The Ultimate Subaru Spark Plug Guide! Tips, Tricks, and Tech Make Replacing Subaru Spark Plugs Easy!

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Intro 0:00
Ratchets 4:20
Spark Plug Sockets 7:53
H6 Spark Plugs 11:30
DOHC H4 Spark Plugs 17:05
SOHC H4 Spark Plugs 19:12
Tougher Spark Plugs 21:15
Conclusion 22:11
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----I assume no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. I recommend safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond my control, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not myself.----

[@pricklydingus8604]

I really like my STI. It's a well-made car, and it has just the right amount of weirdness to give that cool-factor most cars don't have.

[@timbrown9731]

That’s why I like my legacy 3.6 R, it’s the crown Victoria of Subarus!

[@georgebennett4523]

I feel the same way about my saabaru. Sometimes people ask about it, sometimes they know and I get a thumbs up. Never any problem finding parts even though there's only a few thousand like it.

[@michaelpressman7203]

I have a 2005 bad turbo I love the car hey problem is I can't find anybody to work on it without messing something up so I started doing my own work in the driveway have a good day o

[@megaxss5]

Love my 2006 sti as well. It's stock and reliability to change my sparks plugs.

[@robertsimon2262]

Totally agree, got a 20 STI. How many miles till you change your spark plugs?

[@3obardThawn3]

You don't know how useful your videos are. It's nice to know that we (subaru owners) can come to your channel and get the help we need. Thanks and keep them coming...

[@dominicancheif117]

This is like the ultimate guide I wish I had like 6 months ago lol. Thanks for mentioning the tools, it was one of the biggest headaches when I tried to change mine on my ‘14 legacy 👍

[@johngifford7725]

I've been going through my new to us 2010 Forester with the EJ25 sohc. Your videos have been a massive help. Bought the timing belt kit from your Amazon link as well as the pulley holder. Good kit, and that job went easier than I thought it was going to. Engine sounds and feels smoother as well as our fuel economy went up a bit. I'm thinking of getting another one of these with a blown motor. It's cheap to get a nice one that way, and I can get a newer sohc motor for under $2k. Cool little car so far, and you're making it an even more enjoyable thing to own with all this info. Thanks.

[@moeszyslack4676]

Really good video, very helpful as always. Thanks for taking the time and effort to educate. I have a 2006 WRX and it takes less than an hour to change the plugs. First time I did it I couldn't believe how fast and easy it actually was. Minimal tools needed to remove the battery, air box, and secondary air injection pump.

[@Pericles0330]

Thank you for making these videos! They are extremely helpful since I own a 14 Forest and 02 Impreza WRX. I just purchased my first Koken Tools based on your recommendations. I look forward to using these in the future on not only my Subaru's, but a few of my friends Subaru's as well.

[@Villajesse]

This video should be included with the purchase of any Subaru ….. thank you Mr. Subaru

[@DaddyBear1971]

Wow. Good work. This was informative and straight the point and very clear. Clearly Mr. Subaru is also Mr. Organized and well planned out. Thank you.

[@rkymtnrsx]

Just did this on my 2020 Crosstrek PHEV, 80k service. It was the most difficult thing I’ve personally done on a car, additional cooling pipes for the inverter made access difficult on the right hand side but when it came down to it removing the rearmost ignition coils were difficult, I didn’t know how much they can bend when needed. Your video and the Koken spark plug socket you recommended went a long way in giving me the confidence to do this. Knocked out the front and read diffs this weekend also. This vehicle hasn’t been to a shop besides tires and it’s been fun to maintain.

[@toddb930]

Thanks for the awesome description on how to take care of spark plug service on Subarus. I've had it easy so far with the H4 variety.

[@FixitFred]

Love the fact he references so much awesome japanese tools

[@philiphalstead5825]

I ordered my Astro ratchet about 3 weeks ago. I called the company I ordered it from and it will be another 3 weeks due to back order. But I will be patient since I respect your recommendations unconditionally

[@bullnukeoldman3794]

Thanks again, brother. I remember doing plugs every 3000 to 4000 miles in my vast number of air cooled VW's in the past and this shouldn't be any issue with my EJ25s on my two Outbacks. Well done, well explained.

