Can Replacing Spark Plugs Save Fuel?
1 Answers
Replacing spark plugs can indeed help save fuel, as failing to replace them after a certain usage period can lead to increased fuel consumption. Spark plug replacement cycle: Under normal maintenance conditions, spark plugs should be replaced after driving 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine type. It is recommended to follow the user manual for guidance. The following standards can be referenced for maintenance replacement: Platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 kilometers, ordinary nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Methods to determine if a spark plug is damaged: Remove the spark plug and observe its appearance color to assess its condition. A normal spark plug's insulator skirt and electrodes should appear gray-white, gray-yellow, or light brown. A properly functioning spark plug's insulator skirt should be reddish-brown, with an electrode gap between 0.8-0.9mm and no signs of electrode burning. If the spark plug is covered in oil or deposits but is not damaged, it can continue to be used after cleaning off the oil and deposits. If the spark plug is severely damaged, with signs such as blistering at the top, black streaks, cracks, or melted electrodes, the cause of the damage should be identified. After troubleshooting, replace the spark plug with a new one. Additionally, if the spark plug appears black as if smoked, it indicates that the wrong heat range was selected or that the air-fuel mixture is too rich, with oil creeping up.
