How to check ignition coils on a Subaru?
Checking the ignition coils on your Subaru is an important maintenance task that can help identify and resolve issues with your vehicle's ignition system. Ignition coils are responsible for providing the high-voltage spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in your engine's cylinders, and if they are not functioning properly, it can lead to misfiring, poor performance, and even engine damage. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to check your Subaru's ignition coils.
What Are Ignition Coils?
Ignition coils are an essential component of your Subaru's ignition system. They are responsible for transforming the low-voltage current from the battery into the high-voltage spark that is needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. Each cylinder in your Subaru's engine has its own ignition coil, and if one or more of these coils fail, it can cause misfiring, reduced engine performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.
Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil
There are several signs that may indicate a problem with your Subaru's ignition coils, including:
- Rough idling or engine misfiring
- Reduced engine power or acceleration
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Check engine light illuminated on the dashboard
- Difficulty starting the engine
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have your Subaru's ignition system checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your engine.p>
How to Check Ignition Coils
Checking your Subaru's ignition coils is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with a few basic tools. Here are the steps to follow:
- Locate the ignition coils: The ignition coils on a Subaru are typically located on top of the engine, near the spark plugs.
- Visually inspect the coils: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or discoloration, which may indicate a problem with the coil.
- Use a multimeter: Set your multimeter to the "ohms" setting and test each ignition coil by measuring the resistance between the primary and secondary windings. The resistance should be within the manufacturer's specified range, which can be found in your Subaru's service manual.
- Perform a spark test: Remove one of the ignition coils and use a spark tester to check for a strong, consistent spark. If the spark is weak or intermittent, the coil may need to be replaced.
If you find that one or more of your Subaru's ignition coils are not functioning properly, it's important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your engine.
Conclusion
Checking your Subaru's ignition coils is an important maintenance task that can help identify and resolve issues with your vehicle's ignition system. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and easily diagnose any problems with your Subaru's ignition coils and take the necessary steps to address them. Remember, if you're not comfortable performing this task yourself, it's always best to have a qualified mechanic handle it for you.