[@bryanlatimer-davies1222]

Always a little tense changing the plugs the first time on a new "to me" bug or bus are they stripped or not ?

[@bullnukeoldman3794]

@@bryanlatimer-davies1222 Yep. I learned how to helicoil at a young age. Another was the soft crankcases on the late '68 to '71 Beetles where the head studs would pull right out on their own at 30k to 40k miles.

[@426envy]

Thank you for this video and the tool suggestions. I replaced the spark plugs, rocker cover gaskets, and plug seals without a trip to the tool store. The Koken spark plug socket worked great! I had (2) 1” and (1) 1.5” extensions along with a Tekton 3/8 12” Ultra Compact Flex Head ratchet that performed well in the tight spaces. A job that a shop would have cost over $1000 cost me about $200 in parts and tools and about 6 hours of my time. For a first timer, it went very well.

[@StandorFall13]

Your accent is the only one I understand and can follow brother.....country as heck and I'm here for it.

[@karlarndt9348]

Great on camera/dialog presents. You definitely own your material. Huge effort, thank you!

[@zzyzxx13]

Do you mean "on-camera/dialogue presence"? If so, I agree. If not, I have no idea what you mean. But I don't think he owns his material. I think he leases his material with an option to buy (six months same as cash).

[@MoJoNinjaGarage]

The info is super helpful and I will add these to the list of things i need to get for my car, I am new to the subaru squad! thanks!

[@bborkzilla]

The most annoying spark plugs for me were on a 63 40 HP Beetle. All four had been put in by a gorilla and were stripped. I had to pull the engine and install thread inserts on all four of them. Pulling the engine on a Beetle is about as much trouble as removing an intake manifold on some modern cars...

[@harveysmith100]

Four large bolts.

[@adammellinger7105]

All i read was the first sentence and i was dying bravo. Lmao

[@michaelpressman7203]

An aluminum has over turkey is the worst thing you could ever do you don't have to lay on a spark plug to tighten it up check your manufacturer's torque specs just if you don't have a good feel for what's right and what's wrong have a good day

[@andrewross1515]

Thank you for this excellent video. It has given me the information as well as the confidence to do this on my own Subaru!

[@joshgunn7486]

Just did this job on my EJ255 Tuesday, but went from underneath for less removals, used a 19mm deep socket on my spark plug socket mostly, not my worst spark plug job, Hemi Durango was more agonizing buried under the windshield and brake booster

[@salemcripple]

ex mechanic here. Some of the more difficult ones, 2000 Toyota Sienna with a 3 liter. Have to remove the hood, to remove the cowling, in order to pull the intake manifold off, to get to the rear spark plugs. 1993 Cadillac Sedan Deville with the 4.9 liter V8. Rear plugs can only be accessed from underneath.

[@arcanask]

I honestly only had problem removing the rear driver side spark plug on my '12 Forester. What I ended up doing was putting a flex socket extension onto the spark plug socket. Then a 8 inch extension onto the ratchet. That finally gave me angle to actually be able to turn the spark plug and get it out.

[@garretlewis4103]

Changed my spark plugs on my 2016 Crosstrek. Agreed, the tools make a difference. I found a "thin head" ratchet with a varied selection of 3/8 extensions help. I had to put smaller extensions together to get the length I wanted. After the job, I ordered some "unique" lengths like 5" to keep from having to "build" any. I also like using a piece of old hose like vacuum line to put on the spark plug and start treading it which helps prevent cross threading. The worse plug for me was the one closest to the firewall (back) on the left (driver's) side.

[@dancassidy7471]

Yes so it was a guess work..150 miles ago and now it is time to replace

[@whitneydesignlabs8738]

Again, another super informative video. Thanks so much for your time and effort.

[@brianeighties4481]

My FRS was a little difficult getting to but I got them in and out in 45 minutes. I watched a rundown and it wasn’t that bad once I knew what I was getting into.

