Car Service Tips: Changing Spark Plugs

Nov 4
11:40

2015

James Blanchard

James Blanchard

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Spark plugs are a key component in making a gasoline engine run. They channel the electrical current from the ignition, igniting the fuel. It's an essential part of any working combustion engine and all modern cars. Change your spark plugs yourself to maintain peak performance and high gas mileage. In most cases it's a simple job as long as you have the right tools.

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Before changing your spark plugs,Car Service Tips: Changing Spark Plugs Articles make sure the engine is cold before you start as spark plugs can get very hot! Even after other parts of your engine have cooled down, the spark plugs may still be too warm to touch. Let your engine cool down for a couple of hours before you begin.

The first step in changing your spark plugs is to remove the old ones. Use your owner's manual to locate your engine's spark plugs at the top of each cylinder. Look for any dirt buildup around the base of the wire. Use a soft, clean rag or a small paintbrush to clean the area where the spark plug enters the block.

Disconnect the spark plug wire from the plug. Remove the wire by pulling on the boot, the connector at the end of the wire. Do not pull on the wire itself or you may damage the connection between the wire and the spark plug.

Change your spark plugs one at a time. Accidentally plugging the wrong wire boot into the wrong spark plug can cause problems. After you remove the spark plug from the engine, remove the plug from the socket. But don't go on to the next plug until you've gapped and replaced it.

Begin screwing in the spark plug by hand until it's firmly secure. Finish tightening with the ratchet. Reattach the plug wire, using a twisting motion to properly position the boot above the plug. When you hear a click you'll know the wire has correctly connected with the spark plug. Repeat these same steps with the other spark plugs.

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