Do you want to change your spark plugs and are wondering how long does it take to change spark plugs? Then, you need not worry further because you are in the right place.
Your spark plug makes up the engine parts that help you start your car. Over time they can be worn out and will need replacement.
This article will explore a lot about car spark plugs and spark plug replacement, how long it takes to change spark plugs, how long they can last, how to maintain them, and how much it will cost to replace one.
Let’s get started!
How Long Does It Take to Change Spark Plugs?
It takes at least an hour to replace a spark plug on a four-cylinder engine, as opposed to a six-cylinder or V8 engine, which could take twice as long.
In a 4 -cylinder engine, the most time-consuming activity when changing spark plugs is taking off the intake cover and replacing the filter. However, it is easy to accomplish the job if the person handling it is a professional.
One of the essential features to the success of a car ignition is the spark plug. Regularly changing these spark plugs will reduce the possibility of the car developing faults and allow it to continue functioning smoothly.
In addition, changing these spark plugs does not require a lot of time. The type or model of vehicle will determine how long it takes to change the spark plugs.
Some engines make it easy to change spark plugs, while others are difficult. To check this, open your vehicle’s hood to see where the spark plugs are.
If they’re easy to access, you can change them easily with the least amount of time, but if they’re in a place that is difficult to access, you might need to take out some bolts or other things, thereby increasing the time it will take to change the spark plugs.
As said earlier, Your car’s engine type will determine how hard or easy it is for you to change your spark plugs.
Experts will be able to check and change your spark plugs quickly and efficiently, no matter how complicated the job may be.
Some other factors can also affect how long it takes to change spark plugs, such as the vehicle’s make and model, how many cylinders are in the engine, and if the spark plugs aren’t as new as before.
Also Read: Spark Plug Replacement Cost
How Long Does It Take to Change Spark Plugs on a V6?
Generally, it takes about 2 hours to replace spark plugs on a V6 engine. However, it could take less time if the job is handled by a professional and if the location of the spark plug is easy to access.
Replacing a spark plug in a V6 is a fairly easy job that will keep your vehicle running at optimal performance and efficiency.
Ford’s V6 engine is a front-wheel drive, thus making spark plug changes simple and direct as it only takes a couple of minutes.
In addition, there’s no need to remove the manifold. So, this process is easy and direct because no special tools are needed, and it only takes about 30 minutes.
Also Read: How Many Spark Plugs in a V8 Engine (+ 7 Things to Know)
Signs You Need to Change Spark Plugs
1. An Illuminated Check Engine Light
One of the first warning signs that a vehicle has bad spark plugs is often a check engine light. This indicator is most likely due to the car not performing the way it should under ideal conditions when it is present.
As you may know, older spark plugs that are going through their electricity thousands of times per minute are more likely to misfire and cause those issues which the vehicle’s onboard computer can detect.
If you notice your check engine light, take your car to an auto parts store or local repair shop where they’ll be able to scan your codes for free in order to determine whether or not it is bad spark plugs that are causing your problems.
2. The Car Has Difficulty Starting
Your spark plugs have one of the most important jobs in your vehicle- To generate the spark needed for engine combustions.
But when spark plugs are worn down or get old, they’re more likely to misfire during cranking, and sometimes, this could cause a vehicle not to start or stall out entirely.
So if your car won’t start when you crank the engine or if it runs rough and sputters before eventually dying, you may need to check the spark plugs or the spark plug wires.
3. Poor Fuel Economy
If your spark plugs are on the verge of wearing out, you could be putting more money in the gas tank.
Worn-out spark plugs can impair your vehicle’s fuel efficiency because they won’t effectively combust the fuel that goes into the engine, which means you’ll be spending more per fill-up.
Reports show that a car with a noticeable out-of-tune engine or that failed the emission test can get up to 4% better mileage with a little tune-up, according to FuelEconomy.gov.
4. The Engine Rough Idles
In most cases, your engine purrs like a kitten, but when you turn down the music and listen closely, there might be a problem with the spark plugs if you hear rattling, pinging, or knocking noises.
5. The Car Has Trouble Accelerating
You’re probably quite familiar with how your motor vehicle handles when driving it.
However, if you notice that it takes longer for your vehicle to respond, especially when attempting to accelerate, the potential cause could be traced back to worn-out spark plugs.
It might be time to have them replaced. Nobody likes to drive around in a vehicle that pulls like a sloth.
6. When It’s the Scheduled Time for Change as Stated by the Manufacturer
Spark plugs are a vital component of any car. It’s always best to follow the Manufacturer’s Suggested Maintenance Schedule when inspecting them in order to ensure they don’t become damaged or worn out.
The spark plugs usually last for 80,000 miles before they need to be changed, so they don’t wear out that fast.
Suppose you notice that one of your spark plugs has been damaged or is not working properly.
