It can be difficult for your car to start if the spark plugs are worn. Each cylinder has a spark plug and an air/fuel mixture. The spark plugs should produce sparks when you turn the ignition key. This sparks fire up the fuel and air. Your engine won’t start if the spark plugs don’t work. Your engine will crank several times if some of the spark plugs are functioning. This is one indication that spark plugs need replacing. These are just a few of the other warning signs.
Cylinders That Misfire
If you start your car, it is likely that the cylinders will misfire as some of the spark plugs have stopped generating sparks. Bad spark plugs can prevent the fuel and air from igniting in the cylinders. Your engine will then cut out often. This is known as misfiring. All cylinders must be firing in order to make your engine run efficiently.
Rough Idling
The engine will idle slowly and you will notice that it is not firing properly. If you pay attention, you will feel the engine shake and hear it cut out. Your engine could be susceptible to stalling if you sit at an idle. This is because your cylinders aren’t firing properly.
Lagging Performance
Your engine performance will also suffer. This will cause your vehicle to have difficulty accelerating when you need it to speed up. You may also experience engine misfires while driving, causing your vehicle to jerk or the engine to sputter.
Surging Performance
Bad spark plugs can cause the opposite effect, as well. Surging could cause your truck, car, or utility vehicle unexpectedly to accelerate. Driving your car can become unpredictable if this happens. It is important to replace the plugs to restore your engine’s steady performance.
Increased Consumption
All of the above will cause an increase in engine fuel consumption. You will experience a decrease in fuel economy until the spark plugs are replaced. Regularly changing the spark plugs will ensure that your car gets the best gas mileage at all times. Make sure to stick to the factory-scheduled maintenance schedule that is listed in your owner’s manual to get the best performance and mileage out of your automobile.
We are here to help, so call us today to schedule an appointment for your vehicle if you suspect that the engine needs a new set of plugs. We will inspect the spark plugs and wires and replace whatever needs replacing.