For most drivers in the 21st century, the only thing we know about our cars is that they help us go places. But what happens when you're on the highway and your car suddenly breaks down? Rather than being left stranded or spending unnecessary amounts of money, Toyota of Orlando wants to help you reach your destination and avoid stressful situations like these by simply providing the tips and services needed to ensure your vehicle is functioning properly. Today’s lesson is on spark plugs.
Spark plug purpose and function
Small in size, spark plugs still pack a strong punch. They’re those little metal plugs that fit perfectly into a combustion engine’s cylinder head and whose spark ignites the fuel. As fuel moves from the tank through the gas lines and into the injectors, it’s then mixed with the oxygen that was sucked in through the air tank. This air/fuel mixture is now pushed into the cylinder where it meets the spark plug and gets your car moving.
Depending on your car’s condition, it is recommended that you replace your spark plugs at our Orlando auto service center every 30,000 miles on average. If they aren’t working properly it’s likely that your car won’t be either. Spark plug malfunctions are typically caused by:
- A widening of the gap that the plug jumps in order to ignite the fuel which can cause premature firing or prevent it from firing or igniting at all.
- Improper torquing during installation which prevents the plug’s ability to dispel heat through the combustion chamber and into the head of the cylinder.
- A buildup of deposits produced by the air/fuel mixture, like heavy ash.
- Incorrect heat ranges can cause pre-ignition, detonation, or power loss by preventing the transfer of heat from the firing tip, to the cylinder, and into the cooling system. It’s recommended to keep the temperature between 932° F and 1562° F.
Luckily these parts are relatively inexpensive and with our expert service members at Toyota of Orlando, your car will be functioning perfectly in no time.
How do I know when it’s time to replace my spark plugs?
Properly functioning spark plugs are essential in maintaining your car’s efficiency. Some signs that you might need to visit our Orlando Toyota service center and replace these crucial car parts are:
- Your car’s engine is stalling when you try to start it
- You notice an abnormal decrease in fuel efficiency causing more frequent trips to the gas station and more money spent
- You hear strange rattling or grinding noises coming from under the hood
- You feel a misfiring during acceleration causing jerk-like movements while driving
If you think you are overdue for some new spark plugs or if you are experiencing any of these issues, Toyota of Orlando will be happy to fix the problem and get your car up and running fast. Just give us a call at (407) 298-0001 or come visit us at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall where we are conveniently open seven days a week.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.