What does a spark plug do?

Your spark plugs are what supply the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture, creating the explosion which makes your engine produce power. These small but simple plugs create an arc of electricity across two leads which are not touching, but close enough together that electricity can jump the gap between them.

Can you drive without a spark plug?

Usually, yes. There are a number of problems with doing that, loss of power, and noise, followed by damage the spark plug hole itself in time. Usually, yes. There are a number of problems with doing that, loss of power, and noise, followed by damage the spark plug hole itself in time.

How much does it cost to replace a spark plug?

Spark plugs are incredibly inexpensive, often costing less than ten dollars apiece. Now you may need to replace several at once, but it still won’t cost very much. The typical amount you will pay for spark plugs is between $16-$100, while for labor on a spark plug replacement you can expect to pay around $40-$150.

What happens if I change my spark plugs?

Worn out spark plugs can be the cause. Simply, the engine will not start if the spark plugs can’t produce enough spark to start the combustion process. Some of the other causes for difficult starting: issues with the ignition system, the battery needs replacing or worn out spark plug wires.

What happens if you keep driving with bad spark plugs?

Continuing to drive on worn out or damaged spark plugs can ultimately cause engine damage, so don’t put it off.

What happens when a spark plug blown out?

A spark plug blow out occurs when the spark plug is fastened too tightly or not tight enough to the engine plug. The result is that the spark plug itself cannot properly channel the electric charge from the plug to the engine block, and the spark plug breaks down.

What happens if a spark plug is not in all the way?

Plug will come out and the engine will make a lot of noise and run poorly. Before the plug comes out all the way leaking exhaust gases will probably damage the coil or plug wire attached. Today’s aluminum heads will almost certainly need thread repair on the hole where the spark plug came out.

Can I change my spark plugs myself?

Like rotating tires or changing oil, replacing spark plugs is a job that can be easily, and inexpensively, done in the confines of your own home. Although they don’t need maintenance as often as the other two tasks, spark plugs are equally as important and require consistent monitoring.