Iridium spark plugs are the most popular and reliable spark plugs in the automotive market. They are also known as long-life spark plugs for their robustness and strength. After installing these plugs you won’t have to think about replacing them for a long time.
Iridium is six times harder and eight times stronger than platinum. Spark plugs made from this metal have the capacity to endure extreme internal pressure, also their higher thermal resistance helps them to last 25% longer than other spark plugs. Iridium spark plugs are good value for your money.
Iridium spark plugs are made with the finest center electrode that generates electrical chargers better for super-focus ignition. They increase firing efficiency which helps your engine to start smoothly. These plugs are everything you need to make your engine in good shape.
This article will help you to find the best iridium spark plugs for your vehicle’s engine. We have listed the top seven iridium plugs for your convenience. Each of them has unique features to meet your expectations.
Brand-wise Cost Chart for Iridium Spark Plugs
| Serial | Manufacturer | Brand Name | Set of | Average Cost |
| 1 | NGK | NGK Iridium IX Spark Plug | 4 | $25-$30 |
| 2 | Denso Sales California, Inc | Denso | 6 | $45-$50 |
| 3 | FRAM | Autolite | 4 | $16-$20 |
| 4 | ACDelco | ACDelco Professional Iridium Spark Plug | 4 | $11-$15 |
| 5 | Bosch | Bosch Automotive | 4 | $36-$40 |
| 6 | Motorcraft | FILTERTECH | 6 | $35-$40 |
| 7 | FRAM | Autolite | 4 | $20-$25 |
Comparison Table Of Best Iridium Spark Plugs
| Name | Image | Key Features | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs |  | -Trivalent metal plating -Extreme ignitability -Longer insulator nose | 1.6 ounces | $$$ |
| Denso Iridium Spark Plug |  | -Twin-tip technology -Provide dielectric strength -Purified alumina powder insulator | 10.6 ounces | $$$ |
| Autolite Iridium Spark Plug |  | -V-trimmed platinum side wire -Original Equipment equivalent -Chrome exterior | 7.8 ounces | $$$ |
| ACDelco Iridium Spark Plug |  | -Piece suppressor seal -Engine idle stability -Fine-wire electrode | 1.6 ounces | $$$ |
| Bosch Iridium Spark Plug |  | -Double Iridium firing pin -360-degree continuous laser -Original equipment | 6.9 ounces | $$$ |
| Genuine Iridium Spark Plugs |  | -Originally Equipment manufactured -Finest iridium electrode -Longer insulator nose | 10.9 ounces | $$$ |
| FARM Iridium Spark Plug |  | -Patented V-trimmed platinum side wire -OE equivalent -Designed for every engine | 7.8 ounces | $$$ |
How often should iridium spark plugs be changed?
It is generally a good idea to change iridium spark plugs every 60,000 to 120,000 miles. Depending on the vehicle they can also last up to 150,000 miles and experts advise not to exceed that limit. According to users, modern iridium spark plugs endure 3000 to 4000 hours which is equivalent to 167 days.
Can iridium spark plugs last 200,000 miles?
Iridium spark plugs can last 200,000 miles if they are maintained well. But experts strongly oppose it. Iridium spark plugs are known as long-life spark plugs however when you cross the limit vehicles begin to have issues like poor fuel economy, difficulty starting, and misfiring. So, it is best to replace your spark plugs every 60,000 miles.
7 Best Iridium Spark Plugs
Iridium spark plugs are becoming more and more popular in the automotive world. Many people are wondering if they are really worth the extra money. In this blog post, we will be discussing the seven best iridium spark plugs on the market. We will also be talking about the pros and cons of using iridium spark plugs. Keep reading to learn more.
1. NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs
Key Features:
- Trivalent metal plating
- Extreme ignitability
- Longer insulator nose
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | 5464-4PK |
| Manufacturer | NGK |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Fit Type | Vintage to Modern high-tech engines |
| Item Dimension | 3.62 x 3.84 x 0.96 inches |
Design and Materials:
- 0.6 mm laser welded fine iridium tip
- Trivalent metal plating
- Corrugated ribs
- Triple gasket seal
- Machined exterior
- Longer insulator nose
Performance:
These plugs have extremely high durability. They minimize the electrical quenching effect, prevent fouling and flashover, and ensure consistent performance. The triple seals prevent gas leakage. These spark plugs from NGK are specially designed for performance enthusiasts. According to the customers, these plugs not only improve the engine’s performance but also improve fuel economy.
| Pros | Cons |
| -Prevent fouling -Remove heat effectively -Easy to install | A bit pricey |
2. Denso Spark Plug
Key Elements:
- Twin-tip technology
- Provide dielectric strength
- Purified alumina powder insulator
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | IK24 |
| Manufacturer | DENSO |
| Weight | 10.6 ounces |
| Fit Type | Automotive as well as house appliances |
| Item Dimension | 3.62 x 5.76 x 0.96 inches |
Design and Materials:
- 11 mm platinum center electrode
- 11 mm titanium ground electrode
- Alumina powder insulator
Performance:
This spark plug is better at providing super acceleration. The alumina powder insulator gives the strongest dielectric strength. The plug can endure extreme pressure. This plug is affordable and easy to install.
| Pros | Cons |
| -Easy to install -improve Fuel Economy -Provide better performance | Comes in a pack of one |
3. Autolite Spark Plug
Key Features:
- V-trimmed platinum side wire
- Original Equipment equivalent
- Chrome exterior
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | XP5263-4PK |
| Manufacturer | Autolite |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Fit Type | Vehicle specific |
| Item Dimension | 4.21 x 3.82 x 1.14 inches |
Design and materials:
- 0.6 mm fine-wire
- Iridium-enhanced platinum alloy
- Motor seat attached
- Terminal nut
Performance:
Autolite Iridium XP spark plugs are designed as original equipment to fit in perfectly in your vehicle. They increase durability and improve overall performance. Their v-trimmed platinum side wire technology resists wear.
| Pros | Cons |
| -No gap erosion -Smooth starting -Optimum fit | Sometimes cause misfire |
4. ACDelco Spark Plug
Key Features:
- Piece suppressor seal
- Engine idle stability
- Fine-wire electrode
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | 41-993 |
| Manufacturer | ACDelco |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Fit Type | Vehicle specific |
| Item Dimension | 3.74 x 3.27 x 0.91 inches |
Design and Materials:
- One piece suppressor
- Seals against combustion leakage
- Iridium as a core metal
- Smaller electrode
Performance:
Spark plugs from ACDelco professionals provide your engine with smooth idling and a cold start. They also provide quicker acceleration and burn carbon deposits. They are known for their reliability and are used as a replacement in modern cars. These plugs improve your fuel budget.
| Pros | Cons |
| -Block radio frequency -Improve fuel economy -Quick acceleration | Not pre-gapped |
5. Bosch Automotive Spark Plug
Key Features:
- Double iridium firing pin
- 360-degree continuous laser
- Original equipment
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | 9614 |
| Manufacturer | Bosch Automotive |
| Weight | 6.9 ounces |
| Fit Type | 07-10 Acura CSX, 07-09 Acura MDX, 05-08 Acura RL, 02-06 Acura RSX, 04-08 Acura TL, 04-08 Acura TSX, 03-07 Honda Accord, 02-11 Honda Civic, 02-09 Honda CR-V, 03-11 Honda Element, 14 Honda |
| Item Dimension | 5.1 x 3.6 x 1 inches |
Design and Materials:
- Double iridium firing pin
- 360-degree laser weld
- 0.6 mm fine wire
Performance:
The ground inlay of these plugs provides a four times longer lifespan than other conventional spark plugs. Bosch spark plugs are famous for their robustness. They are corrosion-resistant and help engines gain more horsepower.
