
Baojun 730 should have its spark plugs replaced every 40,000 kilometers. The spark plug, commonly known as the sparking plug, functions by discharging the pulsed high-voltage electricity delivered by the high-voltage wire (spark plug wire), breaking down the air between the two electrodes of the spark plug to generate an electric spark, thereby igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. The key component of a spark plug is the insulator. If the insulator fails, the high-voltage electricity will "take a shortcut" and bypass the electrodes to ground, resulting in a no-spark condition. The Baojun 730 is a 7-seater family car customized by SAIC-GM-Wuling. In terms of body dimensions, it measures 4780mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1755mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750mm.

My Baojun 730 has run nearly 80,000 kilometers, and the spark plug issue really requires attention. I remember the mechanic suggested changing them at the 30,000 km service. Later, I checked the owner's manual and found the manufacturer actually recommends replacement every 30,000 to 40,000 km. For those who drive aggressively, they might need to check around 20,000 km. For occasional long-distance drivers like me, stretching to 40,000 km is fine. Delaying replacement is risky—my neighbor once waited until 60,000 km and ended up burning the ignition coil. The key is using the correct type: standard nickel alloy plugs won't last beyond 30,000 km, while iridium ones can go an extra 10,000 to 20,000 km. Pay attention to symptoms like sluggish acceleration or sudden fuel consumption increase—don't hesitate to get it checked immediately.

As a frequent site runner with my Baojun 730, I've developed my own set of spark plug replacement rules. The first replacement was at 35,000 km for the new car, and subsequent changes have consistently been between 30,000 to 40,000 km. Road conditions are crucial - since I drive on muddy roads daily while hauling loads, my spark plugs wear faster, requiring consideration for replacement shortly after 31,000 km. With standard spark plugs, the manual recommends inspection at 20,000 km and replacement at 30,000 km. However, upgrading to higher-quality iridium-platinum plugs allows for 50,000 km between changes. Never think this is an area to save pennies - last time I saw a shop dismantle an overdue engine, carbon buildup had completely seized the piston rings, with repair costs equaling half a year's fuel expenses.

My Baojun 730 has been running for four years, and the spark plugs have been replaced twice. The first replacement was discovered during at 32,000 kilometers when the electrodes were found to be worn round. The mechanic advised checking every 30,000 kilometers, as standard spark plugs typically need replacement by then. If you frequently drive on highways or use fully synthetic oil, they might last up to 40,000 kilometers. The key lies in material selection—the factory-fitted standard spark plugs have a shorter lifespan, but upgrading to double platinum ones for around 200 yuan can extend their use to 60,000 kilometers. Additionally, owners who often idle their cars should replace them more frequently, as excessive carbon buildup can lead to ignition difficulties and increased fuel consumption.

After driving a Baojun 730 for six years, I've learned my lesson with spark plugs. Once at 40,000 km, the car suddenly wouldn't start, and when towed to the repair shop, all four spark plugs were found dead. Since then, I've wised up—during every 30,000 km , I ask the mechanic to check the gap, replacing immediately if it exceeds 0.9mm. For those who frequently drive in the city, it's advisable to replace them at 30,000 km, while those who often drive on highways can stretch it to 40,000 km. Iridium spark plugs are the most durable, but the factory usually provides standard ones. It's best to remove one during each maintenance to check its condition—if the electrode turns black or the ceramic body cracks, don't hesitate to replace it. Nowadays, most auto repair shops have spark plug testers, and spending 30 yuan for a test can save you a lot of hassle.

The manual for my Baojun 730 states: It is recommended to inspect the spark plugs every 30,000 kilometers. Practical experience confirms that the replacement window is indeed between 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Last year, before a self-drive trip to the plateau, I specifically replaced the spark plugs, and the improvement in climbing power was noticeably better. If purchasing them yourself, pay attention to matching the heat range; incorrect selection can easily lead to pre-ignition. For vehicles with modified air intake systems, it's advisable to inspect them earlier, at around 25,000 kilometers, as increased air intake accelerates electrode wear. Additionally, during northern winters when temperatures drop below zero, old spark plugs make cold starts particularly difficult. Once during a heavy snowfall in winter, I almost had to call for roadside assistance, only to later discover it was caused by excessive spark plug gap.


