Car spark plugs are among the components that may vary based on the vehicle type, and it can be said that spark plug types are NOT universal.
Spark plugs are categorized into various types based on material, number of electrodes, and thermal code. The most important types of spark plugs include hot, semi-hot, cold, needle-type, etc.
If you need to replace your vehicle’s spark plugs, consult a professional mechanic at a specialized repair shop and select and purchase the required spark plugs from ArsinTrading. At ArsinTrading, we have tried to prepare the best quality spark plugs for Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
How many types of spark plugs are in the market?
Since spark plugs are not universal, there are various types in the market depending on the vehicle’s usage and lifespan; we have different types of spark plugs.
Hot Spark Plug
Before defining such spark plugs, we should mention that the classification of spark plugs in terms of thermal code relates to the spark plug’s heat level and resistance to such temperatures; in other words, the spark plug should be able to transfer the ideal heat for ignition.
Accordingly, hot spark plugs transfer less heat and become hotter themselves and such spark plugs are usually better for engines operating at lower temperatures.
Semi-Hot Spark Plug
These spark plugs fall into the middle category between hot and cold spark plugs and has more extended bases than cold spark plugs but shorter bases than hot spark plugs.
Semi-hot spark plugs are more suitable for engines with medium operating temperatures.
Cold Spark Plug
Such spark plugs have short bases. Cold spark plugs transfer heat faster, and their heat transfer rate is high. Cold spark plugs are used for engines with high temperatures.
Needle-Type Spark Plug
Needle-type spark plugs have advantages over regular spark plugs. The difference between needle-type and regular spark plugs relates to the design of their positive electrode in such a way that regular spark plugs have a positive electrode with a round head. In contrast, in needle-type spark plugs, the electrode design will be needle-shaped.
Due to their design, needle-type spark plugs perform the sparking action better and more robustly, and therefore, by improving the combustion quality in the cylinder, they will reduce fuel consumption, improve acceleration, etc. Needle-type spark plugs themselves are divided into iridium and platinum categories, whose classification is based on the alloy material used in the electrodes.
Iridium Spark Plug
Iridium spark plugs can be considered among the best spark plugs. The positive electrode of such spark plugs is made of the element iridium, and the negative electrode is also made of platinum.
Using such materials, you can witness the best type of sparking, resulting in improved engine performance and reduced wear on other parts. Also, iridium spark plugs have a longer lifespan.
Platinum Spark Plug
The electrode material of such spark plugs is made of platinum, and their thermal resistance is high. Due to the presence of platinum, good sparking and combustion can be observed, ultimately leading to improved vehicle performance.
What are the components of a car spark plug?
Although a car spark plug is small in size, it has one of the critical roles in the engine’s proper functioning.
This part consists of various components; the most essential parts of a car spark plug are the base, insulator, electrodes (positive and negative), and gasket.
Although usually overlooked, spark plug replacement is essential as this component, like any other vehicle part, has its specific helpful life.
Upon noticing signs such as improper engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the vehicle’s check light turning on, it’s necessary to inspect the spark plugs and replace them if needed. However, to make the right choice for your vehicle, you must know the technical specifications of the spark plug. When selecting a spark plug, consider electrode material, thermal code, number of electrodes, etc.
Reading the vehicle’s manual before choosing a replacement spark plug is better.
If the vehicle manufacturer has any specific recommendations, you can consider them when purchasing the appropriate spark plug.
Another critical factor is the electrode material. You should not purchase another type if the vehicle standardly uses platinum or iridium spark plugs. Otherwise, you will incur damages and costs for repairing parts.
Regarding the number of electrodes and the size of the spark plug base, it is better to check the vehicle’s original spark plug. Another important factor when buying a car spark plug is its thermal code, usually between 450 to 800 degrees Celsius (840 – 1480 Fahrenheit).
Factors such as manual or automatic gearbox, number of cylinders, engine type, etc., also affect the choice of the appropriate spark plug with the vehicle’s specifications.
As mentioned, spark plugs have a specific lifespan, but certain problems can shorten their lifespan. Improper installation of the spark plug or tightening it too much can cause performance issues and reduce lifespan.
Also, not setting the spark plug electrode gap in the cylinders according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations is another reason for spark plug failure. To these issues, we must add oil burning, running rich, using low-quality spark plugs, etc.
