Can spark plugs that are 2mm longer than the original ones be used?
2 Answers
Spark plugs that are 2mm longer than the original ones cannot be used because the model does not match, and the discharge gap is different, which will cause problems such as car shaking, difficulty in acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark the position of each cylinder to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. When removing them, check for any leaves, dust, etc., on the outside and make sure to clean them 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. Install the removed high-voltage distributor wires according to the ignition sequence, and then snap the cover back on. If the spark plug is damaged, it can directly cause many problems such as leakage in the vehicle's ignition system, increased fuel consumption, and reduced power. The most significant issue is difficulty in ignition, which affects the normal use of the vehicle. Severe erosion of the spark plug, such as scarring at the top, damage, or melted and eroded electrodes, indicates that the spark plug is damaged and should be replaced.
As an ordinary car owner with nearly twenty years of driving experience, I've encountered various issues caused by spark plugs, especially the troubles brought by mismatched lengths. Spark plugs that are 2mm longer than the original ones must never be used casually, because the internal space of the engine is designed with precision. That extra length can easily cause the tip of the spark plug to hit the top of the piston during its movement, leading to deformed electrodes and engine vibrations at best, or cylinder damage and engine failure at worst. A friend of mine once tried to save money by installing slightly longer spark plugs, and soon after starting the car, he heard strange noises from the chassis. It cost him over a thousand dollars to fix the problem later—a painful lesson indeed. The engine is the heart of a car, and any minor modification requires caution. It's best to strictly follow the original manufacturer's specifications when selecting parts. Don't take big risks to save a few bucks. Only professional and reliable daily maintenance can give you peace of mind.
