Owning an automobile is not just a piece of luxury that every people in this world can have! Every family has a vehicle to call their own. Having a vehicle also means maintaining it in the best possible ways we can.
From the minor accessories to the major ones, everything must be in condition. Right?
Think about the spark plugs.
A vehicle won’t start without it, as they ignite the fuel and air mixtures in the cylinder walls of your vehicle. While it might be the tiniest bolt of lightning, you just can’t deny its incredible implications.
If you are looking for the best spark plugs for horsepower, check on these 10 contenders for your engine to run smooth and smoothly.
Our picks of the 10 Best Spark Plugs for Horsepower Reviews
We comprehensively studied and researched the top picks you could find out in the market. These are considered the best, when it comes to efficiency and power.
Here's the list you need to know!
1. NGK 7090 BKR5E G-Power
When it comes to car parts in general, this NGK 7090 has provided us with the best and most efficient engine parts in the world. This guy is designed to provide superior performance than most of its counterparts. It also saves gas without sacrificing its overall materials and quality.
Containing a 0.6mm finely welded laser tip, it minimizes the required voltage for a car to start; this, in turn, will significantly reduce the amount of time to start and provides very stable spark throughout.
More so, NGK 7090 also has the potential to produce better spark due to its alloy and platinum-based ground and center, thus providing you some of the best and most stable sparks while securing its sturdiness and permanence for the years to come.
For a smooth and hassle-free start of your engine, the spark plug from NGK provides you with Trivalent Metal Plating. It imparts top-of-the-line anti-corrosion properties combined with anti-seizing properties, which carefully eliminate all the primary signs of gas leakage combustions. With this offering, it fits the bill rightfully so.
The product also comes with pre-gapped plugs making you less hassled when trying to figure out what size it is. This is to make sure that your car runs perfectly. Lastly, it could also be engineered it to fit even for modern-day vehicles and classic vehicles.
Highlighted Features
- Provides quicker start to engine
- Fuel efficient without risking any parts
- Can produce greater spark for better running
- Secured durability and longevity
- Fits in modern vehicles and standard vehicles
2. ACDelco 41-962 Professional Platinum
Having a hard time getting started with your current spark plug? Then look no further, as the ACDelco 41-962 might just be the answer to all your problems. It is built with platinum – ensuring a longer life span and lots of mileage ahead of you.
These plugs are specifically designed to give you high performance in terms of quality and perfection. With a copper core and a platinum electrode, this one provides the spark that your vehicle needs.
This pure copper will result in a much cooler electrode temperature, making it beneficial to the engine for its maximum durability and resistance to fouling. Platinum variants are a very well-known commodity when it comes to the efficiency and lifespan of a spark plug.
Aside from being durable, the ACDelco delivers what it’s supposed to. It arrives with a double platinum point pads at the center and offers significant change when it comes to any wear and tear on the ignition system.
Hard starting is always troublesome whenever you want to run into your errands or work, but with this unit, you get what you paid for. It is not the usual plug you see that reaches this kind of level. In all fairness, this spark plugs speaks value and quality.
Highlighted Features
- Guarantees a longer life span
- Provides high performance in terms of quality
- Prevents possible damage to the ignition system
- Buyers will get what they paid for
3. NGK 7090 G-Power Platinum BKR5EGP
Another product from NGK is the 7090 G-Power that offers your car to boast one of the best sparks plugs out in the market.
This is the platinum edition, which comes in a platinum-tipped fine wire at the center electrode to minimize the required voltage that will result in better starts, greater acceleration, and maximized fuel efficiency.
More so, this model has a trapezoid-like shape to provide better quenching. It also has trivalent metal plating, resulting in greater anti-seizing and anti-corrosion properties and a better strength overall.
When you think about great spark plugs, you often think of the best possible material used when making one. Herein, this plug has corrugated ribs that avoid engine flashover.
However, you do not want to risk leakage in your engine system, so the plug was designed to have multiple seals to maximize its defense from all possible leakage.
It also has one of the most significant aspects when it comes to spark plugs; a great copper core will always do wonders whenever you want to remove heat.
Unlike any other, this one will have your hands full giving it’s all and not having to deal with any trouble along the way. Overall, this quality speaks volumes when it comes to its duty, as everyone is saying, let your action do the talking, and it sure does!
