How to change spark plugs?
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs in your car's engine can often be easy enough to replace by yourself. If the spark plugs are covered with black soot your car engine is running rich. When the engine is running lean the spark plugs are white and clean.
You can replace older spark plugs with new platinum-tipped or multi-ground plugs. Multi-ground plugs cost more than regular spark plugs but they last much longer.
Before you start replacing the plugs get new spark plugs of your choice at a car parts store. If you are not sure what type of plugs to get ask the clerks at the store or look up the information on your car's manual. Also get a can of air at the store to clean the holes where spark plugs are located.
Get all tools together you will need for changing the spark plugs: socket wrench, socket extensions, spark plug socket and gapping tool, spark plug lubrication. Don't forget to wear safety goggles or eye wear. Take out the owner's manual on spark plugs section and look up information on socket size needed to remove the plugs.
Find out ahead of time, at the car parts store, manual or spark plugs packaging if the plugs need to be "gapped". Not all do.
Make sure the sparks plugs are the right kind for your car before you put the new plugs in!
Changing the spark plugs:
1. Park your car on flat even surface and in dry conditions.
2. Turn off the engine and make sure the engine is cooled off before starting.
3. Put on the emergency brake.
4. Open hood and locate and identify the ignition system - You should see several wires with boots that cover the spark plugs or coil over spark plugs.
5. Mark each of the wires with a piece of tape to make sure they go back into the same positions.
6. Grab a wire near the boot and carefully but firmly twist the boot loose and remove the spark plug wire.
7. Take out any dirt that may be in the spark plug hole with canned compressed air. (this is very important to get this dirt out now - so it does not fall into the cylinders after you remove the old spark plugs.)
8. Use a socket wrench and a spark plug socket to take the spark plug out (turn counter clockwise.)
9. Inspect spark plug mounting hole threads, clean and lubricate if needed.
10. Before installing the new spark plug - Make sure it is the right kind for your car!
12. Inspect the new spark plug when you take it out of the packaging to make sure it is not damaged.
13. Install the new spark plug by placing it into the spark plug hole and tighten it - snug.
14. Install new spark plug wire.
15. Repeat with each spark plug and spark plug wires.
16. Once all spark plugs are replaced start the engine and see if the engine is running smooth. If it is running rough - recheck the spark plug wires.
Of course if you'd rather not mess with replacing the spark plugs yourself you can always take your car to a mechanic and have them replace the spark plugs for you.
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