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As a car owner, you are well aware that your vehicle is made up of many intricate parts, all working together to keep you on the road. One of the most important components of your vehicle's engine is the spark plug. Spark plugs play a crucial role in the combustion process, igniting the air/fuel mixture that powers your engine.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at spark plugs and the role they play in keeping your vehicle running smoothly.
What Are Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs are small devices that are located in the combustion chamber of your engine. They consist of a metal threaded shell, a central electrode, and a ground electrode. When an electrical spark jumps across the gap between the central electrode and the ground electrode, it ignites the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This, in turn, powers your engine.
How Do Spark Plugs Work?
Spark plugs are powered by the ignition system in your vehicle. The ignition system sends an electrical current to the spark plug, which creates a spark across the gap between the electrodes. This spark then ignites the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, starting the combustion process.
The combustion process is critical to the operation of your engine. It converts the energy stored in the fuel into mechanical energy that drives your vehicle.
How Often Should You Replace Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs are designed to last a long time, but they do eventually wear out. Over time, the gap between the electrodes can become wider, reducing the efficiency of the spark. This can cause misfires, decrease fuel efficiency, and even harm your engine.
Most vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Some high-performance vehicles may require more frequent replacements. It's important to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended replacement interval.
If your vehicle needs new spark plugs, please call or visit the auto professionals at Westside Service.