A car is a network of various systems all working together to move the vehicle and take you from one point to another. One of the systems that power up your car is its electrical system. There are many different components and important parts that you should know about. For today, we’ll get to know more about your car’s spark plugs.
What Are Car Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs are one of the most important parts of your car’s engine. They are responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders to produce combustion.
In order for your car’s engine to start, it needs three things: fuel, air, and a spark. The spark plugs are what provide the spark. When the spark plugs fire, they create a mini explosion that starts the engine. The combustion process is what powers your car and keeps it running. It’s a very important part!
Spark plugs have two electrode ends. One side is connected to the spark plug wire, and the other side protrudes out into the cylinder. When the engine is running, the spark plugs fire in a specific order. The firing order is determined by your car’s manufacturer.
The spark plugs fire thousands of times per minute! They have to be able to withstand extreme heat and pressure.
How Often Should I Replace Them?
Spark plugs typically need to be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, this number can vary depending on the make and model of your car as well as your driving habits.
If you drive in stop-and-go traffic often, or if you frequently drive short distances, your spark plugs may need to be replaced more often. This is because these types of driving habits put more stress on the engine, which can cause the spark plugs to wear out faster.
On the other hand, if you mostly drive long distances on highways, your spark plugs may last longer. This is because highway driving is easier on the engine than stop-and-go city driving.
Symptoms Of A Bad Spark Plug
If a spark plug is not firing correctly, it can cause all sorts of problems. Here are some common symptoms of a bad spark plug:
– Poor fuel economy
– Misfiring engine
– Check engine light is on
– Engine is running rough
– Car is hard to start
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic and have them check the spark plugs. A simple tune-up can often fix the problem.
How To Replace Spark Plugs
Replacing spark plugs is not a difficult task, but it’s one that should be left to a professional. They will have the right tools and equipment to do the job quickly and safely.
If you’re interested in replacing your own spark plugs, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to do:
– Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This will prevent accidentally shocking yourself while working on the car.
– Locate the spark plugs. They will be on the side of the engine block.
– Use a spark plug socket and ratchet to remove the old spark plugs. Be careful not to drop them!
– Insert the new spark plugs into the socket and hand-tighten them. Don’t use the ratchet to tighten them, as this could damage the threads.
– Reconnect the negative battery terminal and start the car to make sure everything is working properly.
Replacing spark plugs is a fairly easy task, but it’s always best to consult a professional if you’re unsure about anything.
Why Do Spark Plugs Fail?
There are a few reasons why spark plugs may fail. Here are some of the most common:
– Engine deposits: Over time, engine deposits can build up on the spark plugs. This can cause them to fire less efficiently.
– Oil contamination: If oil gets onto the spark plugs, it can cause them to fail. This is usually due to a bad seal in the engine.
– Wear and tear: Spark plugs are designed to last for a long time, but they will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.
If you’re not sure why your spark plugs failed, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic and have them take a look. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
When your car won’t start, it is most likely caused by a fault in the electrical system. Sometimes all you need is to jumpstart your vehicle and when you do, you can call on Green Light Towing for help. Their jump start service is fast and reliable and available for those who are in Virginia Beach and surrounding areas…
