Can I Just Clean My Spark Plugs?

Introduction

The question of cleaning spark plugs can often leave car owners puzzled, with mixed advice available online. This article aims to clarify whether cleaning spark plugs is a worthwhile endeavor or if replacement is the better option.

Why Cleaning Won't Improve Operation

Many car enthusiasts wonder if cleaning spark plugs can improve engine performance or extend their lifespan. The general consensus is that this is usually not the case and can even lead to damage. Cleaning spark plugs typically requires their removal, which can be quite a bit of work. Unless the plugs are severely fouled and need to be cleaned to restore proper function, the effort might not be worth it.

When to Clean Spark Plugs

There are rare cases where cleaning spark plugs can be beneficial. For instance, in a lawnmower, if a spark plug gets fouled with gasoline, cleaning it might restore its performance. Similarly, if spark plugs in a car are misfiring due to wear, they should be replaced rather than cleaned. Cleaning a worn spark plug may not improve performance, as the electrode gaps are typically adjusted during replacement.

Alternative Methods of Cleaning

Over the years, various methods of cleaning spark plugs have been suggested, such as placing them in water from the carburetor or using specialized sprays or chemicals. While these methods can work, they often require removing the plugs, which is a significant effort. Additionally, unless the plugs are severely fouled, these methods are not typically necessary.

Professional Tuning Techniques

The idea of performing an "Italian tune-up" involves extreme driving to assess the effectiveness of cleaning. However, this method requires first and foremost removing and then re-attaching the plugs, which negates the point of the exercise. True to form, proper assessment requires the plugs to be examined in their original condition.

Conclusion: Replace or Clean?

Given the complexity and potential for damage involved in cleaning spark plugs, the general recommendation is to replace them rather than trying to clean them. If your car is equipped with iridium plugs, which are less prone to fouling, you may not need to clean them at all.

For those who have to undertake extensive disassembly to examine the plugs, it might be wise to consider a different car. Overhauling a car for spark plug inspection that requires extensive work might not be the most efficient approach.

If you decide to clean spark plugs, it is best to leave them in the head and remove the cylinder head to gain access to the tips. This method is much more labor-intensive but can be done. However, for most car owners, replacing the plugs when necessary is the simpler and more reliable solution.