How to Replace Spark Plugs in Subaru XV?
3 Answers
Method for replacing spark plugs in Subaru XV: Open the hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark the position of each cylinder to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. While removing them, check for any external debris such as leaves or dust, and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Place the new spark plugs into the spark plug holes, hand-tighten them for a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten them further. Reinstall the removed high-voltage distributor wires according to the firing order, and then snap the cover back into place. If the spark plugs are damaged, it can directly cause issues such as electrical leakage in the vehicle's ignition system, increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and most notably, difficulty in starting, which affects the normal operation of the vehicle. Severe erosion of the spark plugs—such as blistering, damage, or melting of the electrode—indicates that the spark plugs are ruined and should be replaced.
Changing the spark plugs on a Subaru XV isn't actually complicated – I've done it myself several times. You'll need to prepare a 16mm spark plug socket, extension bar, and torque wrench, and make sure to get the correct OEM-spec NGK spark plug model. After opening the engine hood, remove the plastic cover – those screws can be handled with a T-handle wrench. Each ignition coil connector has a small clip; just pinch it gently to unplug. When removing the ignition coil screws, do it steadily, then slowly pull the coil upwards. The spark plug holes tend to collect debris, so blow them clean beforehand. Hand-tighten the new spark plugs until they won't turn easily, then use the torque wrench set to 15-20 N·m to tighten them until you hear a click. When reinstalling, align the coils with their slots properly. Finally, start the engine to check for any jerking sensations. The whole process takes about half an hour, but it's safest to do it when the engine is cold – working on a hot engine can burn your hands.
Last time I helped my buddy change the spark plugs on his Subaru XV, I noticed several potential pitfalls. You need to have all the right tools—a regular socket won't reach the deep wells, so an extension bar is a must. When removing the ignition coil connector, don't yank it; you have to press the tail clip before pulling it out. Be extra careful when unscrewing the spark plugs—if the ceramic breaks, it's a hassle. It's best to apply some anti-seize compound to the new spark plugs before installation, or they might seize up and be hard to remove next time. We didn't have a torque wrench, so we tightened them by feel until they wouldn't turn, then gave them an extra half-turn. After installing the ignition coils, press them all the way down until you hear a click to ensure they're properly seated. After the replacement, drive a few kilometers to check if the engine light comes on—if the dashboard shakes, it means something wasn't installed correctly. Doing it yourself can save about $200 in labor costs, but it's best for first-timers to have someone guide them.
