Quite often yes! As part of your vehicle’s ignition system, the spark plugs are usually one of the first things that are checked during a tune-up. Spark plugs do need to be changed periodically to maintain proper firing conditions for the engine ignition, including the “long-life” plugs at some point.
The important thing to look at with spark plugs is the gap between the center electrodes and the side electrodes. Every time a plug fires and the high voltage current jumps between two electrodes, it wears away a little bit of metal from both of them. Over time, the sharp edges on the center electrode become rounded and dull as well.
As spark plugs wear, more voltage is required to jump the gap. If the vehicle’s ignition system can't deliver the required voltage, the plug may begin to misfire. Also, sometimes, deposits can accumulate on the plug’s tip and interfere with reliable ignition. Usually, by the time the average spark plug has run 45,000 miles, it's getting close to the end of its life. The “long-life” spark plugs made of platinum or gold-palladium alloys will usually last longer, often 100,000 miles, under optimal conditions.
Schedule your tune-up appointment today! The ASE-certified technicians at Lamb’s Tire & Automotive will check and replace your spark plugs as needed and help keep your engine firing properly.