Do spark plugs need to be replaced after driving 25,000 kilometers?

[LeEdward]

Generally, spark plugs do not necessarily need to be replaced after a car has driven 20,000 kilometers. 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, so it is recommended to follow the instructions in the user manual. You can refer to the following standards for maintenance and 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. How spark plugs work: Under high voltage, the air between the center electrode and the side electrode of the spark plug rapidly ionizes, forming positively charged ions and negatively charged free electrons. When the voltage between the electrodes reaches a certain level, the number of ions and electrons in the gas increases like an avalanche, causing the air to lose its insulating properties and forming a discharge channel, resulting in a "breakdown" phenomenon. At this point, the gas forms a luminous body, known as a "spark." Along with the heat expansion, a "crackling" sound is also produced. The temperature of this electric spark can reach as high as 2,000-3,000°C, which is sufficient to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber of the cylinder.

[StBrooke]

I've been driving for over a decade, and the 25,000 km spark plug replacement isn't a one-size-fits-all rule. Checking the vehicle manual is most important; my car uses platinum spark plugs, and the manual states they can last over 100,000 km. I didn't replace them at 25,000 km, and everything's been fine. However, copper spark plugs age faster and are recommended for replacement between 20,000 to 30,000 km, otherwise fuel consumption may spike, starting becomes difficult, and the engine may shake. Driving habits also matter—frequent highway driving or city traffic jams can lead to faster carbon buildup on spark plugs. I suggest getting them checked at a shop; having a technician test the ignition with tools costs just a few bucks, which is much cheaper and easier than risking engine damage from prolonged neglect.

[CarsonLee]

To be a car-savvy person, whether to replace spark plugs at 25,000 kilometers depends on the specific situation. I've seen many friends' cars with copper, platinum, and iridium spark plugs. Copper ones have a shorter lifespan and should be replaced after around 20,000 kilometers, while iridium ones can last up to 100,000 kilometers. The key is not to wait until problems arise—failing to replace them might cause the ignition coil to overheat, leading to engine damage, sluggish acceleration, and unstable idling. My car wasn't replaced at 25K, and later it shook badly during startup; replacing the spark plugs fixed the issue. Developing a habit of regular maintenance is key: frequently check spark plug gaps, clean carbon deposits, and ensure the entire ignition system remains safe and reliable.

[DeHaven]

As a new driver, I was confused about spark plug replacement after running 25,000 km. The repair shop told me most Hyundai models have durable spark plugs now, and the manual is the golden standard. My basic model kept running without replacement, but I eventually changed them after noticing slower starts. They suggested checking for carbon buildup or discoloration - early replacement can save fuel costs and ensure smooth driving. Don't be foolish about maintenance.