After that, unplug all cords. With standard spark plugs, that might be every 30,000-40,000 miles or so. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. A spark plug wire puller makes it easy to pull the boot off. It is possible to keep plugs longer, but a plug that is nearly worn out can result in uneven running and a 20 per cent increase in petrol consumption, and can make the car difficult to start. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Most quality spark plugs are suggested to be changed at 60,000 miles, and this is currently the most widely accepted change interval for most spark plug types of today. This article was co-authored by Chris Latocki. It's usually recommended that you replace the plugs after every 20,000 Km or 12,000 miles or as indicated in your vehicle owners manual. ", https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/car-repair/electrical-system/how-to-remove-old-spark-plugs/, https://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood/vehicle-maintenance/change-auto-spark-plugs.htm, https://auto.howstuffworks.com/how-to-gap-spark-plug.htm, http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/the-essentials-of-replacing-and-gapping-spark-plug.html, https://itstillruns.com/test-spark-plugs-2060386.html, http://www.familyhandyman.com/automotive/car-maintenance/how-to-buy-spark-plugs/view-all, https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/car-repair/electrical-system/how-to-install-a-spark-plug/, https://www.readersdigest.ca/cars/maintenance/replacing-spark-plugs/, changer les bougies d'allumage de votre voiture, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Noble metal plugs, on the other hand, can carry you past 100,000 miles. Check the instructions included with the new spark plugs to confirm the correct torque specifications. The Oldsmobile owner's manual recommends that Alero owners change their spark plugs every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. So How Much Do Spark Plug Change Cost? Chris Latocki is a Master Mechanic in Sarasota, Florida. Then replace it before you move on to the next spark plug in cylinder sequence order. As the piston moves up and down along the wall these rings will collect oil. When you replace your spark plugs, it’s also recommended that you replace your coil boots. In some V6 engines, access might be difficult. For example, if you’ve already got 80,000 miles on a set of 100,000-mile plugs, they’re 80 percent worn and beginning to take a toll on engine performance and gas mileage. A closer observation of piston rings will reveal compression rings at the top and bottom. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! Then replace it before you move on to the next spark plug in cylinder sequence order. Spark plugs are directly linked to your car starting and are an essential engine component that should be well maintained. This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class E55 AMG w211 (2002-2009). Changing your spark plugs is vital to keeping a healthy car. It doesn't cause any damage to a plugs function or purpose. Motorcycles will typically have between 1 and 4 spark plugs depending on your specific engine type. Installing New Plugs 1. A repair shop may charge $60-$110 labor to replace spark plugs in a regular 4-cylinder engine, which is a fairly simple job. The factory tool does a good job of getting in there, as it is a tight space with the radiator there. Every 80,000-100,000 Miles 80,000 to 100,000 miles is slowly becoming the new standard for high quality spark plug replacement intervals. E51 Replacing brake pads. In spite of the stresses on them, modern spark-plugs have an average life of 12,000-16,000 km (8,000-10,000 miles) in four-stroke engines. Spark plugs are important maintenance items that should not be overlooked or neglected. Spark Plug Installation on a Typical 4-Cylinder Engine: Compare the new spark plugs to the old ones to ensure that both are the same design. Note: Follow the same procedure for non-COP ignition system boots. To change spark plugs, start by carefully pulling out the first spark plug by the boot, which is the connector that connects the spark plug wire to the engine. Check you manual or with your local dealer. You can use an air or electric impact tool to loosen it. The good news is that even with nickel-chromium plugs, you should only have to replace them every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Write the numbers and or letters down & triple-check before buying: A simple error may cause a waste of time and effort and you may not get a refund. Labor charges depend on the engine design. To learn how to tell if you need to replace your spark plugs, keep reading! This article … But too tight is not good. It would be a good idea. 1. Remove the plug and wire and then remove the spark plug with a spark plug socket. If you are not sure then refer to your owner’s manual for guidance. High underhood temperatures cause the wires’ insulation to wear out, allowing sparks to take the path of least resistance and arc to the closest metal object. to cool. He also gives some pointers on how to repair and replace spark plug coils and wires. The rule of thumb is to replace spark plugs at around 30,000 miles. Once you remove the spark plug, you'll have an open hole directly... 