Highlighted Features
- Competitively versatile enough to survive any kinds of corrosion-based and environmental hazards
- Contains thin and platinum-tipped fine wires to reduce the required energy
- Chances of having any trouble with the engine are unlikely
- Contains triple seal so that any leakage will not happen
4. Bosch 9620 Double Iridium Pin to Pin
When you think Iridium-based spark plugs are the norm for this generation, think again! This Bosch 9620 offers you the best technology you could find in today’s market.
We all know that Iridium is the toughest metal when compared to Platinum, what do you get when you get twice as much of it in one item? It only doubles the durability and functionality of this product
With double firing Iridium pins and ground electrode pin-to-pin spark plugs; which only means that it doesn’t need much voltage to produce ignition. This will only help your engine to have stable starts and easy ignition overall.
It packs laser welds, providing users with the utmost superior retention without sacrificing the quality of the product. Double iridium pins and ground electrodes are some of its top-of-the-line qualities when giving a supreme performance.
Users who also own new vehicles, not ranging 3 years back, have the potential to get a taste of this beast. That is because it has the OE-Matched spark position – compatible with newer Gasoline Direct Injection Tech or GDI Technology.
The product also comes pre-gapped, delivering you the best service Bosch company has to offer for optimum fit and functionality. Nonetheless, if you are seeking performance without even breaking the bank, the Bosch 9620 might be the one you are looking for.
Highlighted Features
- Does not require much power to produce ignition
- Fits good and still effective for aged vehicles
- Helps the engine to be stable especially when being turned on
- There will be an easy ignition
5. ACDelco 41-993 Professional Iridium
Having trouble finding the perfect blend of performance and durability? Taking so much time looking for the perfect one? Then the ACDelco 41-993 might be the best unit you are looking for. These spark plugs offer you Iridium-based quality that makes sure you won’t have to change it frequently.
ACDelco 41-993 offers you great engine stability and superior performance without getting any sweat! This item allows you to have your way every day, and you could immediately feel that crisp sound whenever you want to start the engine.
This product allows for smaller electrodes that will immensely improve the quality and pave the way for more efficient and improved cold starting combined with rapid acceleration that will almost feel like owning a sports car.
To help improve fuel economy, this item has Iridium fine wire that burns away carbon emissions at the tip and regularly improves fuel ignition over time. It eliminates carbon deposits at the tip of the plug, securing a much cleaner spark.
One key feature that most users love is that it has a one-piece suppressor capable of blocking radio frequencies that may affect the electronics inside the car. Lastly, the suppressor meter of this product secures spark energy for longer electrode life and caps against combustion seepage.
So, if you are looking for the best spark plugs for 4.8 Vortec engine or Vortec engines in general, the Bosch brand will never disappoint you with their storied background of providing consumers the best engine parts they deserve.
Highlighted Features
- Since it's an Iridium based product, it has a longer life span
- Promotes stability of the engine
- Engine’s performance would be very good
- Saves gas because of the Iridium fine wire
6. Genuine Motorcraft SP-493 AGSF32PM
Trying to find the balance of smooth driving and stable starts? Then, let the Motorcraft SP-493 deal with your problems right away. These excellent OEM spark plugs add great value, and not only that, they match with your engine to provide optimal engine performance for vehicles without any drawbacks.
Also, these units include features such as continuous improvement day in and day out. It is manufactured to withstand and resist any oxidation and erosion for maximum daily protection and serviceability, making it have a spark plug review that is favored by many.
Double platinum provides all the enjoyment in driving. Know that these will become part of the family for a long period of time, because you are confident enough of its renowned durability and sturdy qualities. Also, fine wires that feature platinum pads on both electrodes secure extended service.
Motorcraft SP-493 is restructured into a new and high-strength steel shell, and also a Nickel-plated shell for deterioration resistance. It has a scavenger area that allows for more build of carbon before misfire or engine failure occurs.
With long service interval for up to 100,000 miles, you are assured that this plug is up to par even for the harshest of days on the road. Always keep in mind that this product was carefully structured and engineered to work perfectly for engines it was intended for.
The unit is genuinely known and widely regarded as one of the best spark plugs that manufacturers all over the world has ever made. Also, with this kind, you will never have to worry about something, especially when you hit the ground running.
Lastly, this exceptional and brilliant plug will provide you the best and smooth ride of your life.
