Spark Plugs and Your Car: Everything You Need to Know

Spark Plugs and Your Car: Everything You Need to Know

How Spark Plugs Work, How to Tell If They Are Failing, and What to Do About It

Spark plugs play an important role in your vehicle’s engine. Because they are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture inside the combustion chamber. And without properly functioning spark plugs, your car or truck wouldn’t be able to start or run efficiently. So in this blog the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros in Wichita examine how spark plugs work, how to tell if they’re failing, and what to do about it.

How Spark Plugs Work

Spark plugs work by igniting the compressed air-fuel mixture in your engine and producing a small, controlled electrical spark. So, when your vehicle’s ignition system sends voltage to the spark plug, it jumps across the gap between the center electrode and the ground electrode. And this spark ignites the fuel, causing a controlled explosion that powers the engine. This process repeats thousands of times per minute as your engine runs. And this critical action makes spark plugs essential to your vehicle’s performance.

Signs of Failing Spark Plugs

Like any car component, spark plugs wear out over time. So let take a look at some common signs that your spark plugs may be failing:

Difficulty Starting the Engine

    • Are you struggling to start your car or it’s slow to turn over? Then, it could be due to worn-out spark plugs that aren’t generating enough spark to ignite the fuel.

Engine Misfires

    • Misfires, or jerky engine movements, occur when the spark plug fails to ignite the fuel in one or more cylinders. And, you’ll notice your car hesitating, losing power, or vibrating when this happens.

Poor Fuel Efficiency

    • If your car’s gas mileage has dropped suddenly, it could be a sign that the spark plugs are not burning fuel as efficiently as they should. And this can lead to wasted fuel.

Rough Idling

    • A rough or shaky idle could indicate a problem with your spark plugs. And, a misfire or incomplete combustion may be occurring.

Reduced Acceleration

    • Faulty spark plugs can cause sluggish acceleration since the engine isn’t receiving the full power it needs from the combustion process.

What to Do About Failing Spark Plugs

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to inspect and possibly replace your spark plugs. So, let look at what you should do:

Check Your Spark Plugs

  • You can visually inspect the spark plugs to see if they’re worn or damaged. So, look for signs of corrosion, carbon build-up, or a worn electrode.

Replace the Spark Plugs

  • Most spark plugs need to be replaced every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type and your vehicle’s specifications. But, if your spark plugs are old or damaged, replacing them with new ones can restore your engine’s performance.

Get a Professional Tune-Up

  • If you’re not comfortable replacing the spark plugs yourself, or if the problem persists, call Tracy’s Tire Pros for a professional tune-up. Because, they’ll check not only the spark plugs but also the ignition coils, wiring, and other components.

Tracy’s Automotive | Wichita Auto Care | Wichita Spark Plug

Tracy’s Tire Pros Can Help When Your Spark Plugs Fail

Spark plugs are small but mighty components that keep your engine running smoothly. And when they start to fail, it’s important to recognize the signs and address the problem right away. Because regular maintenance and timely replacement at Tracy’s Tire Pros on West 21st Street can save you from costly repairs down the road and ensure your vehicle performs at its best.

Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you take the best care for your vehicle. And they have three locations for your convenience:  West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. Furthermore, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

Suspension| Tracy’s Automotive | Wichita Car Care | Wichita Auto Care | Wichita Auto Repair | Maple Street Auto Care | Maple Street Auto Repair | Wichita Tires | Local Car Repair | Wichita Auto Coupons | Auto Coupons | Brake Pads | Alternator
#TracysAutomotive #Suspension #WichitaTires #BrakesWichita #WichitaCarCare #WichitaAutoCare #WichitaAutoRepair #TracysAutoCare #MapleStreetAutoRepair #LocalCarRepair #WichitaAutoCareNearMe #WichitaAutoCoupons #AutoCoupons #AutoDiagnostics #BrakePads #Alternator