Is it necessary to go to a 4S shop to replace spark plugs?
2 Answers
It is not necessary to go to a 4S shop to replace spark plugs. Replacing spark plugs is not a difficult task. If you have some hands-on ability, you can completely replace them by yourself, and you can also save on labor costs. The process of replacing spark plugs: Open the hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark the position of each cylinder to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. When removing them, pay attention to whether there are leaves, dust, etc., on the outside, and be sure to clean them thoroughly. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten it further. Install the removed high-voltage distributor wires according to the ignition sequence, and then snap the cover back into place. Spark plug replacement cycle: Under normal maintenance conditions, they should be replaced after driving 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine, so it is recommended to follow the user manual. You can refer to the following standards for maintenance and replacement: platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 kilometers, ordinary nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers.
I've been driving for over ten years and have changed spark plugs several times, never going to a dealership. The tools are simple—just buy a wrench and a specialized socket, watch a YouTube tutorial, and you can get it done yourself, saving hundreds of dollars. For spark plug types like nickel alloy or iridium, just make sure to choose the right matching model. When replacing them, be careful not to overtighten—generally, the torque should be kept between 15-20 N·m. For daily driving, inspect the spark plugs every 30,000 kilometers and replace them if they're dirty. Regular cars aren’t that fussy, and doing it yourself isn’t risky. Unless you drive a high-end car or are a beginner afraid of making mistakes, there’s really no need to waste money at a dealership for such a small task.
