Vehicle randomly lose power and intermittently starts 'bucking'?

2008 SUBARU IMPREZA

150,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 4WD • MANUAL

ANTHISTEMI

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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!

Aug 30, 2022 at 5:23 AM

STRAILER

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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.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Aug 30, 2022 at 11:44 AM

ANTHISTEMI

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Thanks for the quick response. I'll let you know how it goes.

Aug 30, 2022 at 4:32 PM

STRAILER

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Please do I want to help you get this fixed.

Aug 30, 2022 at 4:33 PM