How Often to Change Your Spark Plugs

Perhaps you already know that spark plugs are necessary to ignite fuel when it reaches the combustion chamber, and that regular spark plug replacement is a very important part of your service schedule—but when do you change your spark plugs if you want to maintain peak performance? Generally, it’s recommended that you replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles, or once every two to three years, but you’ll want to check your owner’s manual to be certain. In what follows, we’ll teach you the ins and outs of spark plug replacement, as well as some of the most important signs to look for if you think your spark plugs may have gone bad.

What Do Spark Plugs Do?

If you need to know how often to change spark plugs, you’ll just need to reference your owner’s manual or give us a call at —but understanding the function of your spark plugs can still help you detect issues and take better care of your vehicle in the long run.

Your car has a component called an ignition coil. Spark plugs take the initial voltage this coil generates and sends it to the combustion chamber, where your engine ignites. In short, spark plugs are responsible for starting your engine and moving you forward with each engine cycle! Here’s a closer look at the functions that they perform in your vehicle:

• Combustion System: The overall health of your combustion system depends upon the quality of your spark plugs, since worn-down spark plugs won’t be as effective in igniting fuel.

• Starting Your Engine: Spark plugs are essential for starting your engine smoothly and reliably. If your spark plugs have gone bad, you might even be unable to start your vehicle in Los Angeles or Pasadena.

• Fuel Economy: Worn-down spark plugs can cut your fuel economy by up to 30 percent, and make your vehicle’s emissions more damaging to the environment. By the same turn, replacing your spark plugs on schedule can improve your vehicle’s performance.

Signs That You’re Overdue for Spark Plug Replacement

Pasadena and Alhambra drivers should schedule service for spark plug replacement according to the guidelines in their owner’s manual—but what if you bought your vehicle used and you’re not sure when the spark plugs were last replaced? We’d be happy to take a look for you, but you should also watch out for the telltale signs of dying spark plugs:

• Engine makes noises while idling
• Engine misfires
• Fuel Economy decreases
• Noticeably poor acceleration
• Slow and/or failed engine startup

If you notice these signs, you’ll know that it’s time to change your spark plugs. Order parts or schedule service at the earliest opportunity!

You’ve seen how often to change your spark plugs, but we’d understand if you have more questions! For more information on the services that your Mercedes-Benz requires, explore our service menu or explore more of our service guides and tips.

Schedule Spark Plug Replacement at Mercedes-Benz of Arcadia

For all of the tasks required in vehicle maintenance, Mercedes-Benz of Arcadia can provide expert service and advice! We want to help Arcadia drivers keep their vehicles in great shape, which is why we provide a wide range of rotating service specials at all times. Contact us today with any questions about spark plugs, your Mercedes-Benz service schedule, or other essential vehicle parts — we’d love to talk!