Vehicle randomly lose power and intermittently starts 'bucking'?

Tiny
ANTHISTEMI
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 SUBARU IMPREZA
  • 2.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 150,000 MILES
Hello.

The check engine light flashes and the anti-skid light comes on. The lights only stay on while the car is bucking. Once the bucking stops, the lights stop flashing.

The car also completely stalls when cold and won't restart right away.

I've tried to have my mechanic look at it, but I can never get it to do this when he is looking at it (of course).

Any help is greatly appreciated!
Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 5:23 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,913 POSTS
This sounds like a typical engine misfire, but we should run the codes to see what comes up. You can get a code scanner from Amazon for about $20.00.

Here is a guide/video to show you how:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Here is a scanner link:

https://amzn.to/3Qi1SS6

This will tell you which cylinder is having the issue. I have also included how to change out the spark plugs in the diagrams below.

Manufacturer and type .................... NGK: FR5AP-11
Thread size (diameter, pitch, length) mm .................... 14, 1.25, 19
Spark plug gap mm (in) .................... 1.0 - 1.1 (0.039 - 0.043)
Electrode .................... Platinum

Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.
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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 11:44 AM
Tiny
ANTHISTEMI
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Thanks for the quick response. I'll let you know how it goes.
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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 4:32 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,913 POSTS
Please do I want to help you get this fixed.
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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 4:33 PM

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