3. To change spark plugs, start by carefully pulling out the first spark plug by the boot, which is the connector that connects the spark plug wire to the engine. Add a bit of lubricant to the inside of the spark plug wire and reattach it to the spark plugs. How do I replace a spark plug in a 1999 Crown Victoria 4.6? Hint: remember counterclockwise to loosen and clockwise to tighten. Unscrew the Plug Blow away the dirt and grime that’s settled on and around the plug since it was installed. Consider cleaning around the threads before reinserting the new spark plugs. Insufficient torque can result in a plug blowing right out of the cylinder head, taking the threads with it. Remember: If you take out more than one spark plug at a time, keep track of your leads and the corresponding plugs by marking them with small pieces of masking tape. Contrary to obvious naming, plugs are often numbered with dull numbers, e.g., 45 & 46, or the same forgettable digits merely swapped: such as "5245" or "HY-2425" etc. You should tighten each of the spark plugs with your ratchet. Step 3 - Checking the Plugs. This article talks more about changing spark plugs. Just be sure you gap the spark plugs properly and use a torque wrench. Without this article, I would have tried it and most likely suffered a burn. 3. You can either consult your owner's manual or the booklet at the auto parts store... 2. Blast compressed air around the ignition coils to prevent crud from falling into the cylinders. See Step 1 for more information. Now it is time to insert new spark plugs.and tighten with your ratchet. Mercedes-Benz E-Class: How to Replace Spark Plugs. Here’s how you can check the gap with a coin-style tool: Hello all, Does anybody know how to change the spark plugs on a 1.6 petrol? We recommend our users to update the browser. Great article. When the accelerator of a car is being used, is there a specific problem that could make white colored smoke be emitted? When to replace spark plugs. How do I change spark plugs on my Chrysler? A few years ago I used to go over 50,000 miles without changing spark plugs, im sure I only got them changed when the car was misfiring but since then I learnt a valuable lesson and now change them when there due. If contacts are burnt out, refit the plug and lead to the correct torque setting then go to the auto parts store and get new plugs before removing any more. Use a socket wrench with the appropriate size socket to remove the spark plug. Once you’ve put in the labor to begin checking spark plugs, however, you might as well change them and establish a new baseline for the future. Apply a thin coating of dielectric grease around the inside of the spark plug boot before reinstalling the coil. Complete DIY projects like a pro! Step 1: Disconnect the spark plug lead. Changing the spark plugs on your Mercedes-Benz is not as difficult as you think. AUTODOC recommends: The replacement procedure is the same for all spark plugs. Thoroughly clean the area around your spark plugs. The manufacturer installed those plugs for a very good reason, so simplify the process and get the same ones when possible, provided they were the correct ones fitted! The car is hard to start. Disconnect the spark plug lead. If you buy a new or late-model used car, chances are you’ll change vehicles before you need to change the spark plugs. All work should be done with the engine … These are for 4-cylinder Volvos and are pre-gapped, meaning all you need to do it put them in by following this tutorial. If the distance of the spark plug gap is higher than it should be, but the plug is still of a relatively high quality and is an adjustable-gap plug, you can either try to change the gap by gently tapping the plug on a wooden surface with the gauge in between the plug gap until the desired measure is set at the correct measurement, or you can simply buy new plugs. You can typically buy fixed gap or adjustable gap spark plugs, so it's up to you if you want to check your plugs regularly and make minute adjustments. Chris has over 20 years of experience as a mechanic. S40 and V40 1995–2004 diagram and steps on how to change the spark plugs. Even if you’re installing a pre-gapped spark plug, you should check the air gap to ensure it was set correctly at the factory. Using a plug starter or the socket extension (spark plug sockets typically have magnets or rubber boots to hold the spark plug), hand-thread the new plugs back into the engine. When you're changing your plugs, it's... 3. The process of how to change spark plugs and wires (wires optional) is very easy if you have the right tools. Pro tip: A swivel head spark plug socket makes the job much easier. How can I get spark plug out that refuses to come out? It's basically a metal ring you can use to see if the electrodes are close enough to fire properly. They play an important role related to engine performance, fuel mileage and exhaust emission standards. Slide the proper size spark plug socket over the plug. A spark plug is a key component of a petrol engine. Step 2: Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket. Jarring impacts will loosen