4 Signs Your Automobile's Spark Plugs Need To Be Replaced

The spark plugs in your automobile are responsible for receiving an electrical current from the ignition coils and then using the energy to ignite the fuel and air in the combustion chamber. When you are operating your vehicle, this process happens continuously and is what keeps your vehicle moving. Like most auto parts, spark plugs wear out over time and need to be replaced. Failure to replace them on schedule can lead to a number of mechanical problems, and if several spark plugs are bad your car most likely will not start and you will have to have it towed to an auto repair shop. If you notice the following symptoms, have your spark plugs checked out and replaced by a mechanic:

Noticeable Change in Fuel Economy

After driving your vehicle for a while, you tend to notice how far you can drive on a tank of gas, even if you don't know the exact miles per gallon that your car gets. If you suddenly notice that you are having to buy gas more often even though you are not driving more, you may have spark plugs that are going bad. When spark plugs are not working properly it can lead to incomplete combustion, meaning that your car has to use more fuel.

Misfiring Engine

If your vehicle's engine misfires, you will feel it; a typical misfire almost feels like the engine slips, which can cause a jerking feeling while driving. If several spark plugs are failing, it is possible for engine misfires to become such a problem that you will not be able to drive your car on the road, and you may end up having to have it towed because it will not run properly. Don't wait for engine misfires to become so bad that you can operate your vehicle- at the first sign of an engine misfire bring your car to an auto repair shop to have the spark plugs checked.

Acceleration Problems

If bad spark plugs are preventing continuous fuel combustion, you will most likely notice acceleration problems. These problems can include lack of power, your vehicle not responding immediately when the accelerator is pressed, or uneven acceleration. This can be a serious problem when driving in traffic, so don't ignore these symptoms.

Idling Problems

Your vehicle idles when the engine is on but the car is not moving; failing spark plugs can cause your automobile to have idling problems. Common idling problems include loud engine sounds when stopped, vibrations from the engine, and an engine that runs at a high RPM while stationary. Several bad spark plugs can even make your car stall while idling, which can be problematic and dangerous at intersections with stoplights. 

To learn more, contact an auto repair company like Fredericktown Marathon.