How often should you replace spark plugs on a Subaru Crosstrek?
As a general rule, spark plugs in a Subaru Crosstrek should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and the manufacturer's recommendations. Proper spark plug maintenance is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions in your Crosstrek.
Understanding Spark Plug Replacement Intervals
Spark plugs are an essential component of your Subaru Crosstrek's ignition system, responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. Over time, the electrodes on the spark plugs can wear down, affecting the spark quality and leading to decreased engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions.
Subaru recommends replacing the spark plugs in a Crosstrek every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, this interval may need to be shortened if the vehicle is subjected to more demanding driving, such as frequent towing, extensive idling, or driving in severe weather conditions.
Signs It's Time to Replace Spark Plugs
There are several signs that may indicate it's time to replace the spark plugs in your Subaru Crosstrek:
- Rough idling or misfiring: If your Crosstrek is experiencing rough idling, hesitation, or misfiring, it could be a sign of worn spark plugs.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Faulty spark plugs can cause your Crosstrek to use more fuel than necessary, leading to a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- Difficulty starting the engine: Worn spark plugs can make it harder to start your Crosstrek, especially in cold weather.
- Increased emissions: Degraded spark plugs can result in incomplete combustion, leading to higher levels of harmful emissions from your Crosstrek.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to have your Crosstrek's spark plugs inspected and replaced if necessary.
Spark Plug Replacement Procedure
Replacing the spark plugs in a Subaru Crosstrek is a relatively straightforward task that can be performed by a skilled mechanic or a DIY-inclined owner. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Locate the spark plug access points, usually under the vehicle's hood.
- Disconnect the spark plug wires or coil packs.
- Use a spark plug socket and ratchet to remove the old spark plugs.
- Clean the spark plug wells and apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the new spark plugs.
- Install the new spark plugs, ensuring they are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque.
- Reconnect the spark plug wires or coil packs.
- Start the engine and check for any misfiring or other issues.
It's important to use the correct spark plug type and gap specified by Subaru for your Crosstrek model to ensure optimal performance and engine health.
Can spark plugs last 200,000 miles?
On most cars, spark plugs and other tuneup items aren't an issue until the 100,000-mile mark, Ibbotson says. Make sure to get the exact type recommended by the manufacturer. Incorrect plugs can wreck fuel economy and even cause engine damage. How often: Typically, 100,000 miles.
How much does it cost to change spark plugs on a Subaru Crosstrek?
| Car | Service | Shop/Dealer Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Subaru CrosstrekH4-2.0L Hybrid | Service typeSpark Plug Replacement | Shop/Dealer Price$590.80 - $753.19 |
| 2021 Subaru CrosstrekH4-2.0L | Service typeSpark Plug Replacement | Shop/Dealer Price$590.76 - $753.13 |
How do I know if my spark plugs need changing?
Here are seven signs that are telling you that you need spark plug replacement on your vehicle.
- Your Vehicle is Difficult to Start.
- Your Engine is Misfiring.
- You Have Poor Fuel Economy.
- Your Engine Idles Rough.
- Your Car Doesn't Accelerate Easily.
- Your Engine is Loud.
- Your “Check Engine” Light Comes On.
How do I know if my Subaru spark plugs are bad?
One of the first signs of spark plug wear is trouble starting your Subaru. If the engine cranks longer than usual before starting or if you experience intermittent starting issues, it's time to inspect your spark plugs.
How long should OEM spark plugs last?
Conventional Spark Plugs: Typically, conventional copper spark plugs should be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles or every two to three years. Platinum Spark Plugs: Platinum spark plugs have a longer lifespan and may last up to 60,000 miles or more before replacement is necessary.
What are the signs of a bad spark plug?
What are the signs your Spark Plugs are failing?
- Engine has a rough idle. If your Spark Plugs are failing your engine will sound rough and jittery when running at idle.
- Trouble starting. Car won't start and you're late for work… Flat battery?
- Engine misfiring.
- Engine surging.
- High fuel consumption.
- Lack of acceleration.
Is it easy to replace Subaru spark plugs?
Replacing spark plugs is something you can do at home within an hour as long as you have the following tools: Appropriately sized spark plug socket. 8-10mm sockets. Ratchet and extensions.
How long should Subaru spark plugs last?
around 30,000 miles
Keeping Your Subaru in Prime Condition
The plugs in your ignition might be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to performance. They usually need to be replaced around 30,000 miles, but if you frequently tackle tough conditions or take long trips, you might need to swap them out a bit sooner.
When to replace spark plugs on a Subaru Crosstrek?
But they need to have the correct gap and be in the correct heat range to deliver optimal performance. When that happens, a typical spark plug could last 30,000 miles or more. Spark plugs seldom go bad right away - unless you drop them or break the insulator while installing them.
