spark plug for my car

Spark plugs are parts which generate an electric discharge to ignite the fuel-and-air mixture inside the engine combustion chambers. Their key elements are electrodes; when connected to high voltage, they form an electric arc. The temperature of the spark can reach several thousand kelvins, which ensures instant combustion of the fuel-and-air mixture.

Types

Depending on the central electrode material:

• Copper. They last for about 15.000 – 20.000 kilometres.
• Nickel. These spark plugs can operate efficiently for 30.000 kilometres.
• Silver. They have excellent thermal conductivity. Their working lifespan is about 30.000 kilometres.
• Iridium. These plugs can serve for up to 60.000–120.000 kilometres. They help to reduce fuel consumption and the amount of harmful emissions.
• Platinum. They are resistant to corrosion and erosion. Such plugs ensure the optimal combustion of the fuel-and-air mixture. They withstand up to 100.000 kilometres of mileage.

Depending on the heat range:

• Hot. They are equipped with a long insulator. Such parts reach the self-cleaning temperature quickly, but they are also quick to reach the temperature which leads to dieseling. Such devices are suitable for engines running under moderate loads.
• Cold. They have a short insulator. These spark plugs are resistant to overheating. But they require more time for reaching the self-cleaning temperature. They are recommended for use in highly-loaded engines.

Besides, the products may have different electrode design and quantity. For instance, their central electrode may feature a V-shaped notch, the side electrode – a U-shaped slot. Using 2 or 3 side electrodes allows freeing the area directly above the central one. This increases the lifespan of the parts and optimizes their operation.

Operating tips

Refuel your car only at proven petrol stations, if you want spark plugs to work efficiently for long. Poor-quality fuel contains many impurities. Change the motor oil in due time. Also, do not ignore air filter replacement intervals. Always make sure the engine and its components are working properly. Check and adjust the timing belt tension regularly, this helps to prevent failures in engine valve timing. Clean the fuel injectors from time to time. While installing the spark plugs, thoroughly clean the spark plug wells and tighten the parts with the torque specified in the owner’s manual for your engine.

Symptoms of malfunctions

In most cases, even if only one part is defective, the engine starts misfiring and its operation becomes unstable. Most clearly you could detect these symptoms during a cold start. Also, you can notice a significant increase in fuel consumption and engine power loss. As a result, the vehicle accelerates too slowly. The engine becomes harder to start when it’s cold outside. “Check Engine” warning light may come up on the dashboard. The most common causes of such engine malfunctions are soot and carbon deposits on the electrodes. They impede the flow of current and spark formation. Sometimes, problems are caused by molten electrodes, cracked insulator or damaged connectors.

Causes of malfunctions

Using poor-quality petrol may lead to deposit formation on spark plugs. The same thing happens if the cylinder head gasket is worn and lets some coolant enter the combustion chambers. Dieseling, plug overheating caused by cooling system malfunctions, too big timing advance also lead to deposit formation. Soot build-up occurs when oil enters the combustion chambers. This may be caused by worn-out piston rings and valve guides, dried out and shrinking valve stem seals, broken turbocharger.

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In our online shop, you can buy spark plugs from all popular brands.

Spark plug for popular car models

• Spark plugs for Vauxhall Corsa
• Spark plugs for Vauxhall Astra
• Spark plugs for E90
• Spark plugs for Chevy Cruze
• Spark plugs for E46
• Spark plugs for BMW X5
• Spark plugs for Mazda 6

Useful information on functions, causes of malfunction, diagnosis and replacement intervals

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