1. What is a spark plug?
Simply put, the spark plug is the guy responsible for making the "little spark" in the cylinder of the car engine. When you turn the car key or press the start button, a series of complex procedures are started, and the current will rush to the spark plug. At this time, an ultra-high voltage will be generated between the electrodes of the spark plug, and the strong electric field will make the air between the electrodes become "restless", and finally form an electric spark. Don't underestimate this electric spark, it is like a signal gun, instantly igniting the mixed gas (a mixture of gasoline and air) compressed in the cylinder. The ignited mixture burns and expands rapidly, generating huge energy, pushing the piston to move, so that the engine can continue to run. If the engine is compared to the heart of the car, then the spark plug is undoubtedly the key "pacemaker" that makes the heart beat!
2. Spark plug’s “superpower”
Precise ignition: It is crucial that the spark plug generates an electric spark at a precise moment. If it is too early or too late, the engine will not work properly. If the ignition is too early, the mixture may burn violently in advance, bringing a reverse force to the piston, which not only reduces the engine power, but also may cause severe knocking, just like when you are running and someone suddenly pulls you from behind, it must be unpleasant; if the ignition is too late, the mixture will not burn fully, and the energy cannot be effectively released, the engine will become "lacking", the power will decrease and the fuel will be consumed, just like a person who works slowly and eats a lot, who can stand it? Therefore, the precise ignition ability of the spark plug ensures the efficient and stable operation of the engine, so that your car can always maintain the "best condition".
Adapt to extreme environments: The inside of an engine is not a gentle place. Spark plugs have to stick to their posts in a harsh environment of high temperature, high pressure and high corrosion. The temperature during combustion in the cylinder can instantly soar to thousands of degrees Celsius, and the pressure is also incredibly high. At the same time, the various exhaust gases produced by the combustion of the mixed gas are also corrosive. But the spark plugs have no complaints. With special materials and exquisite manufacturing technology, they can release electric sparks stably again and again in this "deep water and fire", escorting the continuous operation of the engine.
3. Spark plug’s “luxury circle of friends”
The performance of the spark plug directly affects the performance of the engine, and then it is related to the power, fuel consumption, emissions and other aspects of the entire car. If the spark plug is "angry", the ignition is not smooth or it does not ignite at all, the engine will "go on strike". At this time, the car may have various problems such as difficulty starting, idle jitter, weak acceleration, increased fuel consumption, etc., just like a person who is sick and feels uncomfortable all over. Moreover, the status of the spark plug is closely related to exhaust emissions. If the spark plug ignites abnormally and the mixture cannot be fully burned, it will cause a significant increase in harmful substances in the exhaust gas, which is very unfriendly to the environment. Therefore, in order to keep the car's performance and environmental protection indicators good, regular inspection and replacement of spark plugs is an essential maintenance item.
4. How to serve this “young master” well?
Generally speaking, the replacement cycle of spark plugs varies according to the vehicle model, engine type and material of the spark plug. Ordinary nickel alloy spark plugs may need to be replaced after 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, while precious metal spark plugs such as iridium and platinum have a relatively long lifespan, which can reach 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers or even longer. But this is not absolute. If you often drive under bad road conditions, such as frequently starting and stopping in congested urban roads, dusty construction sites, or vehicles often run at high load, the wear of the spark plugs will accelerate and the replacement cycle will have to be shortened accordingly.
When you go to a 4S shop or auto repair shop for maintenance, the technicians will use professional equipment to check the spark plug's electrode wear, carbon deposits, etc. to determine whether it can continue to "serve". If you find that the spark plug's electrode has been burned into pits, or the carbon deposits are so serious that it affects the ignition performance, don't hesitate to "replace it with a new one"!
Spark plugs are small, but they are essential components for the normal operation of a car. Understanding their role and importance, and regularly inspecting and maintaining them, can help our cars maintain strong power and good performance, and keep you worry-free all the way! My dears, have you remembered all of this?
