Spark plugs are essential for igniting the air and fuel mixture in a gasoline engine, providing the power it needs to keep your car moving. But spark plugs do have a limited service life. The electrodes can wear away, the porcelain can crack, or the plugs can become fouled with oil or fuel. So how often should you change your spark plugs?
Spark Plug Service Life
Most spark plugs will last between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plug, the manufacturer’s recommendations, your driving habits, and the condition of the engine. Basic copper plugs offer a strong spark with less voltage, but they may last as little as 20,000 to 30,000 miles, due to the softness of the copper electrode. Platinum spark plugs feature an electrode that is coated in a much stronger material, platinum, and they can last up to 100,000 miles. Iridium spark plugs feature an even tougher electrode, with a service life of over 100,000 miles or up to 25% longer than platinum plugs. These lifespans can be reduced by spirited driving with a heavy throttle, poor engine maintenance, or mechanical problems that allow oil or fuel to foul the plugs.
Signs That You Need New Spark Plugs
Faulty spark plugs can be difficult to spot, but here are a few clues that you may need new spark plugs for your car:
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- Significant reductions in gas mileage – A weak spark may leave some fuel unburnt, reducing fuel efficiency.
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- Rough idle – If your spark plugs are old, weak, or damaged, the car may idle rough or even stall.
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- Misfires – If one or more spark plugs are not firing properly, you may notice the sounds of miss while the engine is running, you may get misfire codes, or the “Check Engine” light may come on.
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- Odd noises – You may hear knocking or pinging while the engine is running, especially under hard acceleration.
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- Lack of power – Your car may struggle to get up to speed on the highway, pass other vehicles, or go uphill.
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- Trouble starting – If one or more spark plugs fail, it may become hard to start your car, with long crank times or multiple attempts necessary to get the engine running.
Expert Auto Service & Maintenance in Las Vegas
How often should you change your spark plugs? Talk to our experts at Valley Automall to find out. We feature over 20 dealers and 26 brands in a single location, and we have some of the most experienced service technicians in the Las Vegas area. We can help with all your car maintenance needs, from oil changes and spark plug replacements to full tune-ups, and we offer new and used vehicle sales, as well.Choose Valley Automall for all your automotive service and maintenance needs in Las Vegas. Call (702) 570-2257 to schedule an appointment today!