How often is prudent to change the spark plugs in a MINI? I have just surpassed 41,000 miles in 30 months of ownership and although everything is just fine, I prefer preventative maintenance rather than "wait till it fails, then fix it."

I'm not mechanically inclined when it comes to spark plugs (I know it's supposed to be very very easy to remove and install new ones), but I've heard some horror stories from people who didn't torque their plugs correctly and they blew out causing severe engine damage... I'd rather pay the dealer to do it...(I know you mechanics are probably thinking that's a waste...but...)

And I wonder what the dealer will charge for new plugs + install? I bet they will want to install new wires as well... anyone know the dealer price for this service?

Anyway, should it be done now, 50K, 60K? I know that these plugs supposedly will run for 100K miles before needing replacement but that just seems crazy...

Thanks and rock on,

-boognish

 

Mine were pretty badly carbon fouled at 20K miles on an 05 MCS/JCW. It was still running, but fresh plugs made it run better. Preventive Maintenance is a good thing.

I picked up 2-3 mpg and the car ran much smoother. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, expect to pay ~$125 for plugs and an hour's labor at $120. It'll really take about 15 minutes...

Rawhyde

 

Well I have 96K miles on a set of plugs and still going strong, I do have a new set that I will put in when I get THDUKE ready for track in Feb.