What are the symptoms that indicate a car's spark plugs need replacement?
2 Answers
The symptoms indicating that a car's spark plugs need replacement are: 1. Difficulty starting the car or failure to start; 2. Carbon buildup on the spark plugs; 3. Abnormal sparking from the spark plugs; 4. Engine idling roughly. The types of spark plugs include: 1. Standard spark plugs; 2. Insulator-tip spark plugs; 3. Electrode-type spark plugs; 4. Seat-type spark plugs; 5. Multi-electrode spark plugs; 6. Surface-gap spark plugs. The working principle of spark plugs is: Under the control of the engine, the high voltage generated by the ignition coil is introduced into the engine cylinder, creating a spark between the electrodes of the spark plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture, enabling the engine to operate normally.
I've encountered spark plug issues many times while repairing cars, and the symptoms are quite obvious. The engine starts to shake, especially when idling at a stoplight, and the steering wheel trembles. Cold starts in the morning become difficult, requiring several attempts to get the engine running. Acceleration feels weak, as if the throttle lacks power and the car isn't getting enough fuel. The speed increases slowly, accompanied by slight misfiring sounds. Fuel consumption rises significantly due to poor ignition wasting gasoline. If the engine warning light comes on, it's likely caused by the spark plugs. Spark plugs typically last 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. Replacing them early can avoid costly repairs like catalytic converter damage. Regularly check the spark plug gap and carbon buildup; routine maintenance is the way to save money. Pay attention to unusual engine noises while driving as a warning sign.
