Like most individuals, you assumably don’t think about your car’s spark plugs all that often. And yet, changing them regularly is one of the best things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Many people don’t realize this, but spark plugs can last anywhere from 30,000 to 100,000 miles – so it’s essential to know when it’s time to change. In this blog post, experts from Courtesy Buick GMC will discuss how often you should change your spark plugs and why it’s so important. We’ll also list down some tips on how to change them yourself if you decide to take matters into your own hands. So read on to learn more!Car Spark Plugs – What Are They?
To understand how often you should change your spark plugs, it’s vital to first understand what they are and what they do. Essentially, spark plugs are responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine cylinders. This process starts the engine and keeps it running. Over time, however, spark plugs can become fouled or damaged, which can cause engine misfires and decreased performance. That’s why it’s necessary to keep an eye on them and change them when necessary. How Often to Change Spark Plugs?
The main factors that will affect how often you need to change your spark plugs are the manufacturer and model of your ride and how you drive it. For example, if you have an older car, you might need to change your spark plugs more often than someone with a newer car. This is because older cars tend to have less efficient engines that deposit more deposits on the plugs. On the other hand, if you drive your car mostly in stop-and-go traffic, you might need to change your spark plugs more spontaneously than someone who drives mainly on the highway. This is because stop-and-go driving puts more stress on the engine, which can cause the spark plugs to wear out faster. In general, most carmakers recommend changing your spark plugs every 30,000 miles or so. Regardless, it’s a good idea to check out your owner’s manual to be sure. A Bit About Buick Spark and GMC Plugs
Alright, suppose that you’ve got a Buick Lacrosse. In that case, you’ll want to use ACDelco 41-108 Professional Iridium Spark Plugs. These plugs have a service life of up to 80,000 miles, so you won’t need to switch them as often as other brands. And, if you’re a proud GMC owner, we recommend using ACDelco Double platinum spark plugs. These spark plugs can last up to 50,000 miles! So, you could go quite a while before having to replace them. Changing Your Car’s Spark Plugs
If you’re the do-it-yourself type, changing your own spark plugs is a relatively easy task that you can do at home. Here’s how:1. First, consult your car’s owner manual to determine which spark plugs are recommended for your model.2. Next, utilize a socket wrench to remove the old spark plugs. Be careful not to drop them, as they can be damaged easily.3. Once the old plugs are out, take a look at them. If they’re covered in soot or oil, that indicates that the engine is running too rich. On the other hand, if they’re white or burned looking, that means the engine is running too lean. 4. Now, it’s time to put in the new plugs. First, consult your owner’s manual to find the correct gap for the plugs. This is important as the gap affects how well the spark plugs will fire. 5. Once you have the new plugs in, start the engine and listen for any strange noises. If everything sounds normal, you’re good to go!If you’re having trouble with your engine, it might be time to check your spark plugs. Here at Courtesy Buick GMC, serving Homewood, AL, we can take a look and let you know if it’s time for a change. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!
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