What can be used to clean spark plugs?

[Melinda]

Using carburetor cleaner to clean spark plugs is recommended. Carburetor cleaner is specifically designed for engine oil, grease, and carbon deposits, effectively removing carbon buildup without damaging the spark plugs. If spark plugs are damaged, it can directly cause issues such as leakage in the vehicle's ignition system, increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and most importantly, difficulty in starting, affecting the normal operation of the vehicle. Severe spark plug erosion, including scarring at the top, damage, or melted and eroded electrodes, indicates that the spark plug is already damaged and should be replaced. Spark plug location: Spark plugs are installed on the side or top of the engine. Early spark plugs were connected to the distributor via ignition wires, but in the past decade or so, most car engines have switched to direct connection between the ignition coil and the spark plug. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, spark plugs should be replaced every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine type, so it is advisable to follow the user manual. Generally, platinum spark plugs should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers, ordinary nickel alloy spark plugs every 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers.

[LaDiana]

I've been driving for over a decade and have cleaned spark plugs myself several times. The most commonly used method is carburetor cleaner - just spray it on and scrub off the carbon deposits with a small toothbrush, super convenient. Remember to wear gloves when handling this stuff, as it can irritate your skin. If you don't have any cleaner on hand, soaking them in white vinegar for half an hour works too - economical but slower. Cola can also be used though less effective. Before cleaning, remember to disconnect the high-tension lead and remove the spark plug, being careful not to touch the electrode tip. After cleaning, check the gap with a feeler gauge - around 0.8mm is ideal. If you notice cracks in the ceramic insulator or the electrode is eroded/rounded, don't bother cleaning - just replace it immediately.

[LeAmara]

Using household white vinegar to clean spark plugs is the most cost-effective method, and I always keep this trick handy. After removing them, soak the spark plugs in vinegar for half an hour, and the carbon deposits will float up. Gently scrub them off with an old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry for a full day to ensure complete dryness before reinstalling. Cola can also be used for soaking, but it takes at least two hours. For stubborn carbon deposits, try lightly sanding the electrode with 000-grit sandpaper, being careful not to alter the gap. Finally, check the ceramic insulator for cracks. When reinstalling, hand-tighten first, then use a wrench to turn it half a turn. The whole process takes about half an hour and saves you 40-50 yuan in labor costs.

[McCharles]

Last time I learned from the car enthusiast group to use toilet cleaner to clean spark plugs. The operation requires extra caution: pour the toilet cleaner into a plastic container, soak for ten minutes and remove immediately for rinsing, otherwise the metal may corrode. Remember to wear rubber gloves and goggles throughout the process. After rinsing, be sure to air-dry for more than 48 hours, otherwise residual moisture may cause ignition failure. This method is fast for stubborn carbon deposits but carries relatively high risks. If the spark plug electrodes have turned white or deformed, don't clean them anymore—it indicates they've reached the end of their lifespan. For regular maintenance, it's recommended to remove and inspect them every 20,000 kilometers; timely treatment of excessive carbon buildup can save fuel.