{"id":122754,"date":"2024-11-22T17:38:02","date_gmt":"2024-11-23T01:38:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=122754"},"modified":"2025-02-07T20:03:51","modified_gmt":"2025-02-08T04:03:51","slug":"new-spark-plug-turns-black-causes-and-solutions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/new-spark-plug-turns-black-causes-and-solutions\/","title":{"rendered":"New Spark Plug Turns Black: Causes and Solutions"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 6<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_019b7d-60 inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-0eacb4  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-31e966\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122754_01e34a-8e\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spark plugs are responsible for delivering the high voltage spark that will ignite the air-fuel mixture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When a new spark plug turns black, that doesn&rsquo;t necessarily mean that you received a faulty unit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This phenomenon, otherwise known as carbon fouling, can be caused by ignition and fuel system issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spark plugs can also have wet, oily deposits with little electrode wear, which is commonly referred to as oil fouling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Spark plugs\">Spark plugs<\/a> are responsible for delivering the high voltage spark that will ignite the air-fuel mixture to kickstart the combustion process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Several issues can arise with one or more spark plugs. One of these is black deposits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Causes New Spark Plugs to Turn Black?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"904\" height=\"530\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/comparison-of-a-spark-plug-that-has-turned-black-and-one-in-better-condition.jpg\" alt=\"comparison of a spark plug that has turned black and one in better condition\" class=\"wp-image-126798\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/comparison-of-a-spark-plug-that-has-turned-black-and-one-in-better-condition.jpg 904w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/comparison-of-a-spark-plug-that-has-turned-black-and-one-in-better-condition-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/comparison-of-a-spark-plug-that-has-turned-black-and-one-in-better-condition-768x450.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/comparison-of-a-spark-plug-that-has-turned-black-and-one-in-better-condition-150x88.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 904px) 100vw, 904px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Side by side comparison of a spark plug that has turned black and one in better condition | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When a new spark plug turns black, that doesn&rsquo;t necessarily mean that you received a faulty unit. This phenomenon is called carbon fouling, which can be caused by four things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/carparts.com\/blog\/what-are-the-common-signs-of-a-bad-thermostat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"Defective thermostat\">Defective thermostat<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent short drives or brief cold engine operation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Overly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-is-a-good-air-fuel-ratio-chart-included\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"rich air-fuel mixture\">rich air-fuel mixture<\/a> due to a fuel system fault<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weak ignition system output (usually the engine won&rsquo;t even start)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&rsquo;s take a closer look:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Defective Thermostat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When the engine runs too cold (thermostat stuck open or opening far too soon), it runs richer and may slightly soot the plugs with hydrocarbon fouling if the engine is running entirely too cold, especially in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overly Rich Air-Fuel Mixture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An overly rich fuel condition means there isn&rsquo;t enough oxygen to match the amount of fuel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Too much fuel can cause carbon soot to form on the spark plugs, which may not cause misfiring until it reaches a certain point. If the rich condition is bad enough to wet the spark plugs, the engine may not start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An overly rich air-fuel mixture may be caused by one of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Oxygen Sensor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/oxygen-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"oxygen (O2) sensor\">oxygen (O2) sensor<\/a> measures the oxygen content of the exhaust between the exhaust manifold and the light-off converter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is another O2 sensor behind the light off converter to measure the efficiency of that converter. The oxidation catalyst is farther downstream in the exhaust and isn&rsquo;t monitored by any O2 sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-pcm-meaning-symptoms-of-failure-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"powertrain control module\">powertrain control module<\/a> (PCM) is unable to get accurate readings from the O2 sensor, the computer won&rsquo;t be able to adjust fuel levels accordingly, which can result in an overly rich mixture.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_4d5484-e5 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id122754_db6d7b-1d alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_773a25-64 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_773a25-64 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b .image-is-svg, .kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image122754_5e9adb-9b\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_a38f92-10 inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\nThis was more of a problem in the 1980s in the early days of fuel injection than now. If the PCM knows the O2 sensor is unreliable it will simply stop using that signal. If the mixture is rich, the PCM uses fuel trim (adaptive learning) to skew the fuel delivery, which prevents it from running the engine too rich.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-ignition-system\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce\"><style> .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce:active, .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u0072dbc24fe3d534b11fffe295d91fce:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">The Ignition System: Basic Parts and Systems<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mass Airflow Sensor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/mass-air-flow-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"mass airflow sensor\">mass airflow sensor<\/a> helps the PCM determine the amount of fuel needed based on the temperature and volume of incoming air. It&rsquo;s mounted between the air filter and the throttle body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The sensor also backs up the throttle position sensor in case it fails, and the throttle position sensor backs up the MAF sensor if it fails out of range (it can fail in range, which the PCM can&rsquo;t detect).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a problem with the mass airflow sensor has been detected, the engine computer will use the readings from the throttle position sensor and engine speed to calculate fuel delivery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, dirt, oil, silicon, and other contaminants can coat the sensing wire, but note that this doesn&rsquo;t cause the engine to run rich. It&rsquo;s more likely to simply make the MAF sensor slow to respond on acceleration, which makes the engine feel sluggish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The PCM relies on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/manifold-absolute-pressure-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"manifold pressure sensor\">manifold pressure sensor<\/a> to get the following information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Engine load<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Altitude, fuel, and spark control calculations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>EGR system operation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vacuum increases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Load detection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Most modern vehicles have a MAP sensor AND a MAF. Some vehicles only have a MAP sensor. This is more common on vehicles that ONLY have a MAP sensor and no MAF sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar to other sensors, a problem with the manifold pressure sensor can result in inaccurate fuel delivery calculations. In the case of the manifold pressure sensor, it might report the wrong air pressure numbers to the computer, resulting in a rich fuel mixture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Coolant Temperature Sensor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/error-code-p0301-cylinder-1-misfire-detected\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100\"><style> .