Recognizing Signs of Worn Spark Plugs

If none of the following issues are forcing you to replace your spark plugs, you can typically change them every 30,000 to 90,000 miles depending on the make and model of your car. Your owner’s manual reveals the schedule of your vehicle. For example, the Toyota Corolla requires its spark plugs replaced every 60,000 miles.

Replacing spark plugs yourself can vary in difficulty, depending on accessibility. Older vehicles typically offer easier access, requiring basic tools like wrenches and a new set of spark plugs, with instructions available in the owner's manual or online guides.

However, modern vehicles with complex electronic systems can pose challenges due to limited access to spark plugs obstructed by various components.

You may find the procedure impossible to do in more modern vehicles. With additional electronics, sensors, and computers, current engines have expanded to fill nearly every open space in their compartments. The spark plugs are generally difficult to reach because they’re blocked by other components.

Recognizing Signs of Worn Spark Plugs:

As your vehicle's spark plugs wear down, they can significantly impact its performance. Here are some indicators to watch out for:

Rough Idling:

If you notice unusual sounds like knocking or rattling emanating from your engine while driving, coupled with abnormal vibrations, it could be due to misfires caused by worn-out spark plugs.

Slow Acceleration:

Dirty or ineffective spark plugs can fail to create sparks efficiently, resulting in sluggish acceleration. In severe cases, your engine might experience intermittent stalls and sputtering, especially problematic on high-speed roads.

Hard Starting:

Difficulty in starting your vehicle might not always be attributed to a faulty battery, particularly if electrical components in the cabin are functioning fine. Worn spark plugs can also hinder spark production, making engine ignition a challenge.

Check Engine Light Activation:

The illumination of the check engine light can signal various issues, including spark plug deterioration. A steady light may indicate a misfire, while a blinking light suggests a critical problem necessitating immediate spark plug replacement.

Poor Fuel Economy:

Faulty spark plugs can force the engine to work harder, resulting in increased fuel consumption and emissions, ultimately leading to reduced fuel efficiency