Highlighted Features
- Improvement is never-ending, whether be it daytime or night time
- Made with quality and is sturdy
- Contains scavenger area to let a carbon form
- Always in good condition, despite the toughest day on the road
7. DENSO #4503 PLATINUM Twin Tip
Having a hard time finding pre-gapped spark plugs? The DENSO #4503 is a famous product when it comes to being patented. This is one of a kind, for it improves the ignition of your vehicle mightily and extends reliability.
One thing to note that in most technology of today’s vehicles, you could find twin tip design ones. This goes to show that DENSO is making their research and studies right
DENSO #4503 comes with a cutting-edge technology combined with its platinum-titanium design. A regular platinum that is built for the center electrode, while the Denso Platinum is built on the center of the electrode with the titanium enhanced alloy on the ground. This is to increase durability and reduce tip erosion.
It ensures the maximum spark performance and longer lifespan. Also, the secondary tip on the ground electrode results in less impediment of spark development while still maintaining an accurate gap.
While you are experiencing the time of your life, the Denso plug has a maximum mileage of almost 100,000 miles securing longer spark years ahead of you!
With this in mind, if you are experiencing bad spark plug’s symptoms such as slow acceleration, engine misfires, and very poor fuel economy, then it might be the time to pick the DENSO #4503 for replacement.
Highlighted Features
- Contains a twin tip design to develop the ignition
- It has titanium and platinum to fight erosion and corrosion
- Has a longer life span than most others
- Promotes best and maximum performance
8. NGK (6546) DCPR8EIX Iridium IX
Take your driving experience to the next level with the NGK (6546) that is built for the extreme enthusiasts. The Iridium IX offers you high quality of extreme ignition capability, a much more improved throttle response, and a superior anti-fouling ability for your vehicle. It is often dubbed as the best spark plugs for racing.
The 0.6mm laser fused fine Iridium tip guarantees high resilience and a dependably stable spark, and the elongated ground electrode lessens the electrical slaking effect, making it a great choice for high-performance cars.
It also has corrugated ribs on the insulatoralso adds to the prevention of flashovers, and their very popular triple gasket seal makes it all the more appealing to the eyes. Triple gasket seal eliminates any possible combustion gas leakage.
People know Iridium alloy to be one of the most durable metals on the planet. It is also known for its high melting point that ensures high durability to heat. Also, it prevents any electrical wear and tear that is ideal for high-performance engines nowadays.
It also has taper-cut ground electrode shape that allows your engine to release more flame or heat expansion. This product also comes in fine wires that ensure long-lasting stable spark. GK does what it is supposed to be doing in your cars, and I wouldn’t mind picking this brand over and over again.
Highlighted Features
- Longer insulator nose to prevent future damage
- Ideal for racing vehicles
- Gives the engine chance to release heat or flame
- Boasts Iridium alloy that tends to be extremely resistant to heat
9. NGK (3657) IZFR5K-11 Laser Iridium
Another product from NGK is the Laser Iridium. This only means that you are having an exceptional product at your disposal. Being at the center of the electrode tip, it promotes durability.
In the quest for extended wear, greater resistance, and increased efficiency, they have developed and launched this exceptional beast that is ready to take on any roads ahead.
This one of a kind Iridium plugs also have one of the toughest metals known to man at the tip of it, in return, it provides you with quicker acceleration, faster starts, and quick throttle sensitivity.
For better anti-seizing and anti-corrosion, the plug will secure you a much better fuel economy, high distance traveling with no hiccups, and lower emissions all in all. It is made from high-quality welding techniques that will surely bring your riding experience into a whole new level.
Laser plugs are used for pinpoint precisions and reduce the excess amount of debris being produced. When it comes to the reduction of debris, it only means that it immensely decreases the amount of voltage needed for it to spark.
The NGK is often specified as the best spark plugs makers that combine efficiency, performance, and longevity. You could never go wrong when picking their units for your engine.
Highlighted Features
- It has a finely laser-welded Iridium to assure greater spark and durability
Longer life span due to platinum discs welded at the back part - The Iridium tip is six times stronger than the Platinum
- One of a kind welding technique
10. AD Auto Parts New Motorcraft (SP515)
The last unit of our list is one of the most sought about and budget friendly spark plugs from the AD Auto Parts. This Motorcraft (SP515) offers premium and topnotch quality. And this is just a kind of product that was made possible through the efforts of experts who exemplify values.
