How long do spark plugs last?
And is there any way to make them last longer?
Luckily, yes, there is.
Proper maintenance and care can sufficiently extend the life of your new spark plugs and prevent problems with gas mileage and fuel economy — and that’s what we’ll discuss in this article.
This article will focus on spark plugs and how long they can last.
We’ll look at ways to make them last longer, including how to examine worn spark plugs, and go through some answers to frequently asked questions.
Let’s get started!
Spark plugs can last a very long time if maintained properly.
Most manufacturers recommend getting a spark plug replacement after every 30,000 miles (or more, for extended life spark plugs). This helps avoid decay, carbon fouling, or problems with worn spark plug tips. It also helps prevent issues with the cylinder or combustion chamber.
However, replacement needs also depend on the brand, model, and type of spark plugs you’re using.
Here’s a look at the lifetimes of different plug types:
Keeping this in mind, is there any way to make them last longer?
Yes, you can!
As with most other engine parts, proper maintenance and care can prevent problems like vehicle engine misfire, a damaged spark plug, or carbon fouling. Routine maintenance also helps extend the life of your internal combustion engine.
Here are a few things you can do to maximize your spark plugs’ shelf life:
Apart from these, make sure to get your new spark plugs examined and consider investing in extended life spark plugs.
And if you’re new to this, let your mechanic handle the maintenance and repairs. Incorrect handling of spark plugs can affect fuel consumption and internal combustion engine performance.
Now, here are some other things to know about vehicle spark plugs.
Here are a few related spark plug queries and their answers:
Checking your cylinder head on the internal combustion engine for a failing spark plug can be fairly simple (if you’re comfortable handling car parts).
Here’s how you do it:
Note: It’s best to consult your mechanic if you’re not confident about changing spark plugs yourself. A failing spark plug or wrong spark plug gap can cause a lot of engine damage.
Spark plugs deteriorate over time.
Your car may face loss of engine power, fuel efficiency, or problems with combustion. At some point, you risk spark plug failure, and your car simply won’t start.
As you drive, your spark plug gap opens up from damage and carbon fouling. This increases the voltage required by the ignition coil to generate an electrical spark. When the ignition coil encounters extreme voltage, there’s a chance of engine misfire issues.
The spark plug wire also becomes brittle over time. A bad spark plug wire can make the ignition coil lose contact with the ground electrode and the center electrode. You may end up with spark plug failure.
Other than that, you may also face some other issues if you don’t replace the worn spark plug. They include:
So, it’s best to keep changing spark plugs on a routine basis and keep an eye on their mileage.
Considering the various types of spark plugs in the market, it can become difficult to know when to change them.
Of course, you can track their mileage.
But what if you forget?
Here are some signs to look out for that indicate a faulty spark plug:
A new spark plug can cost anywhere between $16 to $100.
In addition to that, you can expect labor charges of somewhere around $40 to $150.
But why wonder how much it’ll cost when you can get an accurate cost estimate from the convenience of your home?
Enter RepairSmith!
RepairSmith is a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution with ASE-certified mechanics and convenient online booking. We offer a very reliable spark plug replacement service, and you can avail yourself of our 12-Month | 12,000 Miles warranty on all repairs.
Simply fill out this form for a spark plug replacement cost estimate!
