Picking the best spark plug for your car may appear easy, but it will take some effort to get it done. Spark plugs are available in many lengths and widths sizes. Some are manufactured using core materials, and others are meant to work in specific temperature ranges.
Most people wonder why there isn’t a universal size for every vehicle, but it’s impossible. Every car has a unique engine that comes in different sizes and shapes depending on your reason for driving it. Learn how to find out what spark plugs fit my car and where to purchase them.
The correct spark plugs for your car will be compatible with your engine to get the best performance. This guide will teach you about the many different types of spark plugs on the market and the steps you can take to find the one that fits your vehicle.
Contents
How To Find the Correct Spark Plug
#1 Read Your Cars Owner’s Manual
The manufacturer writes every owner’s manual, and it will give you all the information you need to buy spark plugs for that specific car. In addition, it will let you know the kind of spark plug you need and will have the part number so you can look it up at any store.
It’s not always easy to find newer spark plugs with the part number the owner’s manual gives you because there are a variety of brands selling them with many upgrades.
#2 Find The Metal Information Tag On Your Vehicle
If you misplaced your handbook, another option is to check in the bonnet, where you will see a metal plate under the radiator. The plate has all the details you need about your car, like the vehicle identification number. This number will be the one you need to know the parts compatible with your vehicle and let you look them up through any supplier you ask.
#3 Supplier Guides And Spec Sheets
Most auto stores offer flip charts and posters on their walls letting you know what spark plugs are on sale for your car. It’s advised that you have the exact information required to guarantee you find the correct plugs for your vehicle.
#4 Try Online Search And Compatibility Tools
Looking up part numbers in supplier guides and booklets is seen as an old-school method when you can quickly use your computer for an instant answer. If you go online, you can find spark plugs for your car without leaving home.
All you need to do is have your car registration number with you. Most websites and checkers will do the rest for you. Some resources will request you also provide the make, model, engine type, and age of your car. You can give them the answers using the drop-down menus on the page, and then the available options will appear.
#5 Talk With A Specialist
As you can tell, you have more than a few options available when you need to find out what kind of spark plug is best for you. The problem is that you will have so many options, and it isn’t easy to pick one. In addition, each plug has many different upgrade features in your local store, and you may or may not need them for your car.
For most situations, you can stick with a medium-priced model if it comes with an ignition coil. We don’t recommend the low-budget options but don’t think buying premium-grade plugs are necessary.
If any of the advice in this guide confuses you or you feel overwhelmed, it’s best to find an expert or a mechanic. You can get professional advice, and any questions you have that are not covered here can be answered directly. With them, you also get exact answers about pricing, why your original spark plug stopped working, and how much time you should wait to make a replacement.
The Different Kinds Of Spark Plugs
Platinum Spark Plugs
Platinum spark plugs are the top choice for many people because the metal is durable, comes with a central electrode, and lasts for many years. Every platinum spark plug can handle the highest temperatures, produce more heat, and make your car more gasoline friendly.
The second most expensive ones to buy are the double platinum spark plugs. These dual plugs connect by sharing an ignition coil. They work simultaneously by firing a spark together on the exhaust stroke. This process can only occur if both spark plugs work together to release a spark from both electrodes. Lastly, the entire surface is protected by the platinum coating.
Iridium Spark Plugs
Iridium spark plugs are the most expensive but are highly robust and perform optimally. Buying these gives you a few extra perks if you have the money, but they are not a must-have. Iridium spark plugs come with a strong conductor that needs lower voltages to start, but it’s not always ideal for all engines.
Therefore, you should only consider this spark plug over the double platinum option if you own a high-performing car like a corvette. Lastly, iridium plugs come in “double iridium” models with a center electrode and nickel alloy surface for extra protection.
Copper Spark Plugs
Copper spark plugs have high conductivity and are the most affordable option if you are on a budget. Most come with a nickel alloy surface for defense against the elements and a central electrode. It’s still the original material used for numerous years for this car part. Lastly, they don’t last as long as the double platinum spark plug, but the advantage is that you pay way less money.
Summing It Up – What Spark Plugs Fit my Car
Picking the right plugs for your car is mostly a simple process if you follow the steps in this guide. You can choose many options, and the one you go with depends on your preferences as a consumer. As mentioned above, if you still have trouble and feel overwhelmed, your best bet is to discuss this with a mechanic that can give you the best advice on choosing your vehicle’s spark plugs so you don’t have to feel alone.