A high performance spark plug can enhance a vehicle’s power output. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the condition of spark plugs during vehicle maintenance.
Typically, the service life of a standard spark plug is 15,000 kilometers, while long-life spark plugs do not exceed 30,000 kilometers. However, many vehicle owners often encounter various issues with their spark plugs, preventing them from reaching their normal lifespan.
Spark Plug Erosion
If a vehicle owner notices scarring or damage on the top of the spark plug, or if the electrode shows signs of melting or erosion, it indicates that the spark plug is already damaged and should be replaced. During replacement, the owner can examine the symptoms of spark plug erosion and any changes in color. Such phenomena suggest excessively high temperatures inside the combustion chamber. This may be caused by excessive carbon buildup in the combustion chamber, resulting in overly small valve clearances, which in turn leads to overheating of the exhaust valve or poor functioning of the cooling system. Failure to tighten the spark plug to the specified torque can also cause electrode melting and the insulator to turn white. Generally, knock combustion is the main cause of insulator breakage. Factors such as premature ignition timing, low gasoline octane rating, and excessively high combustion chamber temperatures can all contribute to engine knock combustion.
Deposits on Spark Plugs
Sometimes, deposits may adhere between the top of the spark plug insulator and the electrode. Vehicle owners should not underestimate such deposits. In severe cases, this can cause the engine to malfunction. After cleaning the spark plug, the vehicle may temporarily operate normally, but similar issues may recur shortly after. In fact, deposits on spark plugs are only a surface symptom and may indicate problems with other components of the vehicle. When oily deposits appear on the spark plug, it indicates that lubricating oil has entered the combustion chamber. If only individual spark plugs have oily deposits, it may be due to damaged valve stem oil seals. If there are black deposits on the spark plug electrode and interior, it usually indicates an over-rich mixture in the cylinder. The owner can increase the engine speed and maintain it for a few minutes to burn off the layer of black soot deposited on the electrode.
Source: Shenzhen Special Zone Daily