When Do Spark Plugs Need to Be Replaced?

Replacing your vehicle’s spark plug depends on many conditions such as manufacturer’s recommendation, spark plug condition, performance, and more. Stay tuned until the end of this article to learn more about replacing spark plugs.

How does a spark plug function?

Spark plugs create a spark of electricity which ignites a required combustion to start your vehicle’s engine. A bolt of electricity is produced across the spark plug’s small gap which ignites air and fuel mixture.

Plugs produce an arc of electricity. This process happens through the engine cycle. During the engine cycle, the valves fill the cylinder with fuel and air mixture then releases fire when combined. The upward movement of the engine’s piston creates compression and produces more energy.

At the peak of this compression, your vehicle’s engine ignites the air and fuel mixture by a small spark then creates an explosion that pressures the piston back downward. It causes your engine’s crankshaft to create power to run your vehicle.

How far can spark plugs reach?

Not every vehicle owner knows how long a spark plug lasts or when it should be replaced. Spark plug’s lifespan depends on many factors such as material it made from, running conditions, and more. Mostly, regular spark plugs can last up to 30, 000 miles. On the other hand, Iridium and Platinum spark plugs can survive not more than 55,000 miles.

What are the signs that show your spark plugs need replacement?

The following are the signs of poor spark plugs. Get to know them so you will know when you need to replace them in your vehicles.

•       Hard to start your vehicle

Most of the time, vehicle owners blame the weak battery when they’re having a hard time starting their vehicles. But sometimes faulty spark plugs are the cause. When your vehicle’s spark plugs cannot produce the needed spark to start the engine, your vehicle will find it hard to start and run.

•       Excessive wear on spark plug’s appearance

Do a visual inspection on your vehicle’s spark plugs. If the tip or the electrode has intense wear, you need to replace them right away. Check also if there’s oil foul or contamination caused by coolant or fuel. A physically worn-out spark plug must be replaced.

•       Engine Misfire

When some or all of the fuel in the chamber cannot start the ignition due to faulty spark plug, engine misfire happens. Having engine misfire in your vehicles is a struggle. It may cause a decline in your vehicle’s fuel performance and economy.

Why do you need to replace your vehicle’s spark plug?

Should you even bother to replace your vehicle’s spark plugs? Absolutely, spark plugs play an important role in your engine’s operation and performance. If you don’t replace your spark plugs when needed, your vehicle’s engine may be damaged and might affect your vehicle’s holistic performance.

You need to regularly replace your vehicle’s spark plugs to experience the following things:

• Less Harmful Carbon Emission

Newly replaced spark plugs are properly gapped, so they can perform at maximum power. This helps lessen harmful carbon emission. 

• Enhance car’s horsepower and general engine performance

When you replace your old spark plugs, it enhances your engine reaction when driving.

•  Maximize driving performance

Brand new spark plugs improve your vehicle’s performance such as smooth start, improved acceleration, and uninterrupted ignition system.

• Improve Fuel Efficiency

For a long period of time, spark plugs become less efficient which also affects fuel performance. However, if you replace your vehicle’s old spark plug, it elevates your car’s fuel efficiency, gas mileage, and fuel economy.

• Optimize Combustion Process

Old spark plugs can mess up the combustion of the air-fuel mixture inside the combustion chamber. Replace your old plugs with brand new ones so you can guarantee your vehicle’s engine keeps its good performance. It’s also crucial to prevent possible repair when damaged caused by old and faulty spark plugs.

How do you properly replace a spark plug?

Can you replace spark plugs all by yourself? Of course, you can. Continue reading this article so you will know the detailed procedure on how to properly replace your vehicle’s spark plugs.

Follow the step-by-step process below:

Step 1. Necessary preparation

Before you start the spark plug replacement, make sure to turn off the ignition and let the engine stay cold. For safety purposes, remove the cable from the battery’s negative terminal. Disconnect the air cleaner.

Step 2. Check spark plug gap

You can check the manufacturer’s specification to know the accurate gap for your vehicle’s specific spark plugs. To ensure your spark plugs have the correct gap, you can also use a feeler gauge.

Step 3. Identify spark plug type/model

Refer to your owner’s manual to identify the specific spark plug type/model in your vehicle.

Step 4. Detach the Plug’s Caps

Detach the ignition coil electrical parts to check for damages. You must label the coils so you won’t have a hard time reinstalling them.     

Step 5. Clean everything

Get rid of any dirt in the spark plug area.

Step 6. Disconnect the old spark plug

Carefully remove the spark plug following the instructions from the user’s manual. Use the right tools.

Step 7. Use a lubricant

Before installing your new spark plug, put a lubricant to prevent it from sticking with other metal components.

Step 8. Install your brand-new spark plug

Install your new spark plug by doing everything in order from the owner’s manual.

Step 9. Final Step

Reconnect the ignition coil connectors, tighten any mounting bolts with the right torque specification. Replace old plastic casing with a new one.

FAQs

Can I replace spark plugs on my own?

Spark plug replacement is a straightforward task if you do it on your own. You just have to follow the user’s manual to do it right and avoid any complications.

How do I know if I installed the spark plugs correctly?

When you follow the instructions from the owner’s manual and your vehicle starts smoothly, you have installed your spark plugs successfully.

How far can you drive if you don’t replace your vehicle’s spark plug?

You can check your user’s manual on how far you can drive with your spark plugs. Some spark plugs can survive up to 18,000 miles, others at 35,000 miles. Also, there are types of spark plugs that can reach up to 100,000 miles.

Conclusion

The best way to determine how often you should replace spark plugs is to follow your manufacturer’s recommendation. You can find there every information you need to take good care of your vehicle’s spark plugs.