Joseph Weaver As a car owner, it’s important to take care of regular vehicle maintenance to ensure your car keeps running smoothly. One common maintenance practice is changing spark plugs, a simple process that can improve your car’s performance and fuel efficiency.
In this article, we’ll explore how to change spark plugs on your 2013 Subaru Legacy. Even if you’re not mechanically inclined, with the right tools and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to confidently DIY and save some money in the process.
Why Change Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs play a crucial role in your engine’s ignition system. They ignite the air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, which is what powers your car. Over time, spark plugs can become worn, damaged, or corroded, which can lead to a variety of issues. These problems typically include engine misfires, rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and stalling. Replacing spark plugs can help reduce these issues and restore your car’s performance.
On a 2013 Subaru Legacy, spark plugs should be replaced about every 60,000 miles. However, consult your owner’s manual for recommended service intervals.
Tools Needed
Before starting the process, you’ll need to gather a few tools. These include:
- Spark plug wrench
- Extension arm
- Socket wrench
- Torque wrench
- Dielectric grease
- New spark plugs
Make sure you have the right size for your Subaru Legacy. Refer to your owner’s manual for the right spark plug type.
Steps for Changing Spark Plugs
- Park your car on a flat surface and turn it off. Make sure the engine is cool before beginning.
- Locate the spark plugs. On a 2013 Subaru Legacy, they’re located underneath a plastic engine cover.
- Remove the engine cover by pressing down on the clips on either side and lift it up.
- Using the spark plug wrench and extension arm, loosen the first spark plug. Turn counter-clockwise to remove it.
- Check the spark plug for signs of wear, such as cracks or corrosion. If it looks damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the end of the new spark plug.
- Insert the new spark plug into the socket, being careful not to cross-thread it.
- Tighten the spark plug with the spark plug wrench and socket wrench. Use a torque wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque setting.
- Repeat steps 4-8 for the other spark plugs, one at a time.
- Replace the engine cover by lining up the clips and pressing it down until it clicks into place.
Troubleshooting Tips
If replacing the spark plugs doesn’t seem to solve your car’s issues, there may be other problems with your engine. It’s always a good idea to consult a mechanic for a thorough checkup to diagnose any potential issues with your vehicle.
Conclusion
The process of changing spark plugs on a 2013 Subaru Legacy is a simple yet crucial maintenance step for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Armed with the right tools and instructions, anyone can do it themselves, saving time and money in the process. By staying on top of regular vehicle maintenance, you’ll improve the performance and longevity of your car.
