How Often Should You Replace Your Ford’s Spark Plugs?

For such a small part, spark plugs play a big role in getting and keeping your car running. By converting the electrical charge into a spark, they perform an essential role in the combustion cycle in your engine’s cylinder. But over time they function less effectively, and become coated in carbon, oil, and fuel. Read on for our guide to when you should contact your Ford dealer for a replacement.

Mileage

It’s usage, rather than time, that makes your plugs less effective. So rather than using months to measure the interval between replacements, aim to use miles. Technological advancements mean that their lifespan has lengthened, and they can last for about 100,000 miles. However, “severe” use may mean that you need to have them replaced after 60,000 miles.

Usage

“Severe” usage that shortens the lifespan of your plugs includes:

• Driving on hilly or rough roads
• Extremely cold or hot temperatures
• Towing heavy loads
• Long periods where the engine is idling.

If you know that your car frequently drives in conditions that put the plugs under pressure, and you stay alert to your mileage since their last change, you’ll have a rough idea of when they might begin to undermine your car’s overall performance.

Starting Problems

Struggling plugs can put a strain on other engine components, so staying alert to any sign of problems is better for the overall health of your car. One of these might be that your engine “coughs” at ignition, and tries to fire without starting. It may take a few attempts before it starts running. If you notice this happening, it could be time to look into a replacement.

Running Problems

A reliable spark from the plug is also necessary to keep the combustion cycle running smoothly. One tell-tale sign of trouble is juddering, vibrating, or louder noises when the car is stationery and the engine is idling. Plug problems can also cause engine misfires when driving. You might feel as though the engine misses a beat during the drive, or notice shuddering and small popping noises.

Another symptom is poor fuel economy. Misfiring plugs allow unburnt fuel to escape into the exhaust system and go to waste, and they make your emissions more harmful to the environment. If you notice that you’re spending more at the gas pump, or that your mileage per gallon is dropping, it could be time to get the spark back.

Misfires and hard starts will put pressure on other engine parts and undermine their performance, so it’s important to tackle plug problems straight away. But the good news is that they’re an inexpensive and relatively easy fix. But whatever your maintenance needs, be sure to schedule an appointment at Conway Ford and allow our expert team to keep your vehicle running perfectly.

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