Changing Spark Plugs

Recently, I was encouraged to get my spark plugs changed when a friend of mine was looking over my car. It made me start to wonder what exactly spark plugs do, and the whens and whys of changing them. Here are some things to help anyone else who is wondering the exact same thing.

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.

When it comes to when and why you should change your spark plugs, there are a couple of different reasons why they need to be changed. Some people like to follow the mileage that is suggested by there vehicles manufacturing manual that comes with your car. If you want to really prevent and maintain your car, you’ll want to follow that manual.

Spark plugs, just like anything else in your vehicle, are going to work the best when used for the right amount of time. If you over use them you can experience increased emissions, rough idle, and loss of ideal performance and energy. Following the exact timing of your manufacturer’s vehicle manual may seem a naissance at times but it really is there to help you maintain a long lasting vehicle.

There are other reasons too that you have to change your spark plugs, these include fouled, worn, or spark plugs with bad wires. These are a bit harder to spot and most likely you will have to take your car to a local car shop to have them checked out. If you are very familiar with cars you will be bale to spot a certain firing pattern with your cylinders that will lead to why your spark plugs may or may not be functioning properly.

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.

Also check your vehicles manufacturers manual to see if what it says about spark plugs. Different vehicles may have different warnings and requirements. If you have any further questions talk to your local car shop, they will be able to tell you exactly what your vehicle needs.