Spark plugs produce the spark needed to efficiently combust the fuel-air mixture while also acting as heat exchangers that transfer unwanted heat from the combustion chamber to the engine’s cooling system. Bad spark plugs undermine your engine’s performance.
Some of the best spark plug brands are NGK, Bosch, AC Delco, Denso, Champion, and GenuineXL.
Factors you should consider when purchasing new spark plugs are the thread size, recommended use, and cost.
It takes a lot of energy to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber, especially when it’s cold. That’s why spark plugs are a vital part of the ignition system and engine. Found in the cylinder heads, these electrical devices produce the spark needed to efficiently combust the fuel-air mixture. They also act as heat exchangers that remove unwanted heat from the combustion chamber and transfer that energy to the engine’s cooling system.
Because of the heat they generate and the harsh conditions inside the cylinder head, spark plugs can wear out prematurely. Bad spark plugs may undermine your ride’s engine performance, causing problems like rough idling and uneven power during acceleration. They can also put extra stress on other parts like the catalytic converter. To prevent expensive repairs down the road, you should replace failed spark plugs as soon as possible.
Because of the heat they generate and the harsh conditions inside the cylinder head, spark plugs can wear out prematurely.
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6 Best Spark Plug Brands
Many aftermarket brands produce spark plugs for various makes and year models. To help you select the right replacement for your ride, we’ve identified six brands known for producing efficient spark plugs.
Since 1963, NGK has been designing and manufacturing both OEM and aftermarket ignition and sensors. They are a world leader in technology, innovation, and quality when it comes to producing spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and other parts.
Their NGK Iridium IX series spark plugs use iridium, an extremely strong material that gives them up to 25 percent longer service life compared to platinum spark plugs, which are known to outlast typical copper-based parts.
Since 1963, NGK has been designing and manufacturing both OEM and aftermarket ignition and sensors.
Key Features:
Meets OE quality standards
Made from high-grade materials like copper, nickel, platinum, and iridium depending on the series
As the inventor of the spark plug, Bosch helped shape the automotive industry. The company has developed thousands of spark plug types since then, setting the bar high for production worldwide.
The brand’s Platinum+4 spark plug series uses yttrium-enhanced ground electrodes and a platinum center electrode. These robust spark plugs can last between 100,00 and 150,000 miles. They also help reduce fuel consumption and improve the engine’s idling performance to boot.
Bosch has developed thousands of spark plug types, setting the bar high for production worldwide.
Key Features:
Meets OE quality standards
Made from high-grade materials like yttrium and platinum Platinum+4 Series)
Founded more than 100 years ago, AC Delco manufactures OE parts for General Motors. Their products aren’t limited to just GM brands like Chevrolet and GMC, they are also used in various other makes and models.
AC Delco Professional series iridium spark plugs feature compact, efficient electrodes that improve cold starts and draw less voltage on the ignition system. Their built-in suppressor protects them from radio frequency interference, which can affect vehicle electronics. They’re efficient, long-lasting, and enable stable idling.
Founded more than 100 years ago, AC Delco manufactures OE parts for General Motors.
Key Features:
Direct fit and meets OE quality standards
Made from high-grade materials like iridium (Professional Series)
Feature an integrated suppressor(Professional Series) and pre-gapped plugs for easy DIY installation
Up to 7-year or unlimited mileage warranties available
A global manufacturer of auto parts, Denso offers advanced products that include powertrain components like spark plugs. They started their spark plug laboratory in 1957 and have continued to develop new products over the years.
One of the oldest spark plug manufacturers, Champion is a US brand with a worldwide presence. Its Copper Plus Series is designed to operate smoothly no matter the engine’s condition. Champion spark plugs work with both new and older vehicle models to restore engine mileage and power to original performance levels.
One of the oldest spark plug manufacturers, Champion is a US brand with a worldwide presence.
Key Features:
Direct fit and meets OE quality standards
Made from high-grade copper (Copper Plus Series)
Features corrosion resistance and SAC-9 semiconductor resistor that prevents radio frequency interference
If you’re looking for premium replacement parts, GenuineXL has you covered. The brand offers both individual spark plugs and kits to restore your ride’s ignition system and engine performance.
If you’re looking for premium replacement parts, GenuineXL has you covered.
Key Features:
Direct fit and meets OE quality standards
Made from high-grade materials like copper
24-month or 24,000-mile limited warranty
What to Consider When Looking for Spark Plug Replacement Products
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to aftermarket spark plugs. Even if you know which brand to go for, you may still find yourself lost in all the choices. To make it easier to pick a product, consider these factors while shopping for spark plugs.
Thread Size
The firing end of a spark plug threads into the cylinder head. If a plug’s threading is too small or big, it won’t fit properly and can do more harm than good to the engine. Make sure the spark plug replacement you have your eye on has the same thread size as the old part.
Recommended Use
If you’re planning to simply replace old or worn-out parts, then an OE replacement spark plug will suffice.
It’s a good idea to ask yourself what you need the new spark plugs for. If you’re planning to simply replace old or worn-out parts, then an OE replacement spark plug will suffice. These usually match the stock spark plugs in the engine when the vehicle rolls out of the factory.
For those who want better ignition, performance spark plugs are the way to go. These parts have various features that let them deliver the performance level needed for applications such as racing. They cost more than OE replacement parts, though.
Cost
Not everyone has an unlimited budget and even car owners with deep pockets will appreciate any savings they can get their hands on. That’s why it’s important to find a spark plug replacement at a reasonable price while also giving the performance you need from it.
Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.
The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.
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