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100:active, .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100 .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u35b2f1c0aea748d8f5ddc9f09762f100:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">P0301 Code: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The engine <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/coolant-temperature-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"coolant temperature sensor\">coolant temperature sensor<\/a> monitors the coolant temperature so that the PCM can make the necessary adjustments in the fuel mixture. If the ECT indicates that the engine is too cold when it isn&rsquo;t, the PCM may never enter closed loop fuel control. However, in most cases, this won&rsquo;t cause soot on the plugs because of the efficiency of the PCM algorithms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, a cold engine will require a rich fuel mixture to prevent stalling. This may not be sensor related. If the engine is actually running cold or is frequently operated very briefly without allowing it to warm up, cold enrichment will foul the spark plugs and can even wash down the cylinder walls, causing the engine to lose compression so that it sounds like the timing belt has jumped on modern engines with low tension piston rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The PCM needs to determine the engine temperature to properly control the spark timing and fuel mixture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Problems with the coolant temperature sensor can result in an overly rich or lean fuel mixture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fuel Pressure Regulator<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-pressure-regulator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel pressure regulator\">fuel pressure regulator<\/a> works with the fuel pump to maintain the appropriate amount of pressure drop at the injector tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the fuel pressure regulator sticks, it can cause the pressure to max out. This can happen even on fuel systems that have the fuel pressure regulator mounted in the tank with the pump. If the fuel pressure regulator is mounted on the fuel rail, it&rsquo;ll have a vacuum hose connected to it, and if the diaphragm ruptures, fuel will go through the vacuum hose and into the manifold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weak Ignition System Output<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A weak ignition system output can be attributed to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-coil\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition coil\">ignition coil<\/a>. This usually causes no-starts rather than sooty plugs, however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other possibilities:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spark Plugs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Spark plugs\">Spark plugs<\/a> are often the root cause of engine performance problems. The spark plug is prone to developing soot, which can be caused by other parts from various systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spark plugs can also have wet, oily deposits with little electrode wear, which is commonly referred to as oil fouling.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_c68158-c4 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id122754_f69acf-6f > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id122754_f69acf-6f > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id122754_f69acf-6f > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 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.kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_ac29f2-ee kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image122754_831ac9-f0.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image122754_831ac9-f0.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 .image-is-svg, .kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image122754_831ac9-f0 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image122754_831ac9-f0\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122754_21d220-be{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122754_21d220-be > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122754_21d220-be inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\nIt may be a problem with the plug itself that has stopped firing for some other reason, so try a new plug first and see what happens.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Spark plugs covered in oil are an indication of oil entering the combustion chamber. In most cases, this issue can be traced to the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/replacing-piston-rings-5-signs-its-time-for-a-replacement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Worn or broken piston rings\">Worn or broken piston rings<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/valve-stem-seals-guide-definition-types-signs-of-failure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Intake valve stem seal failure\">Intake valve stem seal failure<\/a> (usually produces crusty hard tan colored deposits)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-a-spark-plug\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109\"><style> .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109:active, .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109 .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u0245fe492a34cba99ff69535df2ca109:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">How to Clean a Spark Plug<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition Wires or Coil Wire<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, a weak ignition wire will still run fine under cold temperatures. When temperatures rise, however, the wire insulation can break down and cause the engine to misfire. If the ignition wire&rsquo;s carbon core fails at the end of the wire the wire may have rust or soot inside the boot when you disconnect it from the plug.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A compromised insulation material will usually have its molecules farther apart, creating a new path for electricity to flow instead of jumping the gap of the spark plug.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Takeaways and Solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A black spark plug is usually an indicator of fuel and ignition system problems. Also known as carbon fouling, this issue can affect even newly installed spark plugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Excessive idling and a defective thermostat are also potential reasons why the spark plug can turn black.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When resolving this problem, a thorough inspection of the engine is important to accurately determine the part that&rsquo;s causing the problem. Common solutions typically involve replacing the faulty parts or cleaning them to keep them functional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get New Spark Plugs for Your Car<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you still need to replace the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"spark plugs\">spark plugs<\/a>, it&rsquo;s better to get high-quality replacements to avoid expensive repairs down the line. Shop at <a href=\"http:\/\/carparts.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a> or download our mobile app to access a wide variety of auto parts, accessories, and tools that are built to last.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shopping for auto parts takes just a few clicks when you shop online. Use our vehicle selector to check for fitment, and toggle our search filters to narrow down your selection based on brand or price range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our distribution centers utilize advanced technologies to ensure that the shipping process is as fast and as efficient as it can be. You can even get your order in as fast as two business days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get back on the road in no time by ordering new spark plugs today!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 6<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Spark plugs are responsible for delivering the high voltage spark that will ignite the air-fuel mixture to kickstart the combustion&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/new-spark-plug-turns-black-causes-and-solutions\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":122760,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3744],"tags":[1171],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":{"0":"post-122754","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-ignition-system","9":"tag-spark-plug-2","10":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>New Spark Plug Turns Black: Causes and Solutions - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Spark plugs can turn black for several reasons. Read on to find out the most common reasons why this could happen.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/new-spark-plug-turns-black-causes-and-solutions\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"New Spark Plug Turns Black: Causes and Solutions - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Spark plugs can turn black for several reasons. 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