[@ddb1143]

I had success changing my spark plugs and am glad to have viewed your video first for a number of tips. My plan includes the following for my 2017 Subaru Outback Limited 2.5L Boxer engine. I did not duplicate the tips as mentioned in the video. Watch the video! 1. Remove items to gain access. (air box, battery, battery holder frame, left front wheel to access battery holder frame bottom bolt). 2. Remove coil packs. 3. Tools used on plugs - 9/16" deep socket, 3" short wobble extension, 3/8 drive ratchet, 5/16" ID fuel line cut to 3" and 4-1/2" lengths, 3/8 drive inch lb torque wrench. 4. The fuel line pieces fit tightly over the porcelain of the plug and allow finger grip to turn the plug out and in as needed. Just feel for proper thread engagement and use finger tightening as much as possible, then resort to tool work. 5. Apply a thin and conservative amount of anti-seize on new plug threads staying away from the first two or three threads (near firing end). My personal preference anyway. 6. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease with a Q-tip cotton swab on the boot ID to slip over the porcelain easier. Notice that the boot plug tip contact is a spring, not a clip. 7. Following Autolite XP5683 with seal washer instructions, tighten 1/4 - 1/2 turn past seat contact (13 foot lbs or 156 inch lbs.) 8. Apply conservative amounts of anti-seize to all other threaded fasteners during assembly. I waited to change the original plugs after 100,000 miles. I had begun to experience some hesitancy at acceleration from a stop. Now the gas mileage has increased 2 mpg on average. Great video! Thank you MrSubaru!

[@georgekennedy1886]

Great instructional video. Thanks, Mr. Subaru!

[@Mike_44]

Ugh.. That #4 spark plug.. ha ha I hate doing this job on my '05 Outback XT. A much needed/helpful video on these cars. This is the perfect example of "using the right tool will make the job easier". The type of job where just 3-5mm clearance can make a big difference. Thanks Mr. Subaru for this great video.

[@paulzijdenbos2105]

Very helpful! Hope you can keep the good work up!👍

[@virgil7100]

An excellent exoplanetary video, Mr Subaru ~ not as frightening as I thought!

[@jojopojo9516]

Great video. Very insightful and helpful. Thank you!

[@vilsonpinto7718]

Yep, always having the right tools makes all the difference!

[@RaffiT83]

This guy is seriously a guru. Thank you for this. Man... how about those back plugs on the 3.6R. Just did that job 🤕. The driver side one was the biggest pain. Struggled to get the coil out of that tight space. Learned my lesson and got me two gear wrench 90 tooth 1/4" body with 3/8" gut ratchets. I'm armed for the next fight. One thing I found odd, is that even though everything on these cars are metric, the 5/8" spark plug socket fits a tiny bit more snug than the 16mm one on the OEM plugs for this engine. Go figure.

[@michaelpressman7203]

5/8 is .625 16 mm is a little under .640 the difference the plugs are 5/8 have a good

[@sergeyafanasev7505]

Your videos always helpful! Even without Ko-ken low profile ratchet (can't be delivered to Russia for normal price) it's possible to replace spark plugs.

[@richardfabrizio8998]

Clear explanation very well done. Thanks

[@jp2246]

Incredibly informative 👍

[@willr6596]

1:27 some of us are used to only having a few inches to work with

[@forestchatelain5996]

My go to for a ej dohc is a snap on S9710KC with a 2" extension and a FHLFD80AG ratchet. Depending on the chassis you can use the ratchet as a nut driver instead of going back and forth or using your fingers to unscrew the spark plug. Only time I do the plugs on the under side is when the car is highly modified and it's actually easier/less time than disconnecting intercooler pipes, fuel lines, air boxes, catch cans, and braces. Worst spark plugs i've done is on race sbc and bbc engines with large tube headers wrapped around them where you have to give the old reach around with a snap on S9724RHS and a 5/8 ratcheting flex wrench then struggle to get the new plug started because the spark plug hole is angled.

[@joelskimaloski2461]

Excellent training video. I appreciate the knowledge shared.

