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Causes for Carbon Buildup Around Your BMW’s Spark Plugs

As the owner of a BMW, you are probably more in tune with your vehicle’s performance than most. The pride that comes with owning such a vehicle is not uncommon, and it is typical of Bimmer drivers to want the best care and support for the vehicle that they can access. Part of this is knowing when something has gone wrong with your vehicle and contacting support for it as soon as you can.

 
Carbon Around BMW Spark Plug

One of the issues that arise in BMWs, and all other vehicles, is the failure, malfunction, or interruption of the spark plug or its functions. These occurrences can be linked to many causes, so it’s important that if you suspect there to be an issue with your spark plugs, you contact an expert mechanic right away. One of the most common problems seen in BMWs is the buildup of carbon and other debris around the spark plug. Let’s point out a few signs to look for and discuss reasons this problem might occur in your BMW.

Carbon Around Spark Plug

The spark plug is a component of your engine that is critical to the engine being able to be turned on. It provides the spark necessary for combustion when fuel and air are injected into the engine when it is turned over.

There are a few ways to identify specific issues with your spark plug based on its physical appearance and any buildup that occurs around it. A buildup around your spark plug of a black substance with a light texture can be an indicator of 2 main issues: a weak spark or a rich fuel mixture.

The causes for such a buildup include a heavy carburetor float, a leaky injector or carburetor needle valve, malfunctioning of the spark plug wires, or malfunctions or failures of the oxygen or coolant sensors. The resulting problem is called “carbon fouling,” because the insulator nose of the spark plug becomes coated in debris and is then considered “fouled.”

Carbon fouling can cause problems for your vehicle if left untreated. However, catching the issue early on and cleaning the spark plugs will render it a relatively insignificant occurrence. Regarding circumstances that you can control, there are a few driving behaviors and situations that can contribute to carbon fouling:

Stop and Go Traffic

Constant stopping and starting of your vehicle is, of course, damaging to your vehicle’s mileage, but it can also cause carbon fouling due to the constant fluctuation in pressure and the flow of fluids and/or gases through your engine. You can prevent further negative effects on your vehicle by checking the spark plugs. If you find yourself in these driving conditions often, you can clean them before serious problems arise.

Idling

When your vehicle is left idling for extended periods, the spark plugs are not given the opportunity to heat up and therefore cannot burn off any carbon buildup or fuel deposits around them. Make sure to turn off your vehicle when you can if you do not intend to be moving any time soon.

Rich Fuel Mixture

A rich fuel mixture is what occurs when the air-to-fuel ratio is unbalanced in your Bimmer’s engine. There is far too much fuel to the amount of air, a problem that can be attributed to many different causes like a faulty fuel injector or malfunctioning oxygen sensors.

Schedule an Appointment at Ultimate Bimmer Service

At Ultimate Bimmer Service, you can trust that our mechanics are the best of the best when it comes to caring for your BMW. With over 30 years of specialized experience in BMW repair, you can be sure that we will keep your BMW performing at its best for years to come.

 
BMW Spark Plug Carbon Buildup Fix

Our mechanics are ASE certified and provide services including tune-ups, brake service, electrical repair, transmission, and engine repair. All of these services will be granted to you at affordable prices that are competitive with dealership prices, so you don’t have to worry about breaking your wallet to properly care for your vehicle.

Schedule an appointment today at the Ultimate Bimmer Service. We are located in Carrolton and Dallas, TX. We look forward to becoming your trusted BMW service and maintenance center for all your vehicle’s needs.

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