When they start failing, you will notice a number of engine-related problems. Spark plug wires play an indispensable role in your vehicle’s electrical system.
Signs and symptoms of bad spark plug wires When spark plug wires are defective, they cause engine problems, meaning replacing them should improve performance, bringing the car to life. That said, they must be in perfect condition for your car’s engine to function optimally. The conductive wires supply the spark plugs with the required voltage jolt of electricity from the ignition coil for ignition to occur. They have a handful of elements, including a central conductor, a distributor terminal, insulating terminal bolts, and external sheath, which ensure it works properly. Spark plug wires: What do they do?Įssentially, spark plug wires are components in the spark ignition systems that transfer high voltage pulses from the distributor (voltage source) to spark plugs. So, whether you’re doing a complete tune-up or are changing the spark plugs, you should always check your spark plug wires to identify possible imperfections.īut how do you know failing spark plug wires? This post will discuss the symptoms of bad plug wires to help know when to change them. They do an excellent job transporting sparks from the vehicle’s ignition system to its engine spark plugs.īecause of their critical role, it is most certainly that they will adversely affect the engine’s performance should they fail to transfer the sparks required for the engine to operate optimally.Īlthough they are manufactured with low-resistance, durable materials to withstand extreme temperatures under the hood, engine chemicals, and electrical stress, ignition cables won’t last forever.
Spark plug wires, also known as ignition cables, are a critical component of a vehicle’s electrical ignition system.