Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Ignition leads

Ignition Leads and the 2017 Subaru Forester

When it comes to the 2017 Subaru Forester, it's important to understand that ignition leads, also known as spark plug wires, are not actually used on this model. This is something that might catch some people off guard, especially if they're more familiar with older vehicles or certain brands that still rely on traditional ignition leads as part of their ignition system.

The reason why ignition leads are not relevant to the 2017 Subaru Forester lies in the technology Subaru employs in this vehicle's ignition system. The Forester uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition setup, which means that each spark plug has its own dedicated ignition coil mounted directly on top of it. This design eliminates the need for high-tension ignition wires or leads that run from a central ignition coil to the spark plugs.

This coil-on-plug system is much more efficient and reliable than older ignition systems that depended on ignition leads. The typical ignition lead's job was to carry the high-voltage pulse from the ignition coil to the spark plugs, igniting the air-fuel mixture inside the engine cylinders. However, these leads can deteriorate over time due to heat, vibration, and exposure to engine bay chemicals, leading to misfires, reduced fuel economy, and rough engine running.

With a COP system like the one in the 2017 Forester, those issues with ignition leads are effectively eliminated. Each coil is directly attached to the spark plug, so the electrical path is shorter and better shielded. This improves ignition performance, engine responsiveness, and overall efficiency. It also simplifies maintenance as there are no ignition leads to inspect or replace.

Because the 2017 Subaru Forester does not use ignition leads, it means there is no need for owners to worry about the common ignition lead-related problems. However, servicing the ignition system is still important. That mainly involves checking the condition of the ignition coils and spark plugs themselves. Spark plugs wear out naturally over time and can cause performance issues if not replaced according to Subaru's maintenance schedule.

For those servicing a 2017 Subaru Forester, the focus should be on the coils and spark plugs rather than ignition leads. If an ignition coil fails, it will usually cause a noticeable misfire or check engine light, and that coil will need to be replaced directly on the plug. Fortunately, coil-on-plug units are quite reliable, but like all electronic components, they can fail eventually.

When changing spark plugs or coils, proper handling is important. The ignition coils are plugged straight onto the spark plugs and secured with bolts or clips. Care needs to be taken not to damage the delicate electrical connectors or plastic components during servicing. Using a good quality spark plug socket and following the torque specifications for tightening plugs will help ensure long-term reliability and avoid damage.

In terms of maintenance intervals, Subaru typically recommends inspecting or replacing spark plugs on the 2017 Forester every 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres, depending on the type of plugs installed (iridium or platinum types typically last longer). It's a good idea to check the coil's condition periodically, especially if there are any performance concerns like rough idle, poor acceleration, or reduced fuel efficiency.

Owners should also be mindful of sounds such as popping or backfiring during acceleration, which can sometimes hint at ignition problems. While these symptoms are less likely on a modern coil-on-plug system than on older systems with ignition leads, they still warrant a check of the ignition system components on the Forester.

In summary, the absence of ignition leads on the 2017 Subaru Forester is a reflection of the modern ignition technology that Subaru has integrated into this vehicle. The switch to coil-on-plug ignition eliminates common issues associated with ignition leads, making the ignition system more dependable and easier to maintain. When looking after a 2017 Forester, focusing on proper spark plug and coil care is key for keeping the engine firing smoothly and efficiently.