Parts for your 2014 Subaru Legacy-Ignition coils

Ignition Coils for the 2014 Subaru Legacy: What They Do and How to Keep Them Happy

The 2014 Subaru Legacy is a popular choice among Aussie drivers who value reliability, safety, and smooth performance. One important component under the hood that often flies under the radar is the ignition coil. For those who might not be familiar, ignition coils play a crucial role in making sure the car's engine starts and runs properly.

To clear things up right away, the 2014 Subaru Legacy definitely uses ignition coils. These are a vital part of the vehicle's ignition system, especially since the Legacy's engine requires a reliable spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the cylinders. Without properly functioning ignition coils, the car might struggle to start or run rough when driving.

So what exactly do ignition coils do? In simple terms, they act as a kind of transformer that converts the car's 12-volt battery power into the high voltage needed to create a spark at the spark plugs. This spark is what ignites the fuel mixture inside the engine, causing combustion that powers the car. Without ignition coils, the spark plugs would receive only low voltage and no spark would be produced, meaning the engine would not run properly.

In the 2014 Subaru Legacy, each cylinder typically has its own ignition coil mounted directly on top of the spark plug. This setup is commonly referred to as a coil-on-plug system, which means there is no need for spark plug wires. This arrangement improves reliability and makes the ignition system more efficient.

The benefits of ignition coils in this modern coil-on-plug style are pretty clear. Because it reduces the number of moving parts and wiring connections, it lowers the chances of failure and misfires. It also helps the engine perform better and delivers cleaner emissions, which is great for meeting environmental regulations and keeping your Legacy running efficiently.

When it comes to maintenance, ignition coils don't usually need regular servicing like oil changes or brake checks. However, they can wear out over time, especially in vehicles with higher mileage or harsh driving conditions. If an ignition coil fails, it can cause several issues including engine misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, difficulty starting the car or even the check engine light illuminating on the dashboard.

Knowing when to replace ignition coils can save you a lot of headaches. Some common signs that indicate a coil might be struggling include:

• Engine running rough or misfiring, especially at low speeds
• Noticeable drop in fuel efficiency
• Difficulty starting or stalling shortly after the car starts
• The check engine light turning on, often followed by diagnostic codes pinpointing ignition system faults

If any of these symptoms pop up, it is wise to get the ignition system checked out by a professional. Many mechanics will use an OBD-II scanner to read the fault codes stored in the car's computer, and this can often point directly to a faulty ignition coil.

Replacing ignition coils on a 2014 Subaru Legacy is generally straightforward, thanks to the coil-on-plug design. The coils are clipped or screwed on, sitting right on top of each spark plug. This means they're easily accessible without having to remove lots of other engine parts. Once removed, new ignition coils can be installed in their place without much fuss.

For those doing their own maintenance, it's important to handle ignition coils carefully and avoid getting oil, dirt or moisture on the coil terminals. Always use the correct part number for replacement coils to ensure compatibility with the engine's ignition system. Subaru OEM parts are often recommended to maintain the vehicle's performance and reliability.

As a general rule, many mechanics suggest inspecting ignition coils when performing spark plug replacements. Since both parts serve in tandem to keep the engine firing correctly, replacing them together can avoid future ignition troubles. This can be particularly important as the car approaches higher mileage or if it has been exposed to tough driving environments like dusty or wet conditions.

Keeping an eye on the ignition coils and making sure they are in tip-top condition will help keep the 2014 Subaru Legacy running smooth for years to come. It pays to remember that a healthy ignition system is fundamental to engine performance, fuel efficiency and producing fewer emissions, all of which contribute to a more enjoyable and environmentally friendly driving experience.