The spark plug is a sensitive component in vehicles with high mileage and requires some care.
Without it, the fuel does not ignite properly and the engine loses power, efficiency, and reliability.
Find out in this article what spark plugs are for, how they work, and what to do in case of failure.
What Is A Spark Plug?
A spark plug is a small metal component installed in the engine head.
Its main function is to generate the electric spark that ignites the air and fuel mixture inside the cylinders.
What Is The Function Of Spark Plugs In A Vehicle?
The spark plug serves to initiate the combustion process inside the engine. Through a high-voltage electric current, it creates a spark that ignites the air and fuel mixture.
Without this process, the engine will not start and will lose efficiency, causing malfunctions, excessive fuel consumption, and even damage to the catalytic converters.
How Does A Spark Plug Work?
The ignition system sends an electrical voltage (usually between 12,000 and 45,000 volts) to the spark plug’s center electrode.
When this current jumps across the gap between the two electrodes, a spark is formed that ignites the mixture inside the cylinder.
This process happens thousands of times per minute while the engine is running. That is why the cleanliness, insulation, and spacing of the electrodes are so important to the vehicle’s performance.
What Are The Different Types of Spark Plugs?
There are four main types of spark plugs:
- Copper: the most common and economical, but with less durability;
- Platinum: more heat resistant;
- Iridium: offer superior performance and greater durability;
- Double platinum: used in high-performance engines, as they reduce failures and improve cold starting.
Does A Defective Spark Plug Increase Fuel Consumption?
Yes. When the spark plug does not completely ignite the fuel, some of it is wasted. This forces the engine to compensate, increasing consumption and emissions.
In addition, the car loses power and the catalytic converter can be damaged by incomplete combustion.
How Often Should Spark Plugs Be Replaced?
On average, spark plugs should be replaced between 30,000 and 100,000 km, depending on the type and material.
However, factors such as low-quality fuel, short trips, and electrical system failures can accelerate wear.
Ideally, you should check the condition of your spark plugs at each service and replace them as soon as they show signs of wear.
What Are The Symptoms Of Bad Spark Plugs?
The main symptoms of worn spark plugs are:
- Loss of power;
- Increased fuel consumption;
- Difficulty starting;
- Dark smoke from the exhaust;
- Strange noises;
- Engine warning light illuminated;
- Possible electronic malfunction in the radio or GPS;
- Unstable engine performance.
How Do I Check My Spark Plug?
You can test a spark plug in three ways:
- Visual Test: look for signs of corrosion, soot, or oil on the tip;
- Spark Test: connect the spark plug wires to the spark plug and touch it to the engine block. When you turn the key, you should see a bright blue spark;
- Multimeter: measure the resistance between the terminals. Very high values indicate wear.
Can I Replace Spark Plugs At Home?
Yes, you can replace spark plugs, as long as you have the right tools for the job.
However, in modern engines with hard-to-reach spark plugs, it is advisable to go to a car repair shop to avoid damaging the threads on the cylinder head.
What Tools Are Needed To Replace Spark Plugs?
To change spark plugs correctly and safely, you will need:
- Spark Plug Wrench (of the appropriate size);
- Torque Wrench (to apply the correct torque);
- Extension And Ratchet;
- Spark Plug Cleaner Spray (to remove residue);
- Spark Plug Gauge.
These tools help ensure accurate installation, preventing over-tightening and compression leaks.
What Is The Average Price Of A Spark Plug?
The price of a spark plug varies depending on the material and brand. However, the average price is around tens of euros.
Where Can You Buy Quality Spark Plugs?
You can buy spark plugs at stores specializing in auto parts or authorized distributors of major auto component brands.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Spark Plug?
If you need to hire a mechanic to replace the spark plugs, the average price of replacement is around tens to hundreds of euros, including labor and cleaning of the ignition system.
In high-powered vehicles or engines with hard-to-reach spark plugs, the cost may be higher.
How To Maintain Spark Plugs?
To avoid replacing this component and extend the engine’s service life, you should:
- Check the spark plugs every 20,000 km;
- Clean carbon deposits with a wire brush or special spray;
- Check the spacing between electrodes with a gauge;
- Replace damaged or rusted spark plugs.
If possible, always use spark plugs recommended by the manufacturer and respect the indicated tightening torque.
As you can see, this small component plays a crucial role in engine performance. A worn spark plug can cause failures, excessive consumption, and even costly breakdowns.
Check them regularly, replace them on time, and always use the right tools, such as those available in the KROFtools catalog.
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