19. Changing spark plugs: When and how to do it

Changing spark plugs is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance and is a task that all car owners should be familiar with. Spark plugs are responsible for starting combustion in your vehicle's engine, and if they aren't working properly, you can experience a host of problems, including difficulty starting your car, engine failure and excessive fuel consumption.

The first question that many car owners have is: "When should I change the spark plugs in my car?" The answer to that question varies depending on the type of spark plug your car uses. Traditional copper spark plugs usually need to be changed every 30,000 to 50,000 km. Platinum and iridium spark plugs, which are more durable, can last up to 100,000 km before needing to be replaced.

Also, it's important to pay attention to signs that your spark plugs may be failing. If your car is having trouble starting, if you are experiencing a loss of power, or if your fuel consumption has increased, it may be time to check your spark plugs.

So how do you change spark plugs? While it might seem like an intimidating task, it's actually a pretty simple process that most car owners can do on their own with the right tools.

Before you start, you'll need a few basic tools, including a spark plug socket, a socket extension, a spark plug wrench, and of course your new spark plugs. You will also need your car owner's manual for reference.

First, locate the spark plugs on your car's engine. They are usually located on top of the engine and are connected by thick cables. Remove the lead from the first spark plug, being careful not to pull on the lead. Use the spark plug socket and extension to remove the old spark plug.

Before installing the new spark plug, check the spark plug gap. Spark plug spacing is the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode. If the gap is too big or too small, the spark plug will not work properly. Consult your car owner's manual for correct spark plug spacing.

Once the spark plug spacing is correct, you can install the new spark plug. Use the spark plug socket and extension to screw the new spark plug into place. Do not overtighten the spark plug as this can damage the engine. Once the spark plug is in place, reconnect the cable.

Repeat this process for each of the remaining spark plugs. Remember to change only one spark plug at a time to avoid mixing up the wires.

Spark plug replacement is a simple and effective vehicle maintenance that can improve your car's performance and fuel efficiency. By becoming familiar with this process, you can save time and money and ensure your car continues to run smoothly.

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