Losing Your Spark (Spark Plug Replacement)
December 5, 2021
When's the last time you thought about spark plugs? You probably don't remember. That's because spark plugs usually last a long time and don't need much attention. But they don't last forever, and when they start going bad, they'll send you a few clues.
- Vehicle is hard to start.
- Fuel economy is going down
- Acceleration isn't what it used to be
- Engine runs roughly
- Check Engine light is on
There are many things that can cause those symptoms, so it's wise to head on over to your vehicle repair facility to have them look over your vehicle. But the problem could be your spark plugs. They do wear out, not producing a strong enough spark to ignite your fuel the way they're designed to. A closely related problem is failing spark plug wires, and a technician will test for both possibilities… and more.
Your vehicle's manufacturer recommends changing wires and/or plugs at certain intervals. Spark plugs are made out of different materials and some last far longer than others. Ask your service advisor to let you know when yours should be changed. Badly misfiring plugs can cause expensive damage to a vehicle's catalytic converter, so it's best to take care of them before that happens. Replacing your spark plugs and/or wires is money well spent to have your vehicle running smoothly, dependably and efficiently.
Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff
2020 N. Westwood Blvd
Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901
573-686-5585
http://www.charliesfastlubepoplarbluff.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff

Rotation Explanation (Tire Rotation Patterns)
August 18, 2025
You may notice that when you get your vehicle's oil changed, your service adviser may recommend that you have your tires rotated at the same time. The reasons are simple. That will allow your tires to wear more evenly and reduce the noise your tires make as you drive down the road. There are di... More

Don't Neglect Your Spare (Spare Tire Care)
August 11, 2025
If you've ever had a flat tire, then you know welcome it is to have a spare tire that is properly inflated, in good shape and easy to get to. Problem is many of us don't even give our spare tire (if we even have one) a second thought. If you have an SUV or truck with a spare, it may be mounted o... More

How Much Does It Cost? (Variations in Vehicle Repair Costs)
August 4, 2025
Ever wonder why it costs so much more to fix a similar problem in two different vehicles? Let's say you now own an SUV and before that, you owned a car. Your SUV's air conditioning system needs a new evaporator, but the cost for the new one is way more than you remember it was for your car. How... More