Vehicle maintenance is important and one part that needs replacing at regular intervals are your spark plugs. Every model has a slightly different recommendation as to when your spark plugs need replacing, but there are also signs that it’s time even if you’ve not reached the tune-up mileage for new spark plugs. If you want to avoid costly engine damage, follow manufacturer guidelines for replacing yours and pay attention to these signs.
Decreased Miles Per Gallon
Most new cars track miles per gallon and most car owners know about how long a tank lasts them. If you haven’t changed your driving habit and you feel like your fuel efficiency has gone down, you might need new spark plugs. Good spark plugs keep your car burning fuel as economically as possible.
Check Engine Light
We all dread seeing it but it doesn’t mean a death sentence for your car. It may be something as simple as worn out spark plugs. Your auto local repair shop can run a diagnostic and determine if your car’s check engine light is on due to yours.
Trouble Starting
We’ve talked about the toll the hot Florida sun takes on a battery so if you know yours is in good shape but you still have a hard time starting your car, your spark plugs may be to blame. After all, they create the spark the starts and powers your engine.
Accelerates Differently
If your car feels different when you’re starting up from a stop, especially if it’s accelerating more slowly, you likely have worn spark plugs. This contributes to the decreased fuel efficiency.
Rattling or Knocking Engine
Your spark plugs can impact how your engine sounds. If yours suddenly starts idling roughly, you might need to replace yours.
Some spark plugs last and work well for up to 100,000 miles but remember to have them checked about every 25-30,000 miles. Your local auto repair shop can measure them and let you know if they’re still operating well. If you don’t have a local auto repair shop you work with, Oldsmar Automotive is happy to provide you with a professional opinion on yours and advise you if you need new spark plugs. Come by our shop conveniently located in Oldsmar at 3166 Tampa Road or call 727-784-3501 to schedule an appointment.
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