Ask the Car People.SM


ignition coil replacement

7 messages,  Last post on Sep 04, 2009 at 12:28 PM

You are in the Subaru Forester Maintenance & Repair Forum.

What is this discussion about? Subaru Forester, Engine

Messages Page 2 of 2

#3 of 7 Re: ignition coil replacement [ateixeira] by petitek

Sep 04, 2009 (9:26 am)

Replying to: ateixeira (Sep 04, 2009 9:18 am)
Thanks so much for the detailed reply. I have a 2002 Subaru Forester with 96,000+ miles on it. Catalytic converter was replaced last year (free, just under the wire on government warranty). How long do you think I can safely drive with this condition? We were thinking of doing the work ourselves, as you recommend, but probably can't get to it for a few weeks. Is it safe to drive, in your view, in the meantime?

#4 of 7 Re: ignition coil replacement [petitek] by ateixeira

Sep 04, 2009 (11:49 am)

Replying to: petitek (Sep 04, 2009 9:26 am)
I would act sooner. You don't want unburned fuel downstream.
 
The fact that the old cat failed says it all.
 
Do this - order an ignition coil on-line. Should be $80 or so, maybe a tad more nowadays.
 
You can change that in the time it takes to fill up your gas tank. Then do the plugs and wires when you can.
 
Let me try to find a photo to motivate you...
 
Bingo, good pic:
 

 
The ignition coil sits right at the top of the engine. Easy to find because all 4 spark plug wires lead right to it. You unplug those 4 wires, remove 2 screws, replace it with the new one, replace 2 screws, plus in 4 wires.
 
Seriously, it's that easy. And there's only one ignition coil, so it's a cheap fix.
 
Best of luck, whatever you decide.

#5 of 7 Re: ignition coil replacement [petitek] by bigfrank3

Sep 04, 2009 (11:53 am)

Replying to: petitek (Sep 04, 2009 9:26 am)
I would save the coil replacement for last, you may not need it unless there is physical damage to it like a crack in the number 3 tower. The same coil pack fires all 4 cylinders so since you are only getting a problem with number 3 I have my doubts.
 
I would certainly do the plugs, and if the wires are original, them too.

#6 of 7 Re: ignition coil replacement [bigfrank3] by ateixeira

Sep 04, 2009 (11:58 am)

Replying to: bigfrank3 (Sep 04, 2009 11:53 am)
Pay the dealer $200 for the plugs and wires and then order the $80 ignition coil, which you can do before you leave the dealer's parking lot.
 
Problem solved for $280, rather than the $550 originally quoted. Half price basically.

#7 of 7 Re: ignition coil replacement [ateixeira] by petitek

Sep 04, 2009 (12:28 pm)

Replying to: ateixeira (Sep 04, 2009 11:58 am)
I do so appreciate this detailed advice! And your input, too, bigfrank3. Very very helpful. We got the car back from the dealer, who assured us it would be fine to drive it for a short time. I'll keep you both updated.Thanks very very much--I feel much better informed now.

Messages Page 2 of 2

To POST a message, please Sign In.

Advertisement

Browse by Category

Browse by Vehicle
   View All Vehicles

Browse by Board
Browse by Topic
View All Topics

Edmunds Community

Advertisement