Autos Spark Plugs Maintenance – Going Pro!
There's something about a car that just feels so satisfying to clean. Maybe it's the way it handles or the feeling of power under your foot as you floor it. But for many, washing their car is a therapeutic experience - and one that should be done regularly to keep it looking and running its best.
However, some car owners miss out on spark plugs and end up with a car that's difficult to start. This blog post will highlight how to clean your spark plugs so that they look, feel, and perform like new. Spark plugs aren't difficult to clean - all you need is some carburetor cleaner and a few minutes of your time.
What's the Need?
Cleaning your spark plugs is vital for two reasons:
· To prevent corrosion
· To remove deposits that can build up on the electrode over time.
Corrosion can cause the spark plug to seize the engine, requiring replacement. And if deposits build up on the electrode, it can prevent proper electrical contact and cause misfiring.
It is also essential to notice that faulty spark plugs will increase your fuel bills and, in some cases, may cause your car to fail an emissions test.
How Often Should You Clean Your Spark Plugs?
The frequency of cleaning your spark plugs will depend on a few factors, such as the type of engine oil you're using and the driving conditions. In general, it's a good idea to clean your spark plugs every 20,000 miles or so.
If you reside in a region with a lot of dust or dirt, you may need to clean them more frequently. And if you often drive in stop-and-go traffic, that can also cause deposits to build up more quickly.
When is the Right Time to Clean?
How would you know if your spark plugs need to be cleaned? There are a few signs that you can look for:
· The engine is misfiring
· The engine is running rough
· The engine is hard to start
It's time to clean your spark plugs if you detect any of these symptoms.
How to Clean Your Spark Plugs
Cleaning your spark plugs is a pretty straightforward process. You'll need:
· A socket wrench
· A spark plug socket
· Carburetor cleaner
· A wire brush
Start by removing the spark plug wire from the spark plug. You may need to use a little force to get it off. Once the wire is removed, use the socket wrench to remove the spark plug from the engine.
Next, have a look at the spark plugs. If it's covered in deposits, you'll need to clean it. The best method to carry this out is to use a wire brush. If the residues are really caked on, you may need to use carburetor cleaner.
Once the spark plug is clean, you can reinstall it in the engine. Be sure to hand-tighten it so you don't damage the threads. Then, reattach the spark plug wire.
And that's it! You've successfully cleaned your spark plugs. Wasn't that easy?
Final Thoughts:
At our auto dealership, DCH Honda Oxnard, serving Moorpark, CA, we hope this guide was helpful! We strive to ensure that our consumers have all the information they need to keep their cars running like new.
If you are in search of the best Honda models to purchase a new or preowned car or want to schedule a service appointment, visit our website.
Our team would be more than happy to assist you.