Distributor Cap & Rotor at 60k?

[Chuck1986]

My 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse V6 is nearing 60k miles and I've already bought some new spark plugs and ignition wires for the tune-up. I'm just wondering if I should also change the distributor cap and rotor, I noticed in the owner's manual it says to just check that item every 5 years, but I'm wondering if I should also do it while I'm changing the plugs and wires...anyone know how long a distributor cap and rotor typically last? Also, FWIW I have aftermarket headers so my engine bay is obviously pretty **** not...incase that factors into the life expectency of the cap and rotor...

 

[-Clayton-]

Might as well change them while youre there.
Sure won't hurt a thing. I dont make it that long before I'm fiddling around with that stuff.

 

[BlazerLT]

Regardless of miles, always change them every two years.

 

[Vilan]

If it's worn or cracked, go ahead. If it's still good, leave it alone.

 

[cousincletus]

60K is a good time to change these items. GM used to recommend spark plug wire replacement at 60K (1996 service manual). This helped save the expensive coil packs. FWIW I have a 2001 Dodge p/u with the original cap and rotor. It looks like a PITA tp replace so I'll wait until 60K.

 

[Kestas]

They should be changed because the gap between the rotor and distributor terminals grows with use. When this gap grows, there's a higher chance that there'll be no spark at the spark plug.

I see no reason to change it because of time.

 

[Mr Magoo]

Yes, 60,000 miles is a good time to change the Cap & Rotor.

On Hondas.....there are totally dogged after 35K miles.....so 60K is pushing it.