Ignition cables or spark plug wires are the high voltage delivery lines that carry an electrical bolt from your ignition coil to the spark plugs. Think of them as the veins of your engine's electrical system.
In the harsh South African climate where under-hood temperatures can soar during a January heatwave, the rubber insulation on these wires eventually becomes brittle and cracks. When this happens, the electricity leaks out before it reaches the spark plug, causing the engine to stumble or lose power. Fixxr makes this repair simple by sending a mechanic to your home or office to swap out these wires so you do not have to risk a breakdown in heavy Joburg traffic.
For a standard 4-cylinder sedan like a Toyota Quest or VW Polo, a mobile ignition cable replacement generally costs between R1,200 and R2,200. If you drive a V6 or V8 bakkie like a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux, the spark plug wire price South Africa owners can expect is usually between R2,800 and R4,800. These figures include the call-out fee, a high-quality wire set, and the labor. Prices vary based on the number of cylinders and the specific brand of performance or OEM wires required.
Driving with bad ignition cables is a fast way to ruin your catalytic converter, which is one of the most expensive parts of your exhaust system. When a wire fails, unburnt fuel is pushed into the exhaust where it burns at extremely high temperatures, eventually melting the internal components of the converter. A relatively cheap set of wires today prevents a repair bill that could easily reach R15,000 or more later. Beyond the cost, a misfiring engine can leave you stranded or without power when you need to pull out of a dangerous intersection.
Ignition wires should be replaced at least every 90,000 kilometers, but whenever your car is serviced, it’s a good idea to have the entire ignition system inspected. Any time you have spark plugs replaced, it’s a good idea to have the ignition wires replaced. If you notice that your engine is running poorly, you should schedule an inspection.