How Often to Change Spark Plugs

Some Howell Township drivers wonder how often to change the spark plugs in their vehicle. While experts generally recommend replacing them every 30,000 miles, it can vary depending on your specific model. Check your owner’s manual for more specific information. Find out more about when to replace these spark plugs below, and contact the Automotive Avenues service center if you need help with your spark plugs. 

What Happens if I Don’t Change Spark Plugs?

Your spark plugs are one of your ignition components that work by moving the high-voltage current from the ignition coil to ignite the combustion chamber as soon as you start your vehicle. If the spark plugs aren’t functioning properly you’ll start to see problems in the performance of your vehicle, including issues like:

• Slow or no start
• Engine misfire
• Engine is running rough
• Rough idling
• Poor acceleration
• High fuel consumption

In addition to avoiding some of the issues listed above, there are benefits that can come from regularly changing your spark plugs. Find out the benefits of replacing your spark plugs as part of the preventative maintenance schedule for your new vehicle:

• Improved fuel economy – Having a worn-out spark plug can reduce your fuel economy by as much as 30%, and replacing it can help gain that back.
• Consistent combustion system – Spark plugs allow for the continuous production of combustion and leave your vehicle’s system running as it should be.
• Your vehicle starts smoothly – Replace your spark plugs, and when you turn the key in the ignition, you can feel your vehicle start effortlessly. 
• Less harmful emissions – In addition to increasing your gas mileage, replacing spark plugs can also improve your emissions.

How to Change Spark Plugs

Replacing your worn spark plugs can easily be done with some hand tools, but you should always check your owner’s manual to get the manufacturer’s recommendations. Don’t downgrade from what the OEM recommends, as that can result in suboptimal performance or cause issues for other engine components. 

Here are some tips on how to change spark plugs when they get worn out, including what tools you’ll need:

How to Change Spark Plugs: Recommended Tools 

• Screwdriver
• Spark plug socket
• Torque wrench
• Your vehicle owner’s manual
• A vehicle repair guide
• Engine firing diagram
• Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, etc.)

How to Change Spark Plugs: Steps & Tips

1. Park your car on a flat, dry surface, and only start working once the engine is cool. 
2. Before removing anything, clean the engine area of any dirt, debris, or particles that may fall into the engine cylinder. 
3. Disconnect the battery if you need to, but consult your vehicle repair guide before you do so.
4. Clear away any obstructions, and remove the spark plug wire. Try to avoid damaging the rubber “boot” or tearing the wire terminal away from the plug wire end.
5. Remove the coil on plug (COP). You might need a screwdriver for this.
6. Using a spark plug socket, unscrew and remove the spark plug. You should try to avoid damaging the threads, but you may be able to restore them using a spark plug thread restorer. 
7. Inspect your new spark plugs and make sure that they match your engine requirements. When you install your new spark plugs, try to avoid cross-threading, as this will damage the spark plug and cylinder thread heads. Use a torque wrench to tighten to the appropriate amount of torque.
8. Now you can re-install the spark plug wires. Connect the plug wires to the correct spark plugs for each cylinder. You can refer to a firing order diagram, if necessary. Once everything has been re-installed, including components you may have had to uninstall to gain access to your spark plugs, you’re ready to start up your engine.

For Your Needs, Visit Automotive Avenues

If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, and want to confirm that you need new spark plugs, schedule a service appointment at our service center near Trenton. Our experienced technicians can get your vehicle evaluated and repaired in no time!