The frequency of replacing spark plugs on a vehicle is determined by several factors. The user manual will tell you the recommended life of the part. The driving style of the vehicle and the general technical condition are also important.
Spark plug history
Spark plug technology and vehicle evolution have come a long way. For some cars in the fifties, the recommended mileage after which it was necessary to change the plugs was only 5,000 kilometers. Today, thanks to advances in design and materials, some vehicles can be on the road for significantly longer without replacing parts. This value has now approached one hundred thousand kilometers. Spark plugs in a car that has a four-cylinder engine are recommended to be replaced after 30,000 kilometers for both normal and adverse operating conditions. In addition, the manufacturer recommends updating the ignition switch every two years.
Long lasting spark plugs
Some manufacturers claim to produce long lasting spark plugs. The use of precious metals such as silver, platinum, gold and iridium significantly extends the life of the part. The recommended mileage after which it is necessary to replace the spark plugs for a car produced in 2010 is 97,500 kilometers. This range is only allowed if you are using iridium spark plugs.
Symptoms of Poor Spark Plug Performance
If you find performance problems such as slow acceleration or poor fuel combustion, check the spark plugs as one of the possible causes. Replace them if you find signs of damage to the insulator, housing near the head or electrode.
Troubleshoot your car to extend spark plug life
Various technical reasons contribute to faster wear of the spark plugs. Piston rings can wear, allowing fuel to seep out and contaminate the plug forks. Junction wires of the ignition switch also become unusable, as a result of which the power of the vehicle's electrical network is reduced. Correcting the faults will significantly increase the vehicle's mileage as recommended in the owner's manual.
With the continuous development of new vehicle technologies, the life of spark plugs will continue to increase. Removing and inspecting the spark plugs will tell you when they need to be replaced. Repairing your spark plug plug is the cheapest investment to keep your vehicle running well.
