Engines Aren't Complete Without the Right Spark Plugs

Your engine needs three things to operate: compression, fuel, and spark. If any one of these elements is lacking, your engine won't run or run properly. It is easy to test for fuel by pulling a fuel injector directing it into a closed container to catch any spray. You can test the compression with a kit available at any auto parts store.

In order to test the spark, you can pull the plugs and ground them on the engine or check them using an induction tester. Because the plugs can get seized into place and shatter when you try to remove them improperly, it is always recommended that you use the induction tester when you have a no-start issue.

Replacing the plugs at the recommended intervals and using the right plugs and gap-size are essential to proper engine combustion. Let's consider the different brands, resources, and classifications of spark plugs below.

Spark Plug Classification System

Spark plugs are generally classified into a few different categories. The major categories are whether the plugs are Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or performance plugs. OEM spark plugs are designed to replace the factory equipment and to perform in the same exact manner. Performance plugs are designed to withstand a greater level of shock and temperature ranges.

In any regard, the spark plugs are also made from different materials that designate the type of metal used for the electrode tip. The type of metal used will determine the strength of the spark and durability of the electrode. Silver and copper are the best conductors and, therefore, produce the best spark. Nickel is the cheapest material. Platinum, double platinum, and iridium are more durable and will reduce the frequency of replacement intervals.

In addition, manufacturers create their own numerical systems that designate whether a plug is better suited for hot or cold use. A cold spark plug has a shorter insulator tip and will stay cooler even as the temperature of the engine increases.

Online Resources

Manufacturers, such as Autolite and NGK, have their own online resources to help consumers find the right spark plugs and to determine the replacement intervals. They may also provide torque specs to help do-it-yourself mechanics apply the correct torque specification to the plugs. Be sure to check out the Champion spark plug chart to quickly locate the correct Champion plug for your needs.

Torque is very important when installing spark plugs because too little torque can cause the plugs to loosen and shoot out of the engine under high operating pressures. Too much torque can damage the threads, the spark plugs, or lead to seized plugs that are too difficult to safely remove without breaking them.

CarID also offers a great online resource for understanding what type of spark plug is best suited for your engine and how to check the gap of the spark plug.

Popular Brands

Bosch, Autolite, NGK, ACDelco, Champion, Motorcraft, Denso, and other OEM brands that are specific to manufacturers make up the top choices for replacement spark plugs. Bosch is famous for the introduction of spark plugs that feature multiple prongs to ground the sparks from the electrode tip. NGK are known for their reliability and performance. Bosch also manufactures a lot of platinum and double platinum spark plugs while other brands may rely on copper, nickel, or iridium.

No matter which brand that you decide to buy, you should always ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle and that the gap matches the gap of your spark plugs. Spark plugs are one of those items that your vehicle can be very fickle about even if the plugs appear to be the right style, gap, or size. And you should always use a special anti-seize lubricant on spark plugs because they can cause major problems if they get stuck in the head.