Best Spark Plugs

When it comes to flashy car components, you probably wouldn’t find spark plugs in any top 10 list. Heck, you may not even find them on a top 100 list. But without these tiny little doo-dads, your car wouldn’t be able to run.

It’s quite simple really, no spark plug, no engine. Perhaps you can remember a horror movie where the characters run back to their car only to find that gasp their spark plugs have been taken! So what do they do? They decide to go run back inside the scary house and wait for the evil killer to come find them.

We digress, but while small, spark plugs are one of the most important parts of your engine. Spark plugs can also have a huge impact on your overall driving experience. Have a set of bad spark plugs and your ride could be filled with jolts and more bumps than you would like.

Many people don’t look at replacing them until something goes wrong with their engine and more likely than not, that’s perfectly fine. We’re not saying you should run out and go buy all the spark plugs on this list right after you finish reading.

But if you’re looking to upgrade parts of your engine or replace some old spark plugs, check out this list to see which ones will work for you.

What Lies Ahead

Before we get started, it’s important to know that we’ve broken up the spark plugs into four separate categories:

• high performance spark plugs
• high mileage spark plugs
• iridium spark plugs
• platinum spark plugs

If you know which category you’re looking for, then you can skip to the section that you want to check out. Now we can get started!

Best High-Performance Spark Plugs

These spark plugs tend to be the cheapest out there and you can easily get up to 40,000 miles with them. They are the longest conductors by far and you’re going to get the best performance out of them.

Champion RE14MCC4 (570) Copper Plus

Champion is a brand that has been around the spark plug game for quite a long time and really know what they’re doing. These spark plugs are going to immediately improve your car’s performance and have been built to stand the test of time.

With their copper core electrodes, you’re going to get consistent, high performance from these spark plugs. Their patented ultra seal coated shells will help protect them from corrosion.

They also have a SAC-9 semi-conductor resistor that helps contribute to suppression and platinum alloy which means better spark focus.

You should use these if you’ve got an older model and you want to help improve your mileage and engine power. They can also help improve acceleration and a smoother car when you’re just idling.

Pros

• Very durable
• Improved engine performance
• Trusted brand with lots of history

Cons

• Can occasionally create incorrect error codes

AC Delco Professional Rapidfire

AC Delco is a name you may recognize from a number of other car components or even power tools. They’ve got their hand dipped into many areas and excel in their spark plug game as well.

Made with ribless insulators in order to provide a more secure fit, these spark plugs are made with a 100% copper core to improve heat transfer and help your engine run as smoothly as possible.

They’ll also keep your engine cool, lessening the amount of heat and not demanding as much power as some other copper spark plugs. With solid-state suppressors, they have two-piece glass and brass seals to help your engine perform at its maximum ability.

What we like about these is that they are easy to install, affordable, and quite durable. You’re going to get improved performance without having to spend a ton of money at your auto parts store.

They have also been designed to resist corrosion or engine seizing and reduces the voltage requirements of the entire ignition system.

They are also quite versatile, able to be used in many different applications. Just in case, however, you should be checking your instruction manual.

Pros

• Affordable
• Improves car’s performance
• Easy to install

Cons

• Will have to be replaced more frequently

NGK (4548) CR9EK Standard Spark Plug

Get ready to see this brand a lot, as NGK is used to making top-quality spark plugs that are long-lasting and improve vehicle performance from the very beginning.

This particular model is an OEM which means it’s going to help improve the overall performance of your vehicle from the moment it’s installed.

These spark plugs are made with a 100% copper core in order to provide the best conductivity possible. You’ll find that the insulator nose is quite long and has been made from alumina silicate.

With the all copper core, you’re going to get a premium spark that instantly improves heat dissipation in order to keep the engine cool and resist overheating. They are also resistant to corrosion and seizing while helping improve the overall throttle of your vehicle.

