How Do Spark Plugs Work?
Spark plugs convey high voltage electricity from the ignition coil into the combustion chamber where the “spark” that gives them their name ignites the air/fuel mixture in the chamber. This spark creates tiny explosions, which release the fuel energy needed to be converted into mechanical energy that propels you down the road. Over time, like all parts in your vehicle, your spark plugs eventually wear out. When that happens, you need to replace them with new spark plugs. Even if it is only one plug that wears out, it is better to replace the whole set.
Your spark plugs have the important job of transferring electricity from the ignition coil into the internal combustion chamber where it can get your engine running. The number of plugs you need depends on your type of engine with one plug per cylinder. A four-cylinder engine needs four spark plugs, a six-cylinder engine needs six spark plugs, and an eight-cylinder engine needs eight spark plugs.
Spark Plug Components
Each spark plug has at least three components, but some have four. These components include:
- Insulator: This part of the spark plug is usually made from ceramic materials; it is designed to protect the firing end of the spark plug.
- Electrodes: This is the firing end of the spark plug. It is designed to handle intense temperatures and corrosive conditions that are needed to produce the spark in the plug.
- Shell: This component is made of metal; it provides the threads that allow you to screw it into the engine’s cylinder head where it is secure.
- Gasket: This is a component not found on all spark plugs; its purpose is to provide a tight seal with the cylinder head.
How Do I Know If My Spark Plugs are Bad?
Spark plugs don’t have a recommended exchange time frame like many other consumable parts. The reason is that they can last 30,000, 60,000, or as much as 100,000 miles, depending on the make, model, year, and quality of the spark plugs that were installed.
You can tell that the spark plugs need to be replaced if your vehicle has trouble starting. You may hear misfiring while you’re driving. Starting issues can be caused by several components in the starter system, so it’s best to bring your vehicle in for service. We’ll diagnose the issue and let you know which component needs to be replaced.
