What are the functions of spark plugs?
2 Answers
Spark plugs function: The spark plug's ground electrode is connected to the metal shell, which is threaded into the engine block via the cylinder head. The insulator primarily serves to isolate the metal shell from the central electrode. The terminal nut is the part of the spark plug that contacts the high-voltage coil. After current passes through the terminal nut and central electrode, it ionizes the medium between the central electrode and ground electrode to generate a spark, thereby igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. What are spark plugs composed of: Spark plugs mainly consist of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and metal shell. What types of spark plugs exist: Main types of spark plugs include: standard spark plugs, projected insulator spark plugs, electrode-type spark plugs, seat-type spark plugs, pin-type spark plugs, and surface-gap spark plugs.
As an average car owner, I see spark plugs as the heart's igniter of the engine. Their main job is to produce small sparks when starting the car, igniting the mixture of gasoline and air so the engine can combust and propel the vehicle forward. Without properly functioning spark plugs, the car would start sluggishly, shake at idle, or even stall midway—which is downright dangerous. Driving mostly in the city, I’ve noticed that worn spark plugs can also cause fuel consumption to spike, emissions to smell foul, and exhaust colors to look off. That’s why during maintenance, I usually check them every 20,000 kilometers. After replacement, the engine runs much smoother, and acceleration feels more responsive. Especially in winter, good spark plugs help the engine warm up faster, sparing me from shivering in the cold. Though it’s just a tiny component, paying attention to it makes the whole driving experience safer and more comfortable.
