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I recently had to change out 6 plugs on an older car that displayed an engine light, which ended up fixing it. Three of the plugs were behind the engine making it a huge pain.
I have another vehicle that I want to change the spark plugs out on but access is much easier. My question, how big of a benefit does one expect to see from new plugs? Is this an overlooked or underlooked maintenance?
Changing spark plugs should be considered preventive maintenance. Do this to avoid engine issues. In general, old spark plugs will work fine and the engine should run normally. As a spark plug gets near the end of its useful life, first cold-start may get worse, and then idle quality will begin to suffer. Change the plugs on a schedule according to the owner’s manual and you should never have an issue. You don’t expect a big benefit or even a noticeable benefit, you just avoid ever having a poorly running engine condition that just keeps getting worse.
I actually found a set of new NGK spark plugs for a Honda TL. Is it safe to use in my Lexus that says I need Iridium? I want to save a bit of money if I can do it. I don’t mind a shorter life for the plugs, as long as its safe for the engine.
It is not just the life of the plugs to consider. Different types of plugs have differing electrical and ignitablity requirements. Most importantly, the spark plug heat range is a critical property for an engine: too cold a plug will foul out quickly and too hot a plug will cause preignition. The Honda TL plugs might be OK, but I wouldn’t risk it. see this: https://rothautomotivescience.com/forums/topic/spark-plug-technology-platinum-iridium-or-copper-spark-plugs/
Dave
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