They are high-performance spark plugs that have been used in off-road racing bikes as well as race cars, meaning you can finally get to the front of the carpool line to pick up your kids easily.

When it comes to installation, that’s pretty simple as well and you won’t have to make too many adjustments when fitting them in your engine.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Quite affordable
• Instantly increase engine performance

Cons

• Cheap materials

Autolite 25 Resistor Spark Plug

This Autolite spark plug is a bit more expensive than the other copper plugs on the list but offers superior performance overall.

With precision rolled threads and a cold-formed steel shell, you’re going to be getting a durable spark plug that will last you for up to 30,000 miles.

It is also erosion resistant and won’t interfere with any electrical components that you have in your vehicle. It can withstand just about any condition and is built to last.

It also provides full voltage, meaning it’s going to give you plenty of high performance for just about any vehicle that you use. They need a few adjustments for installation and can be done quite easily, making them good for beginners.

Pros

• Instant increase in performance
• Easy installation
• Durable, built to last

Cons

• Some users complained about poor fit

Best High-Mileage Spark Plugs

These spark plugs may not have a specific type of material as they can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. They will help your engine run efficiently so it doesn’t demand as much power and fuel.

NGK (6953) BKR5E-11 V-Power Spark Plug

NGK has been in the business for almost an entire century and that has given them enough time to fine-tune their craft and make some of the best spark plugs out there. They’ve been recognized for consistency and quality over the years and don’t disappoint with this model.

These V-Power spark plugs are quite unique, even just by looking at them. With the integrated notch, they create a spark shape that helps improve in your vehicle’s mileage over the long run. With trivalent metal plating technology, they’re also anti-corrosion and resistant to seizing.

They’re quite efficient while creating less voltage, which means more power and less strain on your engine as a whole, improving mileage.

These spark plugs are pretty versatile and people have used them for their cars, motorcycles, and trucks. You can find them just about anywhere and are on the cheaper side.

Last but not least, they are seen as environmentally friendly plugs that help reduce engine fouling and keeps your engine running for longer.

Pros

• Improved engine performance
• Great gas mileage
• Low maintenance

Cons

• Electrodes are not as high-quality as other models

Bosch 9652 Double Iridium Spark Plug

A versatile spark plug, we’ve found that people are using them for everything from their high-performance vehicles to off-road race cars. They are also incredibly long-lasting, being much stronger than your average platinum or copper spark plugs.

These double iridium ground electrodes have a 06.mm thread to provide superior ignitability. The center electrode directly contributes to its longevity and durability.

They will also provide an immediate improvement for your vehicle’s performance and they produce a great spark that contributes to the overall engine power. You’re also going to notice improved gas mileage and better idling when your car is stationary.

With its double iridium electrodes, there will also be fewer contaminants that come into your engine cylinders.

They are also incredibly long-lasting, being advertised as lasting up to 100,000 miles. More than enough for the majority of people out there.

Pros

• Premium materials
• Durable and robust design
• Great engine performance

Cons

• Nothing major to report

Motorcraft SP-515 Spark Plug

It’s hard to talk about replacement car parts without seeing the name Motorcraft come up at least once or twice. This company has a solid reputation and is renowned for making regular top-notch products for all of your car needs.

You are instantly going to notice an uptick in engine performance as these spark plugs put less strain on your engine, improving gas mileage for your vehicle. Installation is a breeze and you won’t have to make too many adjustments if any when you’re putting them in your vehicle.

While these were designed by the Ford Motor Company, it does not mean that they only work with Ford vehicles. In fact, we’ve found that they work in just about any vehicle out there and can be quite adaptable depending on your situation.

These spark plugs are also quite durable and were able to last 40,000 miles with ease. They are apt for everyday car use as well as heavy-duty vehicles.

Pros

• Easy installation
• Can fit in just about any vehicle
• Quite durable

Cons

• Difficult to replace and take out

NGK (3657) IZFR5K-11 Laser Iridium Spark Plug

We’ll go ahead and say this spark plug has the coolest name. How can you not love something with the word “laser†in it?

