Ahead of the Lebaran exodus, recognise the signs that your car's spark plugs need replacing

Solo – A spark plug is a crucial component in a car’s ignition system. If its condition weakens or wears out, engine performance can decline and fuel consumption can rise. Therefore, it is important to replace spark plugs before a car is used for the Lebaran mudik to ensure a smooth and efficient journey. Imun, the owner of the Ford Trucuk Klaten Specialist Workshop, says that when spark plugs are bad, performance falls, resulting in sluggish engine response and higher fuel consumption. The engine feels rough or not smooth when running. Unstable ignition causes combustion in the engine bay to be imperfect, so engine revs are not smooth or even. “Acceleration feels slow. When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the car seems less responsive because engine power is not released optimally,” Imun said. “Engine vibrations become more noticeable, which can happen because combustion in each cylinder is not balanced, like a misfire, usually also accompanied by a sharp odour from the exhaust,” Imun added. Upon direct inspection, old spark plugs have a very dark electrode tip or are coated with deposits. Carbon build-up and being wet with fuel indicate incomplete combustion.