How to Change Spark Plugs
What exactly are spark plugs, what do they do, and why and when do they need to be changed? Here are a few questions that when through my mind when I was told that I needed to have my spark plugs changed. Because I understand not everyone is well versed in the answers to these questions, I’ve put together what I thought was important to know when it comes to spark plugs.
Your spark plugs are an important part of starting your vehicle. In fact, the spark plugs are what delivers the spark to ignite the fuel and engine so that it starts. The details of exactly how your spark plugs are perfectly positioned and timed to work are truly amazing when you understand them fully.
If you want to know when you should change your spark plugs it might be smart to start by opening and reading your vehicles manufacturing manual. This is a great guide to help you maintain your vehicle in the best possible condition. Many people follow this guide to help them know when they need to change their vehicles spark plugs.
It might not be the smartest thing to overuse your spark plugs. It may seem annoying to follow the manual on when exactly to change them but it is the smartest thing to do. You will begin to feel a rough idle or loss of energy and performance the longer you wait to change your spark plugs.
Another reason that you may have to change your spark plugs is that they may be fouled, worn, or suffer from bad wires. In order to find out if it is one of these you might have to watch for firing patterns with each of your cylinders. If you’re like me and have difficulty with this it’s always best to take it into a professional to tell you what they see.
As you continue to use the same spark plugs the electrodes will wear. As this continues and gets worse, your car will have to over work to be able to ignite the spark. Soon, your car won’t be able to produce the firing voltage and your spark plugs will need to be replaced.
If you are having difficulty starting your car, if it cranks but wont turn over, the first thing you want to do is double check your spark plugs. If you find that they are wearing out then it is time to change them. Many people choose to change them themselves, but some still like to bring it in first to a mechanic to make sure that it really is the spark plugs that are the problem.
Spark plugs can also need to be tightened. Be careful with tightening them, and always make sure that you have checked the manufacturers manual for any additional requirements or warnings about spark plugs. If you don’t know how to change your spark plugs it is a very inexpensive service that most local car shops provide.
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