What Does It Mean When a Spark Plug Tip Turns White?
2 Answers
The causes of a spark plug tip turning white include early ignition timing and poor cooling conditions; the use of low-quality fuel; cylinder leakage or insufficient installation torque. It is necessary to promptly clean the engine carbon deposits and replace the spark plug after cleaning. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the hood, lift the engine's plastic cover, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark each cylinder's position to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. During removal, check for external debris such as leaves or dust and ensure thorough cleaning. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten it further. Reinstall the high-voltage distributor wires in the firing order and secure the cover. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, replace spark plugs every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine type, so it is recommended to follow the owner's manual. The following standards can be used as a reference: Platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 kilometers, standard nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers.
I've been driving for twenty years and have seen spark plugs turn white several times. Generally, this indicates that the engine is running at too high a temperature, and the spark plugs absorb too much heat, turning white. Common specific reasons include an overly lean air-fuel mixture (too much air and too little fuel, making the combustion process too hot), or ignition timing that is too advanced, causing the spark to ignite the mixture too early. It could also be due to mismatched spark plug heat range, where the model is too hot. When my car had this issue, the engine noise increased, and fuel consumption skyrocketed. I promptly replaced the spark plugs with the correct ones and checked the fuel system. I recommend fellow drivers not to underestimate this symptom—regular maintenance of the ignition system can prevent major repairs.
