Ignition Cable Spark Plug Wires Replacement Cost Estimate
Concerned about overpaying for your Ignition Cable Spark Plug Wires replacement? Use MyMechanic to get a fair cost estimate for your Ignition Cable Spark Plug Wires replacement.
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How much does an ignition cable replacement cost?
The total replacement cost for a ignition cable replacement typically includes expenses for both parts and labor. The final amount can vary based on factors such as your vehicle's make and model.
How long does it take to replace ignition cable replacement
It typically takes around 0.8 hours for a certified mechanic to replace your ignition cable replacement. It's a good idea to call ahead to ensure the mechanic has the spark plugs for your specific model in stock.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do you need for an ignition cable replacement?
There are three main types of ignition systems: the contact breaker (or breaker point) ignition system, the electronic ignition system, and the distributorless ignition system. Only the distributorless ignition system lacks spark plug wires.
Here are some major components common to the first two systems:
- Ignition Switch:Completes the ignition system circuit and starts the engine when you turn the key or push the switch. Hitting the ignition switch again will interrupt the circuit and shut down the engine.
- Car Battery: Supplies the raw power for the ignition system. When the circuit is completed by the switch, the car battery sends a low-voltage current toward the ignition coils.
- Ignition Coils :Transform the 12-14V current from the car battery into 60-120,000 volts of raw power. The distributor or distributor caps use either breaker points or pickup coils to time the bursts of electricity sent to the spark plugs.
- Ignition Cables (Spark Plug Wires):Present in both breaker-point and electronic ignition systems, they pass the voltage created by the ignition coils and timed by the distributor to the spark plugs.
- Spark Plugs: Shoot a high-voltage bolt of power across a small gap in each of the vehicle engine’s cylinders, igniting the mixture of air and fuel at just the right time. These electrical explosions bring your car’s engine to life.
Depending on your vehicle’s ignition system, you might require new spark plugs, ignition coils, pickup coils, or breaker points to get it started again.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are typically more expensive than aftermarket parts but often come with better warranties. For instance, if a certified Toyota mechanic installs genuine spark plug wires in your car, you might receive a 24-month/25,000-mile warranty. In contrast, an aftermarket spark plug wire set can perform the same function at a lower cost.
Most auto parts stores and Cable shops will have the resources you need to ignition cable or replacement kit that fits your vehicle correctly. You can also explore replacement options at auto repair shops or dealership service centers.
Spark plug wire replacement near me
If you don’t feel like getting your hands dirty, leave this job to your mechanic. If you don’t have someone in mind, let MyMechanic help you research and find a trusted repair shop.
Here’s how it works: MyMechanic compares fair price estimates from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in Malaysia. You can see each shop’s real hourly labor rate, find out what’s included in the estimate, and read real reviews from customers—all so that you can choose the best service at a price that works for you.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How do mechanics replace ignition cables?
A skilled mechanic should be able to replace your ignition wires quickly. Here’s what the garage will do:
- Preparation:The mechanic will let your car’s engine cool, then hook up an OBD-II reader to scan for trouble codes. They’ll confirm the diagnosis with a visual inspection and an Ohm test on each cable. If your car needs new ignition cables, they’ll disconnect the battery and get to work.
- Removal: The mechanic will twist or rotate the “boot” (a rubber cap) at the end of each spark plug wire to free it from the ignition coil and the spark plug.
- Installation The mechanic will install the new ignition cables in order, from longest to shortest, roll the plug boots around to eliminate air bubbles, and snap the cables into place.
- Finishing up: The mechanic will reconnect the car battery and test the vehicle to ensure the new ignition cables work. If they aren’t installed in the correct order (or if there’s any cross-wiring or interference), the engine could misfire.
Can you drive with bad spark plug wires?
Spark plug wires are integral to your car’s ignition and engine firing systems. Depending on the severity of the problem, your ability to drive may be impacted by:
- A car that won’t start: If your car won’t start, you won’t be going anywhere. An inactive car can easily get stuck in place.
- Engine misfires: Without electricity, any cylinders connected to faulty spark plug wires won’t fire or will misfire. This not only leads to a rough ride but also risks engine damage the longer it continues.
- A faulty catalytic converter:If fuel floods the cylinder but doesn’t get ignited, it follows the exhaust path to the catalytic converter. The converter isn’t equipped to handle raw gasoline, and prolonged neglect of bad spark plug wires could lead to damage.
What is an ignition cable replacement?
Replacing ignition cables is a straightforward service that targets the wiring in your car’s ignition and powertrain. A new set of ignition cables can restore the connection between the ignition coils and the spark plugs, leading to a more efficient engine and a smoother ride.
When should I replace my spark plug wires?
Determining whether your spark plug wires are failing can be tricky if there's no clear damage. Here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Time since last spark plug replacement: If it's been a while since you changed the spark plugs (typically every 30,000 to 150,000 miles depending on the material), consider replacing the ignition cables as well to maintain optimal performance.
- Engine issues: Look out for engine misfires, rough idling, unexplained vibrations, or sudden power losses. These could indicate problems with the engine cylinders, possibly due to frayed ignition cables.
- Poor gas mileage:Reduced fuel efficiency can be linked to a misfiring engine, which may result from faulty ignition cables affecting the powertrain's efficiency.
- Check engine light: While the check engine light can signal various issues, an OBD code reader or mechanic can determine if it's related to the spark plug wires.
- Difficulty starting:If there's a problem with the connection between the ignition coils and spark plugs due to failing wires, your car may have trouble starting.
How many years do spark plug wires last?
Despite handling a tremendous amount of power, spark plug wires generally last a decade or more. However, spark plugs have a shorter lifespan, and most experts recommend replacing them whenever you change your ignition wires. Vibration, heat, and abrasion can cause damage that’s difficult to detect, so installing new wires ensures your engine cylinders continue firing smoothly.
Is it hard to replace ignition wires?
Replacing ignition wires is a relatively simple DIY job, but it comes with risks. The main challenge when working on your car’s electrical systems is keeping track of the wires and avoiding shocks. Handle ignition wires gently—avoid pinching or crossing them, and don’t use tape or clamps to secure them. Any interference could cause problems when thousands of volts flow through the wires.
FAQs
Heat, vibration, and abrasions can all lead to spark plug wire failure. Spark plug wires endure thousands of electric jolts per second and are situated around extremely hot engine parts, which can melt and burn the wire sleeves and boots.
If your car experiences juddering or shaking, the wires may come loose over time, requiring increasing voltage to bridge the gap. Additionally, friction against other wires or car parts can cause the wires to wear out.
Brand names and high manufacturing standards can make spark plug wires quite expensive. OEM parts typically cost more than generic aftermarket counterparts, and the average price is even higher for luxury brands like Audi or Mercedes-Benz. Performance parts can be particularly pricey, as they
If your vehicle detects engine misfires and other timing issues, it may illuminate the check engine light. However, determining whether the spark plug wires are the cause requires an OBD reader or a visit to the mechanic. Further investigation involves using a voltmeter or multimeter to test if the individual cables are conducting electricity properly.
