Is Spark Plug Cleaning Necessary?

[DeAvery]

Spark plug cleaning is necessary. The dirt on spark plugs mainly consists of carbon deposits and oil stains. Over time, these can cause the electrodes to leak electricity or even fail to spark, ultimately leading to cylinder failure. 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. It primarily consists of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and shell. Types: The main types of spark plugs include: standard spark plugs, projected insulator spark plugs, electrode spark plugs, seat spark plugs, pole spark plugs, and surface-gap spark plugs. Location: Spark plugs are installed on the side or top of the engine. Early spark plugs were connected to the distributor via ignition wires, but in the past decade, most car engines have switched to direct connection between the ignition coil and the spark plug. Carbon deposits are primarily caused by two factors: incomplete combustion of the flammable mixture in the cylinder (the most common reason) and engine oil burning. Consequences of long-term neglect in spark plug cleaning: Carbon deposits will naturally accumulate on the spark plug's electrodes and insulator skirt. If left uncleaned for an extended period, the buildup will thicken, potentially leading to electrode leakage or failure to spark, ultimately causing cylinder failure. Therefore, during routine maintenance, 4S shop technicians often recommend cleaning every 3,000–6,000 kilometers. Cleaning precautions: Use carburetor cleaner. Carburetor cleaner is a professional cleaning agent for engine oil and carbon deposits, effectively removing engine oil, stains, and carbon buildup. Pour the carburetor cleaner into a container, soak the spark plug for half an hour, then gently brush the spark plug's head with a soft brush to remove carbon deposits. However, when using carburetor cleaner, be extremely careful to avoid contact with eyes and skin. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Use white vinegar for cleaning. Soaking in white vinegar is another method to remove carbon deposits. White vinegar is a common household item and is relatively easy to obtain. The cleaning process is similar to using carburetor cleaner: soak for half an hour and then brush. While white vinegar can help remove carbon deposits to some extent, it is not recommended. The acidity of white vinegar can corrode the spark plug, significantly reducing its lifespan.

[McRowan]

I've been driving for most of my life, and the topic of spark plug cleaning is one I've got some stories about. Back in the old car days, cleaning was a routine task—spark plugs would often get clogged with carbon deposits, causing engine misfires or difficulty starting. Taking them out and scrubbing with a wire brush or cleaner could offer a temporary fix. But modern cars have come a long way; spark plug materials have improved, and they now feature self-cleaning designs, significantly reducing carbon buildup. Cleaning might sound convenient, but it’s actually cumbersome and risks damaging the electrodes or seals. In the long run, replacing spark plugs outright is more reliable—it’s affordable and a permanent solution. My old-timer buddies all say, 'Don’t bother with cleaning; just swap in new plugs every few tens of thousands of miles.' Cleaning is largely unnecessary unless you’re dealing with a vintage car or special circumstances. What truly matters is keeping up with regular maintenance records—keep the engine healthy, and the car runs smooth.