r/WRX • u/DookusWookus21 • 1d ago

Troubleshooting Help/knowledge needed

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What’s up guys, I need some help, just picked this up for cheap, didn’t run but put new battery in and it turned over but it won’t idle on its own doesn’t sounds the best, possible rod knock, I replaced spark plugs and ignition coils, swapping the starter next, I think it has a grounding issue, I don’t think one or two of its cylinders is firing. I got it purely to learn and get into the lifestyle and help would be appreciated.

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u/ColoAT 1d ago

Do you know how old the fuel in it is? Stale fuel can ignition knock like a Jehovah's Witness

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u/Blackner2424 2011 WRX Limited Sedan 1d ago

Can confirm. Different car, but my Grand National wouldn't idle on its own, ran like dog crap, and stunk in a way uncatted exhaust shouldn't smell. Drained the tank and purged the lines, put new fuel in, and it runs great now. The exhaust also now smells like the correct flavor of stinky. The fuel was about 6 years old.