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Tune Up

The job of the ignition system is to create the spark that ignites the fuel. The timing of the process is crucial to maximising the efficiency of your vehicle. If the fuel is ignited at the wrong time, you may experience loss of power, more gas consumption and emissions will increase. Spark plugs have an important task to perform in the engine as they produce the electrical spark that actually ignites the mixture of fuel and air. They are exposed to extreme high temperatures and constant use. You can actually tell what is going on with the ignition and fuel systems in your vehicle by the way the spark plugs look when they are removed from the engine. Spark plugs that are worn, corroded or dirty will affect your vehicle in many ways. As with any component of your vehicle, it is important to watch for the signs that indicate a problem. At a minimum spark plugs should be replaced based on the manufacturer’s recommended service levels and according to the way you drive. You will also want to look for the following symptoms: Decreasing fuel economy, A change in the exhaust, Backfiring, Misfiring, Difficulty starting, Stalling, Dieseling/Pre-Ignition (the engine will ‘run on’ after the key is turned off), Distributor caps that are worn or cracked can also pose problems with engine performance. The signs of a failing distributor cap are quite noticeable. The car may shake or vibrate when it is idling at a stop. You may also experience difficulty starting your vehicle. Any of these symptoms are a sign your vehicle’s ignition system needs to be checked out. The certified technicians at Alf Wykes and Sons Automotive in Huntly, have the knowledge and equipment needed to properly diagnose and correct problems with ignition systems.