[@tfaubus]

Fascinating, yeah I've used the engine lift method but mostly because I was doing the cam cover seals on my 06 LGT. Other times small hands helps and I use a 1/4 d ratchet and wobble extenstion, biggest problem on the LGT is getting the ignition coils out of the way without scratching up the frame rails. Subarus aren't really hard gm fwd v6s were the worst ;)

[@chevyv20]

I personally own a 2005 Subaru outback wagon 2.5l, and have never worked on a Subaru before. I thought it would be a nightmare, even though I used to build race engines in the past, and have been working on various vehicles for over 35years, however I found it very simple, and easy to change the spark plugs in this vehicle. In contrast, my 2015 Ram Laremy 5.7Hemi is a complete nightmare!

[@todtalk3912]

Same, i have a 2010 n removed minimal stuff n have minimal tools n found it to be very easy to do

[@michaelpressman7203]

My son and I used to race 77 Z28 with a 383 stroker motor we used to just take the whole nose clip off and the motor is right there to work on you guys would love that you sit on the tire you even got a chair while you working on your motor have a great day

[@Eudovique]

I'm a technician from the Caribbean, this vehicle Is so easy

[@worldsails2000]

I have changed the plugs on my '09 OBXT twice. Once going above and the next was under. For me it was far easier to go under the car than above. I have a very thin 1/4" ratchet that works very well to get into the tight spaces.

[@fredharvey2720]

What brand ratchet

[@worldsails2000]

@@fredharvey2720 I don't know to be honest. I inherited it from my Dad, along with a bunch of other tools, and there is no name brand on it.

[@Foreverknight87]

21:46 *Flashbacks Intensify* They had no problem coming out, they would just shoot straight into the hood whenever they felt like it, taking the coil with it. We kept rethreading the holes each time one blew out until one of the two rear banks blew out. To much of a pain at that point. I never would complain about my EJ253 in my life 😂😂😂

[@davidcosine]

This happened to my sub 04 wagon and it killed the car. Mechanic wouldn't touch it.

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

I got a 1/4 in drive long handle 3/8adapter and it worked great.

[@zioncarpetcleaning1758]

I just did the plugs on my Crosstrek hybrid. The driver’s side is pretty easy but there is a thick wiring harness from the extra battery on the passenger side that makes it even more fun.

[@Alniemi]

Those koken tools make me drool. Ive got a full snap on beginner tech set. but the kokens just look NICE

[@devindevin1746]

snap-on Wobbly spark plug socket :3in extention easy, no separating 40 min. Job done.

[@danzaeske6514]

Great comparisons!

[@richardsawtell256]

yup you are right , i have had to replace v6 engine plugs and some of them are a nightmare haha and as for subaru they really are not to bad to replace and put either Iridium or Platinum plugs in my EJ206 and Ej208 twin turbo which are normally good for 100,000 km so not changing them all that often either

[@orcinsd]

Thanks Mr Subaru!

[@alisdairolavhorgen2173]

Well, that was an eye opener 😁. Glad we have the SOHC.

[@kevinm5177]

Great info, thanks!

[@Turtle11086]

I’ve never understood people that struggle with these, as you explained it’s obvious that they just aren’t removing the air box and battery/washer bottle. Pretty much any FWD V6 needs the intake manifold removed to do the rear bank and some of the mid 90’s Mazdas are a full day job to get the manifold off

[@wigletron2846]

I had a first gen V6 Mazda 6. The rear bank was a nightmare even with the intake manifold removed. You still had to loosen the engine mounts and pry the engine forward to access the plugs. That alone put me off and fwd V engines.

[@MarktheRude]

This is my fuel-hose, there are many like it but this one is mine. It is really silly, but best success I had with sparkplug-operation was with a a fuel hose. I'm not joking. It's flexible, it gives just enough grip to the sparkplug, yet it minimizes the risk of ruining the threads. Ofcourse, once it's threaded in snugly, you can torque it to spec easily after that.

[@supay6537]

Okay finally. Thank you! 👍🏼

[@jorgeblanco6708]

Very useful video!

