Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Ignition coils

Ignition Coils on the 2016 Subaru Forester: What You Need to Know

The 2016 Subaru Forester, like most modern petrol vehicles, relies on ignition coils as an essential part of its ignition system. Ignition coils are indeed fitted to this model and play a crucial role in ensuring the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Simply put, this small but vital component is responsible for transforming the vehicle's battery voltage into the high voltage needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the engine cylinders. Without properly functioning ignition coils, the 2016 Forester would struggle to start or run correctly.

In the 2016 Forester, each cylinder has its own ignition coil, commonly referred to as a coil-on-plug setup. This means that every cylinder has a dedicated coil mounted directly on top of the spark plug, which reduces energy losses and improves the ignition system's overall reliability and performance. This individual coil system is a step up from older models that often used a single coil connected via distributor sets or ignition wires.

When the Forester's ignition system fires up, the ignition coil receives low voltage electricity from the car's battery through the ignition switch. The coil then steps up the voltage dramatically - we're talking thousands of volts - to create a powerful electrical spark within the cylinder. This spark is what ignites the air-fuel mixture, allowing the combustion process to occur. This process is repeated thousands of times every minute when the engine is running, so the ignition coil is continuously working hard.

Because ignition coils are critical for combustion, they can wear out or fail over time due to heat, vibration and general use. A faulty ignition coil may cause symptoms such as engine misfires, rough idling, a drop in fuel efficiency, or difficulty starting the engine. Drivers might also notice the Check Engine Light coming on, which can be diagnosed with an OBD2 scanner to confirm if an ignition coil is at fault.

Maintaining the ignition coils in a 2016 Subaru Forester is a pretty straightforward way to keep things running smoothly. It's advisable to have them checked during regular vehicle servicing or if any engine performance issues arise. Because coils can fail gradually, replacing them proactively every 100,000 kilometres or so is good preventive maintenance, especially if any cylinder misfires occur. Subaru owners often opt to replace all ignition coils at once to ensure even performance across all cylinders.

Replacement is usually not a difficult task for a professional mechanic, as the coils are accessible on top of the engine where the spark plugs sit. It is important to use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or high-quality aftermarket ignition coils to maintain the Forester's engine reliability. Poor quality or incompatible ignition coils can lead to further issues down the line.

For DIY enthusiasts, swapping out ignition coils is a manageable job if you have basic mechanical skills and the right tools. It generally involves disconnecting the electrical connector, removing a securing bolt, and pulling the old coil off the spark plug before fitting the new one in its place. Just be sure to work on one coil at a time to avoid mixing parts or damaging the spark plugs.

Regular servicing and timely replacement of ignition coils help keep the 2016 Subaru Forester's engine running efficiently, maximising fuel economy and reducing the risk of engine damage. It also contributes to a smoother drive, with fewer hiccups and interruptions caused by misfires. Ignition coil failure can, over time, lead to increased emissions and potential catalyst damage, so staying on top of their condition is smart from both a performance and an environmental perspective.

Some signs that might indicate ignition coil issues to watch for include:

• Sudden loss of power during acceleration
• Engine vibration or harsh idling
• Check Engine Light turning on
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Difficulty starting the engine or stalling

If these symptoms appear, it's best to get the ignition coils tested as part of the diagnosis. Modern diagnostic tools can pinpoint which coil or coils are malfunctioning, saving time and money during the repair process.

To wrap it up, ignition coils are definitely used and necessary on the 2016 Subaru Forester. They are a critical component of the vehicle's ignition system and deserve attention during routine service checks. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of ignition coils will ensure the Forester runs trouble free, maintaining its impressive balance of performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency that Aussie drivers appreciate so much.