How Often to Change the Spark Plugs in a Car

If you’re wondering, “When do I change the spark plugs in my car?” you’re certainly not alone! Unlike other maintenance tasks like oil changes and tire rotations that are needed more frequently, spark plug replacement isn’t required quite so often. This leaves many Virginia Beach drivers confused when they eventually start experiencing issues related to bad spark plugs. 

Service professionals typically recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, but some vehicles might go as far as 90,000 miles before needing this service. Consult your owner’s manual as the best source of truth on how often to change your spark plugs. Additionally, it helps to understand the performance symptoms of bad spark plugs. Our service experts provide more details, below!

When Do I Change Spark Plugs? Know the Warning Signs

If your spark plugs are failing, you’ll more than likely start to experience performance issues when you try to start your car in your Chesapeake driveway. Spark plugs are a component of the ignition system. They transport high-voltage current from the ignition coil to ignite the combustion chamber when you turn the key in the ignition or push the start button. Here are some of the common performance issues that can arise when the spark plugs aren’t functioning properly:

• Sluggish start or failure to start
• Engine misfires 
• Loud, bumpy idling
• Declining engine performance 
• Increased fuel consumption 
• Difficulty accelerating 

Why Should You Change the Spark Plugs? 

Avoiding the issues we listed above is a pretty compelling reason to change the spark plugs when necessary, but there are other reasons to consider. You and your vehicle will benefit in the following ways:

• Sustained Fuel Efficiency – Faulty spark plugs can bring down your fuel economy by up to 30 percent! Replacing the spark plugs as needed will help you travel efficiently at all times.
• Continuous Combustion – Good spark plugs help create consistent combustion so your vehicle’s ignition system can function properly. 
• Effortlessly Start Your Car – When the spark plugs are in good condition, you should have no problem getting your car to start right up on the first try.
• Cleaner Emissions – Not only can you benefit personally from better fuel economy, but more importantly, well-functioning spark plugs can also benefit the environment by improving your vehicle’s emissions.

Schedule Service with Us in Norfolk

If you’re in the Suffolk area and you suspect your spark plugs need to be changed, schedule service at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk. Our experienced service techs will inspect your vehicle and change the spark plugs if necessary. Be sure to check our current service offers before visiting! Have other questions about how often to change spark plugs? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our service advisors online.