When to change spark plugs - relatively high-spec engine

[Kent Border Kenny]

I’ve a first generation R8 Plus. It’s done only 22,000 miles, but is six years old, so the service schedule says it’s time to change the plugs.

I’ve not come across the idea of plugs having a life in years before, only mikes, so I’m not sure why they’d need to be replaced, but I’m also not keen to play around with a 5.2 liter normally aspirated V10 engine that revs to 8,000 and outs out 540bhp. Maybe a plug failing would do no harm, maybe the unmatched forces would end up shaking some very important pieces loose before I notice anything.

Does anyone have any idea if there’s any point changing them? I will if here’s any reason at all, but won’t if they are going to be as good today as the day they were installed, as I prefer to leave alone if nothing needs doing.

[Kent Border Kenny]

SidewaysSi said:

How much are we talking about? Is it really worth skimping on a car of that value?

£400, they are expensive, there’s ten of them, and I’m more than likely to manage to scuff the carbon fibre in the engine bay if I do it myself.

As I say, if there’s any reason at all that they do need a change based on years then I’ll do it, but if it’s just Audi harping their franchises with some unnecessary work then I won’t.

[Kent Border Kenny]

SidewaysSi said:

Ring up an Audi specialist?

Yes, probably the best idea. The plugs on euro car parts range from £14-24, so £140 to £240 for the set.