How Often Do You Need to Change Spark Plugs?

When do you change spark plugs? It’s a question our service department hears pretty often, so you’re not alone in wondering about this important service. Spark plugs create the ignition for the combustion required to start your car every day, so it’s important to replace them when they go bad. Most experts recommend changing spark plugs every 30,000 miles as a general rule, but the actual mileage can vary based on your vehicle’s unique specifications. We suggest checking your owner’s manual as the ultimate source of truth, or contacting our service center for guidance. In the meantime, you can learn more about how often to change spark plugs in the guide below. 

When Do I Change My Spark Plugs? 

While every 30,000 miles is a solid rule of thumb, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how often to change spark plugs. Your own car’s spark plugs might last longer than another driver’s in Corona based on your vehicle’s specs and condition. As we briefly mentioned, the spark plugs are part of the ignition system. They carry high voltage current from the ignition coil to the combustion chamber, which is what makes your vehicle start when you turn the key. With that in mind, if your spark plugs are going bad, you may experience issues with starting your vehicle, as well as poor performance in Riverside. 

Potential signs of failing spark plugs include:

• Sluggish start-ups, or no start at all
• Engine misfire caused by incomplete combustion
• Sputtering, rough-running engine
• Loud idling
• Acceleration is a struggle
• Suddenly poor fuel economy

Why Change Your Spark Plugs? 

It goes without saying that you want to avoid the aforementioned problems that can be caused by bad spark plugs. In addition to providing a smoother driving experience in Ontario, replacing your spark plugs will help you enjoy these benefits:

• Maintain good fuel economy: Whether your car is a little older or you’re driving a newer model, you want to maintain the best possible fuel economy. Replacing your spark plugs when necessary will help you achieve that goal, as worn out spark plugs can reduce fuel economy up to 30% in some cases.
• Reliable combustion system: With good quality spark plugs, your combustion system has the support it needs to continuously produce the combustion required to start your car.
• Quick start-ups: No one wants to struggle to start their car every morning. Changing your spark plugs will help your car start on the first try, every time.
• Cleaner emissions: In addition to helping with fuel economy, good spark plugs also have the potential to improve your vehicle’s exhaust emissions.

Book a Service Appointment at BMW of Murrieta

So, when do you change spark plugs? If your vehicle is exhibiting any of the problems discussed above, it may be time to book a service appointment at BMW of Murrieta. Our expert service technicians will inspect your vehicle and diagnose the problem, so you can get back to traveling safely in Ontario. If you need new spark plugs, be sure to check our parts specials for money-saving coupons.