Chances are this morning, you fired up a gasoline car, and if you did, congrats! You are the owner of happy and healthy spark plugs. Spark plugs in gas-based engines are your car’s heartbeat, in a sense – they are what make your engine actually burn gasoline and run.

 What is a spark plug?

A spark plug, quite simply, is a plug that creates a spark. When gasoline is injected around the spark plug, ignites a spark causing the gasoline to combust, causing propulsion.

How does it work?

 The model provided by Car Hospital below explains the inner details of a plug.

 Does everyone have spark plugs?

No, only gasoline or hybrid cars do. Electric cars do not have gasoline to combust and diesels combust their fuel with pressure, not spark.

 How do I know if I need new spark plugs?

 Spark plugs need replacement for one of two reasons; the first being it has outlived its lifespan (the gap in which spark plugs ignite expands over time, causing misfires) or because it no longer functions. You will know of you have a misfire because your check engine light will blink, and your car will shake – sometimes vigorously.

 Can misfires damage my engine?

 In the short term, no, but in the long run, yes. In the short run, fuel efficiency will be drastically reduced, but over time this can cause problems such as premature engine deterioration.

 How often should my plugs be checked?

 Spark plugs should be checked every 30,000 miles and replaced when the gap is deemed too large.

  How is a spark plug replaced?

If you think you need your spark plugs replaced stop by Manchester Auto and Tire of Mint Hill and see Ken or call 704-545-4597.