The Best Spark Plugs in 2022 for Revitalizing Your Engine
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Denso Iridium Power Spark Plug -
ACDelco Professional Conventional Spark Plug -
Bosch Automotive Double Iridium OE Replacement Spark Plug -
Performance Tool W80533 3/8" Drive, 5/8"Spark Plug Socket -
Buyer's Guide
Spark plugs are a critical component of engine maintenance, yet many drivers remain unaware of this requirement. Old, worn, or dirty spark plugs will decrease your engine's ability to perform, as they will be unable to ignite the fuel/air mixture as efficiently as they should. Having good spark plugs will make your engine run smoother, cleaner, and consume less fuel.
We've scoured the internet to find high-quality spark plugs that make use of the latest technology and materials and can achieve both high performance and durability without compromise. While these highest-performing spark plugs may come with a higher price tag, their ability to increase your engine's overall performance will be worth the added cost.
Our Take: The Top Four Spark Plug Brands
Denso Iridium Power Spark Plug - Best Spark Plug Overall
One of the main benefits of using iridium in spark plugs is its extremely high melting point at nearly 2500 degrees Celsius. The Denso Iridium Power spark plug takes full advantage of this attribute by using a fine-tipped 0.4 mm diameter electrode in place of the more traditional wide-diameter offerings. A standard electrode of that diameter would more than likely melt after prolonged use, but the Iridium allows for a more precise, controlled spark-to-ignition process.
Combined with Denso's exclusive U-Groove pattern ground electrode, this allows the Iridium Power to handily outperform its competitors. However, this performance comes with a premium price tag. At more than three times the price of a standard spark plug, it's hard to make a case for the average, casual driver. If you are a performance enthusiast or a long-distance commuter, the cleaner burning capability and potential for increased fuel economy with the Denso Iridium Power may be worth looking into.
ACDelco Professional Conventional Spark Plug - Runner Up
Aside from being an excellent overall spark plug, AC Delco Iridium spark plugs are used as original equipment in premium and high-performance products from GM. Thanks to the higher melting point that the iridium electrode offers, this allows a more powerful spark that would wear out standard spark plugs. The powerful spark ensures a thorough ignition of the fuel/air mixture, meaning your engine will run much cleaner and smoother.
The AC Delco Iridium spark plug requires little to no maintenance, though it’s always a good idea to check gap spacing every once in a while if you suspect that the spark plugs are becoming worn. These spark plugs are rated to last 100,000 miles, and will offer substantial performance for the entire duration of their service life.
Bosch Automotive Double Iridium OE Replacement Spark Plug - Honorable Mention
For the vast majority of drivers on the road today, the Bosch Platinum +4 can be considered the best all-around spark plug. The Platinum +4 achieves its high performance by employing four (as opposed to one) yttrium-enhanced ground electrodes. This creates a powerful, long-duration spark which is better suited to igniting the fuel/air mixture in any engine, high performance or not.
This spark plug requires no gapping or maintenance - you can simply install these in the engine and 'forget' about them until the next time you need a tune-up. The price of the Bosch Platinum +4 falls neatly in between a traditional spark plug and Bosch's own Platinum IR Fusion model, meaning that these performance spark plugs can even be considered relatively affordable.
Performance Tool W80533 3/8" Drive, 5/8"Spark Plug Socket - Consider
The Extended Spark Plug Socket 3/8in. Drive, 5/8in., Model# W80533 by Performance Tool (Wilmar Corp) is great because of the quality you get for the price. At around $5, this socket is incredibly easy on the wallet. Plus this socket is also deeper than other comparable tools at 5 inches long. This extra length is good if your spark plugs are in a hard to reach place and you don't have an extension bar to use. The final reason I have decided to include this tool on the list is because it has a knurled design. This increases the grip of the socket, which is good to have if you ever get sweaty palms while working.
Buyer's Guide
Unless you know a lot about vehicle engineering, you probably have no real experience with spark plugs or their uses. However, these nifty little pieces of equipment are one of the most crucial parts of a car engine’s design. Without them, you’re not going to get very far down the road. You may not be an expert when it comes to your automobile, but you could probably afford to learn a thing or two about what to look out for when buying spark plugs.
