When to change your spark plugs

Thanks to electric ignitions and trip computers, regular tune-ups are no longer a necessity. However, be sure not to neglect changing your spark plugs.

While some new cars come equipped with extended-life spark plugs, which can last up to 100,000 miles. If your spark plugs aren’t of this variety, you should swap them out at around 30,000 miles. Carmakers typically recommend that they be changed every 30,000 to 40,000 miles so as to ensure optimal fuel consumption and engine efficiency.

Fortunately, spark plugs aren’t expensive, with the cost being only a few dollars per plug. While you’re at it, you should also change your spark plug wires (their lifespan is about 50,000 miles). Deteriorated wires will detract from the efficiency of your new spark plugs.