What Happens If Spark Plugs Are Not Replaced for 100,000 Kilometers?
3 Answers
If spark plugs are not replaced for a long time, it will lead to a decrease in the ignition energy of the spark plugs, resulting in a decline in the overall emission level of the engine, reduced power performance, increased fuel consumption, and more. Moreover, the replacement of spark plugs cannot be determined solely based on mileage. Relevant details are as follows: 1. The parameters of each spark plug are different, such as heat value, resistance, and other related parameters. Therefore, the replacement time may vary. Even for the same type of spark plug, factors like different usage environments, timely vehicle maintenance, and varying fuel standards can influence the replacement schedule, making it differ due to these specific reasons. 2. The quality of the spark plugs themselves and some external factors can also lead to varying replacement times.
I've been repairing cars and encountered many owners who don't replace their spark plugs even after driving 100,000 kilometers. The car behaves like it's sick, with everything feeling off. The engine often shakes like it's hiccuping, acceleration feels weak and powerless, and there's a noticeable delay in throttle response. Fuel consumption has also increased significantly – what used to be 600 kilometers per tank is now just over 500, wasting both money and fuel. In the long run, the excessive burden on the ignition system might damage the ignition coils or even cause premature failure of the catalytic converter, which would be much more expensive to repair. I suggest everyone not delay – inspect and replace them on schedule. Depending on the material, spark plugs should ideally be replaced between 30,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Regular maintenance saves both trouble and effort.
When my old car hit the 100,000-kilometer mark, I forgot to replace the spark plugs, and that's when the real trouble began. Starting the engine often took several cranks, especially worse in cold weather. While driving, I'd suddenly experience power loss, making uphill overtaking downright nerve-wracking. The worst part was the skyrocketing fuel consumption – I was spending hundreds more on gas each month. A friend explained that widened spark plug gaps cause misfires, leading to increased engine carbon buildup and even potential roadside breakdowns. Thankfully, I didn't wait for disaster to strike and replaced them promptly, restoring normal performance. This was a hard lesson learned – now I religiously maintain components every two to three years.
