Spark plugs and routine maintenance

Spark plugs are the small but important engine components that receive high voltage electricity and create the spark that contributes to powering the engine. Depending on the age of the vehicle and the style of its ignition system, each spark plug is connected directly to an ignition coil, or to a wire leading to the central coil/distributor that provides the voltage needed to create a spark. When an engine is running properly, a spark is produced once per engine cycle. The spark is produced by the electrodes at the end of the plug and then enters the cylinder to start combustion of the air and fuel present.

Generally speaking, it is best to replace spark plugs as part of preventative maintenance based on manufacturer’s specifications. You can consult your car’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for information specific to your make and model vehicle. This can help save you from costly repairs, as driving with misfiring spark plugs could put undue stress on your vehicle’s catalytic converter.

Different cars have different types
All spark plugs have the same basic design and function. There may be slight variations in plug length or size between vehicles. The main differences though are in the style of the center electrode as well as the size of the electrode gap. These factors are specified by the manufacturer to optimize engine performance and efficiency. Diesel vehicles are one exception in that they do not have spark plugs – the fuel is ignited by compression instead of spark.

Some reasons for failing
Spark plugs are a maintenance item on every vehicle and should be replaced at the intervals specified by manufacturer before they reach the point of failure. Over time spark plugs become contaminated and fouled (primarily by carbon buildup and sometimes by oil or fuel if an engine is not running optimally). The electrodes could also wear down, or the gap can become excessive. In some cases, the insulation portion of the spark plug can crack from age and heat and lead to misfires. Also, fluid leaks from the top area of the engine can make their way to the spark plugs and contaminate them.

Symptoms of bad spark plugs

  • Misfiring motor – an engine will misfire when bad spark plugs delay the combustion effect.
  • Engine knocking – sometimes, especially while accelerating, you will hear your engine making a distinct knocking sound.
  • Rough idling.
  • Hard-starting engine.
  • Decreased fuel efficiency.

If spark plugs are not replaced
If they are not replaced when they are due by the vehicle’s maintenance schedule, the symptoms described above may begin to occur. As the rough running conditions and misfires worsen, one or more spark plug may cease operation completely. When this happens, the fuel in that cylinder is not being used so it is exiting the engine into the exhaust, where it can damage the catalytic converters. By replacing spark plugs as a maintenance item before they fail, these issues can be minimised. If problems do arise, sorting them out as soon as possible will help to ensure minimal damage to other parts of your vehicle.

We recommend should you suspect any issues get it checked out by the professionals.

Click on the link provided from our Partner nationwide service centre network of reputable AA- and RMI-approved and Right to Repair workshops that provide quality work and exceptional customer service, thereby giving you peace of mind if your vehicle requires attention https://www.e-car.co.za/