Signs Your Motorcycle Spark Plugs Have Gone Bad

Spark plugs are a critical component of the internal combustion engine in motorcycles. Over the years, ignition systems have greatly improved, meaning they don’t demand too much attention. However, motorcycle spark plugs still need to be checked to ensure they’re delivering just the right amount of energy required to ignite the fuel at exactly the right time.

If you’ve owned a motorcycle for some years, you’ve probably dealt with spark plug problems, especially if you own an old motorcycle. Malfunctioning spark plugs could be problematic for your bike.

4 Signs to Look Out For When You Have Bad Spark Plugs

Here are the signs of a bad motorcycle spark plug and wire configuration.

1. Misfiring Issues

One of the common signs of bad spark plugs is a misfiring engine. This is when you notice that your motorcycle is going off of normal rhythm when running. This often happens for a few seconds, and then the engine gets back to a steady rhythm. Misfiring issues are caused by a damaged motorcycle spark plug that is not arcing at the tip at the right time.

If a spark plug doesn’t arc and give off electricity needed for engine combustion at the right time, it means that the gas it’s supposed to mix with is not where it’s supposed to be so that combustion will be thrown off. When this problem continues, you’ll have difficulties starting your bike until you replace your spark plugs.

2. Backfiring Issues

Backfiring is also a common sign of bad spark plugs. If you’re hearing random loud pops coming out of your motorcycle exhaust, then you have a backfiring problem. This is caused by spark plugs that are producing an intermittent spark, which is when a motorcycle spark plug works just fine most of the time but may fail to do so once in a while, causing the engine to backfire.

Whether there's air and fuel in your engine cylinder, if the spark plugs fail to ignite it, it gets pushed out of the engine cylinder on the compression stroke. As soon as it gets to the hot exhaust header, it combusts, causing the loud pop sound.

3. Flooded Engine

If your motorcycle’s engine cranks repeatedly when starting, you may have a motorcycle spark plug and wire configuration problem. When this happens, you’ll often have a strong smell of gas. When your engine becomes flooded, it means that the combustion chamber is filling with gas that isn’t being combusted.

Typically, everything else may be working right, including the fuel injector and carburetor that provide the appropriate fuel and air ration. But, if your motorcycle spark plugs are not working right, your motorcycle engine will not start. Get your bike checked by a mechanic to fix the flooding problem.

4. Strong Smelling Gas or Gas Spraying Out of the Exhaust

When you have malfunctioning spark plugs that aren’t giving a spark at the right time, you’ll have the leftover gas in the engine combustion chamber getting sucked into the engine. Combustion doesn’t happen, so the gas gets past the exhaust valve and shoots out of the motorcycle exhaust pipe.

If you’ve noticed some fluid coming out of your exhaust pipes, confirm that it’s not water caused by condensation. If it’s gas or you’re generally smelling gas when starting your motorcycle, you probably have bad motorcycle spark plugs.

Check the Condition of Your Spark Plugs

If you don’t have any of the above issues and are still having problems starting your motorcycle, it’s time to check the condition of your spark plugs. You’ll want to regularly inspect your spark plugs for any signs of wear or damage. Here are some practical tips to help you assess the condition of your spark plugs:

• Start with a visual check: First, take a good look at your spark plugs. Do you notice any burn marks or areas that seem unusually white? These signs may suggest your plugs are bad.

• Look for physical damage: Motorcycle spark plugs can be delicate. Check if they are broken or bent. Even a small amount of damage can lead to big problems when starting your motorcycle.

• Watch out for rust and corrosion: Rust or corrosion can prevent them from functioning properly, leading to starting issues.

• Consider the age of your spark plugs: Like anything else, spark plugs wear out over time. If they’re old, they might not be up to the task anymore.

• Check your engine’s timing: If your engine’s timing is off, it can lead to premature wear and tear on your spark plugs. Ensure your engine timing is spot on to keep your plugs in good shape.

• Be mindful of your wires: Your motorcycle spark plug wires can be damaged by heat from the engine or wear and vibration.

Replace Your Spark Plugs

Motorcycle spark plugs should be replaced at least every five years. It’s wise to have a look at them before they start causing problems. If you need to replace your spark plugs and other maintenance parts, get started at West End Motorsports. Spark plugs are easy to install with simple tools. Browse our online store to find more customizable parts and accessories for your motorcycle, including exhausts, fairings, windshields, tires, seats, luggage, and riding gear.

Shop today and enjoy free shipping on orders over $99, plus guaranteed fitment. If you want to learn more about motorcycle maintenance, contact us for more information now.