Learn how to change your car's spark plugs in five steps

You can change the spark plugs in your car, all you have to do is follow five simple steps and that's it.

Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility, both in driving and in what it is given, there are questions that a general mechanic or specialist should undoubtedly do, but changing spark plugs can be done on your own in just five steps.

While this may be a daunting task for many, the truth is that it is not, which is why we are going to share expert tips so you can learn how to change your car's spark plugs in just five steps like an expert. 

And it is that spark plugs play an important role in the operation of a car's gasoline engine, so they can have a longer life.

If the spark plugs are not in good condition, it will affect the engine, causing wear and tear on its lifespan, so it is important to change them regularly. Since the start of the car depends on these details.

Wear of spark plugs for various reasons

Wear and tear depends on several factors, such as the type of car, the way you drive and the mileage of the car, the site emphasizes.

What defines the replacement of spark plugs is that when you start to fix certain difficulties in starting the engine, if you find these faults, do not hesitate to change these basic parts to make it work.

Since, in addition to affecting the engine resource, spark plugs in poor condition also imply increased gas mileage. 

As a general rule, cars have one spark plug per cylinder, meaning a V6 will have six, but be aware that there are cars that have two per cylinder. 

Five steps to change your car's spark plugs

1-Spark plugs and necessary replacement material

The first thing you need to do is to have the necessary tools and products to replace your spark plugs.

Remember to follow the car manufacturer's recommendations for the brand of spark plugs, as this is a good start to make sure everything goes perfectly.

You will need a spark plug wrench, a gap tool or gauge, duct tape and optionally another wrench (ratchet), socket and extension to help you remove the spark plugs.

2-Remove the wires or coils from the spark plugs.

The first thing you need to do is find where the spark plugs are, they are usually next to the engine and in some cases at the top. Although in other cars they are usually hidden by a plastic cover. 

Once you find them, you should remove the wires or coils from each spark plug. It is recommended to mark each of them with sticky tape so that you know what position they are in.

Removing cables or coils does not require much effort, just a light pull is enough.

The recommendation of experts is to clean the spark plug wells well, as any dirt that gets into the engine can affect its operation.

Therefore, pay close attention to ensure that each well is clean. 

3-Remove the worn parts of the spark plugs. 

The next step is very simple, you need to unscrew each spark plug with a spark plug wrench, or if you don't have one, you can do it with a wrench known as a ratchet and ⅝ socket. Remember that on the left side it weakens, and on the right side it tightens.

In some cases, it is necessary to use an extension cord to get to the spark plug.

You will notice that when the spark plug is loose it is time to remove it.

Remember that each spark plug hole must be clean before inserting a new spark plug. 

4-Open new spark plugs

Now you need to open boxes of new spark plugs to calibrate one by one.

To do this, you must use a calibrator and follow the manufacturer's recommendations to leave them at the specified level.

Although each car requires a different spark plug gauge, conventional ones are sized between 0.028 and 0.060 inches. For best results, check with your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

Even the spark plug manufacturer recommends some precautions for the proper functioning of the product and the operation of the engine. 

5- Install new spark plugs.

Once they are properly calibrated, install each spark plug in the reverse order of removing them. Tighten them by hand first, then you can use the special wrench and tighten them an eighth of a turn.

They should not be too tight, as this may damage the operation of the engine.

Similarly, check your vehicle's owner's manual for manufacturer's recommendations, as they shouldn't be too tight. 

Once the spark plugs are installed, the next step is to reattach the cables or coils to each one.

If they had a plastic cover you should install that as well, once all this is done close the hood and start the car so you can verify that the spark plug replacement was successful. 

If the engine ignition works without any problems, then you should be sure that the entire procedure was performed correctly. 

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