Apr 22, 2022

Telltale Signs Your Car Needs New Spark Plugs

Running late in the mornings because you can’t get your car to start? Is your vehicle losing power when you’re driving up a hill? Or maybe you’ve noticed that your car isn’t running as smoothly as it used to. If you’ve been experiencing these problems, it might be time to change your spark plugs.

If you’re interested in learning the why’s and how’s of changing your car’s spark plugs, stay with us as our car experts lay it out for you.

Cars Display Symptoms:

It’s a fine day, and suddenly your car starts to splutter and choke just as you’re about to overtake a truck. You press down on the accelerator, but the car doesn’t respond, and you’re stuck behind the truck until it finally pulls over to let you pass. You heave a sigh of relief and make a mental note to get your car checked out as soon as possible.

If your car is starting to show any of the following symptoms, it’s time to change your spark plugs:

Taking Longer to Start:

Frustratingly, you turn the key in the ignition, but your car doesn’t start right away. You wait for a few seconds and try again, but it’s still not working. This problem is usually caused by fouled or damaged spark plugs.

Bad Fuel Economy:

You’ve been driving the same route to work for months, and you know exactly how much fuel you require to get there and back. But lately, you’ve noticed that you have to stop for fuel more often than usual. It could signify that your spark plugs are worn out and need to be replaced.

Reduced Engine Power:

Remember when you were driving up a hill, and your car suddenly lost power? It could be because spark plugs that are too old and can’t fire properly, resulting in a loss of power. It’s important to note that once a car starts showing engine problems, it can quickly lead to other, more severe issues. So, if you notice any reduction in your car’s engine power, be sure to check with an experienced mechanic as soon as possible.

Increased Engine Emissions:

There’s enough pollution in the world without your car adding to it. If you’ve noticed that your car’s exhaust is darker than usual or there’s an unusual amount of smoke, it could be a sign that your spark plugs need to be replaced. Emissions can also mean that your engine isn’t burning fuel as efficiently as it should be.

The Engine Check Light is on:

This one’s fairly self-explanatory. If the engine check light on your dash is lit up, there’s a problem with your engine. It could be several things, but one possibility is that it’s time for you to get new spark plugs.

Bottom Line:

If your car hesitates or has a low idle, it might be time for some new spark plugs. You can order new spark plugs from the Acura parts store and have them installed by one of our certified technicians at Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ.

Schedule a service now!