Like the spark plugs, the ignition coils or cables would need replacing every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. In some instances, the spark plug wires could last over 100,000 miles, but it all depends on many factors, like the make and model of your ride, your driving habits, the engine type, and whether the vehicle succumbs to heavy-duty use.
However, it might be time to inspect and replace the spark plug wires if your engine idles roughly, stalls upon starting, misfires or backfires when pushing the accelerator, hesitates to accelerate, the car feels slow, or there are sputtering or banging noises when revving the engine.
Moreover, hard starting and an illuminated check engine light could also point to faulty spark plug cables. Take your vehicle to a mechanic or repair shop immediately if misfiring, stalling, or hard starting is accompanied by a lit check engine light on the console. Driving any car with a check engine light is usually a bad idea, and persistently driving with faulty spark plug cables will lead to unpleasant driving and excessive fuel consumption.
