How Oil in Spark Plugs Affects Starting:
* Misfire: Oil fouling the spark plugs disrupts the spark, leading to misfires, especially when the engine is hot. The heat exacerbates the oil's tendency to become more viscous, further inhibiting spark propagation.
* Compression Issues: Oil in the combustion chamber can reduce compression, making it harder for the engine to ignite the air-fuel mixture.
* Poor Fuel Combustion: The presence of oil can disrupt the proper mixing of fuel and air, resulting in incomplete combustion and reduced engine power.
Possible Causes of Oil in the Spark Plug Wells:
* Valve Seal Issues: Worn or damaged valve stem seals can allow oil to leak past the valve stem into the combustion chamber.
* Piston Ring Problems: Worn or damaged piston rings can also result in oil being pushed past the rings into the combustion chamber.
* Engine Blowby: Excessive blowby (pressure buildup in the crankcase) can force oil past the piston rings and into the combustion chamber.
* PCV Valve Failure: A faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can cause excessive pressure in the crankcase, contributing to oil blowby.
What to Do:
1. Inspect for Oil in Other Spark Plugs: If you see oil in some plugs, it's highly likely the others have it too. Remove all spark plugs and check.
2. Diagnose the Source: Determine the cause of the oil leak. This might require a mechanic to inspect the engine for worn valve stem seals, piston rings, or other potential issues.
3. Replace Spark Plugs and Clean Wells: Replace the fouled spark plugs with new ones. Thoroughly clean the spark plug wells to remove any remaining oil.
4. Address the Root Cause: Once the source of the oil leak is identified, it must be repaired. This may involve replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or other components.
Additional Considerations:
* Other Potential Issues: While oil in spark plugs is a strong indicator, other problems can cause hard starting when hot. It's best to have a mechanic diagnose the issue comprehensively.
* Safety: Working on your engine requires basic mechanical knowledge and proper safety precautions. If you're not comfortable, seek professional assistance.
By addressing the oil in your spark plugs and the underlying cause, you can improve your Honda Accord's starting performance and prevent further engine damage.
