What are the symptoms of spark plug failure?
2 Answers
The symptoms of spark plug failure are as follows: 1. Poor ignition of the car, or even failure to start, often requiring multiple ignition attempts; 2. Insufficient power, with a noticeable feeling of weak driving during operation; 3. Increased fuel consumption, with the car consuming more fuel than usual; 4. Engine shaking, where vehicle vibrations can be felt during driving; 5. Stalling phenomenon, where the car is prone to stalling while driving; 6. Non-compliant exhaust emissions, as spark plug failure leads to incomplete fuel combustion, resulting in gas content that does not meet requirements. The spark plug is an important component of the engine. Although this part may seem small, it plays a significant role. Spark plug failure can directly affect the operation of the engine.
There are quite a few symptoms when spark plugs go bad. The engine shakes like it's trembling during acceleration, and stepping on the gas pedal feels weak and particularly sluggish. Cold starts become difficult, requiring multiple attempts to fire up in winter. Fuel consumption increases noticeably because incomplete combustion due to poor ignition wastes money. In severe cases, the engine may stall outright – sudden stops on highways are extremely dangerous. I once dealt with a car whose exhaust pipe backfired with a loud bang, which was startling. Prolonged issues can lead to engine carbon buildup, making repairs even more troublesome. I recommend regularly checking spark plugs as per the maintenance manual to see if the electrode gap is normal or if there are any signs of burning. Those with mechanical skills can inspect them after removal, but less experienced drivers should visit a professional shop – don't risk bigger problems by saving on small checks.
