NGK lists five signs that indicate the need to replace ignition cables

The brand also highlights tests and inspections that must be done to check the functionality of the components

São Paulo, setembro de 2024- Ignition wires are essential components that connect the coil to the spark plugs, conduzindo através da alta tensão que pode chegar próximo dos 45.000 volts, the electrical current required for the operation of the motor. When they are defective, can compromise this driving and cause engine problems and increased fuel consumption. To help drivers identify when to change ignition cables, and NGK, Niterra brand specialized in components for ignition systems, List five signs of wear:

1- difficulty in starting: If your vehicle has problems starting, This may indicate faulty ignition cables, that are not conducting electrical current efficiently.

2- Irregular slow gait: An unstable idle can directly reflect on the efficiency of the engine, suggesting possible faults in the cables and ignition system.

3- Failures in acceleration and resumption of speed: Damaged cables can cause failures during acceleration and speed resumption, affecting vehicle performance.

4- Increased fuel consumption: Problems in the conduction of electric current can lead to inefficient combustion, resulting in higher fuel consumption.

5- Increase in emissions of polluting gases: Faulty ignition cables can impair fuel burn, increasing emissions of polluting gases and impacting the environment.

Testing and Inspections

In addition to the signs mentioned, Regular inspections can aid in preventative maintenance. A visual analysis of the cables is a good starting point. The mechanic must check for signs of oxidation, Leakage of electric current, dryness or damage caused by chemical agents. Measuring electrical resistance with a multimeter is useful for identifying cable problems. Other tests, such as electrical insulation evaluation and voltage measurement of ignition system secondary, require specific equipment.

“Os cabos de ignição têm uma vida útil estimada de três anos ou 70.000 km, what happens first. Therefore, It is essential to perform regular preventive maintenance of the ignition system", afirma Hiromori Mori, Niterra Technical Assistance Consultant. "Each engine has a specific ignition order, that should not be changed. That is why, Replacing the cables should be done by a trusted mechanic, to ensure that the ignition order and engine operation are maintained correctly. ”

Wear prevention

To prevent wear of ignition cables, NGK recommends electrical insulation testing to identify potential compromises, Measurement of the electrical resistance of cables, since a high resistance makes it difficult for the current to pass through, and checking for flash-over signs, which are visible marks and indicate unwanted passage of electric current between the cables and the spark plugs. It is also important to assess the integrity of the rubber of the terminals, because dryness or sagging compromises the insulation, while rigid wires indicate deterioration of the cables. NGK offers a wide range of ignition cables for the aftermarket, See the application catalogue.