How to Determine if a Spark Plug is Not Tightened Properly?
2 Answers
To determine if a spark plug is not tightened properly, you can observe the following signs: 1. Decreased car performance, or even the inability to start the car; 2. A hissing or leaking sound may be heard while driving. The spark plug is a crucial component of the gasoline engine's ignition system. It introduces high-voltage electricity into the combustion chamber, causing it to jump across the electrode gap and generate a spark, thereby igniting the combustible mixture in the cylinder. The spark plug mainly consists of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and shell, with the side electrode welded to the shell. The function of the spark plug is to introduce the high-voltage electricity generated by the ignition coil into the engine cylinder, creating a spark across the electrode gap to ignite the air-fuel mixture, enabling the engine to operate.
I've been driving for many years, and the signs of loose spark plugs are quite obvious. When starting the engine, you'll hear a hissing sound like air slowly leaking from a tire, indicating poor sealing. While driving, the car shakes noticeably with a clear lack of power, struggling especially when climbing hills. After replacing spark plugs, gently twist them by hand to check for looseness—it's quick and easy. From my personal experience, loose spark plugs cause incomplete combustion, leading to increased fuel consumption. Regularly use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening and avoid major repairs. Remember, unusual engine sounds are warning signals—address them promptly without delay.