Firstly, the all-new Motorcraft SP515 was designed and engineered with the help of Ford Motor company for so many years. Because of its continued quality and reliability, it fits very well in almost all automobiles.
It also comes pre-gapped to minimize your time in searching for accurate measurements. Also, the platinum’s high melting point provides superior resistance to many types of erosion. This only goes to show that these are durable and reliable.
Moreover, these work great in older vehicles, and rarely does anyone has encountered any setbacks using this product. It also comes with the usual culprits when having hard starts or having a low fuel economy, but with this plug, you could almost certainly tell yourself that you made the best decision of your life.
It also has a platinum tip that lessens the amount of voltage needed to produce. One of the nice things about this product is it comes in packs of 8, this only means that you have plenty of ammo for your vehicle to run without getting any hiccups.
Platinum variants tend to get extra faster than most other types, and this will result in the debris at the tip of the plug getting burnt up – minimizing debris formation for greater spark.
So, if you want a good quality platinum variant at a competitive price point, then get yourself an AD Auto Parts spark plug, for it has all the great qualities needed for your day-to-day vehicle needs.
Highlighted Features
- Still works well in older vehicles
- Features a platinum tip that provides great spark stability
- Comes in packs of 8
- The engine can run without getting any hiccups
What to Look for Before Buying?
Choosing the best spark plug for your car always has its pros and cons, but before you buy one, here's what you need to do before buying one.
Check Your Car Manual
It is often the best choice to stick with what you currently have in your car, and this will only help you get further along as it doesn't require any special work.
The car manual will always show what’s the best spark plug or what type you should buy. Look for the right specification in it.
Don’t Fall for Price or Brands
Don’t get fooled for expensive and inexpensive products all the time. Keep in mind that, if it’s expensive, that doesn’t mean that it has great performance. Remember, what works for them may not work for you. Always look for the best ones available regardless of the brand or price. Patience should always be exercised!
Never settle for less, don't downgrade if it means paying half the price you were supposed to pay. It will only offset it by the short amount of service and a much-reduced mileage on gas. Buy what's best for your car, and have no regrets. This will only ensure the safety of you and your passengers.
Adjustable and Fixed Gap
Some of the plugs installed in cars have adjustable gaps, and others have a fixed gap. These gaps are located in between the ground electrodes or the center electrodes.
A kind of air gap the needs to be set carefully and in order to set it carefully, you need to seek expert advice. Or you can have it done correctly if you prefer to get help from your manual.
Types of Spark Plugs
If you are new to the world of engine parts, chances are you would think these are the same one way or the other. Although all of them have the same use in general, that is to produce an electric current to ignite the compressed air and fuel, most spark plugs vary from car to car, so it is important what type your car has.
There are only five types, and these are classified based on their construction materials – Copper, Silver, Iridium, Platinum, and Double Platinum. Each of them has different kinds of mechanics, depending on the vehicles.
Below is a detailed list of how one kind differs from the other;
Copper
Copper variants are made from solid copper, and these have the largest diameter of the five, this only means that it requires a higher voltage to supply an electric current to a vehicle.
It does have central electrodes containing Nickel alloy. Nickel alloy is known to be soft and not quite durable enough. This plug is great for older vehicles that don’t require large amounts of electrical needs.
Iridium
Among the five types, the Iridium units last the longest. Iridium is a metal that is often ranked higher in terms of durability and longevity compared to Platinum.
Plus, the Iridium spark plugs require less voltage to produce an electric current. It is the main reason why most car manufacturers have introduced this in recent years. The only negative thing you could say about this plug is its way too expensive. But hey, you’ll be getting what you pay for, and even more!
Platinum
Much like the copper ones, the platinum spark plugs are way more durable compared to the others but not great in comparison with the Iridium.
It is the same as the copper, for it has a platinum disc that is reliable compared to the nickel alloy found at the center electrode of the copper plug. The platinum variants also generate heats, thus minimizing the amount of debris buildup.
Double Platinum
Double Platinums are often advised for vehicles that have a waste spark system. It is recommended because it contains spark system that causes the plugs to spark twice. This happens in the compression stroke’s cylinder and another at the exhaust’s stroke cylinder.
