tefloncandi
Member
- :
- 2009 Mazda5
Today I was quoted $143.00 to change my spark plugs by the "Stealership"; is there a "How To" on the topic of spark plugs?(breakn)
Today I was quoted $143.00 to change my spark plugs by the "Stealership"
If you have the correct tools, (ratchet, spark plug socket, coil pack socket, 6" socket extension, long nose pliers, gap checker), you should be able to do it yourself for about $45 in parts (plugs, anti-seize compund) and less then 45 minutes labor.
There are 2 different sized plugs used on the Mazda 2.3L motor. Make sure to use the same as the one you take out. Follow the plug manufacturers instructions when adjusting gap.
Stock plugs are designed to last ~100k.
I did mine(08 5AT) bought the plugs at Mazda(about a buck more than anywhere else and they come pre-gapped).
Owned several cars in 20+ years of driving. Never used anti-seize and never used gapping tool. Just buy and install. It's really easy and everyone who can turn a screwdriver should be able to do it. My only advice is when telling the auto parts store clerk that you drive a Mazda 5, make sure they don't select the part for an MX-5 instead.
I check the gap on my plugs before I install them and find poorly gapped plugs all the time. You should always check them. Also, all of the '04-'07 F150 owners that didn't add anti-seize compound to the plug threads found out the hard way how much it costs to remove heads to get plugs out that have broken in half. Standard cost was +$1,000. You should always use anti-seize in case the plugs have QC problems.
Metal shell plating acts as a lubricant which breaks away from the main body of the spark plug during removal, preventing damage to the spark plug and or threads in the cylinder head.
I totally agree with you Robotaz. However, in the intrest of good discussion and information, the Mazda Factory workshop manual recommends gapping and anti-sieze, whereas there is a Service Bulletin from NGK I have seen that states that anti-sieze can create a situation where the technician can over-torque and break the plug because of the anti-seize. The PDF of the tech bulletin can be found here. http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/pdf/TB-0630111antisieze.pdf
The method I like to use, is to use the anti-seize and torque carefully.
the plugs are pre-gapped no matter where you buy them. my local mazda didnt have them in stock, but the Oreilly's down the street did. so thats where i got mine.
Owned several cars in 20+ years of driving. Never used anti-seize and never used gapping tool. Just buy and install. It's really easy and everyone who can turn a screwdriver should be able to do it. My only advice is when telling the auto parts store clerk that you drive a Mazda 5, make sure they don't select the part for an MX-5 instead.
No they are not pre-Gapped. Those plugs could go into 20 different cars with different gaps. ALWAYS GAP YOUR PLUGS!
I totally agree with you Robotaz. However, in the intrest of good discussion and information, the Mazda Factory workshop manual recommends gapping and anti-sieze, whereas there is a Service Bulletin from NGK I have seen that states that anti-sieze can create a situation where the technician can over-torque and break the plug because of the anti-seize. The PDF of the tech bulletin can be found here. http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/pdf/TB-0630111antisieze.pdf
The method I like to use, is to use the anti-seize and torque carefully.
^^^ That's just a rule of thumb. Manuals usually won't tell you how to be a good mechanic.