Your vehicle is made of thousands of parts - some small and some large. One of the smallest components that you'll find on most vehicles is a spark plug. These tiny parts are important for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Here's everything you need to know about spark plugs and what to avoid.
Why are spark plugs important?
Gas-powered cars are outfitted with an internal combustion engine, also called ICE. Under the hood, the engine uses a combination of air and gasoline to start. The spark plugs provide a spark of electricity that initiates the combustion process.
Over time, the spark plugs can get worn down and lose their ability to provide that essential electric current for the engine to start. That's why it's vital that the spark plugs are always in top condition, or you could find yourself stranded with an engine that won't start.
Signs that you need new spark plugs
Thankfully, spark plugs don't wear down very quickly, so you won't need to visit us for spark plug replacement as often as you do for oil changes. In fact, most spark plugs are created with platinum and can last up to 50,000 miles for many drivers.
The weather doesn't get too harsh here in Beaverton, so the spark plugs shouldn't be struggling to help start the engine in your vehicle. But if you do notice that the engine is having a hard time turning over, it might be time for us to check things out. Other signs of bad spark plugs could include sluggish acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and rough idling.
Reading about spark plugs is one thing; being able to diagnose problems and fix them is another. If you're a bit overwhelmed or if you just have some concerns about your vehicle, feel free to schedule an appointment with our Service Department at CARR Chevrolet in Beaverton, Oregon. We'll look into anything you mention and watch out for any other potential problems to ensure your car keeps chugging along.