How to change spark plugs in 5 easy steps
Anyone who drives a gasoline engine vehicle knows the importance of spark plugs. These components generate the spark that ignites the mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. What you may not know is that spark plugs don’t last forever.
Every time a spark plug produces a spark, the metal in its two electrodes wears down a little. After a while, the electrodes corrode so much that they can no longer produce the spark needed to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. At this point, you’ll start to experience symptoms of faulty spark plugs, including misfires, reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and worse fuel economy.
In this article, we’ll show you how to determine what type of spark plugs you need, the tools you’ll need to change them yourself, and the steps to follow.
In most modern vehicles, spark plugs should be replaced every 80,000 to 100,000 miles, although this varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. The best way to ensure you’re changing your spark plugs at the recommended intervals is to read your vehicle’s owner’s manual. To replace your spark plugs, you need to determine what type of spark plugs your car needs. Knowing the year, make, and model of your car will help you determine what type of spark plugs you need to purchase. You can usually find this information in your owner’s manual, your local dealer’s service department, an auto parts store, or online.
Before you can replace your spark plugs, you’ll also need to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need the correct size spark plug socket, ratchet, extensions, torque wrench, spark plug gap tool, spark plug socket puller, and possibly anti-seize lubricant. Once you have the necessary tools, you will need to disconnect the battery ground cable to avoid accidental electric shock while working. How to replace spark plugs:
Step 1) Remove the spark plug wires
The first step is to remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. This can be done with a spark plug connector puller or needle nose pliers. You must be careful not to pull too hard on the cable as this can damage the connection.
Step 2) Remove the old spark plug
Once the wires are removed, you can remove the old spark plugs. You will need to use a spark plug socket to remove the old spark plugs from the engine. Be sure to record the order of the spark plugs so you can replace them in the correct order. If this is your first time doing it, we recommend replacing the spark plugs one at a time.
Step 3) Install the new spark plugs
Once you have removed the old spark plugs, you can replace them with the new ones. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions in your car’s owner’s manual and be sure to use a spark plug gapping tool to check the gap on the new spark plugs. If the distance is too small or too large, you will need to adjust it accordingly.
Step 4) Reinstall the Spark Plug Wires
Once you have installed the new spark plugs, you can reinstall the spark plug wires. Be sure to connect the cables in the correct order. Again, it is safer to replace the spark plugs individually, even if it takes longer. Once the cables are secured, you can move on to the next step. Step 5) Reconnect the negative battery cable
Once all spark plugs are installed, you can reconnect the negative battery cable. This will restore power to your car’s electrical system. Then start your car and see if it runs properly.
If all spark plugs are working properly, your car should start right up. Once your car is running, it’s important to watch for signs of misfiring. If you notice misfires, you may need to adjust the spark plug gap.
Do I need special tools to replace spark plugs?
No, you don’t need special tools to replace spark plugs. The tools you need, as described above, are relatively simple, and most people who perform basic car maintenance already own them. What happens if you don’t replace your spark plugs?
If you don’t replace your spark plugs, you can experience a variety of issues with your engine performance. These issues can include reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, increased emissions, increased engine noise, engine starting difficulties, and increased maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Spark plugs play a vital role in the operation of your car’s engine. To keep your car running smoothly and efficiently, it’s important to replace your spark plugs regularly according to your car manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Almost anyone can change their own spark plugs. If you’ve ever changed your own oil, you’ll no doubt have no problem changing spark plugs.