Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Ignition leads

Ignition Leads on the 2016 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2016 Subaru Exiga, one common question that car enthusiasts and owners often ask is whether this model uses ignition leads, also known as spark plug wires. After checking various technical sources and manufacturer information, it turns out that the 2016 Subaru Exiga does not use traditional ignition leads.

The reason ignition leads are not used on this vehicle comes down to the advances in ignition system design. The 2016 Subaru Exiga employs a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system instead. Instead of using separate ignition leads to carry the high voltage from a central ignition coil to each spark plug, the coil-on-plug setup places an individual ignition coil directly atop each spark plug. This design eliminates the need for separate ignition wires altogether.

So why has Subaru moved away from the old ignition leads setup on models like the Exiga? There are several good reasons. Firstly, coil-on-plug systems reduce the electrical losses that can happen through ignition leads, which means a stronger, more consistent spark is delivered to each cylinder. This helps with reliability, fuel efficiency and emissions. Secondly, ignition leads were prone to wear and tear from heat, oil, dirt and vibration. Removing them decreases the number of components that need regular maintenance or replacement. Lastly, this setup simplifies the engine bay and reduces the risk of misfires that could be caused by faulty ignition leads.

For owners who are used to maintaining older cars with ignition leads, this may seem a bit confusing at first. But it's actually a positive evolution for modern cars like the 2016 Subaru Exiga. Instead of dealing with ignition leads, maintenance now focuses on the coil packs and spark plugs themselves.

That said, while ignition leads may be absent, keeping the ignition coils in good shape is important. Faulty ignition coils can cause engine misfires, rough idling, or poor fuel economy, issues you might have previously attributed to ignition leads. So, during regular servicing of the Subaru Exiga, mechanics typically inspect the condition and performance of each ignition coil, along with checking the spark plugs.

Maintaining the ignition system on this Subaru is pretty straightforward. At your regular service intervals, the spark plugs will be checked and replaced as needed since they are still a critical part of igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Ignition coils tend to last much longer, but if any coil shows signs of failure like cracking, corrosion or electrical problems, they can be replaced individually. Replacing ignition coils isn't usually expensive or difficult and is a worthwhile investment to keep the car running smoothly.

It's reassuring to know that by adopting a coil-on-plug system and ditching the ignition leads, Subaru has cut down on potential ignition system faults and simplified maintenance for their drivers. The 2016 Subaru Exiga benefits from this updated technology, offering more reliable ignition performance and less hassle under the bonnet.

So, if you're servicing a 2016 Subaru Exiga, don't spend your time worrying about ignition leads. Instead, focus on the spark plugs and keep an eye on the ignition coils. A well maintained ignition system will help this versatile wagon keep cruising reliably and efficiently for many more kilometres to come.