Spark plugs are metal devices that are used to generate an electric spark in the combustion chamber of a car’s engine. The process is necessary for igniting fuel so that it can burn. They are a crucial part of any engine, and should be replaced on a regular basis according to your manufacturer’s guidelines.
What do Spark Plugs do?
The spark from the spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the air/fuel mixture inside your engine’s cylinder, producing explosive power which makes the piston move down and up or reciprocate four times per revolution of the crankshaft thereby turning your wheels and creating motion.
Benefits of changing spark plugs:
You will get better gas mileage
The correct heat range and plug gap can reduce the amount of fuel and air going into the combustion chamber. This results in a more efficient burn, which cuts down on fuel consumption and increases your vehicle’s gas mileage.
More power from your motor
Changing your spark plugs will help increase the power of the motor, thus making it run smoother. The new plugs will also increase the plug gap, which can result in more torque and fewer emissions.
Save money on gas in general
The better gas mileage you get when you change your spark plugs will mean that you spend less on fuel in general, so you’ll have more cash left over each month for other things like car repairs or vacations.
Longer engine life span
Changing your spark plugs regularly prolongs the life of your engine, reducing wear and tear as well as increasing its resale value.
Get rid of engine noise
Noise from poor quality, worn out or faulty spark plugs can interfere with the proper operation of your engine. Replacing them will stop the knocking and buzzing sounds and restore your engines’ smooth operation.
Better acceleration.
Acceleration problems can be caused by either worn-out spark plugs or a faulty ignition system, which causes a weak electrical connection between the car’s computer and spark plugs. Engines with old spark plugs take longer to start than when they are in good condition.
Fewer engine deposits
Engine deposits can build up on spark plugs, causing them to lose their effectiveness at providing a good spark or run too hot at higher RPMs. Spark plugs that are constantly working hard may get too hot and burn out prematurely.
H. Increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The proper heat range of your spark plugs and your engines’ tune-up will improve fuel efficiency and reduce harmful emissions into the environment surrounding you.
A properly tuned engine will contain the correct amount of fuel-air mixture for the best combustion possible, resulting in cleaner emissions and fewer pollutants entering the air we breathe.
Cleaner engine
The deposits that build up on your spark plugs attract corrosive elements and, over time, can prevent you from getting full power from your motor. When you change these regularly, you will notice a cleaner engine that runs cooler and more efficiently.
Increased lifespan of your engine
When the spark plugs in your car are replaced regularly, they help increase its longevity and the life of its engine parts as well as interior components like wiring and hoses, saving you money in the long run.
Your drive will be smoother
with less vibration and engine noise. The more efficiently your engine burns fuel to generate power, the smoother your car will run. Your vehicle’s ride will be better as you will notice less vibration and noise from the motor, and feel a smoother acceleration from the wheels turning.
Less carbon
build-up on your spark plugs which can ignite at higher temperatures resulting in inefficient combustion or even engine failure.
Save money on repairs
later on down the road if an inspection is done to catch potential problems before they get out of hand. N. Easier cold starts will be a result of new plugs and a working ignition system.
You will be helping the environment by reducing carbon emissions and particulates from the burning of fossil fuels.
Does changing spark plugs make a difference?
Yes, it will produce a difference and probably a good one. By replacing spark plugs you are basically replacing the torch that starts your engine’s fire.
If one of your spark plugs isn’t working properly your engine is not going to work as well as it should. It is best to change all of them at one time so you don’t have the possibility of a car that doesn’t have enough power to start or run properly or worse yet, not having any spark plugs at all.
If you want better gas mileage, better acceleration, and just a smoother running vehicle you should consider changing your spark plugs regularly.
Can changing spark plugs improve performance?
For the most part yes. The main reason for changing your plugs is to improve performance. You will notice better performance as early as your first drive after changing them. One of the noticeable changes will be in the acceleration both from a stop and also at higher speeds.
Another change you will notice is that the engine temperature will remain more consistent than before. If you are going to replace one or more of your spark plugs, replace all of them at once to prevent any problems with erratic running or an engine that won’t start rather than just changing one or two of them and hoping for the best.
Is it really necessary to change spark plugs?
As with most things, the answer to this question is yes and no. If your spark plugs are worn out or have been exposed to an ignition source that has failed, then it may be best to change them.
You should also check your plugs if you notice any change in the way your car is running. If the power seems to be lacking or there is a lack of acceleration, strange noises from underneath the car all these things may indicate that you should change your spark plugs as soon as possible.
Getting new spark plugs installed can be very costly though and another bonus of doing it yourself is saving money by doing it yourself instead of having professionals do it for you.
What happens if you don’t change your spark plugs?
Not changing your spark plugs can have serious consequences. Before they die completely, you will notice a decrease in gas mileage and an increase in engine temperature.
Your ignition system will wear out faster because the spark plugs are not igniting a proper amount of fuel mixture. The engine will also run rougher and louder than it should as well.
After reaching this point, the car may experience stalling problems or have difficulty starting. If you continue to run them without replacing them it is possible that your engine’s valve seals could be damaged along with other components that are internal to the cylinders.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.