| Pros | Cons |
| -Superior ignitability -Longer life span -Pre-gapped | Vehicle specific |
6. Genuine OEM Spark Plugs
Key Features:
- Originally Equipment manufactured
- Finest iridium electrode
- Longer insulator nose
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | SP580 CYFS12YT4 |
| Manufacturer | FILTERTECH |
| Weight | 10.9 ounces |
| Fit Type | For every engine |
| Item Dimension | 7.36 x 5.28 x 1.69 inches |
Design and Materials:
- Smaller electrode for focused ignition
- Enhanced iridium center core for a durable lifespan
Performance:
Genuine OEM spark plugs are a good replacement for every type of engine. They improve the overall performance of the vehicles, last longer, and prevent fouling.
| Pros | Cons |
| -Durable -Affordable -Easy to install | Limited warranty |
7. FARM Autolite Spark Plug
Key Features:
- Patented V-trimmed platinum side wire
- OE equivalent
- Designed for every engine
Product Specifications:
| Model Number | XP5325-4PK |
| Manufacturer | FRAM |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Fit Type | Automotive and household compliances |
| Item Dimension | 4.17 x 3.58 x 1.06 inches |
Design and Materials:
- Iridium core electrode
- Patented v-trimmed platinum side wire
- Original equipment equivalent design
Performance:
These spark plugs are made by FARM, a trusted aftermarket manufacturer. Their designs are equivalent to OE parts. They do not wear out easily. The patented technology resists corrosion. These plugs are good value for your money.
| Pros | Cons |
| -No gap erosion -Affordable -Resist corrosion | Have mix reviews |
FAQ Of Iridium Spark Plugs
Do iridium spark plugs really make a difference?
Yes, they do really make a difference because iridium spark plugs –
- Have a higher melting point
- Have an extended lifespan
- Can enhance performance
- Save fuel budget
- Lower the gas emission
- Provide more horsepower
Do iridium spark plugs improve performance?
Iridium spark plugs improve the engine’s performance by effectively transmitting heat, forming the finest electrodes, and producing more horsepower. They thoroughly burn the combustion and sustain its longevity.
Does iridium spark plugs add horsepower?
Yes, in certain situations iridium spark plugs can add horsepower to your engine’s performance. However, no spark plugs can consistently provide the horsepower to the engine or break the speed record, so you do not set your expectations too high.
Do iridium plugs need to be gapped?
The majority of manufacturers pre-gapped the iridium spark plugs. Iridium center electrodes are fragile, so if your plugs need to be gapped we recommend the assistance of a professional since they can be cracked easily.
Does iridium spark plugs burn hotter?
When purchasing spark plugs, it is critical to understand the heat range. Hot plugs have a smaller heat range, which means they feature a thin insulator nose that heats up quickly but does not melt into the metal shell. When spark plugs have a higher heat range, it indicates they have a short thick insulator nose that dissolves heat rapidly. Iridium spark plugs have an accurate heat range that is not too high to pre-ignite and not too low to deposit carbon.
Can Iridium spark plugs be cleaned?
It is possible to clean iridium spark plugs. You may clean the plugs by soaking them in fuel system cleaning, leaving them for a few hours, then gently brushing them clean. Cleaning the iridium plugs requires extreme caution to avoid harming the coating.
What is the lifespan of iridium spark plugs?
Iridium spark plugs have the longest life span compared to the other metals used in conventional spark plugs. It can last up to 150,000 miles. However, it is best to replace them after 60,000 miles.
Can iridium spark plugs cause misfires?
The wires in iridium plugs are made to reduce misfires. However, rare situations like an imbalance of air-fuel mixture can cause misfires.
To sum up
Iridium spark plugs are the most popular spark plugs for their strength. They are durable and cost-effective. Here we have listed out the seven iridium spark plugs available in the market. Each plug is different from another plug for certain specifications. If you feel confused about which one to buy then you can always try the OEM parts. However, We can assure you that every plug is worth your trust and money.
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