Have you ever been driving down Lampson Avenue in Garden Grove and notice your vehicle is feeling a bit sluggish or you discover your mileage isn’t what it used to be. Then you remember in the morning when you started your vehicle it was a bit of a rough starting experience. Sorry to say but these are all signs that you may need new spark plugs. Orozco’s Auto Service certified ASE technicians are all more than qualified to determine if these problems are indeed worn spark plugs. We would also like to share a a bit of history about your spark plugs.
Simple put- it’s an insulator and a central conductor. Spark plugs are specified by size — specifically by thread or nut — sealing type and spark gap. Most spark plugs in modern cars have a 14-mm thread; older vehicles had used 18-mm or 7/8-inch (approximately 22-mm) ones. Thread length varies as well, depending on the vehicle manufacturer and type of engine. The sealing type or seat is where the plug mates to the head. It can be flat or tapered depending on the manufacturer and engine type. The amount of torque applied ensures a secure fit.
As previously mentioned, spark plug gap dimensions vary according to the age of the vehicle and its energy output. Typically, there is one plug for each cylinder, but there are exceptions. For example, the V8 Hemi engines used in various Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep products have 16 plugs, two per cylinder.
Today’s spark plugs have a much greater lifespan than the spark plugs in your parents vehicles, with some lasting up to 100,000 miles. Back in the day most vehicles would require an annual tuneup to replace spark plugs and adjust points and timing once a year. Even with today’s technology spark plugs still wear out, and if you’re finding it difficult to start your vehicle, it could mean that your spark plugs are worn out, among other things. Other troubling signs include a rough idle, engine misfire or surge, weak acceleration or a spike in fuel consumption. In some vehicles the “check engine” light may come on. Feel free to stop into Orozco’s Auto Service to have your vehicle’s check engine light diagnosed. Visual clues may also reveal a bad spark plug. If you remove the plug from the cylinder and notice that the end has burned or sandy-looking deposits have accumulated on the outer electrode, then it’s time to replace it. In a worst-case scenario, a wet accumulation of oil on the electrode may indicate not only that the spark plug is bad but also that there’s significant engine problem.
Changing spark plugs is a key part of keeping your engine in good working order. Be sure to get yours replaced at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals to ensure peak engine performance. You can find this information in your vehicles user manual. If you feel your vehicle may need new spark plugs or would like to have your vehicle diagnosed contact Orozco’s Auto Service of Garden Grove today at 714-537-0076. Remember to always keep your vehicle in good running condition and ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and those around you!
Orozco’s Auto Service Garden Grove – Orange County CA
12776 Nutwood Street Garden Grove, CA 92840
Call Today: 714-537-0076 – Auto/Fleet/Diesel Service Repairs
https://orozcosgardengrove.com
Orozco’s Auto Service has five convenient locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties Long Beach, Bellflower, Garden Grove or Fullerton!
