The spark plug: An essential component of your car’s ignition system.
The spark plug, or bugi, is an essential component of your car’s ignition system, particularly in vehicles with internal combustion engines. Its primary function is to generate an electric spark across its two electrodes, igniting the air-fuel mixture from the carburetor in the combustion chamber.
Spark plugs create an electric arc between their electrodes. Image: Auto 365
Research shows that a typical spark plug can produce an impressive 28-110 million sparks throughout its lifespan. It’s worth noting that spark plugs operate under extremely harsh conditions, constantly subjected to high compression pressures and temperatures reaching approximately 2,500°C.
Given these demanding conditions, even though spark plugs are made from durable materials like copper, nickel, platinum, and iridium, they will eventually deteriorate over time and require periodic replacement to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
Speaking to VietNamNet, engineer Tran Duy Dung, Technical Director of the TYD Military Academy of Engineering Garage (Bac Tu Liem, Hanoi), highlighted the wide variety of spark plugs available on the market. Generally, car spark plugs need to be replaced after about 40,000-80,000 kilometers, depending on the type. Iridium-made plugs, for instance, can last two to three times longer than conventional ones.
“Different car models require specific types of spark plugs. Installing the wrong kind, such as using a Korean car’s spark plug in some Japanese models, can lead to inefficient engine performance or even error codes. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations,” added Mr. Dung.
Long-serving spark plugs can lead to poor ignition and reduced engine performance. Image: Hoang Hiep
According to the expert, in addition to periodic replacements, there are several signs indicating that your spark plugs may need attention and possible replacement:
– Difficult starting
When your car struggles to start or fails to start altogether, it could be due to various factors, but a common culprit is faulty spark plugs. Issues like wear, contamination, water ingress, or cracks can prevent the plugs from igniting the air-fuel mixture.
– Engine vibration and instability
If your car experiences strong vibrations and unstable revs while idling, it could mean that one or more cylinders are misfiring. This issue may also be attributed to faulty spark plugs and warrants immediate inspection.
– Lack of power and sluggish acceleration
Acceleration is facilitated by signals from the Engine Control Module (ECM), which prompts the spark plugs to produce stronger and faster sparks to burn more fuel and generate more power. Therefore, a faulty spark plug can hinder acceleration and result in reduced engine power.
– Abnormal fuel consumption
When spark plugs are not performing optimally, the combustion process becomes inefficient, leading to unburned fuel being expelled. This not only increases fuel consumption but can also be noticeable through the smell of raw fuel.
– Illuminated Check Engine Light
Troubles with the ignition coil and spark plugs can lead to incomplete combustion. The Engine Control Module (ECM) detects this through its sensors and illuminates the Check Engine Light (often a yellow icon) on your dashboard. This is a clear indication that your spark plugs may require attention.
It is recommended to visit reputable garages for regular spark plug inspections and maintenance. Image: Hoang Hiep
Engineer Tran Duy Dung further emphasized that while spark plugs are not overly expensive, they play a critical role in your vehicle’s performance. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly inspect and clean them of carbon deposits, dust, and moisture. Additionally, don’t hesitate to replace them if they show signs of wear or damage, and it is recommended to replace them as a set rather than individually.
Furthermore, should you notice any unusual behavior or issues with your vehicle, it is best to have it checked by a reputable garage or service center to ensure proper diagnosis and maintenance.
According to Vietnamnet
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