by Mike Webb

Created on: November 22, 2009

Changing spark plugs in your vehicle can be fairly simple or incredibly challenging depending on the vehicle type and engine arrangement. Pull the hood release from inside the vehicle and unhook the secondary latch to raise the hood. Check the configuration of the engine and the size. You will either have a V-8, V-6, or a 4 cylinder unless you have a specialty car or high performance vehicle that may have a V-10. Each engine setup can be situated inline or transverse as it sets in the vehicle. Determine how accessible the spark plugs are and what may have to be moved out of the way before starting the plug removal procedure.

A 4 cylinder will be one of the easiest engines to change spark plugs in. The plugs are usually right in sight and easily accessible. A V-6 that is sitting transverse (sideways) will give you some problems. Some minivans have to be jacked up so that the spark plugs can be removed from underneath. If that isn't the case you will still have some cramped quarters when working on any V-type engine that is sitting transverse and may have to remove some items to get to the spark plugs. Make sure you assess the situation before you decide to tackle this job on your own.

Check for the emissions label, usually located on the hood or in the area of the front radiator brace. This label should tell you the correct spark plug number for your engine and possibly the proper gap for the spark plugs. If you are unable to find this information make sure you ask when you go to the parts store, they should be able to find the correct spark plug and tell you the proper gap when you tell them the engine size, year, make and model of your vehicle.

Once you have decided to change the spark plugs on your own and have purchased them from the parts store, here are the tools you will need and the steps to take:

Tools

Spark Plug Gapping Tool Ratchet Wrench (swivel head may be needed)

Extension (may need different lengths depending on engine configuration)

Spark Plug Socket (swivel makes it easier in many cases)

Compressed Air (either in a can or using an air compressor)

Anti Seize Lubricant (not mandatory but recommended for ease of removal later)

Old Spark Plug Wire Boot (very handy if you have one laying around, easier to start spark plugs into cylinder head)

Steps for replacing spark plugs:

1) Remove the new spark plugs out of their box and inspect them. Many times the outer electrode gets bent from shipping, make sure it hasn't been bent so far that it is cracked.

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