The last spark is often wasted because there are no possible ignitions from that point. One of the benefits of having a waste spark system is that it is very reliable and doesn’t get affected by any environmental conditions and factors. But it also comes with a downside that it is not recommended for vehicles with electronic DIS.
Silver
This is the less common spark plugs of the five, and it has silver-coated tips that are less durable and are more prone to wear and tear. The mileage of this plug is cut short due to its durability. This plug is often used for older European cars and motorcycles only.
Choosing the right spark plug for your car is more important than what's the best available. Remember that it varies from vehicle to vehicle. Always read the manufacturer's manual for specifications.
How to Change Spark Plugs?
If you think that changing requires professional attention, then you are wrong. This practice can be done by just reading the manual or with the help of an experienced vehicle user. Luckily, we created a detailed guide on how to change a spark plug in your own home!
Step 1: Find the Spark Plug
Locate the spark plugs! A 4-cylinder engine car always has its spark plug at the top side of its engine head. For a 6-cylinder engine vehicle, it is often at the top right side. But sometimes, the manual provides everything for you to know where the plugs are located.
Step 2: Wait for the Engine to Cool Off
Let the engine cool first. You do not want your hand getting burnt and blisters all of a sudden. Monitor the temperature After you wait for the engine to cool itself, prepare the tools necessary when removing the spark plugs. The tools needed are often a ratchet socket drive wrench and an extension bar.
Step 3: Employ the Right Tools
When changing the spark plug, aside from the tools, you will also need a spark plug socket; they are usually included in most rachet socket toolsets. You'll also need a spark gap gauge or feeler gauge. It is available at every auto-parts store.
Step 4: Uninstall Your Old Spark Plug Carefully
Remove the installed spark plug first. Fit the socket wrench to your extension bar and use the racket wrench to detach the spark plug from its housing via counter-clockwise spin, but be extra careful and gentle, you don't want to destroy the spark plug lead.
Step 5: Measure the Gap Precisely
Some plugs have gaps coming with it, so be sure to measure the gap. The measurement should be exact – it has specific measurements that range from .028mm up to .060mm. Always check the optimal distance of the gap to ensure there are no problems that will soon arise.
Step 6: Examine Your Spark Plug
Check all the existing plugs of the engine to see if it has any signs of wear on it. It is normal for spark plugs to look dirty, but if you see any white residues and lime-like buildup, time to change spark plugs.
But if there are certain wear and tears that resembles black deposits, slightly bent or fractured, then it might be the time to consult your mechanic.
Step 7: Installing the New Plugs
Time to put the new plugs in! When you already have the correct and recommended specifications of the plugs you recently bought, you are good to go!
Just like before, put the plugs in your socket wrench and gently put it in its housing just like how you detached it earlier and tightened it by doing clockwise spin. Don't over tighten it as it may cause loose threading.
Step 8: Finishing the Installation
Always remember to put the wires where they belong from the very start and wipe away all dirt and residues, and now you are good to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose the right spark plug for your car?
Choosing the right spark plug for your vehicle is an easy task if you read the manufacturer’s manual. The manual provides all the specifications you need on what spark plug to buy.
How frequently should I change my spark plug?
In general, the frequency of having to change the spark plug varies from vehicle to vehicle. Most likely, it will also be stated in the manual. Always refer to the manual whenever you want to change something in your engine, especially with the parts.
What is the best spark plug for my car?
It doesn't mean that the spark plug that has great qualities will instantly work in your favor. Always remember that there are tons of different vehicles, and they have different spark plugs for their specific needs. It doesn't mean that if it works for them, it may work for you. Rule of thumb is to never downgrade or settle for less.
Which type of spark plug should I use?
This depends on how you want your spark plugs changed from time to time. The Iridium and Platinum ones are the most sought after and often advised due to their durability.
What type of spark plugs produces the most power?
This is still a hot topic from the auto parts world. Some say it is the copper, and some say it is the Iridium. Regardless of what plugs produce the most power, it is always recommended to stick with the one that is indicated in the manual.
Hopefully, by reading this Spark plug review, we gave you the full idea of what to buy, what you should do, and how to do it. After all, the welfare of our passengers is our top priority.Final Words
If your budget is the most of your concerns, stick with what you have and try to find the right one, not the best one. Spark plugs are essential parts of your car, and ensure the longevity and safety of your vehicle. Never compromise for the sake of getting a cheap one.