Spark plug is an item that is quite small in size but a vehicle cannot run without a spark plug. The performance of a vehicle depends quite a lot on the condition of the spark plug. Sometimes, you might have faced the problem of your car not starting. You might think the worst but the fault might lie with the spark plug. The spark plug might require replacement for proper performance of the car. You may consider changing of spark plug as a part of the routine maintenance of your car. Changing of spark plug would not only help in running your vehicle without any problem but also would help in saving fuel by giving better mileage for the vehicle. Therefore, everybody have some idea regarding changing of spark plugs. We are giving some tips to help you do such an exercise by yourself.

Firstly, you will have to build up a proper tool kit for taking up such a task. The different items of such a tool kit would be available in any auto parts store. The list would include a 3/8? ratchet, ratchet extensions, a spark plug socket, a spark plug gap tool and a small, clean rubber hose. You will off course need a new spark plug for replacement. But, you should ensure that the new spark plug is suitable for the make, model and the year of manufacture of your car.

Obviously, the first step for replacing the spark plug would definitely be to remove the old spark plug. Before starting on the task you should ensure that the engine is sufficiently cold for spark plug replacement. After opening the hood, you will first have to locate the spark plug to be replaced. They are generally placed in a row alongside the engine. These plugs are attached to a thick spark plug wires. The arrangement might differ in case of V-shaped engines because plugs and wires are placed on either side of the engine in case of this type of engines.

Next step would be the process of changing the Spark Plugs. You should start changing them one at a time. In case, you remove all of them together for replace, you put them in a wrong order. In such a case, the car would run poorly and even may not run at all. After removing the wire from the spark plug, clean the area with a small blow away any dirt in the area.

You then remove the spark plug using your socket and ratchet. After removing, inspect the spark plug to find out whether it requires to be changed. In case, spark plug does not require change, you should check and set proper gap for the spark plug. The owner's manual of your car would recommend the proper gap required. After making adjustment, each of the spark plugs should be put back in place and properly tightened. You may now start the engine of your car and start driving.