One of the best ways to gain automotive knowledge is simply by asking the two-word question: “What is (a part, theory, thing)?” and locking in the definition after it is given. We’ll take a flier and ...

The spark plugs in a gasoline engine are not universal, one-size-fits-all components. Plugs are made of a variety of materials with different electrode setups and thread configurations, and knowing ...

Spark plugs are essential to the running of a vehicle, helping ignite the mixture of air and fuel to provide combustion to the engine. There are three specific parts of a spark plug, a central ...

Spark plugs that haven't been changed for a long time can become one with the cylinder head. Fortunately, it's possible to repair damaged threads instead of scrapping the head. (Photograph by Chris ...

The many spark plug types are typically named after precious metals used in their center electrode, ground electrode, or both. Copper plugs are the most affordable and the most basic while iridium ...

In the past decade or so, automakers have turned to downsized turbocharged engines—often with direct injection and higher compression ratios—to boost efficiency. These fancier power plants tend to ...

We earn commissions from purchases you make using links in our articles. Learn more. You’re likely aware that in order to keep your vehicle running in great shape, you’ll need to replace the spark ...

If there is a component on a Pontiac engine that gets little or no thought, it's the spark plug. We refuse to spend much money or time on them, but unless your Pontiac is powered by a GM diesel, the ...