How many kilometers should the spark plugs of the Volkswagen New Santana be replaced?
3 Answers
The spark plugs of the Volkswagen New Santana should be replaced every 35,000 kilometers or 48 months. Spark plugs are categorized into resistor spark plugs, platinum spark plugs, and iridium spark plugs. The function of a spark plug is to generate an electric spark, which discharges the high-voltage pulse electricity delivered by the high-voltage wire, breaking down the air between the two electrodes of the spark plug to produce an electric spark that ignites the mixed gas in the cylinder. The structure of a spark plug consists of a slender metal electrode passing through a ceramic material with insulating properties. The lower part of the insulator is surrounded by a metal shell, which is screwed onto the cylinder head with threads. At the bottom of this metal shell, an additional electrode is welded to form a grounding connection with the vehicle body.
I've been driving my Volkswagen New Santana for almost four years, commuting frequently in the city. Spark plugs generally need inspection and replacement around 50,000 kilometers. When my car hit 55,000 kilometers, starting became difficult, and the engine shook noticeably. A check at the shop revealed significant carbon buildup on the spark plug tips—replacing them immediately smoothed things out. Delaying replacement can cause fuel consumption to spike and even lead to misfires or stalling, which would be troublesome if it happens on the road. The first two to three years with a new car are fine, but after 40,000 kilometers, it's wise to stay vigilant. Regular maintenance should include having a mechanic check the resistance values to ensure the spark plugs aren't worn out. This keeps the car economical and safe.
I enjoy tinkering with car maintenance in my spare time. The replacement interval for spark plugs in the Volkswagen New Santana is typically between 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, but I managed to stretch it to 65,000 kilometers with iridium ones. During self-inspection, check if the spark plug electrode gap is too wide or contaminated with oil; replace them if there's carbon buildup. The process is straightforward—just prepare a socket wrench and insulating glue, and avoid overtightening during removal. Also, take the opportunity to clean any carbon deposits from the ignition coils to prevent related malfunctions. Make it a habit to check every 20,000 kilometers to keep your car's performance lasting longer.
