Beginners Car Care: Changing Your Spark Plug
Author: Josh Date Posted:16 March 2023
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In the third instalment of our Beginners Car Care guides, we'll cover how to change your spark plugs, a crucial part of regular maintenance that keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Simply put, spark plugs ignite the combustion needed to start your vehicle. Over time, these plugs and their wires can become worn out, causing the engine to misfire or run roughly. Replacing them prevents them from consuming unnecessary fuel. What You’ll Need for a Spark Plug ChangeTo replace your spark plugs, you will need:
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1. How often do I need to change my spark plugs?The best guide is the manufacturer’s recommendation for your vehicle, as this particular service varies from brand to brand and model to model. In the absence of this information or in conjunction with it, you can rely on the advice of a service technician who is familiar with your type of vehicle. 2. How do I find the right spark plug?The best method is locating the part number used from your previous service, if not enter your vehicle details into the NGK catalogue to find the right part number. 3. What’s the best spark plug type?Most OE plugs will be Copper which is a good choice (40,000km - 60,000km) but doesn’t last as long as Platinum or Iridium plugs which can last you over 80,000km. 4. What’s the best spark plug brand?We strongly recommend the NGK brand, they have over 80 years of experience in spark plug manufacturing and we are a world leader in spark plug technology. 5. Difference between Spark & Glow Plugs?Effectively referring to the same component however Petrol engines will use a Spark plug whilst Diesel engines would utilise a Glow plug. |
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Usually the amount of cylinders your vehicle has is the amount of spark plugs required for the service e.g V6 = 6 x Spark Plugs |
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Anti-Seize Compound Clean Rags |
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Congrats, you’ve changed your first set of spark plugs! Changing your spark plugs may seem intimidating at first, but it's a simple DIY project that can save you money on expensive mechanic fees. Regularly changing your spark plugs can also improve your vehicle's. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact our friendly experts for advice on 02 8711 9711 |
SPARK PLUG FAQ:
How To Replace a Spark Plug
Step 1: Locate the spark plugs
The first step is to locate the spark plugs in your vehicle. You can refer to your owner's manual or search online for a specific vehicle's spark plug location. Usually, you will find them under the hood, attached to the engine's cylinder head.
Step 2: Remove the old spark plugs
Once you have located where the spark plugs are, remove the ignition wires or coils that are connected to each spark plug. To remove the wires, gently grasp the boot, which is the thick, rubbery end of the wire that connects to the spark plug, and pull it straight off the spark plug.
If your vehicle has ignition coils instead of wires, you will need to use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the coils in place.
Next, insert the spark plug socket onto the old spark plug and use the ratchet wrench to turn the spark plug counterclockwise to loosen it. Once the old spark plug is loose, use your fingers to remove it completely.
Step 3: Check the new spark plugs
Before installing the new spark plugs, check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure they are the correct type and gap size for your vehicle.
Using a spark plug gap gauge, measure the gap size and adjust it as necessary. The gap size is the distance between the centre and the ground electrode at the tip of the spark plug.
Step 4: Apply anti-seize grease
Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the spark plug socket to prevent the new spark plug from sticking. This will also help improve conductivity and protect the spark plug from moisture.
Step 5: Install the new spark plugs
Insert the new spark plug into the socket and use your fingers to tighten it clockwise until it's snug.
Use the torque wrench to tighten the spark plug to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification. The torque specification is the amount of force needed to properly secure the spark plug without over-tightening it.
Over-tightening can cause damage to the engine while under-tightening can lead to a loose spark plug that can cause misfires.
Step 6: Reconnect ignition wires or coils
Once you have installed all new spark plugs, reconnect the ignition wires or coils to each spark plug. Ensure that each wire or coil is securely attached to the corresponding spark plug. If you have ignition coils, reinstall the bolts that hold the coils in place.
Step 7: Check for damage
Finally, start your engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. You should notice an improvement in your engine's performance, such as smoother idling, faster acceleration, and better fuel efficiency.
Step 8: Test your engine
Dispose of the old spark plugs properly. Many auto parts stores and recycling centres will accept used spark plugs for recycling. You can also check with your local waste disposal facility for spark plug disposal guidelines.
Step 9: Dispose of the old spark plugs
Dispose of the old spark plugs properly. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers will accept used spark plugs for recyling. You can also check with your local waste disposal facility for guidelines on disposing of spark plugs
Spark Plug Replacement Made Easy
Congratulations, you’ve just changed your first set of spark plugs!
Learning how to change your spark plugs may seem intimidating at first. But it's a fairly simple DIY project that can improve your vehicle’s efficiency and save you money on expensive mechanic fees.
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact our friendly experts for advice at 1300 791 058.
