The 1.2 PureTech engine, widely used in Citroën, Peugeot, Opel, and DS models , is renowned for its performance and fuel economy. However, as is well known, it presents some technical issues, including spark plug failure or premature wear . But what really happens when they fail? And above all, does the warranty cover this type of damage? In this article, we analyze in detail the technical and legal consequences of spark plug failure in PureTech engines.
Read also: SPARK PLUG FAILURE OR PREMATURE WEAR IN 1.2 PURETECH ENGINES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
🚫 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN SPARK PLUGS BREAK
Spark plugs are crucial components in gasoline engines: they generate the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture. If they become damaged, problems can be immediate and even very serious.
Main consequences:
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Misfire or cylinder failure to fire (misfire)
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Loss of power , jerky acceleration
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Increase in consumption and emissions
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Catalytic converter damage due to incomplete combustion
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Vibrations at idle and abnormal noise
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In extreme cases: spark plug failure and possible damage to the cylinder head or piston
⚠️ WHY THE PROBLEM IS FREQUENT IN PURETECH ENGINES
1.2 PureTech engines are prone to combustion chamber overheating , especially if the oil-bath timing belt releases residue into the oil and compromises cylinder head lubrication. This can thermally stress the spark plugs, causing them to fail even before 30,000 km.
Furthermore, aggressive electronic management and long maintenance intervals exacerbate the problem.
💸 DOES THE WARRANTY COVER SPARK PLUG FAILURE?
In general:
Spark plugs are considered consumables . This means that:
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They are not covered by the standard warranty beyond a certain mileage (often 10,000 - 15,000 km)
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Their premature breakage is evaluated on a case-by-case basis , based on cause and effect.
When can you claim the warranty?
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If the failure is a direct result of a covered defect (e.g., oil-bath belt problem, manufacturing defect, incorrect mapping)
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If the spark plugs break within the first few months/km of use and the car has been regularly serviced
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If the vehicle is subject to a recall or warranty extension campaign
Read also: THE MAIN PROBLEMS OF THE 1.2 PURETECH ENGINE: WHAT TO KNOW AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM
How to behave:
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Have the problem diagnosed on an official network
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Request a written technical report on the fault
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If necessary, contest in writing, attaching the documentation
🔧 PRACTICAL TIPS TO AVOID SPARK PLUG FAILURES
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Check and replace the spark plugs every 30,000 km , don't wait for the 60,000 km indicated in the manual
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Use only spark plugs specific for the 1.2 PureTech , preferably iridium or platinum
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Periodically check the quality of the oil and the condition of the oil-bath belt
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If the engine light is on or vibrations occur , do not delay diagnosis.
❌ COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
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Continuing to drive with a failed cylinder will only make the damage worse.
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Thinking that all candles are the same
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Relying on cheap and non-compliant products
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Forgetting belt maintenance, which affects the health of spark plugs
❓ FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are broken spark plugs always the user's fault?
No. If the problem is due to a structural defect in the engine, the manufacturer is responsible.
How much does it cost to change the spark plugs on a PureTech engine?
It depends on the model and type of spark plug, but it starts at around 50-100 euros per intervention , labor included.
Does early spark plug replacement void the warranty?
Absolutely not, as long as spare parts that comply with PSA specifications are used and the intervention is documented.
If you own a car with a 1.2 PureTech engine, it's essential to take preventative and informed action. Don't underestimate the health of your spark plugs: a small expense today can save you significant costs later.
For original spare parts, personalized technical advice, and up-to-date content on car maintenance, visit autoricambitritella.it .
