Back to all

Losing Your Spark (Spark Plug Replacement)

January 28, 2024

When's the last time you thought about spark plugs? You probably don't remember.  That's because spark plugs usually last a long time and don't need much attention.  But they don't last forever, and when they start going bad, they'll send you a few clues.

  • Vehicle is hard to start. 
  • Fuel economy is going down
  • Acceleration isn't what it used to be
  • Engine runs roughly
  • Check Engine light is on

There are many things that can cause those symptoms, so it's wise to head on over to your vehicle repair facility to have them look over your vehicle.  But the problem could be your spark plugs. They do wear out, not producing a strong enough spark to ignite your fuel the way they're designed to.  A closely related problem is failing spark plug wires, and a technician will test for both possibilities… and more. 

Your vehicle's manufacturer recommends changing wires and/or plugs at certain intervals.  Spark plugs are made out of different materials and some last far longer than others.  Ask your service advisor to let you know when yours should be changed.  Badly misfiring plugs can cause expensive damage to a vehicle's catalytic converter, so it's best to take care of them before that happens.  Replacing your spark plugs and/or wires is money well spent to have your vehicle running smoothly, dependably and efficiently.  

Tuffy Cincinnati (Fields-Ertel)
9401 Fields-Ertel
Cincinnati, Ohio 45249
513.683.5060

More articles from Tuffy Fields-Ertel Cincinnati

Go Big or Go Home: Upsize Your Wheels at Tuffy Cincinnati (Fields-Ertel)

November 2, 2025

A lot of us Cincinnati drivers like our vehicles to reflect our personalities. We're picky about color and body style. We'll customize anything from floor mats to window tints to license plates. One popular way for Ohio motorists to customize a vehicle is to get new wheels.Wheels come in thousan... More

Losing Your Cool (Why is My Air Conditioning System Not Working?)

October 27, 2025

When you turn on the air conditioning in your vehicle, you expect cool air to come out of the vents. You depend on it, especially in hot weather, but it can also be important in humid weather when you need it to help defrost your windows and windshield. The air conditioning system has a lot of p... More

Tuffy Cincinnati (Fields-Ertel) Advice: Don't Overlook These 10 Automotive Services

October 23, 2025

Organization is the key to managing a busy life in Ohio. So setting up an annual calendar for vehicle care can keep Cincinnati residents on top of preventive maintenance. But you can't just write oil change every few months on the calendar. Modern vehicles have many systems that are vital to the ... More