With the name laser, you might expect it to have some advanced technology in it and this spark plug definitely doesn’t disappoint when it comes to that end.

It comes with a longer insulator to provide an excellent spark that isn’t going to demand a lot from your vehicle over its use. It’s also going to prevent engine fouling and the rib design will help prevent flash-over.

With triple-sealed plugs at the gasket, you’re going to be getting improved engine performance better gas mileage. These spark plugs are also environmentally friendly as they help reduce overall emissions and keep your engine running for quite some time.

They have an incredibly long life, up to 100,000 miles and a super high-quality spark. There’s a lot to love about these spark plugs as they’re going to be improving your vehicle’s performance for years to come.

Pros

• Durable
• Long-life span
• Improved gas mileage and reduced emissions

Cons

• A bit pricey

Best Iridium Spark Plugs

These spark plugs are made of a much less conductive material than their copper counterparts and tend to operate at a much lower temperature. They can generally last up to 60,000 miles but suffer in the way of performance.

NGK 6619 Iridium Spark Plugs LFR6AIX-11-6 PCS

The first thing you may notice about these spark plugs is the price and before you click out of the page, hear us out on this one.

While these spark plugs are usually used by professionals and car enthusiasts, this doesn’t mean they’re not for the everyday car user either.

NGK spark plugs have a rep for being incredibly long-lasting. Being made from iridium, they are bound to have top-quality performance. The electrodes are fine threads that make these bad boys incredibly efficient.

While they can be used in any vehicles that have iridium components, we’ve found they’re best suited for Toyota and Lexus car owners. Just double-check your manual before deciding which one to buy.

Once you install these spark plugs, you’re going to instantly notice a big difference. You’re going to notice a smoother ride and overall better power from your vehicle. They don’t require as much maintenance as other spark plugs, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about it completely.

Pros

• Incredibly durable and long-lasting
• Made with top-notch materials
• Can last up to 100,000 miles

Cons

• Come in a pack of 6, may not be for the everyday car user
• Quite expensive

Denso (3297) SK20R11 Iridium Spark Plug

Denso has been in the game for quite some time and they decided to make this spark plug as long-lasting as humanly possible. If we had to pick one word to describe these spark plugs it would be durable.

According to Denso, these spark plugs are six times harder and eight times more durable than your average platinum spark plug. They also work with other manufacturers in order to give you OEM components for your vehicle.

The threads are 4mm in diameter and have a 19mm reach. They also come with a gasket seat, resistor, and solid terminal. You’ll see that the most center electrode thread is iridium tipped to make give it high-quality performance.

These are great because they can be used in just about any vehicle that requires a mix of iridium and platinum, which is found in the majority of most newer vehicles.

You’ll instantly notice a more stabilized vehicle and a smoother engine. Plus, they last up to 100,000 miles which is perfect for those who don’t want to issue regular maintenance.

Pros

• Robust and clean design
• Instantly improves car performance
• Unbelievably durable

Cons

• Some users complained these didn’t fit in their car

AC Delco 41-993 Professional Iridium Spark Plug

AC Delco is back with another top-quality spark plug, no surprise from a brand that has been putting out great products for years.

This component, just like many other AC Delco products, are OEM parts that are guaranteed to fit into many vehicles and provide an instant boost in performance.

With the iridium core plug and heat-resistant metal alloy, you’re going to get a spark plug that easily lasts up to 100,000 miles and potentially even longer. Installation was a breeze, nothing less than what we’d expect.

Once we got behind the wheel, we were instantly able to notice a smoother ride and a smoother idle when stopped. There weren’t any adjustments we had to make in order to get top performance from these spark plugs.

They also come built with insulation properties that can prevent electronic interference, meaning any electrical components you have are going to stay safe.

