Spark plugs: basics and maintenance

You might be thinking, what even is a spark plug and why should I care about it? Like most parts in Orlando Toyota vehicles, spark plugs play an important role when it comes to keeping your ride moving and operating normally. This part is responsible for making sure that your engine starts and maintains power throughout your drive. To help better understand these integral engine pieces, Toyota of Orlando has a comprehensive guide and some maintenance tips straight from our service experts!

A small piece with a big role

Spark plugs emit electricity to ignite fuel and start your Orlando Toyota’s engine. This small piece performs a big job and it’s important to know how they work and how to take care of them to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

• Spark plugs can withstand excessive amounts of heat and pressure from the pistons of the engine. They are also self-cleaning by burning off additives and debris from fuel ignition.

• They can be made out of several different materials depending on the vehicle they’re being placed in and the time you want to go between replacements. Copper based plugs are the weakest material while composite based ones will typically have a much longer life span and be more damage resistant.

• Having working and optimized plugs in your Orlando Toyota can have benefits that go beyond just smooth start-ups. They can eliminate a lot of performance related issues by providing consistent combustion. Additionally, your Orlando Toyota will have better fuel economy by reducing engine misfires and less harmful emissions. 

Spark plug damage and how to take care of them

Although spark plugs are pretty resilient, they too can suffer damage and put a dent in your ride. Typically, plugs last an estimated 30,000 miles but can go much longer depending on related maintenance and driving habits. Some damages to watch out for include:

• Deposit buildup: This is a more common form of damage to a spark plug that can be fixed by simply cleaning it with a wire brush. However, prolonged buildup can cause quick aging and other issues. 
• Misalignment: Because of indirect damage and deposit buildup, spark plugs can become misaligned and this widens what’s called a “jump gap (the space electricity must travel to combustion).” As damages occur and the jump gap widens, start-ups become delayed or misfires can occur which spells trouble for your Toyota. 
• Cracked porcelain: Smaller pieces of your plugs can also get damaged or cracked over time, depending on the plug type, age, buildup, and so on. If porcelain pieces of the plug become cracked or broken, then it’s time to look for replacements. 

Now that we’ve walked you through the various damages that can befall your plugs, it’s time to learn how to take care of and replace them, if need be.

1. Disconnect the plug lead.
2. Remove the plug using a plug specific socket.
3. If there are light deposits on the plug, use a wire brush to clean it. Don’t use a shot blaster or abrasives to clean them.
4. After cleaning the light deposits, look for any cracks in the porcelain or heavier deposits as you may need to replace the plug.
5. Check and adjust the plugs so that they are in their proper position.
6. If a plug needs to be replaced in your Toyota, don’t over-tighten and make sure to reattach the lead. 
7. After replacing the plug, start your engine to make sure that everything is working correctly.

Toyota of Orlando is here for your spark plug needs

If you’re still unsure about plug maintenance or have any questions on how to take care of them, Toyota of Orlando is here to help! Our expert service technicians have all the help you need to get you back up and running in no time. Give us a call at (407) 298 – 0001 or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re open seven days a week!