15 Parts of Car Spark Plugs, Functions and How to Choose Them

Understanding the parts of a car spark plug can make it easier for you to comprehend its function and how it works. The following will thoroughly explain the parts of a car spark plug, its functions, and how to choose the right one. Here is the complete review.

Parts of a Car Spark Plug

Although small in size, spark plugs have several components inside, each with its own function. To help you understand better, let's take a look at the following review.

1. Terminal

This part is located at the top of the car spark plug and has a shape resembling a screw. It is made of iron and serves as a connector between the spark plug and the ignition coil to conduct electricity.

2. Ceramic insulator

This part is made from ceramic material to prevent the flow of electricity that will later be directed to the electrode core. The ceramic insulator is located below the spark plug terminal. This part is often referred to as the support for the electrode core.

3. Ribs

This part is also commonly referred to as corrugation. Its function is to prevent the flow of electricity from the terminal to the body (spark plug frame).

4. Ignition coil

This part is often referred to in Indonesia as the ignition coil. Its function is to convert the battery voltage from 12 volts to 10,000 volts or more. This way, a spark can be produced by the spark plug.

5. Hex

This part is a socket or place for installing the spark plug.

6. Copper core

The function of this part is to conduct voltage and electric current in large capacity.

7. Ceramic resistor

This part functions as a preventive measure against the combination of high voltage and electric current produced from the spark.

8. Spark plug seal

This part is also known as a gasket. Its function is to seal the spark plug to prevent leaks during the engine compression process.

9. Ground

The ground, or more commonly known as the spark plug head, serves as the best medium for conducting electric current.

10. Spark plug ring

This part functions as an adhesive between the spark plug body and the insulator.

11. Spark plug body

The spark plug body serves as a support for all parts of the car spark plug.

12. Electrode core

This part functions as a conductor of electricity that will be directed to the terminal.

13. Metal case

This part functions as a lock between the spark plug and the cylinder head component.

14. Spark gap

This part is also referred to as the spark plug gap. This part greatly influences the production of sparks generated by the spark plug.

15. Insulator tip

The insulator tip is the location of the high-temperature combustion process of the spark plug.

Function of Spark Plugs

What is the function of car spark plugs? Car spark plugs function as a source of electrical energy or sparks that are used to ignite the engine, move the piston, and stabilize the engine during idle position.

How to Choose the Right Car Spark Plug

There are several ways to choose the right car spark plug that you need to know. Here are the complete methods.

1. Choose according to the type of car engine

Every car certainly has different spark plug standards. Make sure you know what type of spark plug is suitable for your car. Does it use standard, iridium, or platinum types? Because each type of spark plug has different functions.

2. Choose based on heat resistance

Choose a spark plug that can withstand engine heat well, to avoid quick wear and reduce the risk of overheating.

3. Choose original spark plugs

Make sure you choose original spark plugs to ensure optimal car performance. Ensure you buy them from a Daihatsu dealer or a trusted automotive store to get the best car spark plugs.

That concludes the review on the parts of spark plugs, their functions, and how to choose them. Given their very important function, make sure you always check the condition of your car's spark plugs. Replace them immediately if the engine overheats or stutters.

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