When you’re driving and your engine starts to shake, it can be a scary experience. You may automatically assume that there is something wrong with your car and that you need to take it in for repair.
However, did you know that bad spark plugs can cause your engine to shake? In this article, we will discuss the effects of bad spark plugs on your engine, and we will provide some tips for how to fix the problem.
What is a Spark Plug
Spark plugs are small electrical devices that create a spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in your car’s engine. They are a critical components of your car’s ignition system and are responsible for igniting the fuel in the combustion chamber.
Without spark plugs, your car wouldn’t run. Imagine having to hand-crank your car engine every time you wanted to start it! A properly functioning spark plug is essential for the efficient operation of your vehicle, as it helps generate the power needed for acceleration and smooth running.
How Bad Spark Plugs Can Cause Your Engine to Shake
Now that we know what spark plugs are, let’s explore how bad ones can cause your engine to shake.
- A bad spark plug can cause your engine to misfire.
- Another issue with bad spark plugs is fouled electrodes.
- Bad spark plugs can also cause your engine to run lean or rich.
- Bad spark plugs can create an arbitrary voltage that is not consistent with the rest of the system.
- Bad spark plugs cause incomplete combustion
Let’s explore these in detail.
1. A bad spark plug can cause your engine to misfire
The first issue that can occur with bad spark plugs is misfiring. When the spark plug fails to create a spark, the engine cannot ignite the fuel correctly and this causes an interruption in power production. This leads to your engine shaking as it struggles to maintain its normal operation.
You would normally realize this as a noticeable shaking of your engine or a ‘jerking’ sensation. It could be accompanied by the smell of fuel and/or smoke from the exhaust.
I had an issue with my car about a year ago and it turned out to be a misfire because of bad spark plugs.
2. Another issue with bad spark plugs is fouled electrodes
Fouling occurs when carbon deposits accumulate on the electrodes of your spark plug. Because these deposits are non-conductive, they prevent a spark from forming and this can cause your engine to shake as it struggles to ignite the fuel.
Fouling can be caused by a variety of factors, such as oil entering the spark plug chamber, incorrect spark plug gap, or using the wrong type of spark plug for your car’s engine.
3. Bad spark plugs can also cause your engine to run lean or rich
Another issue with bad spark plugs is, If there is an issue with your spark plugs, your engine can either run too lean or too rich. This means that there is not enough air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber and this causes an imbalance of oxygen and fuel. This can lead to shaking as your engine struggles to ignite the fuel correctly.
4. Bad spark plugs can create an arbitrary voltage that is not consistent with the rest of the system
Bad spark plugs can cause a voltage spike or drop due to their inability to generate a steady stream of electricity. This creates problems for other components like the ignition coil, which relies on a consistent voltage to work properly. The result is intermittent misfiring, which causes your engine to shake.
– Bad spark plugs cause incomplete combustion
When your spark plugs are bad, the combustion in the engine is incomplete. This means that not all of the fuel is being used to create power and this leads to a loss of efficiency. You will notice a shaking feeling coming from the engine as it struggles to ignite the air-fuel mixture correctly. It should ultimately tell you that the spark plugs need replacement.
Tips For Fixing Bad Spark Plugs
Now that we know what your engine can shake due to bad spark plugs, let’s look at some tips for fixing them:
- Have your spark plugs inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic
- Replace any worn or damaged spark plugs immediately
- Make sure your spark plug gap is correct for your vehicle
- Ensure that you use the correct spark plug for your vehicle
- Make sure that all ignition components are in good working order
Let’s explore these in detail.
1. Have your spark plugs inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic
The first tip for fixing bad spark plugs is to have them inspected regularly. This means that you should take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic and have them check the condition of your spark plugs. They will be able to tell you if there are any issues with the spark plugs and recommend replacements if necessary.
I would suggest you go to the dealership or a certified mechanic and avoid places like auto parts stores as they may use inferior-quality plugs. I once replaced my spark plugs with ones from an auto parts store and they were faulty, leading to my engine shaking.
2. Replace any worn or damaged spark plugs immediately
If your spark plugs are worn or damaged, then you should replace them as soon as possible. Wear or damage can cause misfires and other issues with your engine such as a decrease in power and fuel economy. Make sure that you use the correct type of spark plug for your vehicle and that it is installed correctly. Just like driving on flat tires for a long time can damage your car, driving with bad spark plugs for an extended period can cause long-term damage to your engine. You can check out this cool NGK # 3186 G-Power Platinum Spark Plugs discounted on Amazon
3. Make sure your spark plug gap is correct for your vehicle
A correctly gapped spark plug is essential for a properly functioning engine. If the gap is too small or too large, it can lead to misfires and other issues. To check if the gap is correct you can take a ruler and measure the space between the two electrodes on each plug. The exact gap will vary depending on what type of vehicle you have so be sure to consult your owner’s manual first.
4. Ensure that you use the correct spar for your vehicle
It is also important to ensure you are using the correct type of spark plugs for your vehicle. Different vehicles require different types of spark plugs to work properly and if you don’t use the right ones then it can cause all sorts of issues such as a decrease in power or fuel economy.
Imagine using a tesla spark plug in a Ford Focus. It won’t work and will lead to engine shaking.
5. Make sure that all ignition components are in good working order
The last tip for fixing bad spark plugs is to make sure that all other ignition components such as wires, coils, and modules are in good working order. If one of these components is faulty then it can cause the same issues as a bad spark plug, so make sure to check them all.
Be sure to replace any faulty components and consult your owner’s manual for the correct spark plug type.
By following these steps, you should be able to identify and fix any issues related to bad spark plugs in your vehicle. This will help ensure that your engine is running as efficiently as possible and help keep it in good condition for many years to come.
Final Thought
In conclusion, bad spark plugs are a common problem that can cause your engine to shake and can lead to decreased performance and fuel economy. The best way to prevent this from happening is to have your spark plugs inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic and replace any worn or damaged parts immediately. Additionally, ensure that you use the correct type of spark plug for your vehicle and that it is gapped correctly. Finally, check all other ignition components such as wires, coils, and modules to make sure they are in good working order.
Thank you, I hope this was helpful. Have a great day!
Happy driving!