Maintenance
How to change spark plugs (DIY guide)
Replacing spark plugs is a satisfying DIY job that improves economy and smooth running.
📅 Aug 17, 2026
✔ Free guide
Advertisement
When to change them
Copper plugs: 20,000–30,000 km. Platinum: 60,000–80,000 km. Iridium: up to 100,000 km. Worn plugs cause rough idle, hesitation and higher consumption.
Step by step
- Work on a cold engine
- Remove the ignition coils or leads carefully
- Clean around each plug hole
- Remove old plugs one at a time (keep holes covered)
- Gap-check the new plugs against spec
- Hand-thread each plug — never force
- Torque to spec (typically 20–30 Nm)
- Refit coils/leads with a little dielectric grease
The golden rule
Never tighten a plug with a ratchet by feel in a cylinder head — the head is aluminum and strips easily. Use a torque wrench.
Questions about this guide
In an emergency, yes, but replace the whole set for even running and wear.
Stop — a seized plug in an aluminum head is risky. A tiny amount of penetrating oil and patience helps; otherwise let a professional handle it.