What Does A White Spark Plug Mean? [The Answer]

Spark plugs have always played an important role in efficient engine operations. It is an effective and convenient car part that is easily replaceable when broken or worn out. 

The main role of spark plugs is to provide ignition as your engine runs. You can also detect other engine problems by the color of the spark plugs. 

One common color that indicates an engine problem is the white spark plugs. As ironic as it may sound, a white spark plug could signify a burned, overheating plug. 

Other physical signs of burned spark plugs are blisters on the tip and melted electrodes. Specifically, white spark plugs indicate an incorrect heat range, loose plugs, mistimed ignition, or a small mixture. 

Know more about the spark plug colors and their meaning by reading the information below. 

Explaining the Spark Plug Colors

This NGK Spark Plug USA video explained and shared tips for reading spark plugs and identifying colors and meanings. So, why do you need to learn how to read a spark plug? 

Being knowledgeable about it is a great skill. It will help you prevent and spot problems with your plugs and the engine in general. 

Most of the time, you can examine your plug using the insulator firing nose color. It will be an indicator of your engine’s operating condition.  

The first color is a light tan or gray color, which means that the spark plug operates at its perfect temperature. These two colors also show that your engine is in good working condition. 

On the other hand, heavy black with wet or black deposits tells you that your engine is in “overly rich condition.” It can be caused by low heat range temperature, vacuum leak, low compression, mistimed ignition, or wide plug gap. 

You can also check a failed head gasket through the wet deposits. 

Bright white spark plugs are indicators of overheating and burning; the above-mentioned information stated the common reasons for such harm.

Other signs of heated spark plugs are if it is blazed or glassy or showing any metallic spots. 

If you experience fouling or overheating in your spark plugs, you must act upon it immediately. Your engine’s performance might deteriorate, leading to multiple engine complications when not repaired. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check a white deposit on my spark plugs? 

The most effective way to catch a white deposit on your spark plugs is to perform a regular examination. It helps in providing a longer life for your spark plugs while crossing out causes that can lead to serious problems. 

In checking your spark plugs, you will need the following: wrench, light, and wipes. 

However, in some models, detaching high-voltage wires from the plugs is needed. Some require isolation from other individual coils embedded with screws. 

Most spark plugs are easy to navigate and check. Make sure to mark which one’s checked to avoid confusion. 

Can I remove the white deposits from spark plugs? 

Yes, you can. However, you have to consider how large the build-up is in your spark plugs. If it is still manageable, you need a coarse metal rust brush and fine sandpaper. 

Just clean the gap between the electrodes and ensure that you’re careful not to scratch the entirety. This method is not advisable when you’re using iridium spark plugs. 

Other chemical ways to clean your spark plugs are solvents, acid solutions, vinegar, and sanitary plaque removers.

Meanwhile, you’ll need replacement if there’s a thick build-up of white deposits in your spark plugs. 

What if I don’t replace my white spark plug?

The most likely answer to this is further damage to your engine. Since your engine is too hot or burned to run, it might stop working. 

So, you need to replace it with new ones immediately. If you think there might be just some deposits, clean it correctly. If unsure, consult an expert.