When to replace spark plugs on a Subaru Impreza?
Spark plugs are a critical component of your Subaru Impreza's engine, responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture and powering the vehicle. Over time, these plugs can become worn or fouled, leading to decreased engine performance and efficiency. As a general rule, it's recommended to replace the spark plugs on a Subaru Impreza every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as specified in your owner's manual.
Signs It's Time to Replace Spark Plugs
There are several signs that may indicate your Subaru Impreza's spark plugs need to be replaced:
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Worn spark plugs can cause your engine to run less efficiently, leading to a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- Rough idling or misfiring: Faulty spark plugs can cause your engine to misfire, resulting in a rough or uneven idle.
- Difficulty starting the engine: Worn spark plugs may struggle to ignite the air-fuel mixture, making it harder to start your Impreza.
- Reduced engine power: Degraded spark plugs can reduce your Impreza's overall power and acceleration.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to have your spark plugs inspected and replaced as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval
The recommended spark plug replacement interval for a Subaru Impreza is typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions and the specific recommendations in your owner's manual. However, it's important to note that this is a general guideline, and your Impreza's spark plugs may need to be replaced more or less frequently depending on various factors:
- Driving conditions: If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads, or operate your Impreza in extreme temperatures, your spark plugs may wear out faster.
- Engine type: Certain Subaru Impreza models may have different spark plug replacement intervals based on the engine configuration.
- Fuel quality: Using lower-quality fuel can contribute to faster spark plug fouling and wear.
Always refer to your Subaru Impreza's owner's manual for the specific spark plug replacement interval recommended for your vehicle.
Replacing Spark Plugs
Replacing the spark plugs on a Subaru Impreza is a relatively straightforward maintenance task that can be performed by most DIY mechanics. However, if you're not comfortable working on your vehicle, it's best to have a professional mechanic handle the job to ensure it's done correctly. Proper spark plug replacement involves the following steps:
- Locating and accessing the spark plugs, which are typically located on the top or side of the engine
- Disconnecting the spark plug wires and removing the old spark plugs
- Cleaning the spark plug wells and inspecting for any damage or debris
- Installing the new spark plugs, ensuring they are properly gapped and tightened to the correct torque specification
- Reconnecting the spark plug wires and testing the engine's performance
By staying on top of your Subaru Impreza's spark plug maintenance, you can help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Can spark plugs last 200,000 miles?
Older cars often had to have their spark plugs replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, while some newer cars — with computer controls and more modern plugs — can go more than 100,000 miles on a set of plugs. As is often the case, the best source of service information for your vehicle is the owner's manual.
How do I know when my spark plugs need replacing?
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 long are Subaru spark plugs good for?
A properly gapped spark plug that is in the correct heat range for your engine will work flawlessly for many thousands of miles. It only is over tens of thousands of miles of driving that most develop problems that often are caused by other issues.
How often should I replace spark plugs on my Subaru Impreza?
every 30,000 miles
Experts generally recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles for the best results.
What are the symptoms of old spark plugs?
Your driving habits also play a crucial role in spark plug wear. If your car shows any of the faulty spark plug symptoms mentioned earlier, such as difficulty starting, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, or misfires, it's a sign you need to replace your spark plugs.
Do spark plugs last for 10 years?
Even if you're not having problems, you'll still want to change spark plugs out at every 30,000-mile interval. For most drivers, that will mean that you're due for spark plug service once every 2-3 years!
Why replace spark plugs at 60,000 miles?
If it's a lifetime spark plug or one that can last up to 100,000 miles, it may be a good idea to replace them at 50,000 or 60,000 miles. Based on the metal the cylinder head and spark plugs consist of, they could seize inside the cylinder head and you won't be able to get them out.
How long do Subaru spark plugs last?
While the answer depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as a good example, the newest Subaru BOXER® engines are built with spark plugs made of ultra resilient materials, such as platinum. This allows them to be replaced about every 60,000 miles.
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.
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.
