Spark plugs play a crucial role in an internal combustion engine’s ability to start and run. Spark, fuel, and compression. With those three elements an engine will run and are commonly three things that mechanics or technicians will look for if a car is not running.

Maintenance and replacement of wearable components, including spark plugs, are important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and trouble-free. Depending on your vehicle and type of spark plug, you should replace spark plugs every 20,000 to 40,000 miles. Your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, normally located with your vehicle’s manual and maintenance books in the glove compartment, will tell you how often the recommended replacement interval is for your vehicle’s spark plugs.

Replace spark plugs are normally replaced every 20,000 to 40,000 miles.

Is it bad to drive around with a dead spark plug?

Yes. When you drive with a dead spark plug, your vehicle’s cylinder is not firing and causing excess fuel buildup in the cylinder. Engine oil that would normally lubricate the piston and piston rings can get washed out by the fuel and accelerate wear on those components. Unused fuel in a cylinder of your car can make its way into the crankcase and dilute the engine oil. This further accelerates your vehicle’s engine oil maintenance intervals and adding unnecessary wear to internal engine components.

What does it mean if a spark plug turns black?

This means the air/fuel ratio for that spark plug’s cylinder is too rich (meaning too much fuel or not enough oxygen) or it could mean that too much oil is making its way into the cylinder.

How to fix oil covered spark plugs?

Spark plugs in your vehicle that are black and oil covered could mean that there are faulty gaskets, or more severely, broken internal engine components. You should schedule your vehicle for a mechanical inspection as soon as possible. There are a few possible reasons for oil covered spark plugs, including these worn or broken components:

  • Valve cover gasket
  • Head gasket
  • Valve guide seals
  • Spark plug tube o-rings
  • Worn piston rings
  • Cracked piston
  • Cracked head

Does your vehicle have bad spark plugs and other deferred maintenance?

At We Buy All Cars in NJ, we buy all types of vehicles in any condition – running or not! It may be worth it to weigh your options before fixing your car or truck. Deferred maintenance could lead to catastrophic failure and an expensive repair bill. Fill out our FREE quote form to receive a value for your vehicle today!