How often should the engine's spark plugs be replaced?
3 Answers
Replacement of car engine spark plugs: Generally, the lifespan of a resistor spark plug is 20,000 kilometers, platinum spark plugs last 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs can last up to 100,000 kilometers. Different car models have varying manufacturer-specified maintenance cycles, so the specific replacement interval should follow the car manufacturer's requirements. The rules for replacing spark plugs are as follows: 1. When replacing spark plugs, it's not just about replacing the corresponding part but replacing the entire set. This depends on how many cylinders the engine has. For example, if it's a 4-cylinder engine, all four spark plugs should be replaced together. Replacing only one may affect the engine's overall compatibility. 2. When replacing spark plugs, it's essential to clarify the material choice, distinguishing whether the car uses ordinary copper core, yttrium, platinum, iridium, or platinum-iridium alloy. More expensive metals generally offer better performance, longer lifespan, and more outstanding safety performance. Conclusion: Spark plugs of the same material may have different usage cycles in different car models and engines, so the replacement frequency varies. Therefore, the specific replacement cycle should be based on the manufacturer's requirements.
Having driven for over a decade, I've learned that spark plug replacement intervals depend on the vehicle manual and driving habits. From my experience, under normal city driving conditions, they should be replaced every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, or every 3 to 5 years. If you frequently drive on highways with good road conditions, they can last up to 80,000 kilometers. Don't procrastinate—last time I delayed until 60,000 kilometers, the engine started jerking and became unstable, fuel consumption skyrocketed, and I ended up spending much more on repairs later. It's best to check them regularly; listen to the startup sound and replace them immediately if you feel sluggish acceleration. DIY replacement isn't difficult, but make sure you have a professional socket toolset. Overall, preventive maintenance is far more cost-effective than post-failure repairs.
As an automotive enthusiast, I've thoroughly researched the impact of different spark plug materials on performance. Standard copper-core plugs are the most economical but have a short lifespan, needing replacement every 30,000 km at most. Upgrading to platinum or iridium plugs, though more expensive, can last up to 100,000 km with more stable ignition and improved fuel efficiency. Neglecting spark plug replacement directly affects ignition timing, leading to engine knocking or excessive emissions. I always check spark plug gaps before long trips to ensure they meet specifications. Combined with high-tension wire maintenance, this can extend their lifespan by 20%. Never overlook environmental factors - high-salt areas accelerate corrosion, requiring earlier replacement.
