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HomeRepair HelpSubaru RepairSubaru Small engine runs poorly Repair
Subaru Small engine runs poorly
When your Subaru small engine runs poorly, runs rough, surges, sputters, hesitates, or loses power, start with the carburetor. A clogged Subaru small engine carburetor is the most common cause, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in the carburetor during storage. Evaporated fuel leaves a sticky residue that restricts fuel flow and causes small engine carburetor problems. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, then rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not restore smooth operation. A Subaru small engine carburetor repair kit can provide the gaskets, needle valve, and other parts needed for an overhaul. Next, inspect the spark plug for a cracked insulator, burned electrode, heavy carbon buildup, or weak spark, and replace it if necessary. A clogged fuel filter is another possible cause, particularly after old fuel has been left in the fuel tank. Drain the old fuel and install a new filter before testing the engine again. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, repair kit, spark plug, or fuel filter for your specific Subaru engine.
01 - Subaru Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - Subaru Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Subaru Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
Highly Likely
04 - Subaru Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the engine, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Subaru small engine running rough or poorly?
Can old fuel cause my Subaru small engine to sputter, surge, or lose power?
How do I test the spark plug on a Subaru small engine that runs poorly?
What should I check before replacing the carburetor on a Subaru small engine?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my Subaru small engine?