[@Quite6ee]

This is a very nice guide especially considering the replacement is 30k miles. I was under the assumption of 60k... lol electrode broke off. Lessons were learned. I'm a tech but great for diy.

[@maybenot6075]

To be fair that all depends on the plugs and if your 5 and fitted a mahoosive air filter to make it sound like a honda 🙈

[@mk1e6]

So yup... My advice is 3 ibuprofen to start.. helps with all the wild positions you need to put your hands and arms in, also helps with all the nicks and cuts on those wire ties and sheet metal. All that aside, about 4 hrs start to done and running. 2018 Crosstrek, m/t. And yes, rear plug drivers side was last and a bear. Watching this video did prep me for what to expect.. thanks.

[@hondalimited7509]

Great presentation

[@TheCrazy243]

You’re very knowledgeable on these cars! I never work on Subaru but did oil change on 2017 Subaru Forester 2.5 premium and that about it. A lot of experience in gmc/mopars/Nissan/some Hyundai/ford. But I would like to work on Subaru cars. I’ll add tools to my list. Very helpful video!

[@thelionking3321]

Some in Instagram commented about how difficult a spark plug change in a Subaru, then I searched for it and landed straight here…damnnnn this thing is extremely difficult😅

[@jere4524]

Great Video.....thank you very much.

[@nashking817]

Thank you good sir, great video!

[@justsayin4632]

Just did a 2016 Outback. Entirely from underneath. Didn’t need to remove the battery or air box. (Tho I did remove the two lower battery mount bolts from underneath to buy me a precious few millimeters needed for the driver-side rear plug, which is arguably the hardest one). Just had to drop the undertray. It seemed much easier to do it lying on my back than straining my back leaning over the top. 2.5 hours but went off without a hitch.

[@jamesflanary8146]

I’ve found that most fwd v6 vehicles the intake needs removed to replace spark plugs, as you said Fords, Toyotas, Hondas, Usually it’s the support brackets in on the back of the manifold are a pain to get off. Pro master vans are one of few that I’ve found you can get away without pulling the intake manifold. Dodge recommends pulling the intake but not necessary, it’s a bit tighter of a squeeze, but with the right combination of extensions it’s possible and still quicker than pulling the manifold. I would still rather replace Subaru spark plugs than most fwd v6 configurations.

[@jondurrett9277]

I used to work at Ford and those 5.4 3 valve engines can be a real pain if you don't know how to tackle it. Basically you get it up to temp and use a battery powered 3/8 drive impact on them. They will usually come out just fine but if they break, your day just got ruined. I drive an sti and I'm due for new plugs and I've been a little apprehensive about doing it. I've never changed plugs on a Subaru but I've seen a lot of videos so I'm pretty sure I can get it done.

[@lourancealhameed5549]

I am from Saudi Arabia keep going you’re very interested I like your job and you’re mind in job big respect for you

[@GeorgeJFW]

H6 are a but of a pain, I was actually going to mention that ford motor 😂 what a joke. The 5.7 hemi can be fun 16 but pugs most stuck right under the cab. Great video

[@scottmcd5885]

Watched the videos and did mines few months ago. That's when I found out my tube seals were leaking. Only problem I had was the plug wires wanting to slide off the coil. If this happens to you put a pick inside the boot when you slip them on to let air escape. Been going strong since then Thank you for our patience and the awesome videos!

[@DannerPlace]

Great video.

[@tyrehester5550]

Even my dealer, the largest one in the SE US doesn’t want to replace F150 plugs. They recommended a local shop that specializes in diesel engines.

[@247jeffmarshall]

Did the spark plug on my 2011 Subaru wrx and it was actually pretty simple just need a small 3” extension and spark plug socket

[@bottycarmods]

the Michael Pro 3/8 ratchet is pretty slim too. you can get them on amazon comes in a set with 12 point sockets

[@salchristiano6606]

Many folks who diy don’t realize that you can customize socket wrenches. This is doable even with some of the more cost forgiving brands or, if you’re like me, you keep your eyes out for those “unicorn” wrenches. You might only use them for one particular job, but each time you do it you smile instead of swear.

