The performance of spark plugs directly affects the fuel consumption of cars. As the core component of the engine ignition system, the electrode gap, calorific value, carbon deposition and other factors of spark plugs will change the ignition efficiency and combustion effect, which will lead to differences in fuel consumption. The following are specific influencing mechanisms and optimization suggestions:
1. The core factors of spark plugs affecting fuel consumption
Abnormal electrode gap
Gap is too small: the spark is weak, and it is easy to leak electricity due to carbon deposition, resulting in incomplete combustion of the mixture.
Gap is too large: the breakdown voltage demand increases, and "misfire" may occur when driving at high speed, and the combustion efficiency decreases.
After long-term use, electrode ablation will cause the gap to expand, the ignition intensity to weaken, and the fuel consumption to increase significantly (such as a single-cylinder spark plug failure may increase fuel consumption by more than 30%).
Heat value mismatch
Cold spark plug (high calorific value): fast heat dissipation, if used in a low compression ratio engine, it is easy to accumulate carbon and cause combustion to deteriorate.
Hot spark plugs (low calorific value): slow heat dissipation. If used in high-power engines, it may cause hot ignition, and the ECU needs to adjust the injection amount to compensate.
Carbon deposits and aging
Carbon deposits will hinder the normal ignition of spark plugs, reduce combustion efficiency, and force the engine to consume more fuel.
The ignition intensity of old spark plugs decreases, and the mixture cannot be completely burned, resulting in energy waste.
2. Optimization suggestions
Regular replacement: Check or replace the original specification spark plugs every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers to ensure stable ignition performance.
Select an adapted model: Select a spark plug model with matching gap and calorific value according to the engine type (such as turbocharged or naturally aspirated) to avoid abnormal combustion due to parameter errors.
Comprehensive maintenance: Combined with cleaning engine carbon deposits, checking oxygen sensors, etc., to fully optimize combustion efficiency.
3. Other influencing factors
Although spark plugs have a significant impact on fuel consumption, increased fuel consumption may also be the result of factors such as insufficient tire pressure, air filter blockage, and driving habits. A systematic investigation is required, rather than focusing on just a single component.
