Can You Continue Driving with a Faulty Spark Plug?
2 Answers
You can drive for a short time with a faulty spark plug, but prolonged use without replacement can lead to malfunctions and exacerbate engine damage or even total failure. Below are the drawbacks of not replacing a faulty spark plug: 1. Increased deposits on the spark plug: After driving for a period, deposits will accumulate on the top of the spark plug insulator and the electrodes, which can severely affect the engine's normal operation. 2. Malfunctioning ignition system: This leads to incomplete combustion of the air-fuel mixture, causing some harmful substances to be emitted without being fully burned. 3. Abnormal ignition system: Incomplete combustion of the mixture results in fuel wastage.
A few days ago I encountered the same issue and consulted a mechanic friend. While a vehicle with damaged spark plugs can technically still move, it's strongly advised against continuing to drive. Especially when experiencing cylinder misfires, the engine will vibrate violently with significantly reduced power, and fuel consumption may surge by over 50%. I once tried driving a car with faulty spark plugs - it jerked like a tractor during acceleration, and the exhaust pipe emitted strong gasoline fumes. More critically, unburned gasoline can leak into the engine oil, diluting the lubricant. Prolonged operation in this condition may lead to major engine overhaul. In emergencies, you might drive 3-5 km at low speed to reach a repair shop, but never attempt highway driving. Monitor dashboard warning lights closely during such trips, and stop immediately if the coolant temperature shows abnormalities.
