Will prolonged use of spark plugs increase fuel consumption?
2 Answers
Prolonged use of spark plugs can increase fuel consumption. If the spark plugs are damaged, it can directly lead to higher fuel consumption in the vehicle. Methods to determine if spark plugs are damaged: Remove the spark plugs and observe their condition based on the following appearance colors. Normal spark plugs have insulator skirts and electrodes that appear grayish-white, grayish-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 plugs are covered in oil or deposits but are not damaged, they can continue to be used after cleaning off the oil and deposits. If the spark plugs are severely damaged, with signs such as blistering at the top, black streaks, cracks, or melted electrodes, the cause of the damage should be identified. After troubleshooting, replace the spark plugs with new ones. Additionally, if the spark plugs appear black as if smoked, it indicates that the wrong heat range was selected or that the air-fuel mixture is too rich, or that engine oil is leaking into the combustion chamber. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the engine hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, and remove the high-voltage wires. Mark each cylinder's position to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. While removing them, check for any external debris like leaves or dust and ensure they are cleaned thoroughly. Place the new spark plugs into the spark plug holes, hand-tighten them a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten them further. Reinstall the high-voltage wires according to the firing order, and then secure the cover.
Worn-out spark plugs can indeed increase fuel consumption. I've researched this myself - spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the cylinders. When they age, electrode wear or carbon buildup may cause misfires or incomplete combustion, resulting in unburned fuel being expelled. That's pure fuel waste! I've experienced this firsthand - the engine ran rough and fuel efficiency suddenly dropped. Different spark plugs have varying lifespans: standard ones typically last 30,000-60,000 km while platinum ones can exceed 100,000 km. Check your maintenance manual and replace them periodically - don't wait until you experience engine shaking or starting difficulties. It's simple maintenance that you can DIY, and you'll notice immediate fuel efficiency improvements after replacement.