[@anthonypanganjr.9951]

Thank you for this video.

[@DayRider76]

I'm a bulk carrier fleet mechanic. Working on my Subaru's is like playing with a toy.

[@johnbuckner9693]

Lmao. I Wish I would have seen this excellent vid BEFORE I did mine! 2015 outback 2.5. The wrench size & thickness is very important! I ended up using multiple 1/4" to 3/8" adapters to make my own shorter extension as I only had 3"!

[@melissavines4153]

Thank you kindly

[@troy1672]

You're not understating about those rear spark plugs for the 3.6r. 95% of my time to do it, including getting battery and air intake out of the way, was spent on those two. If any one has short stubby fingers like me then you will be swearing while doing those two. I found that it was easier for me to start the spark plug by hand and once I was positive I was not cross threaded, then put the plug socket on to tighten it down. I also removed the rubber boot in the socket for those two for fear of not being able to get enough leverage to pull the socket off due to the tight finger space. All I had was the thicker ratchets but I will definitely get a thinner one along with a better socket before doing this again. The other 4 were fairly easy. Thanks for showing some of the ratchet and socket options out there to do this.

[@arunsharma219]

I just replaced the spark plugs on 2015 Subaru Legacy. Tools needed were: 3/8 inch socket ratchet 10MM wrench for battery hold-down bolts 14MM socket with 10 inch extension for battery plate (6 bolts in total, 2 on the inside between engine and wheel well that were the hardest to remove and put back due to lack of clearance). I spent more time removing and putting back these 2 inner bolts than replacing the 4 spark plugs. Why did Subaru put 6 bolts to secure the battery box (steel bracket underneath the plastic battery tray). I used a 1/2 inch drive ratchet (18 inch) and socket as they were torqued to tight. 10MM wrench for spark plug coil bolts 9/16 spark plug socket and 2 inch extension, remove the spark plugs. The driver side back spark plug had a little less clearance so used a 3/8 flex extension to loosen the plug and remove it. Replacement was the reverse. A swivel head extension would work as well.

[@berts4877]

I just finished changing the plugs on my 2016 2.5i Premium Legacy. I installed NGK Ruthenium HX LKAR7AHX-S plugs which are supposed to have 2X the life of Iridium so I'm really hoping I can wait another 120K miles until I do this job again. One pain was removing the 2 side bolts holding the battery tray. Luckily I had a 9/16" ratcheting box end wrench which worked on the 14mm heads. I don't know how even with a skinny ratchet there would be enough room for a socket. It seems ridiculous they need 6 bolts to mount it (4 on top and 2 on side) and hope that my reinstalling only 5 bolts (had trouble getting my hand in the tight space and threading the bottom position on the side and gave up) isn't a problem. The biggest unexpected surprise was the coil pack boot came off the body and remained stuck to the front driver side spark plug. It was not easy to remove taking a couple of hours and in the process the boot ripped in multiple pieces and was destroyed. Ultimately I had a fine hook and pick set from Harbor Freight where I was able to get it past the end of the boot and then hook it to pull it off. Luckily from O'reilly you can buy the boot only and my local store even had it in stock! So for less than $6 I was able to fix this rather than paying a minimum of $90+ for an off brand coil pack or ordering one online for $70 and waiting a couple of days with the car undriveable. Knowing what I know now, and seeing that RockAuto also sells the boots for less than 1/2 the price of O'reilly, I will probably order a couple (maybe all 4) with the spark plugs if I ever have to change them again. I had bought a Korr 14mm swivel magnetic spark plug socket on Amazon, which worked well making it easy to removed and install the plugs. The other handy tool was a magnetic retriever to pick up tools / bolts which fell down and sat on top of the plastic shroud running underneath the front of the car. Unfortunately I wasn't able to find my 10mm socket which I dropped on the passenger side. While it wasn't smooth, I like that I saved a lot of money and the car is running well and idling more smoothly.

[@4xprops457]

Thank you!

[@jamesbruno5896]

If you can change plugs without removing plenums it's a win win!

