It used to be that changing spark plugs was a pretty simple thing to do, and car enthusiasts would change them themselves without much trouble. Now it  has gotten more complicated. Many of today’s cars have aluminum cylinder heads, coil on plug ignition systems and sometimes very hard to reach spark plugs. This does not, however, mean that this job is no longer possible for the novice mechanic. You just need a little more information first.

Should You Replace Spark Plugs Yourself?

Do It Yourself spark plug replacement is actually a pretty easy job that most people can do themselves. Keep in mind though that there are some cars that have the spark plugs in VERY hard to reach places.

The good news is that most newer cars (built after 2000) have spark plugs that are pretty easy to get to. Be sure to check your owners manual or service manual first so you know what you are getting into. After you do that there are just a few things that are absolutely essential to remember.

To troubleshoot, repair and maintain your vehicle, you’ll need diagnostic and repair information that is specific to your car or truck. With full manuals for over 30,000 vehicles online, you will find an exact match for your vehicle’s year, make and model.

Besides being cheaper than a factory manual, they also offer step by step repair instructions and detailed diagrams beyond what is found in most printed manuals. Click here for a sample of their diagnostic and repair information.

Tools Needed for Spark Plug Replacement

Changing spark plugs is a simple job which just requires a few basic tools. As mentioned above, use a compressed air duster to blow off dirt and debris around the cylinders before spark plug replacement. You should also have a spark park gap tool in case you need to adjust the gap between the electrodes.

Be sure that you have a spark plug socket. It is a socket with a rubber insert to keep the spark plug from breaking during installation and removal.

If you have a coil-on-plug system, then you will probably need either a small socket wrench or a screwdriver as most of them will be bolted on.

Lim’s Auto Body is a full service auto body and mechanical repair shop locally owned and operated in Largo, Florida. For more information, go to our web site www.limsautobody.com or call (727) 422-3232.