
The spark plugs of the X-Trail should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers. Spark plugs, commonly known as ignition plugs, are crucial components of the gasoline engine's ignition system. They introduce high-voltage electricity into the combustion chamber, causing it to jump across the electrode gap, ionizing the air between the two electrodes to produce a spark, thereby igniting the combustible mixture in the cylinder. Methods to determine if the X-Trail's spark plugs need replacement: 1. During idle, use a screwdriver to perform a short-circuit test on the spark plugs. Carefully listen for changes in the engine's speed and sound. If there is little to no change compared to before, it indicates the spark plugs are functioning normally and do not need replacement. 2. Observe the color of the spark plugs. If they are reddish-brown or rust-colored, it also indicates normal functioning. If there is oil residue, it suggests the spark plug gap is misaligned or short-circuited, and replacement is necessary. The 2014 X-Trail measures 4643mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1725mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2706mm. It features a 5-door, 5-seat SUV body structure, a 6-speed manual transmission, and a naturally aspirated intake form.

My Nissan X-Trail has been running for over 6 years. The third-gen model's maintenance manual suggests replacing spark plugs at 100,000 km. However, the actual replacement interval depends on driving habits and fuel quality. If you frequently make short trips with cold starts in northern regions or use fuel from small gas stations, you might need to check them around 80,000 km. Last time, my car started shaking during cold starts, and fuel consumption suddenly increased by more than 1 liter, so I immediately replaced them with platinum ones. The mechanic said iridium plugs last longer, but the factory-matched ones aren't as compatible as the manual-recommended models. After replacement, throttle response became noticeably quicker. I recommend not delaying too long—worn spark plug electrodes can easily damage ignition coils, which would cost more to replace.

The replacement interval for the X-Trail's spark plugs depends on the specific generation and engine model. The manual for my 2020 2.5L model specifies a replacement at 160,000 km, but a mechanic friend mentioned that the factory-installed nickel alloy spark plugs actually start to degrade around 100,000 km. Many car enthusiasts now switch to platinum or double iridium spark plugs, which can last 120,000 to 150,000 km. If you frequently start and stop in city driving, it's advisable to inspect the electrode gap with a borescope every 70,000 km—consider replacement if the gap exceeds 1.1mm. Remember to clean the throttle body carbon deposits at the same time, and it's best to perform an ECU reset after replacement.

It depends. The MR20 engine in the third-generation X-Trail requires spark plug replacement at 100,000 km, while the QR25 engine needs it at 160,000 km. Older models typically require replacement every 60,000 to 80,000 km. Recently, I helped a friend deal with a case of melted spark plugs—his 2014 2.0L model hadn’t had them replaced after 90,000 km, resulting in cracked ceramic bodies and abnormal cylinder pressure. If you notice symptoms like jerky acceleration, longer cold starts, or the engine warning light flashing during hard acceleration during daily driving, it’s likely time to check the spark plugs. Standard nickel-alloy spark plugs cost around 300 RMB to replace, while OEM double-iridium ones are just over 600 RMB—don’t skimp on small expenses and risk bigger problems.


