The Best Spark Plug

Buying Guide

All machines that use gasoline engines are outfitted with spark plugs. This includes automobiles, lawnmowers, watercraft and aircraft. Spark plugs are responsible for creating the electricity needed to ignite the fuel mixture to start the combustion process and turn on the engine. Depending on the type of machine, you will most likely be able to replace the spark plugs on your own, without having to schedule an appointment with a mechanic.

As you begin shopping for the best spark plug, you’ll want to first make sure the plug meets International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE) standards. You don’t want to invest money in a spark plug that won’t deliver reliability and durability.

Look for a spark plug that is able to improve your gas mileage and provide a faster start. For example, the NGK G-Power Spark Plug, 4-Pack uses a G-power platinum alloy that enhances its performance. The ground and center electrodes are able to retain a precise gap, while also creating a greater spark.

Review the spark plug’s outer shell next. You’ll find the Champion RC12YC Spark Plug uses a special TinTac and ULTRASEAL shell to protect the spark plug from corrosion. Corrosion is a spark plug’s enemy and will lead to the plug needing to be replaced prematurely.

Examine the design of the spark plug’s tip next. For example, the DENSO PLATINUM T T Spark Plugs, 6-Pack has a specially designed twin-tip that increases its ability to ignite. Others are made from a .6 millimeter laser-welded fine platinum that reduces the voltage required to start the engine.

Consider a spark plug that is designed to handle intense conditions if you’re into power sports. Models made using a yttrium-enhanced alloy to that reduce side wire temperature by 8% are a good choice. This type may also be made with colder heat ranges, so you can make modifications to increase performance.

• It’s important that you always double-check that the spark plugs are compatible with your vehicle before you purchase them. There are two ways to do this. You can contact the manufacturer directly and ask a customer service representative, or you can use the compatibility tool at the top of the product page of certain websites. All you need to do is select your car’s year, make and model from the drop-down boxes and click the “check fit” button.
• YouTube is flooded with step-by-step videos that will visually guide you through changing your machine’s spark plugs, whether that’s your lawnmower or family automobile.
• If you have a four-cylinder vehicle, you’ll need four spark plugs. Vehicles that have six cylinders require six spark plugs. It’s important to know how many spark plugs your automobile needs before placing an order, otherwise, you may end up ready to do the job without the right number of plugs.
• There are a few symptoms you need to keep an eye out for that will let you know your spark plugs need replacing. They include a decrease in fuel efficiency, slower acceleration and engine misfires.
• As you compare the prices for spark plugs, you’ll need to make sure you are comparing the per-piece price. So, if the spark plugs come in a set, you’ll need to divide the total cost of the plugs by the number of pieces in the set. When you do this, you’ll discover that the NGK G-Power Spark Plug, 4-Pack is the most affordable. You’ll pay a moderate price per piece for the Champion RC12YC Spark Plug.