5 Best Spark Plugs In 2022 (for Gas Mileage And Performance)

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From economy to power, the right spark plugs can make your engine run as new (or better). But with so many types of plugs claiming improved mileage or horsepower, how do you choose?

In this article, we’ll cut through marketing hype to pick the truly best spark plugs for gas mileage and performance. Don’t fall into the low-quality trap and instead, invest in top-tier plugs matched to your engine.

Important Note: There’s nothing wrong with using the manufacturer recommended spark plugs stated in your owner’s manual. In most cases, these may actually be the “best” plugs for your vehicle and will be guaranteed to work properly.

See Also: What Do Bad Spark Plugs Look Like?

Table of Contents

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• Our 6 Favorite Spark Plugs
  • #1 – NGK Iridium Spark Plugs
  • #2 – Bosch Double Iridium Spark Plugs
  • #3 – NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plugs
  • #4 – Bosch Platinum Spark Plugs
  • #5 – Denso Platinum TT Spark Plugs
  • #6 – Motorcraft Platinum Spark Plugs
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • Should I stick with the same brand as my original spark plugs?
  • Is it worth paying more for premium spark plugs vs basic ones?
  • Can I mix different brands of spark plugs in the same engine?
  • How do I know if upgraded spark plugs will improve my car’s performance?
  • What’s the difference between OEM and aftermarket spark plug brands?

Our 6 Favorite Spark Plugs

Unless you go to a dealership, many auto repair shops won’t tell you what type of spark plug they’re installing in your vehicle. They’ll sometimes grab whatever they have in stock that fits and charge you full price.

With a bit of research, you can request specific brands and materials that work best for your car. Even better, you can buy the plugs yourself (usually for less money) and have the shop install them if you don’t want to tackle the job at home.

#1 – NGK Iridium Spark Plugs

NGK has built their reputation on quality, and their iridium plugs show why they’re the go-to choice for so many mechanics and DIYers. What we like most about NGK iridium plugs is their consistency. You’re getting the same reliable performance whether you’re working on a Toyota Camry or a BMW X5.

The iridium center electrode is what sets these apart from cheaper alternatives. It’s incredibly durable and allows for a much finer wire design, which means better spark formation and more complete combustion. We’ve found NGK iridium plugs typically last 80,000-100,000 miles depending on your driving conditions, compared to maybe 30,000 miles for standard copper plugs.

NGK pre-gaps their plugs at the factory, which saves time during installation and reduces the chance of damaging the delicate iridium tip. The gap stays consistent longer than other materials, so your engine performance remains stable throughout the plug’s life.

These work well in most modern vehicles that call for iridium plugs. The main limitation is price as they cost more upfront than copper or platinum alternatives. But when you factor in the longer service life and better fuel economy, they often pay for themselves.

#2 – Bosch Double Iridium Spark Plugs

Bosch takes the iridium concept one step further with iridium on both the center electrode and the ground electrode. This isn’t just marketing, we’ve noticed the difference in longevity compared to single iridium designs.

The double iridium construction means both electrodes wear at a more even rate, which helps maintain proper gap and spark quality for longer. Bosch claims 4X longer life than copper plugs, and in our experience, we have no reason to doubt that for most applications.

The 360-degree laser welding creates a incredibly durable connection that handles heat cycling well.

What we appreciate about these Bosch plugs is their compatibility with modern direct injection engines. Many newer cars have higher compression ratios and more demanding operating conditions, and these plugs handle that stress without issues. The nickel-plated threads make installation easier and help prevent seizing.

The downside is cost. These typically run more than single iridium plugs. But all things considered, even $10-$15 per plug is reasonable for something that should last 80k+ miles. For daily drivers that see normal use, standard iridium plugs often provide similar performance for a bit less money.

#3 – NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plugs

NGK’s platinum plugs occupy the sweet spot between basic copper plugs and premium iridium options. The platinum tip electrode provides better durability than copper while costing less than iridium, making these a solid choice for many applications.

We’ve used these successfully on everything from Honda Civics to GMC trucks. The platinum electrode resists erosion better than copper, so you get more consistent performance over the plug’s life. Gap changes happen more gradually, which means smoother operation for longer periods.

As with any spark plug, look to buy multi-packs which have the exact number you’ll need for your vehicle. Buying in bulk usually saves money compared to individual purchases, and you’ll have the right quantity for most truck and SUV engines.

One thing to watch with these plugs is gap consistency out of the box. We’ve found the pre-gap can vary slightly more than with NGK’s iridium line, so it’s worth checking each plug before installation.

#4 – Bosch Platinum Spark Plugs

Bosch’s standard platinum plugs deliver solid performance for vehicles that call for platinum electrodes. The fine wire design provides better spark formation than traditional copper plugs, and the platinum tip resists erosion well.

