Cheap that is expensive: Counterfeit parts can compromise the car's engine, NGK alert

Low-quality parts compromise performance and safety, in addition to increasing maintenance costs

São Paulo, March 2025 - Choosing low-quality parts in the vehicle can severely compromise the performance of the engine and the durability of the vehicle. The industry demands strict requirements to ensure performance, segurança e conformidade com normas de emissões. Apesar de parecerem uma boa opção no momento da compra, opt for cheaper pieces and without a recognized brand, It can cause a lot of problems in the long run. In order to alert consumers and mechanics, and NGK, Niterra brand specialized in components for ignition systems, clarifies the different types of permanent faults that spark plug counterfeiting can cause.

1- Incorrect thermal grade: may cause the spark plug to overheat, at risk of piston damage.

2- Detonation: Abnormal fuel burn can damage the piston and cylinder head.

3- Breakage of spark plug components: affects the piston, Engine head and valves.

4- Misfires: Improper use can result in increased fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.

"Many consumers are looking to reduce maintenance and repair costs, But this search for savings can, in fact, become a trap", alerta Hiromori Mori, Niterra Technical Assistance Consultant. According to the expert, The use of inferior quality parts can lead to a number of problems, such as decreased vehicle durability, increasing repair costs, Rework and downtime. Furthermore, These parts compromise performance and safety, it can even damage other components, resulting in even higher expenses.

Impact of misfires

Frequently, Minor misfires go unnoticed by the driver, but they still affect fuel consumption and pollutant emissions. When these flaws become more evident, The impact on consumption and emissions is significantly greater. "During the development of a spark plug in partnership with an automaker, Several tests are carried out, including layout (mounting, format, and so on.), indication of the thermal degree and durability", explains Hiromori Mori, Technical Assistance consultant. “A vida útil de uma vela é definida pela montadora e está relacionada às condições de uso do veículo, mainly of the characteristics of the engine and maintenance plan. For the aftermarket, We follow the same criteria set by the manufacturers."

If there is a need for replacement, NGK offers high-quality parts, with candles with noble metals through the NGK brand. Among the options are special candles, like G-Power (Platinum) e Iridium IX (Iridium), in addition to the conventional ones that can be found in the aftermarket.