Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Ignition coils

2016 Subaru Exiga ignition coils — what they do and when to replace

Ignition coils are absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Exiga. Technical sources including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for FB-series engines and Subaru’s Electronic Parts Catalogue list individual coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coil assemblies for the Exiga/Exiga Crossover 7 models of this year. Wiring diagrams in the service literature also show dedicated ignition coil drivers for each cylinder, and major aftermarket catalogues for Subaru (e.g., OE-equivalent DENSO/NGK listings) specify direct-fit coils for these vehicles.

On the 2016 Exiga, each spark plug gets its own coil mounted right on top. The coil’s job is to step the 12-volt battery feed up to tens of thousands of volts so the plug can fire cleanly under load. Coil-on-plug keeps the spark strong and timing crisp, which helps with smooth idle, decent fuel economy and reliable cold starts.

There’s no fixed service interval for coils, but they should be checked during major services, especially as kilometres climb. Heat, oil in the plug tubes, and age can weaken them. Many owners first notice a failing coil as a light stumble at idle or a flat spot under acceleration. The ECU may log fault codes like P0301–P0304 (misfires) or P0351–P0354 (coil circuit) on four-cylinder variants.

• Common signs: rough idle, harder starts, hesitation, poorer fuel use, sulphury exhaust smell, or a flashing check engine lamp.
• Helpful tips: replace spark plugs on schedule, keep oil out of the plug wells, and use quality fuel.

When replacing coils on a 2016 Exiga, go for genuine or a reputable OE-equivalent brand. It’s fine to replace a single failed unit, but on higher‑kilometre cars many workshops recommend doing the set to keep things even. Inspect the coil boots for tracking marks and hardening, swap boots if they’re tired and use a small smear of dielectric grease on the inside lip to ease future removal. Always disconnect the battery, work on a cool engine, and tighten coil hold-downs to the factory spec rather than “by feel”. If there are repeat misfires, check for oil from rocker cover gasket leaks filling the plug tubes, and make sure the plugs are the correct heat range and gap for the engine. A quick scan with a proper OBD tool and a road test under load will confirm the repair and save headaches down the track.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Exiga ignition coils

How long do the ignition coils usually last?
Many Exiga coils run well past 150,000 km and can see 200,000 km or more, but life depends on heat, plug condition, and whether there’s oil or moisture in the plug wells. Keeping plugs fresh and sealing any rocker cover leaks helps coils live longer.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy ignition coil?
Not ideal. A weak or dead coil can cause raw fuel to hit the catalytic converter, risking damage, and the car may feel gutless or shaky. If the check engine light is flashing, it’s best to ease off and book a repair promptly.

Do coils need changing when the spark plugs are replaced?
Not automatically. Coils are replaced when testing or inspection shows they’re failing. During a plug change, check coil boots and terminals, replace any that are cracked, carbon-tracked or swollen. Using the right iridium plugs at the correct gap keeps the coils happy.