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Everything To Know When To Replace Spark Plugs

replace spark plugs

Replace Spark Plugs In Long Beach Bixby Knolls

These days not a lot of people in Long Beach, Bixby Knolls know how important spark plugs really are. They are the essential spark that powers your vehicle’s engine. But when they wear out your vehicle isn’t going any wear. You’ll be happy to know there are signs that your spark plugs are reaching the end of their life. Some of those signs are your vehicle can feel a bit sluggish or your gas mileage is getting worse and then you remember when you last started your vehicle it took a few tries. If your vehicle is showing any of these signs, it may be time to replace spark plugs. And if ignored for to long you may not be able to start your vehicle and the worst expected time. At Orozco’s Auto Service of Long Beach, Bixby Knolls our certified ASE technicians are more than qualified to troubleshoot these issues and determine if indeed it’s a spark plugs issue.

So, what exactly is a spark plug. Well. simple put, It’s an insulator and a central conductor with no moving parts.  Spark plugs come in a variety of styles and are specified by their size, specifically by nut or thread, sealing type and spark gap. The majority of today’s vehicles have a 14-mm thread; older vehicles had used 18-mm or 7/8-inch (approximately 22-mm) ones. Thread length varies as well, depending on the vehicle manufacturer and type of engine. The sealing type or seat is where the plug mates to the head. It can be flat or tapered again, depending on the manufacturer and engine type. Additionally, the amount of torque applied during installation ensures a secure fit. Typically, there is one plug for each cylinder, but there are exceptions. For example, the V8 Hemi engines used in various Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler products have 16 plugs, two per cylinder.

Todays spark plugs have a much longer life than say vehicles in the last pre 1990’s, with some lasting over 100,000 miles. Additionally, years ago most vehicles required a tune-up once a year to replace spark plugs and adjust points. Unfortunately, even with today’s high-tech spark plugs they do still wear out eventually, and if you’re finding it difficult to start your vehicle, it could mean that your spark plugs have met the end of their life. A visual inspection may reveal elements of bad spark plugs when removed. If you look at the plug from the cylinder and notice that the end has a burned or sandy looking deposits accumulated on the outer electrode, then it’s time to replace them. In a worst-case scenario, a wet accumulation of oil on the electrode may indicate not only that the spark plug is bad but also that there’s significant engine problem with oil leaking into the cylinders.

Other troubling signs you may notice include a rough idle, engine misfire or surge, weak acceleration or a spike in fuel consumption. In some vehicles the “check engine” light may come on. Feel free to visit Orozco’s Auto Service to have your vehicle’s “check engine” light diagnosed.

Changing spark plugs is a very important part of keeping your engine in good working order. Be sure to get yours replaced at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals to ensure peak engine performance. You can find this information in your vehicles user manual. If you feel your vehicle may need new spark plugs or would like to have your vehicle diagnosed contact Orozco’s Auto Service of Long Beach, Bixby Knolls today at 562-427-4256. Remember to always keep your vehicle in good running condition and ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and those around you!

Orozco’s Auto Service Long Beach / Bixby Knolls – Los Angeles County CA
3619 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA USA
Call Today: 562-427-4256 – Auto/Fleet/Diesel Service Repair

https://orozcosautoservice.com

Orozco’s Auto Service has five convenient locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties Long BeachBellflowerGarden Grove or Fullerton!

Business Hours

Mon – Fri: 7:30AM – 5:30PM
Sat: 7:30AM – 4:00PM
Sunday: Closed

 

  • 3619 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach
  • 562-427-4256
  • 9665 Alondra Blvd. Bellflower
  • 562-920-1871
  • 3033 Long Beach Blvd. Long Beach
  • 562-426-6322
  • 1018 W. Orangethorpe Ave. Fullerton
  • 714-525-3239
  • 12776 Nutwood Street Garden Grove
  • 714-537-0076
  • New Location Coming Soon

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We service the following cities and surrounding areas

Long Beach, Bellflower, Compton, Artesia, Carson, Cerritos, Downey, Lakewood, Norwalk, Paramount, Signal Hill, Wilmington, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Orange County

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