How much does it cost to replace ignition coils on a Subaru?
Replacing ignition coils is a common maintenance task for Subaru owners, especially as vehicles age. Ignition coils play a crucial role in the ignition system, converting battery voltage into the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with replacing ignition coils on a Subaru, including factors that influence pricing and tips for ensuring a successful repair.
Average Cost of Ignition Coil Replacement
The cost to replace ignition coils on a Subaru typically ranges from $300 to $800. This price can vary based on several factors:
- Model and Year: Different Subaru models and their respective years may have varying costs due to differences in parts and labor requirements.
- Labor Costs: Labor rates can differ significantly depending on the location and the auto repair shop. Expect to pay between $75 to $150 per hour for labor.
- Parts Quality: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts tend to be more expensive than aftermarket options, but they often provide better reliability.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Several factors can influence the overall cost of replacing ignition coils:
- Number of Coils: Most Subaru models have one ignition coil per cylinder. Therefore, if your Subaru has a six-cylinder engine, you will need to replace six coils, which increases the total cost.
- Additional Repairs: Sometimes, replacing ignition coils may reveal other issues, such as faulty spark plugs or wiring problems, which can add to the overall expense.
- Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is still under warranty, some or all of the costs may be covered, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
Tips for Subaru Owners
To ensure a smooth ignition coil replacement process, consider the following tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Keep up with regular vehicle maintenance to prevent premature wear on ignition coils and other components.
- Choose a Reputable Mechanic: Select a trusted auto repair shop with experience in Subaru vehicles to ensure quality service.
- Ask for Estimates: Get multiple quotes from different repair shops to find the best price for your ignition coil replacement.
In conclusion, while the cost of replacing ignition coils on a Subaru can vary, understanding the factors involved can help you make informed decisions. Regular maintenance and choosing the right mechanic can save you money and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace ignition coils?
Most coil replacement can be done same day, but times do vary between makes and models, so plan on dropping off the car. Think about the last spark plug replacement or “tune-up” done to the car. Changing plugs at the same time as coils may save you some time and money.
Are ignition coils worth replacing?
Pros: Preventative Maintenance: If one coil has failed, others may be close to failing as well. Replacing them all can prevent future issues and save on labor costs. Improved Performance: New coils can improve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reduce misfires, leading to a smoother ride.
What is the life expectancy of an ignition coil?
80,000 to 100,000 miles
The ignition coils in your car's engine must consistently generate huge 15,000 to 20,000-volt charges of electricity so the spark plugs can keep igniting the engine's fuel. Despite how hard ignition coils work, they have a relatively long expected lifespan of 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Can you drive a car with bad coils?
Coil Pack Problems Usually, if a coil pack is bad, there will be a loss of fire or spark in one or more cylinders... Driving with a misfiring cylinder is not safe under any condition. It can cause severe damage to your car's engine and thus most of the people advise not to drive with this problem.
How do I know if my Subaru coil pack is bad?
If it is faulty, you will experience various performance issues with your Subaru.
- Your Vehicle Struggles to Start.
- Frequent Misfires and Backfires.
- Rough Idling and Vibrations.
- Huge Drop in Mileage.
- Poor Acceleration and Jerking.
- Unusual Engine Sounds.
What is the life expectancy of a coil pack on a Subaru?
In general, however, ignition coils can last anywhere between 120,000 to 150,000 miles or five to seven years. It's a good idea to check on them before then, so your mechanic can identify any issues before they negatively affect your vehicle.
Are ignition coils easy to replace yourself?
You can replace a failing ignition coil fairly easily at home, but remember that you're dealing with high voltages so must disconnect your battery before you start.
What are the symptoms of a bad ignition coil?
The signs below from your Lexus dealer will warn you when it's time for repairs to avoid engine damage and expensive repairs.
- The Check Engine Light Is On.
- Your Car Feels Slow.
- Your Car Is Heavy on Gas.
- Your Car's Engine Misfires.
- Your Car Backfires.
- You Struggle with Starting and Stalling Issues.
- You Hear Sputters and Coughs.
How much should it cost to replace ignition coils?
For standard vehicles with conventional ignition coils, replacing a single ignition coil can range from $100 to $300. However, for vehicles equipped with more advanced ignition systems like coil-on-plug (COP) or distributorless ignition system (DIS) coils, the cost may be higher, ranging from $200 to $600 per coil.
What kills an ignition coil?
Contact failures are generally caused by water intrusion in spark plug recesses and voltage supply problems by a weak or failing battery, or faulty wiring.
