As its name implies, pre-ignition happens when an engine ignites fuel sooner than it should – in other words, before the spark plugs have fired. As a result, the engine produces a significantly reduced amount of power. If allowed to persist long enough, pre-ignition can lead to damage inside of the engine.

What are the causes of pre-ignition?

Pre-ignition is the ignition of the air- fuel charge while the piston is still compressing the charge. The ignition source can be caused by a cracked spark plug tip, carbon or lead deposits in the combustion chamber, or a burned exhaust valve, anything that can act as a glow plug to ignite the charge prematurely.

Where does pre-ignition occur?

Pre-ignition is the ignition of the air- fuel charge while the piston is still compressing the charge. The ignition source can be caused by a cracked spark plug tip, carbon or lead deposits in the combustion chamber, or a burned exhaust valve, anything that can act as a glow plug to ignite the charge prematurely.