There are different types of spark plugs; conventional and platinum. The Conventional Spark Plug typically needs to be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles as they are the most basic and least expensive type. You also have Platinum spark plugs that have a longer lifespan and typically lasts between 60,000 and 100,000 miles before needing replacement. There are some symptoms to look for regardless of what type of plug you have to determine if they may need replacement early. If you’re experiencing a rough idling engine, poor acceleration, and/or misfires, it’s most likely indicative of a bad spark plug and it most likely will need replaced.
It is not recommended to drive with bad spark plugs because it can cause more issues within the engine and its drivability, let alone the poor performance you will experience. Bad spark plugs can lead to incomplete combustion in the engine cylinders, causing the engine to work less efficiently. A more serious issue when prolonged use of bad spark plugs; it can have a domino effect on other engine components. For example, it can cause premature wear on the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and even the engine itself.
A misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in the engine fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture at the right time, causing rough running, loss of power, and potential damage to the engine over time. Spark plugs play a crucial role in this ignition process, so they are a common culprit when diagnosing misfires. So, it is not guaranteed to solve the problem in every case. It could be a sensor issue, fuel delivery issue, or even issues with the ignition coil. It is still recommended that if you are experiencing any of these issues that you bring your vehicle in, we can diagnose your vehicle and bring you a solution.