How do I know if my iridium plugs are worn out?
Iridium spark plugs are a type of high-performance spark plug that can last significantly longer than traditional copper or platinum plugs. However, even iridium plugs will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Knowing the signs of worn iridium plugs can help you maintain your vehicle's performance and avoid potential engine issues.
Signs of Worn Iridium Plugs
There are several key indicators that your iridium spark plugs may be nearing the end of their lifespan:
- Misfiring or rough idling: Worn iridium plugs can cause the engine to misfire, resulting in a rough or uneven idle. This is often one of the first signs that the plugs need to be replaced.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: As iridium plugs wear down, they become less efficient at igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. This can lead to a noticeable decrease in your vehicle's fuel economy.
- Difficulty starting the engine: Worn iridium plugs may struggle to generate a strong enough spark to reliably start the engine, especially in cold weather or when the engine is already warm.
- Visible wear on the plug tips: Carefully inspecting the tips of the iridium plugs can reveal signs of wear, such as erosion or deposits buildup. If the tips appear significantly worn, it's time to replace the plugs.
It's important to note that the lifespan of iridium plugs can vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, engine type, and maintenance history. Most manufacturers recommend replacing iridium plugs every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but it's always best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific replacement interval.
Replacing Worn Iridium Plugs
If you suspect your iridium plugs are worn out, it's recommended to have them inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic. Attempting to replace the plugs yourself can be challenging, as they require specialized tools and techniques to remove and install properly. Improper installation can damage the plugs or the engine, so it's best to leave this task to the professionals.
By being aware of the signs of worn iridium plugs and following the recommended replacement intervals, you can help ensure your vehicle's engine continues to perform at its best.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
