One of the most important – but often overlooked – components of a car is the spark plug. A bad or old spark plug can lead to engine problems, so it’s crucial to replace them when needed. Car owners are expected to replace spark plugs every 30,000 miles, but that number varies depending on your car’s make and model. Here are some reasons why it’s common sense to replace your spark plugs regularly.
What Damages Spark Plugs?
Over time, spark plugs become fouled or damaged from deposits of oil, fuel, and carbon buildup. This happens gradually, resulting in less and less effective performance from the spark plug until it eventually fails.
Bad Spark Plugs Can Cause Bigger Problems?
If you let fouled plugs go for too long, it can cause engine problems. For example, a misfiring engine can damage your catalytic converter, which is an expensive part to replace. In extreme cases, a bad spark plug can cause engine failure. That’s why it’s essential to catch and fix problems early on.
You could lose out on mileage as the misfiring engine improperly combusts the air-fuel mixture. Other signs include vibration during idling, car stalling on marching or idle, & engine surging.
Surging is a troubling issue when the engine does not receive enough fuel or the required charge to ignite, creating a void that can suck in fuel randomly, causing a surge in engine output. It is imperative that the fuel lines & the spark plugs be changed.
How Spark Plugs Influence Engine Performance?
A spark plug ignites the air/fuel mixture so that combustion can take place. Damaged spark plugs can’t create the necessary spark causing your engine to misfire, run less efficiently, and produce more emissions. In some cases, it can also lead to engine damage.
For these reasons, it’s essential to keep an eye on your spark plugs and replace them when required. Auto technicians recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, depending on your driving habits. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Do I Need New Spark Plugs?
Loss of power is a tell-tale indicator of a failing spark plug. A car with a bad spark plug will often struggle to accelerate and completely stall out. Other symptoms can include poor fuel economy, a rough idle, misfiring, and engine knock. If you notice any of these symptoms, have your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
How to Extend Spark Plug’s Durability?
This includes regularly changing your oil and air filter and using the proper grade of motor oil. It’s also important to avoid extended idling, which can cause your spark plugs to overheat and break down prematurely. Finally, keep an eye on your engine’s tune-up schedule, and replace your spark plugs as recommended by your manufacturer.
CDJR owners looking to replace their worn-out spark plugs can visit Feldman CDJR of Clarkston, serving Sterling Heights, MI, and enjoy quality vehicle repair and maintenance services. Our professional auto technicians use years of experience to deliver quality results.
Schedule a free service session with our team today!
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