How Often to Change Your Spark Plugs

Have you ever wondered, “When do I change my spark plugs?” You’re not alone. Industry experts recommend that you retire and replace your spark plugs once every 30,000 miles or so. However, recommendations will vary from model to model. If you’re still not sure of how often to change your spark plugs, there are a few telltale signs you can look for on the roads in Central Illinois.

When Do I Change My Spark Plugs?

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual can tell you exactly how often to change your spark plugs, but when things get busy, you can lose track of the last time that you got a new set! If you’re experiencing any of the following problems, your spark plugs are likely to blame:

• Your engine is slow to turn over.
• Your engine won’t start.
• Your engine misfires before turning on.
• Your engine is running rough, or loudly.
• When you idle, your engine sounds choppy or uneven.
• When you accelerate, you have trouble picking up speed.
• You’ve been spending more on gas than you usually do.

Even if you’re not having problems you’ll still want to have your spark plugs changed out at every 30,000 mile interval. For most drivers, that will mean that you’re due for spark plug service once every 2-3 years!

What Factors Affect the Lifespan of Your Spark Plugs?

If you recently had your spark plugs changed, we know how frustrating it can be to see returning problems. Your spark plugs may not last as long if:

• You rely on high-performance spark plugs, which tend to wear out more quickly.
• There’s an oil leak which is contaminating and weakening your spark plugs.
• You purchase copper spark plugs instead of the more expensive alternatives, made of platinum or iridium.

 

Benefits of Changing Your Spark Plugs

Spark plugs may not seem too important on the surface, but they work hard to ensure that you enjoy your vehicle at it’s best. Here are a few of the benefits of replacing your spark plugs on time:

• Improve your fuel economy.
  • Worn spark plugs won’t ignite fuel as easily. Changing your spark plugs can improve your efficiency by up to 30%.
• Smoother starts mean less stress!
  • With fresh spark plugs, your vehicle should start effortlessly, as soon as you turn the key.
• Cut down on harmful emissions. 
  • When your spark plugs are newer, your fuel will burn cleaner! That’s something that all Bloomington-Normal drivers can appreciate.

Take the Next Steps with the Sam Leman Automotive Group!

For a better drive, schedule spark plug service at one of our easy-to-reach local service centers. Are you a fan of the DIY spirit? You can grab fresh spark plugs at your local parts department, and take care of the process at home! Feel free to contact us with any questions. We would be glad to discuss a vehicle maintenance schedule with you.

Still doing research on parts and service? Find out why your car is leaking water,  if you need to replace your serpentine belt, or compare premium and regular gas today!