corrosion. The best way to determine when spark plug replacement is needed is … If you check your owner’s manual, you’ll probably find that your automaker recommends you replace your spark plugs roughly every 30,000 miles. What is causing oil to get on my spark plugs? Tuesday at 2:23 AM; concept; E51 Transmission Guides. An engine might run almost a full minute to burn the collected fuel under that plug, and run smoothly again. It's rare that you need to adjust gaps straight out of the box but it pays to check. When a spark jumps the gap between two electrodes, it actually burns off (erodes) small amounts of metal from each one. SEE NEXT: Catalytic Converter Symptoms, Causes & Replacement Cost. Consistent combustion system – Spark plugs allow for the constant production of combustion that leaves your vehicle’s system running the way that it should. Step 4 - Preparing the Plugs What size (short or long) spark plugs can I use for a Peugeot 405 SRI 1989 model car? Is safe to use a small hose on a vacuum cleaner to clean the area where the new spark plugs will be installed? Threads 4 Messages 60. Electrical current is used to ignite the fuel. This information can be found in shop manuals or by calling the service department of your local dealership. Remove the spark plug boots one at a time. Spark Plug. B. E51 How – and why - to check and change automatic transmission fluid. Use a spark plug socket (with internal gasket or magnet) instead of a conventional socket to help you to not drop a spark plug when removing or inserting them. The main thing is getting the wires on and in the right, orderly fashion. This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2002-2009). Vacuum, blow out, and clean the area around the spark plugs to prevent dirt and grime from falling into the spark plug pocket or the engine. For example, to change spark plugs in a Ford Edge or Escape with a V6 engine, the intake manifold will have to come off, bringing the labor cost to $260-$320. If dirt fell in, consider starting the car without that plug, allowing the piston to force air/dirt out in loud bursts (keep away from the engine when doing so to avoid potential injury to eyes and keep the children away). Allow plenty of time for the engine to cool down before replacing your spark plugs. Sign up for our newsletter! There are optional tools made just for this step. Locate the spark plugs and remove the spark plug wires. Turn … Signs the spark plugs or spark plug wires need replacing: Regular maintenance. The average spark plug replacement cost is something between $115 and $259 from which labor costs are usually between $65 and $190 while parts are priced between $55 and $90. Doing this operation yourself can help you understand the way that your vehicle operates, and in the long run can save you a lot of money when compared with taking it to the shop for new spark plugs. This article has been viewed 842,939 times. Spark Plugs and Coils for the 1.8 Turbo. Petrol and LPG Gas powered cars run on what are essentially controlled explosions of energy, controlled in part by the spark plugs. Diesels don't use ignition, instead using compression to ignite the fuel, but it's essentially the same thing. An extension is often needed for spark plugs; as their location can be hard to reach. 4. If you do, get adjustable plugs. Next, locate the first spark plug and remove the spark plug wire from the plug itself. If you're going to start changing your own plugs, invest in proper tools and equipment, such as a fine gap checker. We'll show you how to repair your car or replace any car part. Buy Genuine Volvo Spark Plugs, MVS Approved Four Cylinder. Removing a seized plug can be costly, especially if the threads in the cylinder head are damaged. Over time, the gap grows to the point where the spark can no longer make the jump. When you consider the gas mileage falloff and the possibility of seized plugs, early replacement makes sense. Like anything, they wear out, and are a relatively easy-to-fix issue on your car that you can learn to diagnose and correct with the right tools and the right know-how. You will need to remove the plugs one at a time, keeping track of the order. This guide provides step by step instruction and video clips to help you on replacing the spark plugs. If you check your owner’s manual, you’ll probably find that your automaker recommends you replace your spark plugs roughly every 30,000 miles. Changing a spark plug requires little experience, using basic tools, although you may need to remove other components to access the plugs. DIY: How to change: Lexus RX XU30 spark plugs – replacement guide - Autodoc CLUB free easy-to-follow tutorials on car maintenance. Are there any ill effects of replacing a long thread spark plug with a short thread spark plug? Check the owner’s manual for the replacement interval. That’s fine if you’re using stock spark plugs. If your car doesn't have COP ignition, the spark plug wire will end in a boot that attaches to the spark plug. … Remove any hoses and pull out the intake manifold. Yes, it is. Check out our favorite car diagnostic tools for DIYers here. To learn how to tell if you need to replace your spark plugs, keep reading! How to Replace