Seguin and Austin drivers ask us how often to change spark plugs in their vehicles. While experts generally recommend replacing them every 30,000 miles, it varies depending on your model. Review your owner’s manual for specific information. Learn more about how often to change spark plugs below. Contact the SEWELL INEOS GRENADIER SAN ANTONIO service center if you require assistance from our technicians. Our store in San Antonio is here to help.
Your spark plugs are one of your ignition components. They move the high-voltage current from the ignition coil at the top of the plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the combustion chamber when you start your vehicle. Over time, these plugs wear out or accumulate carbon deposits from burning the air-fuel mixture, causing spark failure. If your spark plugs are not functioning properly, you will notice performance issues such as:
A slow start or a failure to start
Engine misfire
Poor, rough engine performance
Rough idling
Poor acceleration
High fuel consumption
In addition to avoiding the issues listed above, regularly replacing your spark plugs is beneficial for several reasons. Review the advantages of replacing your spark plugs as part of the preventative maintenance schedule for your new vehicle:
Improved fuel economy: A worn-out spark plug may reduce fuel economy by up to 30% because not all the fuel-air mixture gets ignited and burned. Replacing it with a new one may help restore fuel efficiency.
Consistent combustion system: Correctly functioning spark plugs allow for smooth, continuous combustion, enabling your vehicle to run as it should.
Your vehicle starts smoothly: Your vehicle should start effortlessly with a turn of the key. Replace your spark plugs according to the timeframe set in your owner’s manual to maintain proper functionality.
Less harmful emissions: Since faulty spark plugs result in inconsistent ignition and incomplete combustion, your vehicle will not burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. Unburned gases exit via your vehicle’s exhaust system, contributing to harmful emissions and increased pollution. In addition to restoring fuel efficiency, replacing spark plugs reduces harmful emissions.
How to change spark plugs
While you should be able to replace your worn spark plugs with some hand tools, always check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Do not downgrade from what the OEM recommends. This may 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, starting with the tools youneed:
How to change spark plugs: recommended tools
Screwdriver
Compressed air
Spark plug socket
Torque wrench
Your vehicle owner’s manual
A vehicle repair guide
Engine firing diagram
Wire loom separators or spark plug wire separators
Some dielectric grease
Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, etc.)
How to change spark plugs: steps and tips
Park your vehicle on a flat, dry surface. Start working once the engine cools to avoid injuries.
Before removing anything, clean the engine area of any dirt, debris, or particles in the engine cylinder.
Disconnect the battery, but consult your vehicle repair guide beforehand for any specific make/model instructions. Disconnect the negative terminal first to disable the ignition system and avoid accidental shocks.
Eliminate obstructions using compressed air, then remove the spark plug wire. Avoid damaging the rubber “boot” or tearing the wire terminal away from the plug wire end. Dielectric grease may be applied on the spark plug terminal or inside the boot. This prevents the plug from sticking the next time it needs replacing.
Remove the coil on plug (COP). You might need a screwdriver for this.
Using a spark plug socket, unscrew and remove the spark plug. Take care to prevent thread damage. If these componentssustain damage, try restoring them using a spark plug thread restorer.
Inspect your new spark plugs and ensure they match your engine requirements. When you install new spark plugs, try to avoid cross-threading. Doing so will damage the spark plug and cylinder thread heads. Use a torque wrench to achieve the appropriate amount of torque.
Now you will reinstall the spark plug wires. Connect the plug wires to the correct spark plugs for each cylinder. Refer to a firing order diagram if necessary. You may apply spark plug wire separators at this time to protect them and prevent cross-firing and abrasion. Once everything has been reinstalled, you are ready to start your engine.
For your needs, visit SEWELL INEOS GRENADIER SAN ANTONIO
If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above and want to confirm that you need new spark plugs,make a service reservationat our store near New Braunfels. Our experienced technicians will get your vehicle evaluated and repaired quickly. For more helpful maintenance information, review our guides on steering wheel shaking and cabin gas odors.
