What can be used to clean spark plugs?

[Jones]

Spark plugs can be cleaned using white vinegar, carburetor cleaner, or toilet cleaner. The cleaning methods are as follows: 1. Place the spark plug in a glass container, pour white vinegar to submerge it, soak for 2 to 3 hours, then scrub clean with a hard toothbrush and air dry naturally; 2. Place the spark plug head-down in a glass bottle, spray carburetor cleaner into the bottle until the spark plug is submerged, cover the bottle, wait for about half an hour, then take it out, scrub clean with a toothbrush, and air dry or use a hair dryer to dry; 3. Soak the spark plug ignition electrode directly in pure toilet cleaner, place it in a ventilated environment for 10 minutes, wait until the bubbles gradually decrease, then remove it, rinse with white vinegar, and air dry.

[LeMila]

I've been driving for over 20 years, and the simplest way to clean spark plugs is by soaking them in white vinegar, especially when there's heavy carbon buildup on older car plugs. Remove the spark plugs and soak them in vinegar for a few hours, then gently scrub off the dirt with a toothbrush, being careful not to scratch the electrode area. Nowadays, supermarkets sell specialized automotive cleaners that make the job even easier—just spray, wait a few minutes, and wipe dry. However, after cleaning, remember to check the electrode gap and adjust it to the specified value using a feeler gauge. An incorrect gap reduces ignition efficiency, making the engine hard to start and causing black smoke. Regular cleaning can extend the lifespan of spark plugs and save money on replacements, but if carbon buildup is severe, it's better to replace them—safety first. Spark plugs are the heart of the engine; signs like unusual exhaust color or slow starts indicate they're dirty, so address the issue early to avoid breakdowns.

[ColeFitz]

As a young car enthusiast, cleaning spark plugs is an interesting DIY task. I like to use acetone or carburetor cleaner to spray directly on the removed plugs. The process is simple: wear gloves and goggles, spray the spark plug until the dirt dissolves, then wipe it clean. Avoid using hard brushes to prevent electrode damage. There are many online tutorials recommending the baking soda solution method, which is also eco-friendly. After cleaning, ignition becomes smoother and fuel efficiency improves, but if the electrodes are worn, the effect diminishes and it's better to replace them directly. Spark plugs play a crucial role; weak ignition leads to sluggish engine acceleration and noticeable shaking. Maintaining them well ensures smoother daily driving, more fun, and even saves some money.

[MacLilah]

With years of car repair experience, I don't recommend DIY spark plug cleaning. Using solvents or vinegar may leave residues that damage electrodes and affect ignition gaps, leading to misfires. It's best to replace spark plugs to ensure consistent performance, especially for modern high-voltage systems. Cleaning is only a temporary emergency measure; after cleaning, the gap must be recalibrated with professional tools, otherwise the engine may run unevenly with high fuel consumption. Common signs of spark plug aging include rough idling and difficulty starting—don't save small money only to cause bigger problems.