LV Focus, sparkplug failures.

[Labrat]

I have a question regarding sparkplugs in the 2.0L Duratec petrol engine.
I had two of the four start to break up. Both had the centre electrode disconnect from the top. When the plug leads were removed, the centre pin could be pulled out of the plug. One also had the earth electrode at the bottom break away destroying the engine. What could possibly cause this?
Lots of newer plugs look to have plugs that appear fragile.

I would like to know the reason. I have been told that if the car overheats that this will happen, but that doesn't sound right to me.

My first Focus was written off when someone ran into the back of it, now this.
Must I really have to buy a TOYOTA?

Wayne.

[marg99]

some plugs hate being swamped in hot oil but they should not break up. Probably a faulty batch complain to manafacturer

[LaserLikeFocus]

Were the plugs aftermarket and out of spec?

I had you beaut Bosch and they were running too hot. Went back to NGK copies of the MotorCraft standards.

Heat/knocking can break them down. The heat and vibration is a catalyst to particulate matter to act like a corrosive material.

You might have a claim against your mechanic or the plug manufacturer. You might have no recourse other than a new engine, cheap Focus 2nd hand or a new Corolla.