5 Signs that Indicate Faulty Spark Plugs in a Car

The spark plugs are important components of an engine that produce electric sparks to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinders for producing energy. They constitute a major part of the ignition system and keep the engine running by constantly igniting the fuel-air mixture. Spark plugs have a limited lifespan, exceeding which it becomes malfunctioned. In some cases, the spark plugs of a car will fail even within its intended lifecycle.

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Usually, a car’s spark plugs need to be replaced every 30,000 miles and are carried out at most auto repair centers as a part of regular servicing. Faulty spark plugs will cause issues with the performance of the engine that is easily noticeable. Below are some of the common warning signs that indicate faulty spark plugs in a car.

Engine Misfiring
An engine misfire results in the engine to stop for a moment and then regain its normal operation. This is most recognizable when accelerating or when the car is in idle. Failing spark plugs can cause the car engine to misfire and thus affect its performance. A single spark plug that fails to ignite the fuel-air mixture can cause a halt in the running of the engine. It can result in incomplete combustion and damage to the catalytic converter of the car.

Starting Trouble
Faulty spark plugs can cause the car to exhibit starting troubles. Worn out plugs does not produce sufficient sparks, which is needed for starting the engine. This results in the engine to stall and fail to start quickly. Besides, failing spark plugs will also take its toll on the battery life and normal functioning of the ignition system. Have the car checked at any auto repair shops and replace the plugs if necessary.

Increased Fuel Consumption
Quick depletion of fuel instead of the normal rate is a sure sign of faulty spark plugs. Normal functioning spark plugs will create sufficient spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture fully leaving no residues and lesser emissions. Malfunctioning spark plugs can result in increased fuel consumption and emissions because of incomplete combustion.

Lack of Acceleration
The lack of proper acceleration is another sign of faulty spark plugs in a car. This causes the engine to not respond and struggle to increase speeds when the accelerator pedal is depressed. Malfunctioning of the spark plugs is one reason for this lack of acceleration and needs immediate replacement to restore the performance of the engine.

Uneven Idling
Uneven idling and vibrations is a major warning sign that indicates faulty spark plugs. The car engine will run at lower RPM during idling and runs smoothly without any noticeable vibrations or sound. Failing spark plugs can result in the engine to become rougher and produce vibrations when left at idle speeds.