How To Replace Worn Lexus Spark Plugs

Is your vehicle experiencing problems due to worn Lexus spark plugs? If it were, would you know what to look for? Here, we are going to look at a handful of signs and symptoms that point to the need for spark plug replacement. After that, we'll give those who feel like they can handle the job a few pointers when it comes to spark plug replacement.

However, if you are not familiar with engines, don't have the right tools, or you feel the least bit uneasy about making any kind of automotive repairs, bring your car to a certified automotive technician instead.

Does Your Car Need Spark Plug Replacement?

How does the engine of a vehicle start? An over-simplified version is this: Your vehicle’s combustion engine needs the air-fuel mixture ignited to start. The electricity needed for this is generated by spark plugs. To keep your vehicle moving down the road, the pistons in your engine continue in motion thanks to the spark plugs.

But, as with pretty much anything in your engine, spark plugs can go bad. How do you know if it's time to replace those plugs?

Signs That Point to Needing Spark Plug Placement

The following are some signs and symptoms of a vehicle that may need its spark plugs replaced:

• An illuminated "check engine" light on your dashboard
• During normal driving, the engine is very loud
• Acceleration is lacking
• Your engine is noisy and/or rough when idling
• More and more often, you have to gas up the vehicle
• Misfiring engine
• You have difficulty starting your car

Replacing Your Plugs – A Basic How-To Guide

Again, only attempt this if you have the right level of knowledge and appropriate tools with which to do the job:

Things you'll need:

• Hand tools (wrenches, sockets, ratchet)
• Spark plug socket
• Anti-seize lube and dielectric grease
• Spark plugs

Step-by-step:

• For safety – Make sure your vehicle's engine is cool and your vehicle is parked on a dry, flat surface. Clean debris and dirt from the engine area. Disconnect the negative post on your battery.
• The spark plug wire must be removed
• The COP must be removed (coil on plug)
• The spark plug should then be unscrewed
• New spark plugs should be screwed in
• To the COP boot or the plug wire boot, apply a little bit of plug wire grease. The COP's (ignition coils) or spark plug wires should then be reinstalled
• Hook your battery back up
• The engine can now be started

Note: Before installing them, your spark plugs may need to be gapped, though some come gapped already. To do this, you'll need a gap tool. Check your owner’s manual for specifications as to the size of the gap.

Don't Worry about Changing Your Spark Plugs, Turn to Prestige Lexus Instead

Changing spark plugs can be a difficult undertaking. If you don't have the right tools, experience, or mechanical know-how, it could be a real nightmare. Count on the professional service team at Prestige Lexus for new plugs or any other work on your Lexus automobile. For service, please call 855-917-3434.

Are you in the market for a new Lexus? We can help there as well. Our sales team is ready to show you around and help you pick out your next dream ride. To speak with a sales representative, please call 877-929-9191. You can also start a conversation using our convenient online form.