5 Sure Signs You Need New Spark Plugs

Imagine this: You're running late for work and when you finally dash out the door and jump in your car, it takes a few minutes to start up. You don't have time for this inconvenience!

While there are a number of reasons your car may not start, one likely culprit is your spark plugs.

Read through this guide so you know how to spot the signs you need new spark plugs. You just might save yourself from a stressful situation down the road.

5 Signs You Need New Spark Plugs

Regular maintenance is key to your car's longevity, but we understand that sometimes life gets in the way of taking care of your car.

The good news is that if you're paying attention, your car will give you clues to indicate it needs service before it completely stops running.

Here are the 5 clues to pay attention to when it comes to your spark plugs.

1. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

Does it seem like you're filling up your gas tank more than usual? When your spark plugs start to go bad, your car goes through gas at a much faster rate.

In fact, when a spark plug is misfiring, it can reduce your fuel efficiency by up to 30%.

2. Trouble Starting

As their name suggests, electrical energy goes through spark plugs to ignite the fuel and air combination in your engine, giving your car the spark of energy it needs to start.

If you have to try starting your car a few times each morning before it will actually turn on, this could be another sign that you need new spark plugs.

3. Acceleration Becomes Difficult

When you hit the gas and your car is sluggish or has trouble accelerating normally, this can be another indication that your spark plugs need to be changed.

As we mentioned above, faulty spark plugs cannot produce a spark that's hot enough to ignite the air and gasoline mixture in your engine, making it harder for your car to accelerate properly.

4. Rough Idling

When you're sitting at a stoplight, do you feel your car shaking or bouncing? This is known as rough idling, and it's another sign that your spark plugs may be going bad.

When spark plugs start to fail, fuel is burned at an inconsistent rate, which can lead to the rough idling you may be feeling.

5. Engine Misfiring

If your spark plugs need to be replaced, it can cause misfiring cylinders in your engine. But, how do you know if your engine is misfiring?

You may hear a popping or sputtering sound under the hood or feel your car shake a bit. It's typically most noticeable when you're accelerating.

Is It Time to Replace Your Spark Plugs?

Have you noticed any of these signs you need new spark plugs in your car?

With the right tools and a little elbow grease, you can spend an afternoon learning how to change your spark plugs yourself.

Or, you can let the professionals at B&M Auto Repair and Towing take care of it for you! We'll get you squared away with new spark plugs to keep your vehicle running safely. With our convenient Vehicle Pick Up and Delivery service we'll come to you, pick up your car, and drop it back off when your service is complete.