For more information, check out our comprehensive buying guide below.
What Is a Spark Plug?
A smart plug is a little feature of your car which connects the ignition to the engine. When your car struggles to start or misfires, there is a good chance that it is a problem with the spark plugs. You find them in the cylinder head of the engine. They are built with insulated electrodes and, when they detect electricity, they transfer said electricity between the two points. A spark is created and this starts a combustion process that makes the engine work. You can usually locate and replace spark plugs without much difficulty, which is why you can buy them from most automobile and hardware stores.
Who Needs a Spark Plug?
Many individuals may need to invest in spark plugs, though they may not even realize it right now. This may include:
Mechanics
Obviously, you’re going to need a shed load of spark plugs stored away if you work as a mechanic for a living. Faulty spark plugs are one of the most common faults with a car engine and a surprisingly frequent reason that many people bring their car in to get checked. Having plenty of working spark plugs in your shop is always a smart idea.
Anybody with a vehicle
If we are being totally honest, anybody who has a vehicle could probably do with having a spare set of spark plugs in the car at all times. You’d be surprised how many calls roadside mechanics receive every day from clueless drivers who think the engine has died when all they needed to do was change the spark plugs.
Benefits of Getting a New Spark Plug
There are several benefits of buying new spark plugs. In fact, the difference can often seem like night and day. Some of the things you may notice include:
Improved performance
If you feel like your car just doesn’t handle as well as it used to, you may find spark plugs answer a lot of your problems. A fresh set can greatly improve your engine’s combustion, fuel economy and give you more horsepower.
Better fuel efficiency
Many cars use more fuel to keep the engine running smoothly if the spark plugs are worn out. By investing in new spark plugs, your car will be able to use fuel much more efficiently and save you money over time.
Things to Consider Before Buying
There are several things you may want to consider before buying a set of spark plugs. In fact, we suggest learning a thing or two about them before ordering them. After all, your car has to run as smoothly as possible if you want to ensure the safety of everybody inside the vehicle.
Material
If you know anything about spark plugs, you’ll know that the material of the plug is vitally important. If you drive an older vehicle, you’ll want to find copper spark plugs, while platinum and iridium plugs may be better suited to modern engines. Platinum and iridium spark plugs offer great performance and economy, though iridium costs a little bit more. If in doubt, consult your vehicle’s manufacturer to see which material they use in the factory.
Heat range
Spark plugs can be specified as either “hot or cold”. If the plug is a good heat insulator, it's described as “hot”. If it can conduct heat and lower its temper, it is classed as “cold”. Try to find out which of these spark plugs is required for your engine before you purchase a set.
Gap style
Most spark plugs are engineered to have a spark gap. You can usually adjust this with a spark plug gapper tool, which is sold separately. This is because anyone plug is designed for multiple engines. For this reason, your spark plug must have enough gap to work with your engine. If you are buying plugs for your car, you should expect the plug to have a gap between 0.6 and 1.8 millimeters.
Ease-of-use
If you are unsure when it comes to all things mechanical, you may want to purchase spark plugs that come “pre-gapped”. These are perfect for anybody who wants to avoid any fuss or buy the necessary gapping tool required to set the gap gauge. All you need to know is the required gap size.
Price Range
You’ll be glad to hear that most spark plugs are very inexpensive and can usually be purchased for most automobile stores. That being said, they do still vary in price depending on their material and other features. Iridium spark plugs are going to cost you upwards of $10 because they combine great performance with longevity. However, you can find certain spark plugs for less than $3. Typically, you should expect to pay between $3-$9 for a set of spark plugs that will work for your engine.
People Also Ask
Q: How do I check new spark plugs for damage?
A: If you are checking your new spark plugs for any signs of damage, be sure to check that the side electrode is both straight and in line with the center electrode. There may be some adjustment required, but this can be done with a pair of needle-nose pliers and a steady hand.
Q: Why can’t I just buy the cheapest spark plugs if they can be adjusted?
A: We would strongly advise against purchasing the cheapest spark plugs. Others may cost a little bit more, but they are much better quality and will usually guarantee great fuel economy and engine performance.