Pros

• Reliable and super durable
• Smoother idling and engine performance
• Affordable

Cons

• Need some fine-tuning before installation

NGK 5464 BKR4EIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug

Another day, another NGK spark plug. But can you blame us?

Just like the other NGK item on this list, they’re going to be a bit more expensive but are well worth the extra investment. We found that they can fit in just about any vehicle out there, including off-road vehicles who want optimal performance.

With a fine iridium tip and 0.6mm thread, you’re going to get durability and stable spark in order to minimize the effects of electrical quenching. We also liked the fact that the insulator nose is a bit longer than normal which prevents engine fouling.

In terms of performance, they have a huge effect on your car’s acceleration. You’re going to be noticing that difference for as long as these spark plugs are in your vehicle as they’re incredibly durable.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a car enthusiast or someone just looking for replacement spark plugs, everyone can make use of them.

NGK claims that these spark plugs can last you up to about 100,000 miles, which is more than enough for your regular driving life.

Pros

• More affordable than the last NGK model
• Incredibly durable with top-notch design
• Improves car acceleration

Cons

• Spark plugs may need to be re-gapped

Platinum Spark Plugs

Here we’re going to cover platinum and double-platinum in this section. While sometimes separated, we decided to put them together. Platinum spark plugs operate at a much lower temperature and can last up to two times as long as copper spark plugs. They don’t offer the same performance but last a lot longer.

Double platinum, on the other hand, is the upgraded version of platinum plugs. They have a very long life span but once again, don’t offer the same level of performance.

BOSCH (4501) FGR8DQI Platinum IR Fusion Spark Plug

Bosch is known for its affordable and beginner-friendly products and this spark plug is no different. With easy installation and adaptable to just about any vehicle, it’s easy to see why Bosch has been around for so long.

They provide an instant boost over your factory installed spark plugs, improving performance and offering a smoother ride and smoother idle for just about any vehicle.

They use an iridium and platinum center core in order to make sure they’ll last a long time. A nice little touch that Bosch adds is the pre-adjustment at the factory, so they have a proper air gap between them.

We have to admit we were a bit skeptical about the unique cylinder, but after riding around for a bit with these spark plugs you can start calling us believers.

Pros

• Easy installation
• Affordable
• Instantly improve engine performance

Cons

• Durability questions from a number of users

NGK 7090 BKR5EGP G-Power Spark Plug

It’s impossible to continue talking about spark plugs without bringing up NGK again. These are expertly designed and durable spark plugs that are going to make sure your engine stays in tip-top shape for the foreseeable future and beyond.

They have a 0.6mm platinum alloy thread that’s been expertly welded. You’re going to get a very stable spark that reduces your overall voltage requirements. The insulator nose has been designed with corrugated ribs that reduce flash-overs in order to improve throttle response.

The metal plating is corrosion resistant and prevents seizing while the triple gasket will make sure your risk of combustion gas leakage is at an all-time low.

Coming in at a lower cost, they still offer top-notch engine performance. They are made with premium materials and last up to 100,000 miles. Reviewers have mentioned that these spark plugs are responsible for the improved lifespan of their engines.

Plus, they’re pretty versatile and can be used in just about any application.

Pros

• Affordable
• Little maintenance required
• Very durable

Cons

• Some people complained of the materials

Bosch 4417 Platinum+4 FGR7DQP Spark Plug

A brand that has been around for years and years, it’s estimated that around ⅓ of all American-made cars have some Bosch component in them. So you know you’re getting a reliable, trusted product that will keep your car running for years.

In fact, Bosch submitted its own patent over 100 years ago and has been manufacturing popular spark plugs ever since. This model is the latest in a long line of great success.

They are made with high-quality electrode components, with four yttrium enhanced ground electrodes platinum center electrodes. You’re going to get reduced oxidization and an increased lifespan.

This is also an easy model to find, most likely on the shelves of every auto parts store in the United States. These spark plugs lower fuel consumption and are going to improve your car’s idle state from the moment they’re put in the car.

