How long is the ignition cable (spark plug wires)?

The ignition of a car is an essential part of a properly running engine. Every time you turn your car key to start it, the ignition wires have to carry electricity from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. This will help start the combustion process. Without properly working spark plug wires, your engine will be able to run as it's supposed to. Due to the constant use of spark plug wires in a car, they wear out over time and can cause many different problems.

Ignition cables in a car are rated for about 60,000 miles before they have to be replaced. In some cases the wires will need to be replaced due to damage to the rubber boot on the end which now makes a good connection to the spark plugs. Check the wires for damage from time to time. Finding ignition wire problems early can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

In most cases, you will start to notice that the car is running sluggish when the ignition wires need to be replaced. Instead of your machine performing poorly, you will need to take the time to figure out what is wrong with it. The check engine light on the car usually comes on. This means you can take it to a mechanic and use an OBD tool to find out why the light is on.

Here are some other things you'll notice when it's time to replace your ignition wires:

• Engine stalls periodically
• Significantly lower gas mileage
• Engine shakes when trying to take off
• Car won't start or takes a long time to start

When you start noticing these warning signs, you'll need to make repairs urgently. Having damaged ignition wires replaced by a professional can take the stress out of such repair situations.