Video tip: engine detonation and pre-ignition
1 min read 
What happens when the spark plugs in your engine aren’t working properly? Some pretty bad stuff. In our latest video tip, we explain what detonation and pre-ignition are all about, how they happen, and what you can do to prevent them from happening.
The video clip below is from Sporty’s 2025 Learn to Fly Course
As Sporty’s lead aviation course and video producer, Bret is usually flying an interesting airplane, and often with a camera rolling. He oversees the development, production and distribution of over 30 aviation courses from Sporty's, including the Private Pilot Learn to Fly Course. He is a flight instructor and check airman at the Sporty's Academy flight school and a senior captain on a Cessna Citation.
Latest posts by Bret Koebbe (see all)
- Video Tip: How to land a tailwheel airplane (wheel landing method) - December 17, 2025
- Video Tip: Class B Airspace - December 10, 2025
- Video tip – how to use aviation self-serve fuel facilities - November 26, 2025
