Spark Plug Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Acura TSX, 2007 Acura TSX, 2006 Acura TSX, 2005 Acura TSX, and 2004 Acura TSX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the spark plugs, and inspect the electrodes and the ceramic insulator.
- Burned or worn electrodes may be caused by these conditions:
  - Advanced ignition timing
  - Loose spark plug
  - Plug heat range too hot
  - Insufficient cooling
- Fouled plugs may be caused by these conditions:
  - Retarded ignition timing
  - Oil in combustion chamber
  - Incorrect spark plug gap
  - Plug heat range too cold
  - Excessive idling/low speed running
  - Clogged air cleaner element
  - Deteriorated ignition coils
    
    Fig 1: Checking Spark Plug
    Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the spark plug electrode is dirty or contaminated, clean the electrode with a plug cleaner.
NOTE:
- Do not use a wire brush or scrape the iridium electrode since this will damage the electrode.
- When using a sand blaster spark plug cleaner, do not clean for more then 20 seconds to avoid damaging the electrode.
Do not adjust the gap (A) of iridium tip plugs, replace the spark plug if the gap is out of specification.
Electrode Gap:

Standard (New): 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in.)

Fig 2: Identifying Electrode Gap
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Replace the plug at the specified interval, if the center electrode is rounded (A). Use only the spark plugs listed.
Spark Plugs:

IZFR6K11 (NGK)

SKJ20DR-M11 (DENSO)

Fig 3: Identifying Spark Plug Center Electrode
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the plug threads, and screw the plugs into the cylinder head, finger-tight. Torque them to 18 N.m (1.8 kgf.m, 13 lbf.ft).