Symptoms of Bad Spark Plugs in Subaru
When spark plugs in a Subaru start to go bad, they can cause various symptoms that indicate a problem with the ignition system. Here are some common symptoms of bad spark plugs in Subaru vehicles:
1. Flashing Check Engine Light: A flashing check engine light is often an indication of a misfiring engine, which can be caused by bad spark plugs.
2. Misfiring Engine: Bad spark plugs can cause the engine to misfire, leading to a rough running engine or a noticeable hesitation during acceleration.
3. Rough Idle: If you experience a rough idle, where the engine feels shaky or unstable when the vehicle is stationary, it could be a sign of bad spark plugs.
4. Trouble Accelerating: Bad spark plugs can also result in difficulty accelerating smoothly. You may notice a lack of power or sluggishness when trying to pick up speed.
5. Hard-Starting Engine: If your Subaru has trouble starting, especially when the engine is cold, it could be due to worn-out spark plugs.
6. Decreased Fuel Economy: Bad spark plugs can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, causing your Subaru to consume more fuel than usual.
7. Exhaust Smells Like Fuel: If you notice a strong smell of fuel coming from the exhaust, it could be a sign of bad spark plugs.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other issues with the ignition system or engine components. If you suspect that your Subaru has bad spark plugs, it is recommended to have them inspected and replaced if necessary by a professional mechanic.
Remember, regular maintenance and following the recommended maintenance schedule for spark plug replacement can help prevent these issues and keep your Subaru running smoothly.
Contents
- How much does it cost to do spark plugs on a Subaru?
- How do you check spark plugs on a Subaru?
- Will bad spark plugs throw a code?
- What does a bad spark plug sound like?
- Why are Subaru spark plugs so expensive?
- How do I know when my spark plugs need replacing?
- Can you drive with bad spark plugs?
- How often should spark plugs be changed in a Subaru?
- How do you know if your spark plugs are going bad?
- Can I drive with a bad spark plug?
How much does it cost to do spark plugs on a Subaru?
The average cost to have your spark plugs replaced starts at around $100 up to $300+, depending on the type of spark plugs needed.
How do you check spark plugs on a Subaru?
Checking Your Spark Plugs In 7 Steps
- Open the hood.
- Remove the engine cover (if there’s one).
- Remove the air filter housing.
- Disconnect the ignition coil from one of the spark plugs.
- Unscrew the spark plug and then pull it out of the cylinder.
- Inspect the spark plug.
Will bad spark plugs throw a code?
Often, there’s an odor of unburnt gasoline that will be noticeable whenever a spark plug goes bad. On a new enough vehicle, you’ll likely also see a check engine light. That light will most likely be throwing a code for an engine misfire on one cylinder.
What does a bad spark plug sound like?
If your vehicle’s engine is making any unusual sounds or vibrations while idling your vehicle’s spark plugs may not be functioning properly to keep the engine running smooth.
Why are Subaru spark plugs so expensive?
Because of the cost of iridium, the electrode is thinner, but they still deliver better power, better combustion and longer life than other plugs.
How do I know when my spark plugs need replacing?
5 Signs You Need New Spark Plugs
- Engine Misfires. A misfiring engine is a big sign that one or more of your spark plugs are not firing properly.
- Poor Gas Mileage. When spark plugs are working correctly, they burn fuel efficiently in your engine.
- Trouble Starting.
- Slow Acceleration.
- Rough Idling.
Can you drive with bad spark plugs?
Ideally, you should replace them immediately. However, you can get by for a short while, as long as they aren’t misfiring. Poor spark keeps fuel from being burned inside the combustion chamber. This reduces power and fuel economy, and it makes it harder for the engine to idle.
How often should spark plugs be changed in a Subaru?
every 60,000 miles
How Often Should You Have the Spark Plugs in Your Subaru Changed? Modern SUBARU BOXER® engines require improved spark plugs made with material like platinum. This means you’ll only have to worry about changing them every 60,000 miles or so.
How do you know if your spark plugs are going bad?
The most common signs of bad spark plugs include start-up trouble, rough idling, sluggish acceleration, declining fuel economy, engine misfiring, and engine knocking.
Can I drive with a bad spark plug?
Ideally, you should replace them immediately. However, you can get by for a short while, as long as they aren’t misfiring. Poor spark keeps fuel from being burned inside the combustion chamber. This reduces power and fuel economy, and it makes it harder for the engine to idle.