How often do spark plugs need to be reset/replaced
- Thread starter Geezah
- Start date
I think it depends on how you drive (or how the previous owner drove) too.
I recently replaced all six plugs on my ancient E85 because the internal resistance was getting a bit high, even though the car only has around 42,000 km on it. The result was a noticeably smoother engine.
I recently replaced all six plugs on my ancient E85 because the internal resistance was getting a bit high, even though the car only has around 42,000 km on it. The result was a noticeably smoother engine.
Is that the official BMW AUS Service recommendation? While it is quite reasonable, I'm curious. The North America service schedule notes replacing plugs under Inspection II, but an added note says replacement is every 100,000 miles, not when the Inspection II comes up.Mangozac said:Every Inspection II service (approx. 75,000 kms)
Not only does the replacement mileage depend on service conditions, it also varies by style of plug. The OEM quad ground prong plugs last a very long time, thus the 100k recommendation. Platinum plugs last quite a while to. The old fashioned copper plugs make great sparks but don't last all that long, but are relatively cheap. Iridium falls somewhere in between in longevity I believe.
My Zed just had its first Inspection II a fortnight ago (at 88,000kms) and the plugs were replaced for the first time. I couldn't imagine the recommendation for here being any different to the rest of the world? I've not seen the notes you're referring to regarding a 100,000 mile change - surely that is far too long? 100,000 km might be reasonable, but not miles! I just go by the TIS, which specifies changing at Inspection II.bcworkz said:
I usually change my spark plugs every 10k....
plus oil and filters at 5k....
plus oil and filters at 5k....
I agree, but that's what it says! It's definitely miles, don't forget that besides me and a couple other nerds here, the entire US knows nothing of kilometres or anything else metric!Mangozac said:
This is from the "Service and Warranty Information" booklet published by BMW of North America and provided along with the owner's manual with all new cars. There's a different booklet for each model of course, but I expect the schedule is the same for all models with the same engine class. While it seems senseless there would be different schedules for different parts of the world, it in fact happens. The only explanation I have is marketing. :roll: There cannot be any significant enough physical difference in various regions to affect something like spark plug longevity. :?
It is very bizarre. Have you had any clarification from a dealership/BMW NA about it? While there are different air filter change recommendations for different geographies, I can't think of anything that would impact spark plug lifespan.bcworkz said:I agree, but that's what it says! It's definitely miles, don't forget that besides me and a couple other nerds here, the entire US knows nothing of kilometres or anything else metric!
This is from the "Service and Warranty Information" booklet published by BMW of North America and provided along with the owner's manual with all new cars. There's a different booklet for each model of course, but I expect the schedule is the same for all models with the same engine class. While it seems senseless there would be different schedules for different parts of the world, it in fact happens. The only explanation I have is marketing. :roll: There cannot be any significant enough physical difference in various regions to affect something like spark plug longevity. :?
I guess this is just another reason why we as car owners need to be educated in the servicing requirements! I could certainly never put my trust 100% in just a standard dealer/independant mechanic.
Nope. Honestly, I would be suspicious of anything I was told. I had always planned on swapping when Inspection II comes up (or sooner if indicated) regardless of what the US booklet says. It also says coolant and gear oil is lifetime and engine oil lasts at least 15K miles. I don't follow those either.Mangozac said:
Yes, we do need to educate ourselves about our car's needs and act accordingly. Manufacturers have marketing incentive to stretch claimed maintenance intervals to the absolute maximum. IMO, owners who expect to keep their cars for a long time need to be more aggressive with regular preventative maintenance.
Spark plugs are quite easy to inspect, so the garage should have a look at them every time the car is in. Mine were pretty black at 75.000 kilometres.
Well Inspection II seems to be a fairly universal timeframe.bcworkz said:
Agreedbcworkz said:
Actually that's a pretty good point. They can even be inspected yourself for peace of mind if you feel that Inspection II is too long a replacement interval...corsaire77 said:
