One of the questions we get asked most at The Green Spark Plug Co. is: which spark plugs do I need? It’s no surprise that this question comes up time and time again. After all, different petrol engines need different spark plugs, and it’s important that you get the right ones. As leading experts in the spark plug industry, GSP stock one of the most comprehensive ranges on the market.
We know that it can be time-consuming to dig through online resources to piece together information that will help you to decide which spark plugs you need. That’s why we have created the spark plug finder. No more hassle – simply enter your make, model, year, fuel variant and HP details, and our system will instantly generate spark plug recommendations that guarantee a perfect fit.
Please note: The finder will only work for modern vehicles that were manufactured post-1970. For classic and vintage that predate this, please contact us directly.
What are the Different Types of Spark Plugs?
There are four main types, with variations of each from different manufacturers.
- Iridium spark plugs: these typically offer the longest lifespans. Iridium is one of the most durable metals in spark plug manufacture, and the central electrodes are so small that they require minimal voltage to spark.
- Copper spark plugs: the large diameters of copper spark plugs makes them most suited to older vehicles – often classic cars – that use historical electrical standards.
- Platinum spark plugs: instead of soft nickel alloys, platinum spark plugs use platinum discs, enabling extra-long lifespans.
- Standard Nickel spark plugs: A long running and widely used category, these spark plugs are often the best choice for engines that predate 1970. Sometimes Nickel spark plugs can be suited to more modern engines, because of their ability to withstand high pressures from, for example, a turbocharger.
How Often Should I Change My Spark Plugs?
Spark plugs are integral to your vehicle’s performance. They create a continuous ignition that keeps your car moving. If they’re not checked during a regular service or changed when impaired, they can cause engine damage.
The safest option is to have your spark plugs checked during regular services. Most cars need to be serviced once a year or after every 12,000 miles. However, recommendations vary from car to car, and your vehicle handbook will provide an exact reference for how often you should service your car.
Most spark plugs need to be replaced every 20,000 – 40,000 miles. There are signs that you should recognise as common symptoms of damaged spark plugs though, and you should check these out as soon as possible when you notice them.
- Rough idle? Your engine should make a smooth, constant sound while idling. Damaged spark plugs can produce large vibrations that disrupt this sound.
- Trouble starting your vehicle? Your spark plugs might be so worn that they are struggling to ignite or draining the battery.
- High fuel consumption? Your spark plugs may have deteriorated enough to be causing incomplete combustion.
- Lack of acceleration? Your spark plugs can stunt acceleration, causing your vehicle to drag.
After 80,000 miles, spark plugs have typically used four fifths of their wear. The gap in each plug begins to widen, negatively impacting vehicle performance and mileage. As the electrode wears, it struggles to create an electric arc.
How Many Spark Plugs Do I Need?
You should change your spark plugs in sets, even if only one is damaged. This is because they should all match and have similar levels of electrical resistance for optimal performance. Because of this, you should purchase the same number of spark plugs that your vehicle requires.
Spark plugs are amongst the lowest-priced car parts, and with The Green Spark Plug Co., you can order the exact quantity that your vehicle needs.
Why Green Spark Plugs?
The Green Spark Plug Co. stocks over 4,700 spark plugs and can instantly identify the plugs for you using our spark plug finder. We offer the lowest prices on the market without compromising quality – we only stock OEM brands, including NGK, Denso, Beru, Champion and Bosch.
With cost-effective postage plans and free delivery on orders over £100, we’ll ship your spark plugs to you quickly and efficiently. The security of our easy exchange and returns system allows customers to shop with confidence.
GSP is the only company in the world that specialises in spark plugs for veteran, vintage and classic engines. If you require further assistance, our professional team will be happy to help – just call +44 (0) 1477 532 317.
Use the spark plug finder to identify the best spark plugs for your vehicle. Or contact us directly for Vintage and Classic car application look ups.