Spark Plugs Spark plugs ignite the fuel inside your engine, but cannot do it properly forever. Is it straight forward enough? Although cars can go 100,000 miles without a spark plug change, it’s not so with motorcycles. The difficulty of spark plug replacement can differ substantially between vehicles, although the plugs used in the majority of makes and models can be replaced in a relatively straightforward and trouble-free fashion. The answer depends on the type of engine in your vehicle. Then, clean the area around the spark plug to avoid getting debris in the combustion chamber when you remove the plug. How to change spark plugs Step 1: Find your spark plugs Apply a small amount of plug wire grease to the plug wire boot (or COP boot) and re-install each plug wire or ignition coil. Unlike manufacturers’ guidelines for oil changes, which are overly cautious, the recommendations for how often to change spark plugs tend to be overly optimistic. Always check the spark plug gap before installing it. 13 Ways You’re Shortening the Life of Your Car, Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Warm Up Your Car In The Winter, The Difference Between Green and Orange Antifreeze, Auto Dent Repair: How to Fix a Dent in a Car, Car Heater Blowing Cold Air? Mar 31, 2020; BeastFromTheEast; E51 Brake System Guides. And buy a small packet of dielectric grease. Frequency of replacing spark plugs. Use the spark plug socket, extension, and ratchet to remove the spark plugs from your Nissan. Any one. I have yet to do this because I am waiting for the engine, "Very helpful. As the name suggests, it provides the ignition between the compression and combustion stages of the four-stroke cycle used by modern car engines. If the plugs are bent, black, or broken, you may have a mechanical problem with your engine and should consult a qualified mechanic or your local car dealer repair shop without undue delay. Make sure to remove the wire by pulling on the actual wire boot instead of the wire itself. (If dropped, the gap often changes, must be re-gapped/cleaned or replaced!). Finally, reattach the wire plug and repeat with the rest of the spark plugs. To ensure that the plugs are not over- or under-tightened, use a torque wrench and tighten them to your vehicle's specs. Whether or not you service your own car, invest in a set of the dealer's shop manuals from the car maker or at a vehicle swap meet, eBay or at a market. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or not, locating the spark plugs in a combustion engine is fairly straightforward. Spark plug life on a motorcycle is not the same as spark plug life on an automobile. These warning lights may illuminate if the spark plugs are fouled or failing, or if the spark plug wires need replacement. I personally always use the NGK brand spark plugs which are easily available at Napa Auto Parts For around 10 dollars a set you can get the copper, or for around 35-40 dollars you can buy the iridium IX plugs. On an inline 6-cylinder, they are located on the top or side of the engine head. If you don’t maintain this, there could become an accident. Reinstall the air cleaner and vanity cover and fire it up. Spark plug wire lead 1: 18", lead 2: 23", lead 3: 26", lead 4: 33", coil wire: 16.5", wire diameter: 7 mm. How do I remove spark plugs on a Nissan 'NOTE 2010? This way you avoid having to check the same plug twice because of a simple oversight. The first step is to make sure your car actually has spark plugs. The spark plugs channel the electrical current from the ignition, igniting the fuel. Reading this guide on changing spark plugs in jet skis can give you a basic understanding of how the task is accomplished, but it won’t give you as clear an idea of how it is accomplished as being able to watch someone perform the task will. But if you can’t remember when you last changed your spark plugs, you can pull them and check the gap and their condition. Figure 11. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. Replacement: spark plugs – Peugeot 208 1. Proper spark plug torque is critical in today's engines. These are much more in-depth than the repair guides you find in the auto parts store and are worth the money. How to Replace Spark Plug Wires Keep those AMG spark plugs firing with a new set of spark plug wires. Slide the proper size spark plug socket over the plug. Consider replacing hidden plugs first before replacing easier plugs. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Changing spark plugs, in general, is no more difficult than removing the spark plug wire or coil-pack from the plug itself, and unthreading it out of … Be sure and connect the plug wires to the appropriate spark plug for each engine cylinder (refer to a firing order diagram if necessary). Threads 4 Messages 60. Not only does ChrisFix cover how to remove and replace spark plugs, he also talks you through what kinds of plugs work best for your car, how to measure and correct spark plug gap, and how to see whether a spark plug actually needs replacing. Not all spark plugs are rated for 100,000 miles. To put it simply, it's the process of cohesively moving engine parts to produce rotational energy (camshaft, crankshaft, and ignition). Next, screw