How do I know if my iridium plugs are worn out?
Iridium spark plugs are known for their durability and long lifespan, often lasting up to 100,000 miles or more. However, like all car components, they eventually wear out and need replacement. Recognizing the signs of worn-out iridium plugs is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore the key indicators of worn iridium spark plugs and what you can do about it.
Signs That Your Iridium Spark Plugs Are Worn Out
Worn-out spark plugs can lead to a variety of performance issues in your vehicle. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Engine Misfires: If your engine is misfiring, it could be due to worn spark plugs that are no longer igniting the air-fuel mixture properly. This can cause jerking or hesitation while driving.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Worn spark plugs can lead to incomplete combustion, which wastes fuel and reduces your car's miles per gallon (MPG).
- Difficulty Starting the Engine: If your car struggles to start, especially in cold weather, it might be due to spark plugs that are no longer generating a strong enough spark.
- Rough Idling: A rough or uneven idle can indicate that your spark plugs are not firing consistently.
- Check Engine Light: A malfunctioning spark plug can trigger the check engine light. If this happens, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by a professional.
How to Inspect Your Iridium Spark Plugs
If you suspect your iridium spark plugs are worn out, you can inspect them yourself or have a professional mechanic take a look. Here’s how you can check them:
- Remove the Spark Plug: Use a spark plug socket and ratchet to carefully remove the spark plug from the engine.
- Examine the Electrode: Look at the tip of the spark plug. If the electrode is worn down or the iridium tip is eroded, it’s time for a replacement.
- Check for Deposits: Excessive carbon buildup or oil deposits on the spark plug can indicate engine issues or a worn plug.
- Inspect the Gap: Use a spark plug gap gauge to measure the gap between the electrodes. If the gap is too wide, the spark plug may not function properly.
When to Replace Iridium Spark Plugs
Iridium spark plugs typically last longer than traditional copper plugs, but they still need to be replaced eventually. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and driving conditions. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for specific recommendations.
Why Timely Replacement Matters
Replacing worn-out spark plugs is essential for maintaining your car’s performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. Ignoring the signs of worn plugs can lead to more severe engine problems, which can be costly to repair. If you’re unsure about the condition of your spark plugs, it’s always a good idea to consult a trusted mechanic.
Conclusion
Keeping an eye on the condition of your iridium spark plugs is a simple yet effective way to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t delay in addressing the issue. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and replacing spark plugs to keep your car in top shape. Feel free to contact us for professional assistance!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you keep driving with bad spark plugs?
Can You Drive with Faulty Spark Plugs? Faulty spark plugs can lead to a range of issues that can cause long-term damage to your engine. If left unchecked, bad spark plugs can even lead to more expensive repairs, such as replacing the catalytic converter, so don't put it off.
Do iridium spark plugs really make a difference?
Iridium is an extremely durable metallic element, which makes it a great fit as the material for spark plugs. The main property of the iridium spark plugs is that their electrode material comes with a high melting point. They offer a complete combustion and ensure a better performance.
How do I know if my iridium plugs are bad?
Symptoms can include a misfire code in the ECM, stumbling and stalling, rough running, and poor fuel efficiency, and a visual inspection can reveal the spark plugs are worn or contaminated.
When should I replace my iridium spark plugs?
Recommended Spark Plug Replacement Intervals:
Platinum Spark Plugs: Platinum spark plugs have a longer lifespan and may last up to 60,000 miles or more before replacement is necessary. Iridium Spark Plugs: Iridium spark plugs are known for their durability and longevity, often lasting up to 100,000 miles or more.
How can I tell if my spark plugs need replacing?
5 Signs You Need New Spark Plugs
- Engine Misfires. A misfiring engine is a big sign that one or more of your spark plugs are not firing properly.
- Poor Gas Mileage. When spark plugs are working correctly, they burn fuel efficiently in your engine.
- Trouble Starting.
- Slow Acceleration.
- Rough Idling.
Why does my car run worse after changing spark plugs?
This can be a sign of spark plugs that are not properly gapped or of poor quality. Loss of Power: The car may experience a significant loss of power, making acceleration sluggish and overall performance lackluster. This can occur if the new spark plugs are of lower quality or not the correct type for the vehicle.
How much does it cost to replace iridium spark plugs?
1. Type of Plugs
| Type of Spark Plug | Cost |
|---|---|
| Copper | $2 – $63 |
| Platinum | $10 – $100 |
| Iridium | $20 – $138 |
Do iridium plugs go bad?
Iridium plugs can go 100K miles unless abused or defective. They can be abused by using poor quality fuel that causes pre-ignition. In most cases, these plugs can go forever, until they fail due to gas leakage. The recommendation to change them is to get them replaced before any such leakage develops.
How do you visually tell if spark plugs are bad?
- The first step is removing the spark plug you want to look at.
- A normal spark plug will have brown or grayish-tan deposits on the side electrode.
- Black, dry soot on the electrodes and insulator tip indicates a carbon-fouled plug.
- Black, oily deposits on the electrodes and insulator tip points to an oil-fouled plug.
What are the symptoms of bad spark plugs?
What are the signs your Spark Plugs are failing?
- Engine has a rough idle. If your Spark Plugs are failing your engine will sound rough and jittery when running at idle.
- Trouble starting. Car won't start and you're late for work… Flat battery?
- Engine misfiring.
- Engine surging.
- High fuel consumption.
- Lack of acceleration.
