What Do Spark Plugs Do? | Hampden of Baltimore | AutoStream Car Care Center

What Do Spark Plugs Do

Everything You Need to Know About Your Vehicle’s Spark Plugs

What Do Spark Plugs Do for Your Vehicle?

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the engine to produce power. They are located in the cylinder head and create a spark that fires the mixture. Over time, spark plugs can become fouled or damaged and must be replaced. Should you notice issues with misfires or fuel efficiency, it’s time to bring your vehicle to a certified auto repair shop like AutoStream Car Care Center at Hampden of Baltimore.

How Do Spark Plugs Work?

Spark plugs are an essential component of any gasoline-powered engine. They create the spark which ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s cylinders which in turn powers the engine. Spark plugs have a very simple design. They consist of a metal rod (the electrode) surrounded by ceramic insulation. The metal rod protrudes from the bottom of the spark plug and is connected to the engine’s ignition system. When the engine is running, the spark plug’s electrode is bombarded by high-voltage sparks. These sparks wear down the metal, causing the electrode to erode. Over time, the spark plug will need to be replaced. This is usually done every 30,000 miles or so. Spark plugs are a crucial part of your engine, and keeping them in good working condition is important. Regular maintenance and replacement will keep your engine running smoothly for years to come.

Let Us Help You

The AutoStream Car Care Center team is here to help you maintain and repair your vehicle, no matter what issues you’re facing with your vehicle. We aim to keep your vehicle on the road, not broken down beside it. To that end, we’ll help you set up and maintain a regular maintenance schedule and inspect and diagnose problems with your vehicle so they can be repaired before they escalate into catastrophic failures. Give us a call today to make an appointment to have your vehicle inspected and diagnosed, or stop by the shop at Hampden of Baltimore to speak to the team about what we can do for you and your vehicle to keep you both safely on the road.

Written by Doug Grills