Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Ignition coils

Ignition Coils on the 2017 Subaru Impreza: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru Impreza is a popular choice among drivers who appreciate a reliable and efficient vehicle. When it comes to its ignition system, the 2017 Impreza definitely uses ignition coils as an essential part of its engine management. Ignition coils play a vital role in ensuring the engine runs smoothly and starts without a hitch. Understanding what ignition coils do and how to maintain or replace them is important for keeping the Impreza in tip-top shape.

Ignition coils are a critical component of any modern petrol engine, including the 2017 Subaru Impreza's boxer engine. Their main purpose is to convert the low voltage coming from the car's battery into the much higher voltage needed to create a spark in the spark plugs. This spark is what ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine cylinders, allowing the car to produce power and move forward.

In older vehicles, a single ignition coil might have been used for the entire engine, but the 2017 Impreza uses a modern setup where there is typically one ignition coil per cylinder. This system, often called coil-on-plug, improves performance and fuel efficiency while reducing emissions. Each coil sits right on top of the spark plug, making the process of delivering the spark quicker and more precise.

Because the ignition coil is responsible for generating such a high voltage - usually tens of thousands of volts - it is built to endure quite a bit of stress. However, over time and with plenty of mileage, ignition coils can wear out or fail. Faulty coils will often cause symptoms like rough idling, difficulty starting, engine misfires, or a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. For a driver, these issues might feel like the car is hesitating or jerking during acceleration.

Given these potential problems, it's important to keep an eye on the ignition coils as part of regular servicing on the 2017 Subaru Impreza. Luckily, ignition coils are relatively straightforward to inspect and replace when needed. Most car mechanics will check them alongside spark plugs during a tune-up or scheduled maintenance service, usually recommended somewhere around every 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres. However, this can vary depending on driving conditions and how the car is used.

When replacing ignition coils, it is best to use genuine Subaru parts or high-quality aftermarket alternatives that meet the manufacturer's specifications. Using subpar coils may lead to inconsistent spark delivery and could damage the engine over time. Additionally, during replacement, it's wise to check the associated spark plugs since they work closely together. Often, worn spark plugs can put extra stress on the ignition coils, causing premature failure.

Maintenance of ignition coils generally involves:

• Periodic visual inspection for signs of damage, cracks, or carbon tracking (small burn marks)
• Ensuring the electrical connectors to each coil are clean and secure
• Addressing any engine misfire trouble codes by testing or swapping ignition coils to identify faulty ones
• Replacing coils as required based on condition or mileage

If running diagnostics on a 2017 Subaru Impreza reveals trouble codes related to ignition coil circuit issues, it should not be ignored. Engine misfires caused by bad coils can lead to long-term engine damage, higher emissions, and reduced fuel economy. Acting promptly by servicing or replacing ignition coils ensures continued reliability and smooth performance.

In practical terms, changing ignition coils on the Impreza is often a job that can be completed in under an hour by a professional, sometimes less if you are confident with DIY car maintenance. Access is relatively easy with the coil-on-plug design, as there are no complicated wires, just a clip to disconnect and a bolt or two holding the coil in place.

For Aussie drivers, it's worth noting that hotspots of extreme heat or dusty conditions can accelerate the wear on ignition components. So, if the Impreza is regularly used in rural or off-road settings, more frequent inspection might be a good idea. In general though, the 2017 Subaru Impreza's ignition coil system is quite reliable and designed to last well beyond the standard service intervals with proper care.

Encouraging a routine check of ignition coils during regular services helps avoid unexpected breakdowns and keeps the Subaru Impreza running efficiently. Whether commuting on city roads or hitting the open highway, good ignition coil health is part of ensuring hassle-free driving and preserving the legendary Subaru reliability Aussie drivers appreciate.