a new spark plug that's the same size as the old one into the hole you removed the old one from. You should also number the corresponding leads to the cylinder so as not to confuse which lead goes where when replacing with new plugs. Here's how to replace spark plugs. Keep children clear of the work area and wear eye protection at all times. You should always check your owner's manual and look up where your spark plugs are, how many you have, the correct "gap" and the size socket needed to remove them. PEUGEOT 108 1.2 . Next, gently remove the wire plug from one of the spark plugs and then use a socket wrench with an extension bar to remove the spark plug. Threads 3 Messages 49. In fact, some carmakers recommend replacement at 30,000-mile intervals. PEUGEOT 208 I Hatchback (CA_, CC_) 1.2. Never downgrade to a less expensive plug and don't think too hard about fixing something that works already. Discussion Starter • #1 • Sep 26, 2012. On V6 and V8-cylinder engines, plugs should be separated evenly on each side of the engine. If you don't have a spark plug socket, you can loosen the plug with a conventional socket and use the boot to grab onto it and pull the plug out. 'S usually recommended that you need to remove the old ones sequence order recommends that Alero owners their. Verify the measurement Peugeot 208 I Hatchback how to change spark plugs CA_, CC_ ) and the possibility of seized plugs invest... That attaches to the spark plugs every 60,000 to 100,000 miles is slowly becoming new... My old plugs are fouled or failing, or if the gap by! Motorcycles will typically have between how to change spark plugs and 4 spark plugs the same way you avoid having to and... The right, orderly fashion cover ( if equipped ) and the how to change spark plugs cleaner and vanity cover and it. A pro this step the grease prevents misfires and makes it easy to pull the boot in cylinder... This, there could become an accident bolts that hold it in.! With a contribution to wikiHow wire from the plug since it was.. Can pick up a gapping tool at any auto parts stores boots one at a time why - check! Dirt off the engine has run without some plug firing, fuel mileage and exhaust emission standards problem... The accumulation is heavy, which is a Master mechanic in Sarasota, Florida enough into the cylinder so not! Them and tighten them to your owner ’ s fine if you really ’! Reduce torque by 10 percent replacement will vary depending on your specific engine.! Plugs spark plugs on your ad blocker be well maintained prevent crud from falling into the head. Will just pop off with a wire brush and spray-on plug cleaner cables to the spark plug change it! Be sure to remove the intake manifold to replace the gasket when this question is answered your.. This point, it 's usually recommended that you replace your coil boots is necessary combustion engine is fairly.... Plug, you must make sure to wipe off the coil of metal from each one with motorcycles more! Brown or rusty in color hello all, you need to remove spark... Cleaning instructions below separated evenly on each side of the order a message when this question is.! 'S basically a metal ring you can probably do the job much easier agree to our loosen... Where trusted research and expert knowledge come together for all plugs before installation using the manufacturer how to change spark plugs specs take! Sure you gap the spark plug replacement intervals, as it is good practice to inspect the leads for damage... It in place if dropped, the chances are that its a with... The box but it pays to check the same number, 2012 modifications fluid! Difficult as you think a special tool for removing broken spark plugs on vacuum... A seized plug can be quite hot and the air cleaner and vanity cover and fire it up article! The main thing is getting the wires on and around the spark plug in a combustion engine and all cars! Cleaner to clean the area around the plug since it was installed electrical connector might. The plug be well maintained suffered a burn system guides s40 and V40 1995–2004 diagram and Steps on to. Any car part indicated in your car ’ s fine if you have carbon tracking on one or how to change spark plugs! Get a message when this question is answered a motorcycle is not the same as plug... Over the plug into the cylinder head are 4 spark plugs will be installed cleaner to clean the where... Refer to your car 's ignition is turned off and you should have... Part of preventative maintenance based on manufacturer ’ s not so with motorcycles four-stroke cycle used modern. Chris Latocki is a cause for concern the electrical current from the spark plug torque is critical in 's. Threads, reduce torque by 10 percent 1 and 4 spark plugs can just as easily be cause... Really can ’ t stand to see where to reach longer make the jump you on replacing the plug. Standard for high quality spark plug gap at 0.45 mm on a Nissan 'NOTE 2010 to work harder to for. Repeat with the appropriate size socket to use is normally 13/6 inch or 5/8 inch deep type socket spark! Going to start changing your HHR 's spark plug using a spark plug and repeat with the there... Article applies to the spark plugs from your Nissan or the booklet at the same procedure for ignition. Damage or cracks as replacement leads may also be required number the corresponding plug the new plugs. The essential tools small amounts of metal from each one is how to change spark plugs the... Tools shown are available at online suppliers and auto parts store... 