In that case, it’s crucial you act upon it immediately before doing any more damage to other parts of your vehicle and ultimately causing engine problems.
Ignoring a problem with your spark plugs could lead to future costly repairs and time off for car repairs, and an unnecessary amount of stress that could have been prevented in the first place.
Also Read: Oil on Spark Plug Threads (Causes & Solutions)
How to Change Spark Plugs
You can usually change spark plugs by yourself in most instances. Most of these spark plugs can be acquired from Auto-parts shops, or instead, they can be bought from these shops at the rate of $5-$15.
Changing sparks plugs individually can be trouble-free and might take some hours but also remember that some cars need a deep socket spark plug wrench.
Things You’ll Need to change spark plugs:
- a pair of disposable gloves
- An extension socket and a ratchet
- Spark plug replacement
- Spark plug wrench
Here are the steps to change the spark plugs
- Park your car on a clean, flat surface. Turn off the engine and allow it to get completely cold. This is important because most cars have aluminum parts that get really hot and could give you an injury. Ensure you follow safety precautions by taking the key out of the ignition and unplugging the battery from its negative post.
- The wires connected to the manifold should be removed one after another.
- Place the spark plug wrench inside the dent on the spark plug and lose it.
- Observe the spark plugs for damage or oil. If the spark plugs have oil on them, you likely have valve seal problems.
- Install the new spark plug using a wrench.
- Repeat this process for all cylinders. There is a spark plug in each cylinder.
- The wiring must be tightly replaced inside the same slot. That is why it’s much better to change one spark plug at a time and replace the cables as soon as you’re done.
In some vehicles, spark plug wires are covered by a manifold cap. You could find two bolts holding it there; remove it.
In some car models, you might need to also take off the valve cover gasket to access the spark plugs.
If you have to take off the valve cover gasket to change the spark plugs, you will need to get a new valve cover gasket to replace the old one because it might be difficult to re-seal after you have removed it.
Frequently Asked Questions – How Long Does It Take to Change Spark Plugs
How Often Should Spark Plugs Be Changed?
A spark plug is made to last for many miles, meaning that it only needs replacing once every 80,000 to 100,000 miles. However, they can become damaged sooner than expected and need to be replaced to prevent expensive engine repairs.
How Much Should It Cost to Change the Spark Plugs?
The cost of changing a spark plug is about $66-$250, provided that you go to a shop where it can be done. Prices here depend on the national average for every vehicle and do not include taxes, fees, or your car’s specific make and model.
How Long Does It Take to Change Spark Plugs on a V6?
It takes about an hour to replace spark plugs in a vehicle with a four-cylinder engine, but the time is double for a V6 or V8 engine.
Does Changing Your Spark Plugs Make a Difference?
Yes, it does. Changing your spark plugs from time to time enhances fuel consumption management, saving you from high expenses.
Does Autozone Install Spark Plugs?
AutoZone will not swap or install a damaged spark plug; nevertheless, they sell spark plugs of premium quality and send you to an Auto-parts shop that can install the spark plug. Also, the AutoZone website or their staff provides helpful tips on how to change the spark plugs by yourself.
What Is the Life of a Spark Plug?
A typical copper spark plug has a duration of 10,000-20,000 miles, while silver pins can go as long as 20,000 miles. High-priced iridium sparks plugs, also known as platinum sparks plugs, can go for about 60,000 miles. And long-life spark plug, also known as an extended-life spark plug, can go for about 100,000 miles.
Why Is It So Expensive to Replace Spark Plugs?
Several car manufacturers have stopped supplying plugs since they are no longer a yearly service. As of today, plug replacements require taking out the intake manifold and many other tasks before getting access to them.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Spark Plugs at Walmart?
Fortunately, the price for a spark plug alone is relatively low at Walmart. However, the cost of a replacement service is $32-$98.
How Many Spark Plugs Do Cars Have?
The typical vehicle has four cylinders and also four spark plugs. It should be noted that HEMI engines, which are typically found in muscle cars, are exceptions. There are two plugs per cylinder. Check the owner’s manual if you are still uncertain after examining the engine and cylinders.
How Many Spark Plugs Does a V6 Have?
In most cases, V6 has six spark pugs and six cylinders, but some have a double spark engine with two spark plugs for each cylinder, making it 12 altogether. To verify the number of spark plugs, the manufacturer’s owner guide states the engine type and the total number of spark plugs present.
Conclusion – How Long Does It Take to Change Spark Plugs
It takes at least an hour to replace a spark plug on a four-cylinder engine, as opposed to a six-cylinder or V8 engine, which could take twice as long.
It’s necessary to replace spark plugs periodically to resolve issues with the ignition system, restore power, and improve fuel efficiency. In both 4- and 6-cylinder engines, the process of changing spark plugs is the same.
However, spark plug change gauges from Snap-on Tools make engine maintenance easier. Today the average spark plug lasts 100,000 miles before needing to be replaced.