Like it is with all other cars, the engine of your car is made of several parts most which are small but very vital; one of these parts is the spark plug. To most vehicle owners and automobile lovers, when and when not to replace spark plug is always tough trivia. This post will reveal how long you can drive with bad spark plugs, how to tell, and why it is best not to wait.
The Role of Spark Plugs in Your Vehicle
As small as it may be, every general internal combustion engine has one thing in common — the spark plug. It is relatively small but critically involved in initiating the operation of your car’s engine. Spark plugs deliver the spark that ignites air-fuel combination inside the engine’s cylinders. Without them, your engine just will not start.
These plugs are vital for an engines performance when they are in their proper working conditions. But if a spark plug is worn out or in the failing condition it will lead to mechanical problems one after another. Owners of cars should therefore get to appreciate the importance of having healthy spark plugs for the car to run efficiently.
Signs Your Spark Plugs Might Be Failing
Recognizing the signs of failing spark plugs can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. One of the most common indicators is a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. Bad spark plugs cause your engine to work harder, consuming more gas in the process.
Another tell-tale sign is a rough idle. If your car shakes or vibrates more than usual while idle, it might be time to check your spark plugs. Additionally, slow acceleration or trouble starting the engine can suggest spark plug issues. Paying attention to these signs can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
How Long Can You Drive?
The million dollar question to those drivers is, “How long should one drive with bad spark plugs?” The truth is, it depends. While some cars might get to drive a few hundred of miles, others could suffer major issues much earlier.
In general, one should not take their car for more of a test after noticing some spark plug problems. If the spark plugs are faulty and you insist on continuing to drive, you end up with misfires, damage to catalytic converter and at times total failure of the engine. As with most automobile problems, it is always advisable to take action if there is a problem with the spark plugs to prevent it worsening.
The Risks of Ignoring Spark Plug Problems
It is not only that it is possible to drive with bad spark plugs and still have the car running poorly and vibrating heavily, but … Overlooking the issue will cause several other problems eminent to occur. For example, dirty spark plugs may cause the engine’s ‘check light’ which is a tell-tale sign of as more serious issue that needs addressing.
Also, faulty spark plugs may result in increased emission levels, which will make your car to fail emissions checks. This raises some some legal questions depending on the laws in the state that you live in. Be as fast as you can to address this issue as the longer you take the more expensive your repairing may become.
How Often Should You Replace Spark Plugs?
As a rule, it is necessary to make proper spark plugs’ maintenance in order to increase their useful life. The spark plugs should be replaced according to the type of plug and the automobile; most manufacturers suggest this to happen after 30,000 to 100,000 miles. This is however not permanent as to know the exact time you should be servicing your car it is advisable to look at your car’s manual or any experienced mechanic.
Going by routine replacement assures your engines are in good shape while at the same time avoid incidences that would lead to big complications later. It would be wise to routinely take your car for servicing to avoid he had to spend so much money to have the car repaired.
Choosing the Right Spark Plugs
What this means is that there are differences between spark plugs regardless of the manufacturer. It is therefore important to be very selective when choosing the types to have when replacing them. Copper spark plugs on the other hand costs less but it also prone to wearing out often. While metallic cigarette plugs are cheaper, platinum and iridium plugs are expensive since they have a longer durability.
Both kinds have their benefits and drawbacks, so select with the driving practices and maintenance inclinations in mind. An experience mechanic can also give good recommendations that would enable you make the right decision.
DIY Spark Plug Replacement
For those ordinary mechanics who prefer do it yourself with their automobiles, it is not impossible to change the spark plugs during a weekend. The tools required are a spark plug socket, a ratchet of sorts and more very crucially a spark plug gap gauge. Always ensure that your engine is cold before carrying out any work to avoid this incidences.
Unbolt each of the old spark plugs gently inspecting them while removing. Any kind of problem with the plugs such as damaged or ripped, or simply extremely worn out plugs may also point out other problems with the engine. Insert the new plugs by hand first into the holes, in order not to spoil the threads with a ratchet. Be doubly sure on the space from the electrodes to the actual plug .
When to Consult a Professional
Here, though, there are occasions where seeking the help of a professional mechanic is wise, even when replacing spark plugs is well within the reach of many a DIY mechanic. If you face any problems or the concept of working under the bonnet scares you, then a good mechanic is a comforting sight.
Apart from checking and confirming that your spark plugs are properly placed, a professional will help you find out what could have led to the debacle in the first place. In some cases, getting professional help is always time-effective, cost-effective, and just plain good for your health.
The Cost of Spark Plug Replacement
Another reason that many car owners worry is the price they have to pay when it is time to replace a spark plug. The good news is that spark plugs themselves are not overly expensive, nor are they parts that are used all that often. According to the type of plug that is required in your vehicle and according to the type of your vehicle, the cost could anything between $10-$30 per plug.
The cost of labour depends on the location of the work plus the point that the work is complex, but always it is better to invest something for proper maintenance. This is a fact; well-maintained engines run better, more efficiently, and for a longer period than poorly maintained engines, not to mention the cost of frequent repairs in the long-run.
Also Read: How long Do Coilovers Last
Improving Engine Performance
When you have had your spark plugs change, you are likely to realize that there has been a change in the performance of the engine. Your car might start more quickly, acceleration feels better, and even better fuel economy could be achieved.
These benefits explain why care needs to be taken to ensure that the spark plugs are healthy. They make a major remarkable impact on the general performance of your car, giving you more comfort on the road and minimizing the possibility of your car’s breakdown.
Cultivating Good Maintenance Habits
Creating a preventive maintenance schedule is not just about spark plugs. It is therefore important that one should check his or her vehicles fluids often and also inspect its tires and brakes as doing so will eliminate several of the many problems. This also improves the lifespan of the car and minimizing issues that are left unattended mainly because you understand better how your car works.
Whether it is a new or an experienced car owner proper care for the car is something that amounts to a good value since it pays off in efficiency, reliability, etc. Perhaps the biggest advantage of maintaining a maintenance log is that it can tell you when a service is due, or whether or not something needs to be fixed again soon.
Conclusion
In other words, trying to drive wheeled vehicle with bad spark plugs doesn’t seem like it’s something that one wants to be on for very long. So, when you recognize the signs of failing plugs, it also means you avoid being a victim of severe damages to your car. It was highlighted that timely repair and frequent changes of parts within engines are crucial to satisfying the standard ones.
If you are still doubting the health of any spark plugs check with Mechanic to assure your car is optimal. For the readers who want to read more information then do reference our library of articles categorically falling under vehicle maintenance. Get a handle of your car today in order for you to get a ride that is smooth and without any hitches.
