sign our newsletter and stay on top of the latest news, offers and courses.
With a more advantageous price than gasoline, Ethanol has been the consumer's first choice in several Brazilian states. Although it offers economic benefits, Most engines powered by sugarcane fuel may have difficulty starting on cold days. A NGK, World Spark Plug Specialist, highlights precautions to avoid the problem.
Segundo Hiromori Mori, NGK Technical Assistance Consultant, The failure generally occurs due to lack of maintenance of the gasoline tank. Although, Worn spark plugs and ignition wires also contribute to poor engine performance during the winter., especially after a long period off.
“The spark plug works under severe conditions, like pressure and high temperatures. With use, suffers a natural wear and tear, which is not always noticed by the driver. That is why, NGK recommends inspection every 10 thousand kilometers or annually, whichever comes first”, informa. The expert highlights that increased fuel consumption, malfunctions and increased levels of pollutant emissions, also indicate problems with the part.
The ignition cables, responsible for conducting the high voltage produced by the coil (transformer) even the candles, also need periodic checking, which should be done together with the candles.
In addition to paying attention to these components, owners of models that use a gasoline tank (six pack) must keep them filled with new, good quality gasoline. The recommendation is that the fuel be changed every 90 days. The cold starting system must be operating correctly and without leaks. The condition of the battery can also affect the car's performance on cold days and deserves attention..
Another tip from the NGK Technical Assistance technician for flex-fuel vehicles is to travel 10 to 15 kilometers, before leaving the car with the engine off for a long period of time, when changing fuel. The specialist explains that the action is necessary for the engine control system to recognize the new fuel in the tank and reprogram the operating strategy., even during the cold start.
In cases of failure to start, insisting on starting the engine can cause the spark plugs to become wet.. The recommendation is to turn off the vehicle and wait until the fuel evaporates completely., which can take up to 30 minutes, depending on the car.
