How To Gap Spark Plugs

When you work with our service experts, we’ll do what we can to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly around Providence. We’ll go over your vehicle’s components and make sure that every part we use is designed to help your vehicle perform. However, we understand that you may also be interested in working on your vehicle in your own East Greenwich garage.

One project that you may want to tackle is replacing your spark plugs. But, if you’re replacing your spark plugs, you may need to know about the spark plug gap that you should be using. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Learn how to gap spark plugs today with Mercedes-Benz of Warwick! Be sure to visit our parts center to find the right spark plugs for your vehicle.

Why Do You Need a Spark Plug Gap?

Your spark plugs play a vital role in ensuring your vehicle provides optimal performance around Cranston. Spark plugs essentially help create the combustion in your vehicle’s engine to power you on your drives. It’s important to have the proper gapping for your spark plugs because:

• Too large of a gap between the center of the spark plug and the electrode could make it difficult for the spark plug to ifnute the air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber.
• If the gap is too small, it’ll also cause a weak spark which might not complete the combustion process in your engine.
• If your spark plugs aren’t gapped properly, you could experience reduced engine performance and an increase in fuel consumption.
• When your spark plug gaps are incorrect, you could end up causing engine damage in the long run.

Steps for Gapping Spark Plugs

Now that you know why gapping spark plugs is important, are you ready to ensure that your spark plugs are properly gapped? Here’s how to gap spark plugs:

1. We recommend you get a feeler gauge to assist you with gapping your spark plugs.
2. Reference your owner’s manual to confirm the distance your spark plugs should be gapped.
3. Using your spark plug gap tool, start by gently inserting it between the center of the spark plug and the electrode. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the spark plug.
4. Insert the feeler gauge into the gap and begin taking note of the measurement. You may need to adjust everything to ensure the gapping is appropriate.
5. You’ll want to follow the previous steps for every spark plug your vehicle’s engine requires.
6. Carefully install the spark plug into your engine and be sure to use a spark plug-specific socket wrench.
7. Start your engine and confirm if everything is in working order.

Can You Use Pre-Gapped Spark Plugs?

You may have heard about pre-gapped spark plugs. Pre-gapped spark plugs often state that there’s no need to gap the spark plug as it has already been pre-measured. While this is true, pre-gapped spark plugs take a one-size-fits-all approach and the gap that they have might not be ideal for your vehicle. Even with pre-gapped spark plugs, it’s a good idea to ensure that they’re properly gapped for your vehicle before installing.

Get Help With Spark Plug Gaps Today at Mercedes-Benz of Warwick

Whether you need assistance with gapping your spark plugs or you want to have our Warwick team gap your spark plugs for you, we’re more than happy to help. Get in touch with us today for assistance!