Why Should Car Spark Plugs Be Replaced?
2 Answers
If spark plugs are not replaced for a long time, it can cause various issues such as leakage in the vehicle's ignition system, increased fuel consumption, and reduced power. The most significant problem is difficulty in ignition, which affects the normal operation of the vehicle. Severe erosion of the spark plug, such as scarring at the top, damage, or melted electrodes, indicates that the spark plug is damaged and should be replaced. Methods to determine if a spark plug is damaged: Remove the spark plug and observe it. The condition of the spark plug can be judged based on its appearance and color. A normal spark plug has an insulator skirt and electrodes that appear gray-white, gray-yellow, or light brown. A properly functioning spark plug has a reddish-brown insulator skirt, with an electrode gap between 0.8-0.9mm and no signs of electrode burn. If the spark plug is covered in oil or deposits but is not damaged, it can continue to be used after cleaning off the oil and deposits. If the spark plug is severely damaged, with phenomena such as scarring, black streaks, cracks, or melted electrodes, the cause of the damage should be identified. After troubleshooting, replace the spark plug with a new one. Additionally, if the spark plug appears black as if smoked, it indicates that the wrong heat range was selected or that the air-fuel mixture is too rich, causing oil to rise.
As a driver, I've experienced the frustration of difficult car ignition. Spark plugs are the key to engine ignition, and over time they can accumulate carbon deposits, become dirty, and have enlarged gaps, making it hard for the high-voltage electricity to ignite the air-fuel mixture, resulting in difficult starts or severe engine shaking. Last time, I forgot to replace them, and during a long trip, the engine sputtered and nearly stalled on the highway. After inspection, the mechanic promptly installed new spark plugs, and the engine immediately quieted down, with smoother acceleration. Regular replacement can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs, such as ignition coil damage, saving time, hassle, and ensuring safety. Now, I replace them every 30,000 kilometers—spending a few hundred bucks for peace of mind is absolutely worth it. Especially during the season for road trips, ensuring the car is in good condition means no worries about sudden breakdowns ruining the family's good mood.