We’ve found Bosch platinum spark plugs work particularly well in older vehicles with higher mileage engines. The improved ignition characteristics can help compensate for compression loss and other age-related issues. Users consistently report better throttle response and improved fuel economy after installation.

The OE-style design means these plugs are engineered to meet original equipment specifications. For vehicles still under warranty or those where you want to maintain factory performance characteristics, this approach makes sense. The 4-year performance guarantee backs up Bosch’s confidence in the product.

While fairly inexpensive (especially in a multi-pack), their main limitation is that they’re not the strongest option available. If your vehicle sees hard use, iridium plugs typically provide better results.

#5 – Denso Platinum TT Spark Plugs

Denso’s twin-tip design puts platinum on both the center and ground electrodes, similar to Bosch’s double iridium concept but using platinum instead. The result is more even wear and longer service life compared to single platinum designs.

The 1.1mm center electrode diameter creates a more focused spark, which Denso claims improves combustion efficiency. We’ve heard many instances of noticeable improvements in throttle response and fuel economy in vehicles where these replace worn standard plugs. The titanium-enhanced ground electrode adds durability in high-temp applications.

These plugs work well in vehicles that originally came with platinum plugs but want an upgrade in longevity. The main drawback is availability since these aren’t as widely stocked as NGK or Bosch alternatives, so you might need to plan ahead for purchase.

#6 – Motorcraft Platinum Spark Plugs

For Ford vehicle owners, Motorcraft plugs offer the advantage of genuine OEM parts at competitive prices. These are the same plugs that came in your vehicle from the factory, so compatibility and performance are guaranteed.

We’ve found Motorcraft plugs work particularly well in Ford’s modular V8 engines, where they’re specifically engineered for the application. The fit and finish match original equipment exactly, and you won’t have any concerns about warranty coverage or compatibility issues.

The pricing often beats aftermarket alternatives when you consider that these are genuine OEM parts. The limitation is obviously application since these are designed specifically for Ford products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I stick with the same brand as my original spark plugs?

Not necessarily. What matters more is using the correct type of spark plug (copper, platinum, iridium, etc.) and the right heat range for your engine.

Different brands often make plugs with identical specifications, so switching from NGK to Bosch or Denso is usually fine as long as the plug meets your vehicle’s requirements. The key is matching the specifications rather than worrying about brand loyalty.

Is it worth paying more for premium spark plugs vs basic ones?

It depends on your vehicle and driving habits. Premium iridium plugs often last 80,000-100,000 miles compared to 20,000-30,000 miles for copper plugs. If you plan to keep your car long-term and drive frequently, the extra cost often pays off through fewer replacements and better fuel economy.

For older vehicles you’re planning to sell soon, basic plugs usually make more sense.

Can I mix different brands of spark plugs in the same engine?

While it won’t damage your engine, we don’t recommend mixing brands. Different manufacturers may have slightly different electrode designs or heat characteristics, which can cause uneven performance across cylinders.

Stick with the same brand and part number for all plugs in your engine for the most consistent results.

How do I know if upgraded spark plugs will improve my car’s performance?

If your current plugs are worn or you’re experiencing symptoms of bad spark plugs like misfires, rough idle, or poor fuel economy, new plugs will definitely help. Upgrading from copper to platinum or iridium may provide modest improvements in fuel efficiency and throttle response, but don’t expect dramatic power gains.

The biggest performance benefit comes from replacing old, worn plugs rather than upgrading materials. You can check spark plugs for wear to determine if replacement is needed.

What’s the difference between OEM and aftermarket spark plug brands?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) plugs are made by companies like Motorcraft, AC Delco, or Genuine Toyota parts and they’re identical to what came in your car from the factory. Aftermarket brands like NGK, Bosch, and Denso often make the OEM plugs anyway, but sell them under their own name.

Aftermarket plugs frequently offer more options in materials and designs, sometimes at better prices than OEM equivalents. If you’re planning to change spark plugs yourself, aftermarket options often provide better value and performance.

Read Also: 6 Best Brake Pads for Cars, SUVs, and Trucks

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Mark StevensOwner at Car TreatmentsMark is a veteran auto technician who has honed his skills with over 19 years of service working at various independent shops. While Fords and Mazdas are his specialty, he enjoys working on practically any vehicle (except a Nissan 300ZX).He’s known for his attention to detail and problem-solving skills and enjoys coming up with out-of-the box solutions when the situation requires it.When he's not troubleshooting customers' cars, you'll most likely find him working on his current project ('96 Bronco) or cooking Italian food for his family. Latest posts by Mark Stevens (see all)

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