Quick summary
- Changing spark plugs on your 2017 GMC Terrain might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a DIY project anyone can tackle.
- This is a special socket designed to fit over the spark plug and remove it from the engine.
- If your 2017 GMC Terrain has spark plug wires, reconnect them to the new spark plugs, ensuring each wire is connected to the correct spark plug.
Changing spark plugs on your 2017 GMC Terrain might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a DIY project anyone can tackle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and successful job.
Why Change Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs are essential components in your engine’s combustion system. They ignite the air-fuel mixture, enabling the engine to run smoothly. Over time, spark plugs wear down, leading to various issues like:
- Reduced engine performance: A worn-out spark plug can cause misfires, resulting in a decrease in power and fuel efficiency.
- Rough idling: Misfires can also lead to rough idling, making your car vibrate and shake.
- Hard starting: A weak spark can make it difficult to start your engine, especially in cold weather.
- Increased emissions: Misfires can cause your car to emit more harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
To avoid these problems, it’s crucial to replace your spark plugs at the recommended intervals. For the 2017 GMC Terrain, the recommended service interval for spark plug replacement is typically around 100,000 miles. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies:
- New spark plugs: Make sure you purchase the correct type of spark plugs for your 2017 GMC Terrain. You can find the correct spark plug type in your owner’s manual or by consulting an online parts catalog.
- Spark plug socket: This is a special socket designed to fit over the spark plug and remove it from the engine.
- Torque wrench: This tool is essential for tightening the new spark plugs to the correct specifications.
- Ratchet: You’ll need a ratchet to turn the spark plug socket.
- Extension: An extension may be necessary to reach some of the spark plugs.
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and grease.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from debris.
- Work mat: This will help keep your workspace clean.
- Shop towels: You’ll need these to clean up any spills or messes.
Preparation: Getting Ready for the Job
1. Park your car on a level surface: Ensure your parking brake is engaged and the car is in “Park” or “Neutral” gear.
2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal: This is a crucial safety step to prevent electrical shocks.
3. Locate the spark plugs: The spark plugs are located on the top of the engine, under the hood. Refer to your owner’s manual or online resources for the exact location.
4. Clean the area around the spark plugs: Use a shop towel to remove any dirt, debris, or oil from the area around the spark plugs. This will prevent contaminants from entering the engine when you remove and install the spark plugs.
Changing the Spark Plugs: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Remove the spark plug wires: If your 2017 GMC Terrain has spark plug wires, carefully disconnect them from the spark plugs. Make sure you note which wire goes to which spark plug to avoid confusion when reconnecting them.
2. Remove the spark plugs: Use the spark plug socket and ratchet to loosen the spark plugs. Turn the socket counter-clockwise to loosen the plugs. Be careful not to overtighten or strip the threads. Once the spark plugs are loose, you can remove them by hand.
3. Inspect the old spark plugs: Examine the old spark plugs for signs of wear and tear. If the electrodes are worn down or the insulator is cracked, it’s time for a replacement.
4. Install the new spark plugs: Before installing the new spark plugs, apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the threads. This will help prevent the spark plugs from seizing in the engine.
5. Tighten the new spark plugs: Use the torque wrench to tighten the new spark plugs to the correct specifications. The torque specifications for your 2017 GMC Terrain can be found in your owner’s manual or online resources.
6. Reconnect the spark plug wires: If your 2017 GMC Terrain has spark plug wires, reconnect them to the new spark plugs, ensuring each wire is connected to the correct spark plug.
7. Reconnect the negative battery terminal: Once the spark plugs are installed and the spark plug wires are reconnected, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Post-Installation: Final Touches
1. Start the engine: Once you’ve reconnected the battery, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. This will allow the engine to warm up and ensure the new spark plugs are working correctly.
2. Check for leaks: After the engine has warmed up, check for any leaks around the spark plugs. If you see any leaks, tighten the spark plugs further using the torque wrench.
3. Dispose of the old spark plugs properly: Old spark plugs should be disposed of properly. You can usually recycle them at a local auto parts store or recycling center.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
- Gap Adjustment: Some spark plugs require a specific gap between the electrodes. If you’re using a new set of spark plugs, check the gap with a spark plug gap tool and adjust it if necessary.
- Spark Plug Type: Ensure you’re using the correct type of spark plug for your 2017 GMC Terrain. The wrong type of spark plug can lead to problems with your engine.
- Professional Assistance: If you’re not comfortable changing your spark plugs yourself, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.
Time to Hit the Road: Enjoying Your New Spark Plugs
After successfully changing your spark plugs, you should notice a difference in your 2017 GMC Terrain’s performance. Your engine should run smoother, start easier, and potentially even get better gas mileage.
What You Need to Know
Q: How often should I change my spark plugs?
A: The recommended service interval for spark plug replacement is typically around 100,000 miles for the 2017 GMC Terrain. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Q: What happens if I don’t change my spark plugs?
A: If you don’t change your spark plugs, they can wear down and cause various problems, including reduced engine performance, rough idling, hard starting, and increased emissions.
Q: Can I change my spark plugs myself?
A: Yes, you can change your spark plugs yourself if you have the right tools and a little patience. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you through the task.
Q: Can I use any type of spark plug?
A: No, you need to use the correct type of spark plug for your 2017 GMC Terrain. The wrong type of spark plug can lead to problems with your engine. You can find the correct spark plug type in your owner’s manual or by consulting an online parts catalog.
Q: What should I do if I encounter problems while changing my spark plugs?
A: If you encounter problems while changing your spark plugs, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic. They can help you diagnose and fix the problem.