[@fvrrljr]

i'm glad i looked at video first before tackling changing my sparks plugs with my dinosaur tool set LOL my brother ex shop foreman for Lexus now works for Tesla has Snap-On tools but i'm gonna have to dish out *dinero* for my '14 Outback 6 cylinder. hated when i changed headlights, brakes but now it no problem for the next time. Man i'm getting to 'ol for this but i hate spending money more, when i can do it myself and save money

[@8892N]

Thank you Mr. Subaru for your great and informative videos. Question, have you ever changed the spark plugs on an Ascent? I was able to change the plugs on the passenger side but could not get to the plugs on the driver side. Is it really possible to change the plugs on the driver side without raising the engine? Thanks.

[@jamesws3]

Any tips on removing coil wire connectors to ensure the often heat weakened plastic clips don't break? I used small pick tools to gently lift and slide. Also, what do you suggest if they do break as I've heard can happen.

[@courtneyblackwell9211]

great run down--and the tools too, always great info to teh community!

[@enduroelite]

I’ve got pretty basic tools and have always been able to access the plugs with a series of extensions. I’ve done 2 or3 changes in my 05 OTB EJ257 I believe🤷🏾‍♂️. I have a question for you, mr S. what about gapping; do you find it 100% necessary to set the gaps properly? I’ve always done it, just wondering if I’m wasting my time.

[@larryborkstrom3580]

They can be a pain in any vehicle over 1990 what use to be a simple job now has a challenge to even to experience tech a tons of special tools

[@ramtruck2011able]

Thanks a million

[@greasemonkeymechanic1]

I have a pretty good method and set of tools for getting the spark plugs out of my subarus but I'm glad i watched anyway since i ended up ordering those koken z series sockets, definitely a better setup then i have been using. still would rather do a set of plugs in any of my subarus before doing the plugs on my 98 chevy astro again, i ended up purchasing a magnetic spark plug socket with a built in swivel extension since the rear plugs on the 4.3l in the chevy astro are a pita to get to without that tool.

[@cennsa140driver]

Sparkplug? The first time I went to change the plugs on my 06 GT I couldn't even get one of the coil packs off! I found the "secret" in the service manual. 😁

[@danlscan]

Good one!

[@shafter164]

Hi Mr Subaru... I'm done with using the bendy adaptor to build up the connections for my next spark plug job... I usually use a reall long wrench and do attack everything from the top and build up the sockets etc... I'm about to buy a flex head ratchet and wondering whether a shorter one is better or shall I just go for the longer version. Trying to get one that allows me to use it elsewhere aswell... Thanks in advance...

[@vanquishstorm3806]

Thank you for the insightful vid. I'm noticing that alot of 14MM magnetic spark plug sockets on the market are 12pt while the hex on a 2017 WRX spark plug is 6pt. Unfortunately, the 14mm Koken socket that you mentioned is currently on back-order. Have you ever used a 12pt 14mm spark plug socket to remove/install subaru 6pt hex plugs? Being that the torque spec is 12.9 ft lbs, I'm thinking the 12pt may suffice.

[@hanswolff4539]

Thanks!

[@FarrellMcGovern]

The worst vehicle I have had for replacing the spark plugs was a 1994 Ford Aerostar with the 4.0 V6 engine.

[@virangaabeywickrema3901]

I've been able to do the 6 plugs on my EZ30 with no issues at all, just needed to keep changing the length and type of extension I was using as the plug unthreaded to clear the frame. No lifting the engine required.

[@N037O]

our local Subaru dealer wanted almost $500 for spark plugs and labor on our 2012 Forester FB25.... even if the spark plugs alone are $25 each. it was super shady of them trying to justify $400 for labor for a job that would not take 1 hour to do much less 3 hours or whatever they said it would take. needless to say, I did them myself in under an hour and that was including several tutorial videos and looking at forums diy instructions thread posts.

[@jordangouveia1863]

I remove the motor mount bolt from one side and jack the motor up on an angle. That angle makes it easier to access the spark plugs. When done with one bank, I replace the bolt. Then repeat on the other side.