Spark plug wires are the lifeline that delivers the electric spark from your car’s ignition to the spark plugs, helping your engine start and run smoothly.
When they go bad, you could face everything from hard starts to performance issues.
But not if you fix them fast!
So what does a spark plug wire replacement cost?
We’ll give you the total cost breakdown, including factors that can increase the price. We’ll also list the telltale signs that your spark plug wires are on their way out.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Spark Plug Wire Replacement Cost?
- Is it Worth Replacing the Spark Plug Wire?
- 7 Signs You Need a Spark Plug Replacement
- How Long Does a Spark Plug Wire Last?
- How to Replace the Spark Plug Wire: A General Know-How
How Much Does a Spark Plug Wire Replacement Cost?
Here’s what a brand-new spark plug wire set can cost you:
A. Range
You can expect to pay around $220 to $605 to replace a spark wire set.
This includes:
- Parts cost: $150 to $435
- Labor cost: $70 and $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of replacing a spark plug wire set can vary depending on local labor rates and where you get the work done. For example, dealerships and specialized repair shops usually have higher fees than standard garages.
The following factors can also affect your total cost:
- Material and design: Spark plug wires come in different materials and designs, such as standard carbon core, low-resistance, and high-performance silicone wires. High-performance wires usually cost more than standard ones as they can withstand extreme conditions and provide better durability. For instance, high-performance wires cost around $50 to $100 or more, while standard sets are about $20 to $50.
- Accessibility: In some vehicles, the spark plugs and wires are easily accessible, while in others, they may be difficult to access, which increases the labor costs. For instance, in V6 and V8 engines, spark plugs are located at the back of the engine or underneath the intake manifolds.
- Number of cylinders: The number of spark plug wires needed depends on the engine’s cylinder count. A V8 engine (8 spark plugs), for example, will require more wires than a 4-cylinder engine (4 spark plugs), affecting both parts and labor costs.
- Additional repairs: Sometimes, spark plugs and wires are replaced together as preventive maintenance. This can also add to your total cost. Replacing a spark plug set can add around $100 to $500 to your final bill.
Is It Worth Replacing the Spark Plug Wire?
Yes, damaged spark plug wires can lead to a loss of power and sluggish acceleration. They can also reduce fuel efficiency and increase emissions because of incomplete combustion.
Prolonged use of faulty spark plug wires can also cause a misfire, leading to excessive unburned fuel entering the exhaust. As a result, your ignition system and catalytic converter may overheat and need expensive repairs.
7 Signs You Need a Spark Plug Wire Replacement
If you notice these symptoms, consult a mechanic ASAP:
- Starting trouble
- Rough idling
- Sluggish acceleration
- Engine misfire
- Car backfiring
- Lit check engine light
- Poor mileage (you need to refill fuel more frequently than usual)
How Long Does a Spark Plug Wire Last?
A good quality set of spark plug wires can generally last around 30,000 to 70,000 miles.
However, bad driving habits and irregular maintenance can make them wear out faster.
Here are some other factors that affect the longevity of the spark plug wire:
- Heat exposure: Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can cause the insulation and internal materials of the wires to degrade over time. This can lead to cracks in wires, brittleness, and eventual failure.
- Moisture and contamination: Exposure to water, oil, or dirt can cause corrosion and reduce the effectiveness of the wire’s insulation, resulting in premature failure.
- Engine vibration: Continuous engine vibrations can wear down spark plug wires over time, especially when they aren’t securely fastened or routed. Vibrations can also make the wires rub against other engine components, like valve covers, leading to insulation wear and wire damage.
- Electrical resistance: Over time, the electrical resistance in spark plug wires can increase, resulting in weaker sparks and reduced engine performance, causing early wear.
- Improper installation: Bending the spark plug wires too sharply, pulling on the wires, or routing them improperly can damage and reduce their lifespan.
- Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go driving or driving in extreme weather conditions can accelerate wear on spark plug wires.
How to Replace the Spark Plug Wire: A General Know-How
Replacing the spark plug wire requires technical knowledge and an understanding of engine components. That’s why it’s best to leave the replacement to experts.
Here’s how a mechanic will swap out the spark plug wires:
- Locate the spark plug wire: The mechanic will turn off your car and open the hood. The wires are typically found near the valve cover on the cylinder head.
- Replace the wires: They’ll use a spark plug wire removal tool to carefully disconnect the wires. The mechanic will note the length and location of each wire as they need to reconnect the spark plug wires in the right order. In newer engines that use rubber boots, the mechanic will pull on the boot and not the wire to avoid damaging it.
- Reconnect the new wire: The mechanic will install the new wires in the same order as the old ones were removed. They will apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the rubber boots to prevent corrosion and ensure a better electrical connection.
- Test the new wire: Finally, the mechanic will start the engine to ensure it runs and idles smoothly.
Get Hassle-Free Spark Plug Wire Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
Replacing faulty spark plug wires is one of those small but crucial steps that can make a huge difference in your car’s performance.
Need a pro to handle it?
Let the experts at AutoNation Mobile Service take care of it for you!
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance service available seven days a week. We also offer a 12-month, 12,000-mile auto repair warranty on all repairs.
Contact us to get your spark plug wires or any other part fixed right from your driveway.