Signs of Bad Spark Plugs

This article answers the questions of what are the signs of bad spark plugs, how do I know if I need to replace my spark plugs, and how often should I replace my spark plugs.

How do I know if I need to replace my spark plugs?

 

1. Your Check Engine Light is On

Your engine code reads misfiring. Engine misfiring is a good indicator that your spark plugs are bad. 

 

Other reasons for a check engine light+

 

2. Car shakes or vibrates when stationary

If your car is in neutral or in Drive but stopped and your vehicle starts shaking this is a sign of bad spark plugs.

 

3. Fuel Efficiency decreases.

 

Lack of acceleration is an indicator of reduced power. If you’re Driving a v8 and 2 are bad you’re only running on 6 spark plugs. This produces less power and decreases the power of the vehicle.

 

4. Car not starting

When you get in your car and it doesn’t start this is an indicator that it doesn’t have enough power. 

 

Other reasons my car isn’t starting:

You could have a bad alternator or a bad battery. When your alternator goes bad there’s a disruption in the vehicle’s electrical systems. The power steering will lock. Usually, they die and a jump won’t fix it.

Is it my alternator or battery?

 

What happens if you have bad spark plugs?

Reduced fuel efficiency, engine misfiring, difficulty starting your car, engine shaking, and a check engine light are all things that can start to happen when you have bad spark plugs. 

 

How often should I change my spark plugs?

It’s recommended that you replace your spark plugs every 100,000 miles to avoid issues with bad spark plugs. Make sure to ask your Truman’s specialist to check your spark plugs if you’re getting close to that 100k mile mark on your vehicle.