They are estimated to have a lifespan of up to 150,000 miles.

Pros

• Limits engine fouling
• Expertly designed and engineered
• Immediately improved engine performance

Cons

• Doesn’t fit in all cars

Autolite APP104 Double Platinum Spark Plug

Our first, and only, double platinum spark plug to be mentioned here this Autolite is perfect for the everyday car.

This spark plug wasn’t designed with high performance in mind and you won’t find it anywhere near racecars or off-road bikes. What it is is a reliable, affordable spark plug that can be used if you’re just using your car as a normal vehicle to go to and fro.

If you have a teenager who likes to go wild when you let them borrow the car, then they can be the ones to replace your spark plugs when they wear out from the stress.

It has a solid, basic design that’s going to last you up to 100,000 miles.

It’s made with a full platinum tip and is erosion resistant. With the necked-down electrode, you’ll get less voltage for easier starts and quicker acceleration.

Installation is pretty easy, but there’s really not that much else to say about this spark plug.

Pros

• Easy and affordable
• Perfect for the basic, everyday car
• Durable

Cons

• Nothing that stands out

Before You Buy

Before you go about and purchase a set of spark plugs, there are a few things to consider and have handy.

Your Vehicle Information

You might have seen us mention it a few times in the above reviews, but you need to have your vehicle’s manual with you before you buy your plugs. That’s so you can make sure that the material you’re purchasing is going to work with your vehicle.

You should be looking at:

• Manufactured year
• Make
• Model
• Fuel injection type
• Number of cylinders

It should be easy to find in your manual and if you can’t find it there then you can head online to find it on the manufacturer’s website.

Be Willing to Spend

As you can see, spark plugs aren’t that expensive and the price difference tends to be a few dollars. That means that you shouldn’t be cutting corners just to save a few bucks. As is so true with car components, you get what you pay for.

Spark Plugs Can Save You Money

Spark plugs have tons of advantages, such as lowering emissions, improving your gas mileage, and improving overall engine performance.

So ask yourself, which do you prefer? Spending an extra $20 now or spending a lot of money down the road to fix your car. Pretty easy answer, isn’t it?

How You Use Your Vehicle

Your regular vehicle use is going to have an influence on the kind of spark plugs you purchase. That’s going to vary greatly if you’re using them for everyday use or more high-performance use. Make sure you review what the spark plugs are for before making the final purchase.

Spark Plug FAQs

How often should I replace my spark plugs?

Well, that really depends on your vehicle and the amount of miles you’re putting on over a given day. High-quality spark plugs will last longer and low-quality ones will do just the opposite.

Generally speaking, copper spark plugs need to be replaced every 30,000 miles. Iridium lasts a bit longer, up to 50,000. Platinum has been known to last up to 100,000.

But if you’re seeing trouble with your spark plugs, it doesn’t matter how old they are, they need to be replaced immediately.

What causes spark plug failure?

Besides time and use, the main cause of spark plug failure is carbon buildup in and around the center and ground electrodes. Carbon buildup can cause them to misfire or not fire at all. It’s important you’re using high-quality fuel and installing the spark plugs properly.

With age, your spark plugs will give way to corrosion and heat causing a decrease in engine performance and your gas mileage.

What are the main benefits of new spark plugs?

As we mentioned above, you’re instantly going to notice an improvement in your car’s performance, most notably with your smoother ride. You’ll also notice smoother idling, without as bunch seizing.

Many spark plugs will help improve your gas mileage and lower the damage risks for other parts of your vehicle.

Closing Thoughts

As we saw above, there are plenty of different spark plugs out there that provide a myriad of pros and cons. We recommend that you read your vehicle’s information closely and find a spark plug that will accomplish what you’re aiming for while also being compatible with your vehicle. We know that spark plugs are not as fun as a new amp and some 6×9 speakers, but, they are a solid investment.

Good luck!