil pack is bad?
How long do Subaru ignition coils last?
60,000 to 100,000 miles
As a rule of thumb, you should replace your ignition coils anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000 miles after installation.
What happens to car when ignition coil goes bad?
If an ignition coil is not working properly, your engine will likely misfire. A misfiring engine results in a jerking or sputtering feel when you are moving at normal speeds. When you stop, a misfire from a bad ignition coil may cause your vehicle to run roughly, vibrate or shake.
How do I check if my ignition coil is bad?
Signs of a Bad Ignition Coil
- Illuminated Check Engine Light. With most modern vehicles, a faulty ignition coil is enough to turn on the Check Engine Light.
- Misfiring Engine. If an ignition coil is not working properly, your engine will likely misfire.
- Hard Starts.
- Worsening Gas Mileage.
- Diminished Power.
- Sudden Backfires.
How does the ignition coil work?
The ignition coil acts like a transformer. By means of two coils, one inside the other, the ignition coil transforms the electrical energy from the vehicle battery into high voltage, saves it briefly and then emits it as a high voltage current pulse to the spark plug.
What is the easiest way to check an ignition coil?
To test for voltage output, connect a spark tester to the high-tension output terminal of the ignition coil. Then, crank the engine and observe the spark tester. If the spark is strong and consistent, the ignition coil is functioning correctly. However, if there’s no spark or a weak spark, the ignition coil is faulty.
What does an ignition coil do Subaru?
An ignition coil transforms electric current from the battery into voltage, which fires up the spark plugs. If it is faulty, you will experience various performance issues with your Subaru.
How do you test a Subaru ignition coil?
The only tool you’ll need is a digital multimeter to measure resistance. Open your hood and unplug all four wire pin connectors on the coil pack. Plug the multimeter leads into the left two outlets on the face of the coil pack. The resistance reading should be about 0.73 ohms, plus or minus 10%.
What are symptoms of bad ignition coil?
8 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
- Your Car Guzzles Gas.
- Your Car Feels Slow.
- You Hear Spluttering, Coughing, and Banging Noises.
- Your Car Idles Roughly and Vibrates.
- Your Car Misfires and Backfires.
- Your Car Stalls.
- You Struggle to Start Your Car.
- The Check Engine Light Is On.
How do I know if my ignition coil is bad?
8 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
- Your Car Guzzles Gas.
- Your Car Feels Slow.
- You Hear Spluttering, Coughing, and Banging Noises.
- Your Car Idles Roughly and Vibrates.
- Your Car Misfires and Backfires.
- Your Car Stalls.
- You Struggle to Start Your Car.
- The Check Engine Light Is On.
How do I know if my Subaru coil pack is bad?
4 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
- Misfires. Think of the ignition coil as the conductor of an orchestra, ensuring each spark plug fires in harmony.
- Poor Fuel Economy.
- Warning Lights.
- Unusual Smells.
- Get Your Ignition Coil Repaired by Your Subaru Dealer.