Davis Bellew If you’re a proud Subaru Impreza owner, you know that regular maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. One important aspect of maintenance that often gets overlooked is the spark plugs. These small but vital components are responsible for igniting the fuel in your car’s engine, and worn-out or dirty spark plugs can result in reduced performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and even costly engine damage.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about spark plugs for your Subaru Impreza, including what they do, how to tell when they need to be replaced, the best spark plugs for your car, and more.
What Are Spark Plugs and Their Purpose?
Spark plugs are small, threaded metal components that screw into your car’s engine and provide the spark that ignites the fuel, creating combustion and powering your car. In simpler terms, they’re the component that makes your engine go.
Spark plugs have two main parts: the metal shell and the ceramic insulator. The metal shell screws into the engine and conducts electricity, while the ceramic insulator helps keep the electricity flowing in the right direction and contains the spark inside the engine.
Signs of Defective Spark Plugs
While spark plugs are small and easy to overlook, they play a major role in your car’s performance and should be replaced regularly. Signs of defective spark plugs include:
- Engine misfires or hesitations
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Difficulty starting your car
- Rough idling or accelerating
- Engine knocking or pinging
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your spark plugs checked and potentially replaced to avoid more serious and costly engine damage.
How Often Should Spark Plugs Be Replaced?
So how often should you replace your Subaru Impreza’s spark plugs? The answer depends on a few factors, including the age of your car, your driving habits, and the type of spark plugs you’re using.
As a general rule, most mechanics recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles or so. However, some newer cars and higher-performance models may require more frequent replacements, sometimes as often as every 20,000 miles.
It’s always best to consult your Subaru Impreza owner’s manual for specific guidance on when to replace your spark plugs. If you’re unsure, a qualified mechanic can also provide expert advice and check the condition of your spark plugs.
The Process of Changing Spark Plugs
If you’re a handy person and want to save money on labor costs, replacing your Subaru Impreza’s spark plugs is a relatively easy and straightforward process. Here’s a general guide to the steps involved:
- Ensure that your car is parked in a safe and level location and that the engine is cool.
- Locate the spark plugs on your engine (refer to your owner’s manual if necessary) and remove the wire connectors from each plug.
- Use a spark plug socket wrench to unscrew each plug from the engine and carefully remove them from the engine.
- Check the condition of each spark plug and compare it to the ideal appearance (again, consult your owner’s manual for specifics). If they’re worn out or otherwise defective, replace them with new spark plugs.
- Carefully screw the new spark plugs into the engine, making sure not to overtighten them.
- Reconnect the wire connectors to each plug.
- Double-check that all components are secure and start your car to test the results.
Remember to take your time and be careful when working around the delicate components of your engine. If you’re uncomfortable with the process or unsure of your abilities, it’s always best to leave this type of task to a professional mechanic.
Best Spark Plugs for Subaru Impreza
Lastly, let’s talk about the best spark plugs for your Subaru Impreza. While there are many brands and types of spark plugs on the market, some are better suited to your car’s engine than others.
For Subaru Impreza owners, some popular and highly-rated spark plug options include:
- NGK Iridium IX
- Denso Iridium TT
- Bosch Platinum+4
- ACDelco Professional Iridium
These spark plugs offer durable construction, long lifespans, and improved performance and fuel efficiency for your Subaru Impreza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do spark plugs generally last on a Subaru Impreza?
A: Most mechanics recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles or so on a Subaru Impreza. However, this can vary based on the age of your car and your driving habits.
Q: Can I replace my Subaru Impreza’s spark plugs myself?
A: Yes, replacing your car’s spark plugs is a relatively simple and straightforward process that can be done at home with the right tools and some mechanical know-how. However, if you’re unsure of your abilities or uncomfortable working around delicate engine components, it’s best to leave this task to a professional mechanic.
Q: What are the signs that my Subaru Impreza’s spark plugs need to be replaced?
A: Signs of defective spark plugs include engine misfires or hesitations, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty starting your car, rough idling or accelerating, and engine knocking or pinging.
Conclusion
Spark plugs may be small, but they play a crucial role in your Subaru Impreza’s engine performance and fuel efficiency. With the information and tips provided in this article, you can stay on top of your spark plug maintenance and help ensure your car keeps running smoothly for years to come. Remember to consult your owner’s manual, use the best spark plugs for your car, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process.
