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It seems like a fairly simple job so I am debating doing it myself. However, giving the age, is there anything I should be concerned about?

Would the threads be aged to make removal difficult? What about inserting the new plugs? The biggest risk seems to break a plug during removal or insertion.

The real question is: should I attempt this myself or take it a shop?

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  • I would just add that you want to make sure you don't overtighten the new plugs or you run the risk of stripping the threads in the head. Use a correctly configured torque wrench to tighten them correctly.
    – HandyHowie
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 15:00
  • Also, you should be able to screw the new plugs in just about all the way without using a wrench. If there is any resistance, stop and check that you haven’t cross threaded the plug.
    – HandyHowie
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 15:09
  • Yea, that's a good tip thanks. I don't have a torque wrench but I think I can get by.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 15:14

3 Answers 3

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I'm sure the cylinder head on this vehicle is Aluminum and the spark plugs themselves are steel. So you do have the potential for corrosion to seize these into place making replacement difficult.

I would definitely get a good quality spark plug wrench so that you have the best chance of getting these out. Also some penetrating oil (I like PB Blaster) applied and allowed to penetrate overnight often helps. But don't go overboard on that. Too much will drain down into the cylinder once you get the plug loose and too much can be a problem.

Worst case is that one or more of them either come apart or pull the threads out with them. It happens and there is little you can do other than get the plug threads fixed or get a replacement head.

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  • If worst case comes to pass, I would need to get it towed to fix yes? Maybe it's better not to risk it and take it to the shop.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 17, 2022 at 19:33
  • That's certainly an option. It really depends on how comfortable you are with this type of work.
    – jwh20
    Commented May 17, 2022 at 19:39
  • Yea, I didn't articulate my question properly. I meant to ask if this is something I should risk doing or have a pro tackle it.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 17, 2022 at 19:43
  • It's a good idea to vacuum or blow out any debris from around the spark plug. Anything left around plug can fall into opening into the combustion chamber.
    – Jupiter
    Commented May 17, 2022 at 20:30
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While I agree with @jwh20 on what could go wrong, this is a routine maintenance item which is commonly doable by (my subjective opinion) almost anyone who can change oil.

If you are careful removing the plug (e.g. if it is stuck - just above the job and then have someone else do it as you will be able to drive it to the shop), I would definitely consider this to be manageable risk level.

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  • Thanks. I think I will attempt it. Hope I don't come back with more questions lol.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 14:37
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On almost all cars spark plugs are easy to replace with some basic tools and a plug socket, and almost anyone can do it. You'll want to make sure the area around the plugs is clean so you aren't dropping grit into the engine. As others say a squirt of penetrating oil a few hours before is a great idea. It is normal that little bit of force is required to get them to free, they aren't finger tight.

I'd be shocked if your 22 year old car was still on its original plugs, depending on mileage and how regularly it's been maintained it may several sets in. Unless you suspect this car has been neglected there's no reason to think that your plugs will be seized. They may not even need replacement at all, but there's no harm in checking as you can just put them straight back in if they are good.

Other things to check while you are looking at the plugs are the spark plug cables and the plug sockets. Any signs of wear, fraying or oil soaked cables mean they need replacement. The sockets that connect to the plugs can get gunk or corrosion on them, if it's there it should be visible and you can clean it off with some electrical contact cleaner and cotton swabs.

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  • There's 67k miles on the car so not super high and I suspect it has never been changed hence my hesitation. Right. I should just replace the cables while I am in there anyways. The dielectric grease has to be all dried up by now.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 14:42
  • Are you having performance problems or rough running @findwindow? If not why do you suspect they need replacement?
    – GdD
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 14:58
  • It idles a bit rough sometimes at the light. And manual says to change them at 60k. Even if there were no issues, it's a good maintenance item.
    – findwindow
    Commented May 18, 2022 at 15:11

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