At Dallas European Auto, we believe information is the best way to avoid unexpected problems and huge bills at the mechanic. Although not all of us can be as knowledgeable as the experienced technicians at Dallas European Auto, all car owners need to have basic knowledge about their cars so that they can feel confident in the state of their vehicle.
What are Spark Plugs?
This month, we wanted to teach you about spark plugs. Spark plugs are an integral part of the car’s engine. They are designed to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the cylinder chambers to get the vehicle moving. While spark plugs can last for tens of thousands of miles, they cannot fire away forever without wearing down and degrading. As spark plugs are such an important piece of the puzzle, it is important to keep them in good condition by replacing them when the need arises. This will keep your car performance high and gas mileage efficient.
How Often Should You Replace Your Spark Plugs?
Many vehicle manufacturers advertise their extended-life spark plugs that last for up to 100,000 miles, but most often, spark plugs do not make it to that age. In fact, even the most robust plugs are four-fifths worn by the time 80,000 miles rolls around. To keep up with the constant wear on spark plugs, it is wise to have them inspected every 30,000 miles or so. This way you can replace them when needed, before they become too worn or even break apart. You can do this while having a routine check done on your car by just asking your technician.
When needed, you should always replace your vehicles’ spark plugs with the same kind that the car came with or using before. If your car engine also utilizes spark plug wires, these may need to be replaced. If these get too old and fried they may even fall apart when the spark plug is replaced. A quality set of new spark plugs can usually last up to 60,000 to 70,000 miles. Preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your car running great.
Come see us at Dallas European Auto to get all the latest information on car maintenance personalized for you. Come on in and see us in Plano, TX, or contact us on the phone or online to set up an appointment.
