How to Tell When Car Spark Plugs Need Replacement
1 Answers
Signs that spark plugs need replacement primarily include noticeably high fuel consumption and sluggish engine performance with delayed throttle response. 1. Difficult starting. Whether cold or warm starting, achieving ignition in one attempt becomes nearly impossible - even successful starts take 5-6 seconds. This occurs because the spark plug electrodes are severely worn, with rounded edges around the center electrode resulting in weak, unstable spark discharge. Additionally, excessive spark plug gap reduces spark intensity and penetration power, making it difficult to ignite the air-fuel mixture. 2. Increased fuel consumption. Where normal consumption might be 7-8 liters per 100km, it suddenly jumps to over 10 liters. The exhaust pipe emits not just fumes but practically showers coins along the road as refueling frequency increases. 3. Noticeable lack of power during hill climbing or rapid acceleration. Especially when carrying passengers, the vehicle refuses to respond even with full throttle. This happens because deteriorating spark plug performance increases misfire rates, causing incomplete combustion of the air-fuel mixture before exhaust, preventing the engine from delivering its designed maximum power - resulting in unresponsive acceleration. Spark plug replacement intervals: Under normal maintenance conditions, replacement is recommended every 40,000-60,000 km, though this varies by brand and engine type (always consult your owner's manual). Reference these general standards: • Platinum spark plugs: replace at 40,000 km • Standard nickel alloy spark plugs: replace at 20,000 km • Iridium spark plugs: replace at 60,000-80,000 km
