What are the symptoms of carbon buildup on spark plugs?
2 Answers
Symptoms of excessive carbon buildup on spark plugs: Difficulty starting the car, low power, excessive exhaust emissions, and increased fuel consumption. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the engine hood, lift the plastic engine cover, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark each cylinder's position to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. While removing them, check for any external debris like leaves or dust and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to fully tighten it. Reinstall the high-voltage distributor wires according to the firing order, then secure the cover. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, replace spark plugs every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine type, so it's recommended to follow the owner's manual. Refer to the following standards for maintenance replacement: Platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 kilometers, standard nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers.
As an ordinary car owner, I recently noticed significant carbon buildup on my car's spark plugs: starting the engine took several seconds of stuttering, sometimes requiring a restart; at idle, the steering wheel vibrated so much it made my palms numb, with the RPM needle wobbling; pressing the accelerator felt like stepping on air, and climbing hills was a struggle; fuel consumption increased noticeably—previously, a full tank could last 500 kilometers, but now it runs out at 470. During inspection, I found a layer of black sludge on the spark plug electrodes, affecting ignition energy. Regularly driving at high speeds helps clear carbon deposits and prevent this issue.
