Repair Information

Spark Plug Tester-Everything You Need to Know

Posted on by AUTOOL
06
Aug

Have you ever wondered what spark plugs do? How do you find them? What tools are used to test them? When do spark plugs need to be replaced? Are these your questions? Read on to find out.

What Does A Spark Plug Do?

Spark plugs – the ‘heart’ of a car engine. The main function of the spark plug is to ignite the fire and ensure that the combustion process runs smoothly. Its electrodes produce a high-voltage arc that creates a spark that ignites the gas mixture in the engine cylinder. As a result, the gas mixture in the cylinder explodes and burns. This, in turn, pushes the piston into motion, which then turns the engine and allows the car to run normally.

Where Are the Spark Plugs in Your Car?

Refer to 4 in picture, which is where your car’s spark plugs are located.

What Types of  Spark Plugs Are There?

  • Based on their function, we divide spark plugs into non-resistive and resistive types. As automobile electronic control systems continue to develop and the use of various electronic components in vehicles increases, resistive spark plugs have become the mainstream product on the market. One of the main advantages of resistive spark plugs is their ability to reduce electrode corrosion during the discharge process. Furthermore, they minimize the impact of electromagnetic waves generated during discharge on the electronic equipment in the car. This, in fact, is the key reason why resistive spark plugs have replaced non-resistive ones.
  • Spark plugs come in different materials, such as copper core, single platinum, double platinum, and iridium. Each type is distinguished by the metal used at the tip. Precious metal spark plugs improve lifespan and enhance ignition reliability.
  • In terms of structure, spark plugs can have single, double, triple, or quadruple side electrodes, though other less common configurations also exist.

6 Signs the Spark Plugs or Spark Plug Wires Need Replacing

Spark plugs play an important role behind the scenes as the heart of your car’s engine. However, heat build-up in the combustion chamber or a malfunctioning cooling system can cause the spark plug tip to overheat. Repeated overheating often leads to premature spark plug failure. Damaged spark plugs show visible signs such as cracked insulators, worn electrodes, and carbon build-up. These issues, along with other indicators, signal when a spark plug needs replacement.

  • Regular maintenance:

Ordinary spark plugs may need replacement after 20,000-30,000 kilometers. Precious metal spark plugs last longer, typically needing replacement after 60,000 kilometers. In contrast, iridium spark plugs can last around 80,000 kilometers before replacement. Additionally, it’s important to check the color of the spark plugs and the contact gap every 3 years or after driving 60,000 kilometers to ensure optimal performance. If the gap becomes too large, or if the surface shows obvious ablation or carbon deposits, you should consider replacing the spark plug.

  • Fuel Economy Degradation:

Dirty or fouled spark plugs reduce fuel economy because they do not burn gasoline efficiently in the combustion cycle.

  • Slower acceleration:

If your car takes a long time to accelerate and lacks overtaking power, worn spark plugs may be the cause.

  • Rough Idling:

Engine pinging, rattling, or knock-like noises, as well as strong vibrations, could indicate an issue with the spark plugs or spark plug wires.

  • Difficulty starting:

If the spark plugs do not produce enough spark to start the combustion process, the engine will not start. Other causes of hard starting include ignition system issues, a battery that needs replacement, or worn spark plug wires, among others.

  • Warning Lights:

Do not ignore the engine outline symbol or the “check engine” light. The warning lights will turn on if the spark plugs are faulty or if the spark plug wires need replacement.

These five questions have given us an introductory level of understanding of spark plugs. Next, let’s address the final question: how to choose a spark plug tester.

A spark plug tester is an essential diagnostic tool for any engine with a spark plug. It realistically simulates engine conditions and adjusts engine speed to test spark plugs for comparison. This allows you to directly observe the working condition of the spark plug. In the next post, I will guide you on how to choose the right spark plug tester.

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