How Long Do Plug Wires Last?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A quality set of spark plug wires can generally last

around 60,000 to 70,000 miles

. Again, it is a good idea to replace these parts prior to a failure, like a misfire. A vehicle that is running rough or misfiring can cause catalytic converter damage.

How often do you need to change spark plug wires?

That’s why it pays to replace your spark plug wires before they wear out. We recommend changing them during spark plug changes (whenever your owner’s manual recommends, usually

between 60,000 and 100,000 miles

).

How many years can spark plug wires last?

A quality set of spark plug wires can generally last

around 60,000 to 70,000 miles

. Again, it is a good idea to replace these parts prior to a failure, like a misfire. A vehicle that is running rough or misfiring can cause catalytic converter damage.

How can you tell if a plug wire is bad?

Common signs of failing spark plug wires include

a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency

. In addition, the engine light coming on or visible damange to the cables can be signs of a failing wire.

How often do plug wires go bad?

Spark plug wires are expected to wear out eventually, often

after 60,000 to 100,000 miles

, though that can vary by manufacturer. They can also become faulty ahead of schedule. Oil or coolant leaks can damage ignition wires. To prevent reoccurring problems, the leaks will need to be repaired as well.

Do spark plug wires go bad with age?

Can plug wires deteriorate just from age?

Yeah

, ESPECIALLY if they are moved around.

Does changing spark plug wires improve performance?

The short answer is Yes,

when you replace the spark plugs and wires can increase your vehicle’s performance

. New spark plugs help keep your engine at its peak performance and efficiency levels. … Worn or dirty spark plugs require higher voltage to get a strong enough spark to start a vehicle.

Can you drive with bad spark plug wires?

Continuing to drive with worn out or damaged spark plugs

can ultimately cause engine damage

, so don’t put it off.

What happens if your spark plug wires are bad?

Bad spark plug wires

can interfere with the electrical current flowing to the engine

, making it difficult for the engine to complete the combustion cycle. An incomplete combustion cycle can cause an engine to misfire, which means your car may jerk, stumble, or briefly lose power.

Will bad spark plug wires throw a code?

Bad spark plugs can cause

your engine to misfire

. The engine’s computer uses sensors to detect these misfires and will create a code that turns on the check engine light.

What are signs of a bad ignition coil?

  • Engine misfires.
  • Rough idle.
  • A decrease in car power, especially in acceleration.
  • Poor fuel economy.
  • Difficulty starting the engine.
  • Check engine light is on.
  • Exhaust backfiring.
  • Increased hydrocarbon emissions.

Do plug wires make difference?

There isn’t any performance to be gained from spark plug wires,

just better build quality

, which gives you not a better spark, but rather maintains an appropriate spark for more miles/years before their performance degrades to the point of needing replacement.

Can you change spark plugs without changing the wires?


It is not necessary to change the wires

but it’s a good idea. Here’s the reason. If your spark plugs have been in the engine too long the component at the end of the plug get’s oxidized over time from having such high voltage run across it to jump a gap and create a spark.

What is the best brand of spark plug wires?

  1. Editor’s Pick: ACDelco. ACDelco offers a variety of spark plug wire sets for a wide range of applications and vehicles. …
  2. NGK. …
  3. MSD. …
  4. JEGS. …
  5. Denso. …
  6. Bosch.

Why do spark plug wires have resistance?

The resistance of many wires is measured in ohms per foot. …

Lower resistance means more of the ignition coils energy is going towards bridging the gap or the spark plug

. That hotter spark can create a more even burn of the fuel/air mixture in the cylinder, and thus, more power output from the engine.

Do spark plug wires add horsepower?

In short, yes, in some situations spark plugs can increase horsepower. The theory behind spark plugs increasing horsepower is that by

providing more spark to the firing tip of the spark plug

, it will (and does) combust more fuel. …

Charlene Dyck
Author
Charlene Dyck
Charlene is a software developer and technology expert with a degree in computer science. She has worked for major tech companies and has a keen understanding of how computers and electronics work. Sarah is also an advocate for digital privacy and security.