As a car owner, it’s essential to be aware of the perks spark plugs offer and how often you should change them. Spark plugs play a crucial role in engine performance, fuel economy, and emission levels. They are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your cylinders, so it’s important to have healthy spark plugs installed in your vehicle.
If you’re not sure whether or not you need to change your spark plugs, check out this blog post for more information. We’ll discuss the benefits of spark plugs and provide some tips on determining when it’s time for a tune-up.
What a Bad Spark Plugs Looks Like:
What once was a shiny, new set of spark plugs eventually will become dull, fouled, and damaged. Over time, the spark plug’s tip will wear down from the heat and electrical wear-and-tear. It can cause the spark plug to fire erratically or not at all.
When this happens, your car will start showing some problems. It’s important to address them immediately to avoid further damage to your engine.
Problems Caused by a Fouled Spark Plug:
If you’re observing any of the following issues, you likely have a fouled spark plug:
- Difficulty starting your engine
- Reduced fuel economy
- Poor engine performance
- Misfiring cylinders
You must consider changing your spark plugs if any or all of these signs prevail. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of changing your spark plugs.
The Benefits of Changing Your Spark Plugs:
When your car starts choking and sputtering, it’s easy to get frustrated. However, changing your spark plugs can make a world of difference. Here are some benefits of changing your spark plugs:
Enhanced Engine Performance
The engine is a hard working component of your car and needs some care to function properly. Over time, when the spark plugs become fouled, it can cause your engine to misfire. It means the spark plugs are no longer correctly igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. As a result, to generate the power you require, your engine has to work harder.
Once the spark plugs are replaced, your car feels more responsive and has better acceleration.
Improved Fuel Economy
No one likes wasting money, and that’s precisely what happens when you have spark plugs with buildup. When the mixture isn’t burning correctly, your car has to use more fuel to compensate for the loss in power. In fact, if your spark plugs are severely clogged, you might lose as much as 30% of your gas mileage.
If you’re interested in saving some money (well, of course, you are!), consider changing your spark plugs. You’ll see a significant difference in your gas tank.
A Lot Less Emissions
The world is becoming increasingly more aware of the dangers of emissions. Vehicles are a significant contributor to pollution, but you can do your part in reducing emissions by keeping up with your car’s maintenance.
Fouled spark plugs are a major cause of increased emissions. When the air-fuel mixture isn’t burning correctly, it causes your car to produce more carbon dioxide and other pollutants. In addition to being harmful for the environment, these emissions can also be harmful to your health.
When Should You Change Your Spark Plugs?
Most carmakers recommend changing your spark plugs every 20,000 miles or so. However, this number will differ depending on the make and model of your car. For example, some luxury vehicles can go up to 100,000 miles before needing new spark plugs.
Bottom Line:
While most car owners prefer dealing with car repairs, some go one step further by switching to a newer model. If you belong to the latter category, you must check our expansive inventory of new and used cars at York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ.
Contact us today and let one of our experienced sales associates help you find the perfect car for your needs!
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