Bosch is urging independent garage owners to use high quality spark plus after it analysed six “replicator spark plugs”.
During its analysis, Bosch investigated the look, structure and materials used in the cheaper alternative spark plugs.
The results revealed significant quality defects putting at risk both the engine and the catalytic converter.
On some of the samples, the burn-off resistor at the centre electrode was found to be missing.
Bosch warns that this can result in heavy spark erosion, increasing wear which will reduce the service life.
A Bosch spokesperson said: “Nickel alloys are particularly suitable as electrode material.
“However, the risk of erosion and corrosion rises concomitantly with the iron content – of up 97 per cent at some of the analysed spark plugs.
“The thread is yet another component needing to be protected against corrosion.
“Without surface coating, the cylinder head can be damaged or tear when removing the spark plug.
“The copper core of centre electrodes is equally important.”
Incorrect thermal properties
According to Bosch, incorrect thermal properties of spark plugs can result in increased soot, overheating and even engine damage.
Accuracy, precision and cleanliness are of “major importance” during the production of a spark plug, the spokesperson added.
In case of a damaged insulator nose, combustion residues stick to the dirty part and increase the risk of misfiring.
Bosch warns that spark plug product names similar to those of famous brand manufacturers make it even more difficult for users to differentiate between high and low quality products.
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