What does it mean to replace spark plugs one by one?
1 Answers
Replacing spark plugs is actually part of routine maintenance, just like changing engine oil and the three filters. A set of spark plugs usually consists of four, and it is generally recommended to replace all four together rather than one by one. Reasons for replacing spark plugs: Regular maintenance parts for cars have a specific cycle. The replacement cycle for spark plugs typically ranges from 20,000 to 100,000 kilometers (depending on the material). However, this doesn't mean they become unusable immediately after reaching the manufacturer's specified limit. Most products are designed with a safety margin, so exceeding the cycle won't immediately cause fatal damage to the engine. However, after surpassing the recommended mileage, electrode wear accelerates, the electrode gap widens, and unstable ignition requires higher voltage. Mild symptoms include sluggish acceleration, misfires, and increased fuel consumption. In severe cases, electrode breakage may occur, potentially damaging the engine. Methods for replacing spark plugs: Mechanics usually replace all spark plugs at once. Theoretically, even if you replace one with the same brand and model, the discharge gap and resistance between new and old spark plugs differ. Not replacing all of them can lead to issues like engine shaking, difficulty in acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. This means that differences in spark plugs can cause variations in ignition timing and energy, resulting in an imbalance in power among the four cylinders.
