Spark Plug Blew Out of Engine: Why and How to Fix It?

Reasons Why Spark Plug Blew Out of the Engine and Solutions?

The spark plug blowing out of the engine refers to the sudden expulsion of the spark plug from its designated position in the cylinder head of the engine. This occurrence can happen due to various reasons, such as improper installation or overheating.

Spark plugs blowing out of an engine can be a serious issue. Here are some of the most common causes of a spark plug blowing out of the engine:

Improper Tightening

If the spark plug is fixed too tightly or is not well tightened to your engine plug, it can cause a spark plug blowout. The result is that the spark plug itself cannot properly channel the electric charge from the plug to the engine block.

Solution

• Loosen and retighten: If you have overtightened your spark plugs, you can try loosening them and then retightening them to the correct torque setting. However, if you truly over-tightened the spark plug and it got damaged, there’s absolutely nothing you can do about it but to replace it.
• Use a torque wrench: To prevent over-tightening or under-tightening of the spark plugs, use a torque wrench to tighten the plugs to the factory torque specifications.

Overuse:

Overuse of the spark plug can cause it to wear out and eventually blow out of the engine. Thus, an old or worn-out spark plug leads to issues such as misfiring, poor combustion, and increased stress on the plug and cylinder head.

This potentially makes the plug more susceptible to loosening and blowing out.

Solution

• If your spark plugs are worn out due to overuse, it’s best to replace them with new ones.
• Use high-quality spark plugs, as this will help to prevent wear and overuse. Also, use spark plugs suitable for the engine and its operating conditions to prevent such issues.
• Also, regularly check the spark plugs and replace them at the recommended intervals to prevent wear and overuse.

Constant Dirt Getting Into The Engine

Dirt and debris can accumulate in the engine over time, causing the spark plug to become loose and finally blow out.

Solution

• Regularly check the air filter and replace it at the recommended time to prevent dirt from entering your car engine. Also, use a high-quality air filter to keep the engine free from dirt.
• Clean the engine bay regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt from entering the engine.

Improper Installation:

If the spark plug is installed incorrectly, a blowout will occur. For example, cross-threading during replacement can lead to inadequate threading engagement within the cylinder head. This can cause the plug to loosen and eventually blow out of the engine.

Solution

• Make sure to install the spark plugs correctly and let the engine cool down first. Installing the plugs with a hot engine can cause them to become twisted and misaligned as they cool down.
• Also, use the best quality spark plugs you can with the correct gap size.
• Follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications and use a torque wrench to apply the correct amount of force.
• Avoid cross-threading and use anti-seize lubricant on the spark plug threads to ease future removal.

Defective Threads

Threads in the cylinder head can wear out over time due to repeated heating and cooling cycles. If the threads become damaged or stripped, the spark plug may not be able to hold securely, leading to its expulsion.

Solution

If the cylinder head threads are damaged, consider using thread repair kits to rethread or install thread inserts. In severe cases, seek professional assistance or consider cylinder head replacement.