Changing spark plugs for Dummies

Having difficulties switching on your van especially when it’s cold outside? If your battery is working fine, it’s probably your spark plugs that need changing.

The spark plugs are those little things that produce the spark needed to ignite the fuel and air in the engine hence initiating the combustion. I think of it like the kick needed to get out of bed in the morning.

It’s quite straightforward to change a set of spark plugs, however if you never changed one, this guide might be useful.

1. Buy the spark plugs. At Halfords in the UK you just need to go to the counter with your vehicle registration number and they will give you the right model. You can also buy them online for cheaper but you’ll need to check the model first. You can find this on the spark plug itself. 

1. Buy/borrow a spark plug socket.This is longer than normal socket and it will allow you to easily reach the spark plugs. I tried doing without and believe me, it’s not worth the effort.  I got mine with a mechanics tool set from Homebase. 

2. Locate the spark plugs (hint: under the bonnet, next to the injection)

3. Remove the spark plugs boots by pulling it. Make sure you pull from the base of the cap not from the cable.

4. Place the socket into the spark plug and start unscrewing (anticlockwise direction).

5. Take the old spark plug out. Place the new one in and turn in on clockwise direction.

6. Repeat step 5 and 6 for the remaining spark plugs.

1. Replace the spark plugs caps.

2. Switch on your vehicle. It should now work no problem.

3. Write “YOU ARE AMAZIIIIIIINNNN THANK YOU SOOO MUCH” on this post comments to show your gratitude.

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-A ridiculous amount of coffee has been sacrificed to write this blog post so if you are feeling particularly generous, you can buy me one HERE   -

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