What Are the Symptoms of Excessive Carbon Buildup on Spark Plugs?

[AthenaLee]

Symptoms of excessive carbon buildup on spark plugs: difficulty starting the car, low power, excessive exhaust emissions, increased fuel consumption. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage ignition 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 external debris like leaves or dust and ensure everything is cleaned thoroughly. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten it further. Reinstall the high-voltage ignition wires according to the firing order and secure the cover. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, replace spark plugs after driving 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. You can refer to the following standards for maintenance and 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.