Ignition plugs are a essential part of your car’s engine, charged with initiating the combustible air-fuel blend that powers your vehicle. Over time, they wear out due to the ongoing exposure to extreme temperatures and electrical loads they endure. Knowing when to replace them can help you prevent reduced engine efficiency, improve gas mileage, and even prevent engine damage.

Automakers recommend replacing spark plugs every between 30k and 100k miles, but this range is largely determined by the type of spark plug your car uses and your commuting patterns. Copper-core plugs typically need to be changed every between 30k and 50k miles. These are the prevalent in vintage cars and اتوسرویس داوود are budget-friendly but also degrade more quickly. Platinum electrodes last significantly longer, often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, and are standard on many 2000s–2010s vehicles. Iridium-tipped plugs, which are the longest-lasting, can go up to 100k+ miles before needing replacement and are commonly found in newer, performance-tuned vehicles.

It’s important to check your vehicle’s service guide for the precise interval. Some cars have customized replacement cycles based on combustion chamber configuration or octane rating. If you often make short trips, especially in stop-and-go traffic, your spark plugs may wear out faster because the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature often enough to cleanse carbon buildup. Similarly, if you notice symptoms like unstable idle, slow cranking, decreased fuel economy, or cylinder misfires, it could be a sign your spark plugs are compromised and need early replacement than the standard interval.

Even if your spark plugs show no obvious issues, it’s a wise practice to have them inspected during regular maintenance. A technician can check for electrode erosion, soot accumulation, or damage that you might not notice. Replacing them before they fail can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.

In short, never postpone until your car exhibits symptoms to think about spark plugs. Keeping track of replacement intervals based on your vehicle’s specifications and your commute patterns will keep your engine running smoothly for the long haul.