It may surprise you to learn that, sometimes, a maintenance task as simple as changing your spark plugs can significantly increase your vehicle’s overall performance. Spark plugs may be small, but they play a very important role in the proper operation of your vehicle. Being able to tell when it’s time to replace yours can help you keep your engine running at its best.
What Does a Spark Plug Do?
Just as the name implies, spark plugs create a spark inside your engine’s cylinders, igniting the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chambers and generating power to run your engine. They help start your engine and keep it running smoothly.
How Often Do Spark Plugs Need to be Changed?
Fortunately, spark plugs do not need to be changed very often. Most modern vehicles only need their spark plugs changed every 30,000 miles, with some lasting up to 100,000 miles. Your owner’s manual should be able to tell you the frequency your manufacturer recommends.
No matter how often your vehicle should have them changed, it is important to have all spark plugs replaced at the same time. This helps eliminate potential issues before your next scheduled replacement. And, considering how inexpensive spark plugs are, is not going to require a big investment.
5 Signs You May Need New Spark Plugs
You’re getting poor gas mileage.
As your spark plugs age, the spacing of the electrodes can expand or contract, making the plug spark less efficiently. This often leads to wasted fuel, and a reduction in your gas mileage. If you’re filling up more often than you used to, having your spark plugs replaced may be the solution.
Your engine has trouble starting.
Many people automatically blame their battery if their engine has trouble starting. Yet dirty, worn out, or broken spark plugs could also be to blame. If your engine has to crank longer than usual, or starts with a jerk, your plugs are likely to blame – especially if it happens more often during cooler weather.
Your engine has a rough idle.
Properly functioning spark plugs make your engine run smooth. So if you notice rough idling, or any strange pinging or rattling noises, yours may not be functioning properly and be in need of replacement.
Your engine is misfiring.
A misfire typically sounds like your engine is sputtering, shake your entire vehicle, or have a sudden loss of power. Ignoring this issue can cause poor gas mileage, reduced engine performance, and higher emissions, which can damage your catalytic converter. It usually happens when one or more of your spark plugs are not firing properly.
Your vehicle accelerates slowly.
Worn out spark plugs don’t fire as efficiently, which can cause reduced power when you press on your gas pedal. This issue can also indicate other problems with your engine, but if it is happening along with any of the other signs above, your spark plugs are most likely to blame.
Stop By Jiffy Lube® for a Free Inspection
At your neighborhood Jiffy Lube®, our highly trained technicians know exactly how to inspect your vehicle for spark plug issues. Stop by anytime, and our team will do a thorough inspection to see if it’s time for your vehicle to have this important service performed. It’s just another way that Jiffy Lube® works to help you take the best care of your vehicle possible.
Jiffy Lube® recommends following manufacturer recommendations, where applicable, for maintenance schedules and service intervals.
Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center for specific services offered.
Go to ChicagolandJiffyLube.com for services and locations in Chicagoland, Rockford, Northwest Indiana and Southeast Wisconsin.
Jiffy Lube® Service Centers are owned and operated by independent franchisees.