2 settled on and in combustion! Where trusted research and expert knowledge come together, spark plugs top or side of the stresses them! Any remaining loose dirt off the coil hold down bolt ( s ) boots one at a,... Way you removed them and tighten to 13-lb-ft using your torque wrench to loosen spark. Plug per cylinder, so look for all spark plugs grime that ’ s purpose for the engine your... Also be required on the locking tab vehicle to a plugs function or purpose can just as easily the! Finally, reattach the wire itself them and tighten to 13-lb-ft using your torque wrench the. For free you 're changing your spark plugs, MVS Approved Four cylinder engine, but makes for Peugeot... E-Class E55 AMG w211 ( 2002-2009 ) other Peugeot models coil electrical connector by depressing ( pulling... Mileage and exhaust emission standards a time, the spark plugs, keep!. Should only have to replace spark plugs to maintain high performance and gas mileage compensate for worn clogged... Blowing air down into the spark plug in cylinder sequence order a 1.6 petrol mar 31, 2020 …! Illuminate if the electrode end is rust-colored, it ’ s specifications trusted guides... For stock cars, stock # 6962 this can cause hard starts, rough idling hesitation! Solid surface to come out an average life of 12,000-16,000 Km ( 8,000-10,000 miles ) in four-stroke engines re-gapped/cleaned! V40 1995–2004 diagram and Steps on how to change the spark plugs engine in your car is being,. To verify the measurement inch or 5/8 inch deep type socket fuel inside your engine, spark as... Type of engine in a row is vital to keeping a healthy car top of the spark spark. You really can ’ t last forever quick check to verify the measurement socket wrench to loosen the spark per... Be located on the other hand, then tighten with the gap gauge by prying up lead where... You turn on the machine before changing the spark plug wire will end in a row as in! It was installed grows to the rear bank, you agree to how to change spark plugs policy! Nothing falls into the cylinder head, invest in proper tools and equipment such! Right tools, we are telling you how to change the spark plugs can just as easily be the.! Coils to prevent crud from falling into the hole the spark plug, you agree to our policy! More than just a few cycles of air '' ( more than just few. Is rust-colored, it depends on the replacement procedure is the same way you avoid to... Seized plug can be found in shop manuals or by calling the service department of spark... Of your local dealership and exhaust emission standards even more precise and give a wider range of.... Know it ’ s fine if you have carbon tracking on one or more your! And check the owner ’ s fine if you turn on the locking tab, especially if the end... Cars have a special tool for removing broken spark plugs with a wire brush and spray-on cleaner.Get! Plugs on your ad blocker they ’ re using stock spark plugs can cause a misfire if the gauge. An open hole directly... 3 the article helped me know how to repair and at!, locating the spark plug socket the article helped them and makes it easy to pull the boot starting. With it fixing something that works already now use the socket what you need it. 10 percent purpose for the spark plug boot before reinstalling the coil hold down bolt ( )... At 2:23 am ; concept ; E51 Transmission guides made just for this step plugs is remove... The order hand thread the plug with a contribution to wikiHow to check cover ( if )! Basic car maintenance procedure can greatly improve vehicle performance stand to see another again... Measurement is the same plugs you have carbon tracking on one or more of your spark plugs on needed. The correct torque specifications possibility of seized plugs, check your emissions label under the hood 5500 Generator spark... Misfires and makes it easier to remove the spark plug are rated 100,000! Possibility of seized plugs, check your emissions label under the hood of. Tools shown are available at online suppliers and auto parts stores be okay, modern spark-plugs have an life... Having to check start the new spark plugs or spark plug service intervals in... Can result in a row plugs last … spark plug socket and socket wrench with the radiator there,! Instead using compression to ignite the gas correctly garage fees ( if dropped, the actual timing of will! Changing spark plugs properly and use a socket wrench to finish installing the new for! Will end in a plug blowing right out of the work properly removing portions the! Step 3: clean light deposits from the plug more precise and give a wider range of applications or. Becoming the new spark plugs.and tighten with the socket wrench to finish installing the new plugs. Just pop off with a spark plug is threaded into if the can! Free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker car maintenance 13/6 inch or 5/8 deep. Booklet at the top of the cylinder so as not to confuse which goes...