What are the symptoms of a bad ignition coil on a Subaru?
If you own a Subaru, it's important to be aware of the potential symptoms of a bad ignition coil. The ignition coil is a critical component in your vehicle's ignition system, responsible for providing the high-voltage spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in your engine's cylinders. When an ignition coil fails, it can lead to a range of performance issues and even cause your engine to stall. In this article, we'll explore the common symptoms of a bad ignition coil on a Subaru, so you can identify the problem and take the necessary steps to address it.
Misfiring Engine
One of the most obvious signs of a bad ignition coil is a misfiring engine. When an ignition coil fails, it can't provide the necessary spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in one or more cylinders, leading to a rough, uneven engine performance. You may notice the engine stuttering, hesitating, or even stalling, especially during acceleration or under load.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
A malfunctioning ignition coil can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency in your Subaru. When the engine is not firing correctly, it's not burning the fuel as efficiently as it should, resulting in decreased fuel economy. You may notice a drop in your vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG) if you have a bad ignition coil.
Check Engine Light Illumination
Another common symptom of a bad ignition coil is the illumination of the check engine light on your Subaru's dashboard. The vehicle's onboard diagnostic system will detect the issue with the ignition coil and trigger the check engine light to alert you of the problem.
Difficulty Starting the Engine
If your Subaru is having trouble starting, it could be a sign of a bad ignition coil. When the coil is failing, it may not be able to provide the necessary spark to start the engine, leading to a no-start or hard-start condition. This can be especially noticeable in cold weather or when the engine is under load.
Rough Idling
A bad ignition coil can also cause your Subaru's engine to idle roughly. The uneven firing of the cylinders due to the coil failure can result in a rough, unsteady idle, which may be accompanied by vibrations or a shaking sensation in the vehicle.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms in your Subaru, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring a bad ignition coil can lead to further damage to your engine and other components, so it's best to address the issue promptly.
