Can a Spark Plug Still Be Used After Getting Wet?
3 Answers
It is not recommended to continue using a spark plug that has gotten wet; simply replace the spark plug. Criteria for determining spark plug damage: Damaged spark plugs may exhibit the following symptoms: difficulty starting the engine, reduced power, excessive exhaust emissions, and increased fuel consumption. Steps for replacing a spark plug: Open the hood, lift the plastic engine cover, remove the high-voltage ignition wires, and mark each cylinder's position to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. While removing them, check for any external debris such as leaves or dust, and ensure everything is cleaned thoroughly. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten it further. Reinstall the high-voltage ignition wires in the firing order, and then secure the cover back in place.
If the spark plugs get wet with water, they become unusable. Last time when I washed my car, water sprayed into the engine bay and the spark plugs got wet. The next day, the car wouldn't start at all, and it had to be towed to the repair shop to replace the spark plugs before it could run normally again. Inside a spark plug, there are electrodes and insulation. Once water gets in, it can corrode the metal or cause a short circuit, making the spark plug unable to ignite anymore. The ignition system might also suffer collateral damage. I recommend replacing them with new ones directly instead of trying to dry them or continue using them, as their performance is already compromised, and the car may run roughly or unstably. To prevent this, after washing the car or driving through water on rainy days, check the sealing of the engine bay and consider buying a waterproof cover to protect the spark plug area. Regular spark plug replacements are inexpensive—check them every two to three years to ensure driving safety and avoid breakdowns.
A spark plug becomes completely ineffective and unusable after getting wet. Water entering the electrode and ceramic insulator can cause the spark plug to short-circuit or rust, rendering its ignition function useless. I've encountered a similar situation while working on my car in the garage—when I took out the spark plug, the inside was a mess and I had to replace it. Don't bother trying to clean or dry it because its internal components are already damaged, and forcing it to start could harm the engine. Replace the spark plug promptly and check if the ignition coil is affected to prevent electrical leakage. Remember, don't exceed half the wheel height when driving through water, and avoid spraying the engine area vigorously when washing the car. A simple DIY replacement doesn't take much effort—just buy a spark plug that matches your car's model and install it yourself for smooth starts and savings on repair costs.
