What is the normal gap for spark plugs?

[DeSamantha]

Spark plug normal gap is generally 0.61.3 mm. Spark plug replacement procedure: 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. When removing them, check for external debris like leaves or dust and ensure thorough cleaning. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it for several turns, then use the socket to tighten it further. Reinstall the removed high-voltage distributor wires according to the firing order, then snap the cover back into place. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, replace every 40,00060,000 km. However, this may vary depending on brand and engine type, so always refer to the owner's manual. Platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 km, standard nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 km, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000-80,000 km.

[LaAlice]

As a car owner who frequently does DIY maintenance, I have plenty of experience with spark plug gaps. For most family sedans, the ideal gap is between 0.7 and 1.0 millimeters – older cars may require slightly smaller gaps, while newer models might need larger ones. I always use a feeler gauge to check the gap before installing new spark plugs. Just last week, I adjusted the gap on my Toyota with 80,000 kilometers – the factory setting was 0.8mm, but it had widened to 1.1mm, no wonder it was coughing during cold starts. Too small a gap can lead to carbon buildup, while too large a gap causes unstable ignition. I recommend checking the gap every 50,000-60,000 kilometers – it takes just ten minutes but can prevent embarrassing roadside breakdowns.

[VonBeckett]

A veteran mechanic with 20 years of experience told me that spark plug gap isn't a fixed value—it depends on the vehicle model and year. Older carburetor cars typically require around 0.6mm, while modern fuel-injected vehicles generally need 0.8 to 1.0mm. For engines like Volkswagen's EA888, it's best maintained at 0.9mm. During repairs, I've noticed many people install new spark plugs directly for convenience, but new plugs may have gaps exceeding 1.3mm and must be adjusted with a special wrench. Last week, a Civic experienced cylinder misfire and shaking due to a 1.2mm gap—smoothing out immediately after adjusting back to 0.8mm. Remember to gently tap the electrodes after adjustment to confirm no deformation occurred.

[BrynleeFitz]

In the auto repair shop, dozens of spark plugs are adjusted daily. Based on experience, gaps between 0.6 to 1.3 mm are considered normal. Specific values depend on the engine: turbocharged models require around 0.8 mm, while naturally aspirated engines can tolerate up to 1.0 mm. The metal material also affects the gap; nickel alloy plugs are recommended at 0.75 mm, and platinum plugs can exceed 0.9 mm. Always use a round feeler gauge, not a flat one, for accurate measurement. The other day, adjusting a Swift's plug from 0.65 mm to the standard 0.8 mm immediately improved acceleration.