How Often to Change Spark Plugs

row of spark plugs

We understand that keeping on top of the required maintenance for your new vehicle can feel overwhelming. Luckily for our Schertz drivers, our knowledgeable service center team is here to help. That’s why we’ve compiled all the information you need to know on how often to change spark plugs and what happens when you don’t. 

Experts generally recommend replacing them every 30,000 miles, but it’s important to keep in mind that it can vary depending on your vehicle. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for more specific information if you’re unsure. Contact our Selma service center today so we can help keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

What Happens if I Don’t Change Spark Plugs?

Your spark plugs are one of your ignition components that work by moving the high-voltage current from the ignition coil to ignite the combustion chamber as soon as you start your vehicle. If the spark plugs aren’t functioning properly you’ll start to see problems in the performance of your vehicle in San Antonio, including issues like:

  • Slow or no start
  • Engine misfire
  • Engine is running rough
  • Rough idling
  • Poor acceleration
  • High fuel consumption

In addition to avoiding some of the issues listed above, there are other benefits that can come from regularly changing your spark plugs. Find out the benefits of replacing your spark plugs as part of the preventative maintenance schedule for your new vehicle:

  • Improved fuel economy – Having a worn-out spark plug can reduce your fuel economy by as much as 30%, and replacing it can help gain that back.
  • Consistent combustion system – Spark plugs allow for the continuous production of combustion and leave your vehicle’s system running as it should be.
  • Your Vehicle Starts Smoothly – Replace your spark plugs, and when you turn the key in the ignition, you can feel your vehicle start effortlessly. 
  • Less harmful emissions – Replacing your vehicle’s spark plugs can not only help increase your gas mileage but also improve your emissions. 

How to Change Spark Plugs

Replacing your worn spark plugs can easily be done with some hand tools, but you should always check your owner’s manual to get our manufacturer’s recommendations. Don’t downgrade from what the OEM recommends, as that can result in suboptimal performance or cause issues for other engine components. 

Here are some tips on how to change spark plugs when they get worn out, including what tools you’ll need:

How to Change Spark Plugs: Recommended Tools 

  • Screwdriver
  • Spark Plug Socket
  • Torque Wrench
  • Your vehicle owner’s manual
  • A vehicle repair guide
  • Engine firing diagram
  • Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, goggles, etc.)

How to Change Spark Plugs: Steps & Tips

  1. Park your car on a flat and dry surface, and only start working once the engine is cool. 
  2. Before removing anything, clean the engine area of any dirt, debris, or particles that may fall into the engine cylinder. 
  3. Disconnect the battery if you need to, but consult your vehicle repair guide before you do so.
  4. Clear away any obstructions, and remove the spark plug wire. Try to avoid damaging the rubber “boot” or tearing the wire terminal away from the plug wire end.
  5. Remove the coil on plug (COP). You might need a screwdriver for this.
  6. Using a spark plug socket, unscrew and remove the spark plug. You should try to avoid damaging the threads, but you may be able to restore them using a spark plug thread restorer. 
  7. Inspect your new spark plugs and make sure that they match your engine requirements. When you install your new spark plugs, try to avoid cross-threading, as this will damage the spark plug and cylinder thread heads. Use a torque wrench to tighten to the appropriate amount of torque.
  8. Now you can re-install the spark plug wires. Connect the plug wires to the correct spark plugs for each cylinder. You can refer to a firing order diagram, if necessary. Once everything has been re-installed, including components you may have had to uninstall to gain access to your spark plugs, you’re ready to start up your engine.

For All Your Maintenance Needs, Visit Gunn Buick GMC

When you’re ready to bring your vehicle in, whether it’s for routine maintenance or an issue that needs to be resolved, our Selma service team can help get you back out on the Cibolo roads as soon as possible. Schedule a service appointment or review our oil change, brakes, and battery pages online for more detailed information.

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16440 Interstate 35 N, Selma, TX, 78154
Gunn Buick GMC 29.58823, -98.29771.