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Are NGK and Denso the same company?

No, NGK and Denso are not the same company. They are two distinct automotive parts manufacturers based in Japan, but they are separate and independent organizations.


Differences Between NGK and Denso


NGK, or Nippon Gaishi Kabushiki Kaisha, is a manufacturer of spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and other automotive components. The company was founded in 1936 and is headquartered in Nagoya, Japan. On the other hand, Denso is a major automotive parts supplier that produces a wide range of products, including fuel injection systems, climate control systems, and electronic components. Denso was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Kariya, Japan.


While both NGK and Denso are prominent Japanese automotive parts companies, they operate in different product segments and have distinct corporate histories and ownership structures. NGK is an independent company, while Denso is a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, the world's largest automaker.


Key Differences at a Glance



  • Founding: NGK was founded in 1936, while Denso was founded in 1949.

  • Headquarters: NGK is headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, while Denso is headquartered in Kariya, Japan.

  • Ownership: NGK is an independent company, while Denso is a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation.

  • Product Focus: NGK specializes in spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and other automotive components, while Denso produces a wider range of automotive parts, including fuel injection systems, climate control systems, and electronic components.


In summary, while NGK and Denso are both prominent Japanese automotive parts manufacturers, they are separate and distinct companies with different histories, ownership structures, and product portfolios.

What is the best brand of spark plug?


  • NGK : Known for its reliability and performance, NGK is a popular choice among both everyday drivers and professional racers.
  • Denso : Another trusted brand, Denso spark plugs are known for their innovative designs and consistent performance.
  • ACDelco
  • Bosch
  • Champion



Are Denso spark plugs made in China?


All DENSO Spark Plugs are manufactured in Japan, Indonesia, China and USA. If a part claims to be a DENSO component but has been manufactured outside of these areas, then it is not genuine. Counterfeit spark plugs may also have subtle differences in the logo placement.



What is the number 1 spark plug?


The number one spark plug is always found in the number one cylinder of the engine (or the number one *rotor* in a Wankel). Look at the end of the engine closest to the accessory drive. From there, locating cylinder one is easy for any inline configuration.



Who makes Denso plugs?


DENSO Corporation (株式会社デンソー, Kabushiki-Gaisha Densō) is a global automotive components manufacturer headquartered in the city of Kariya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. After becoming independent from Toyota Motor, the company was founded as Nippon Denso Co. Ltd. (日本電装株式会社, Nippon Densō Kabushiki-Gaisha) in 1949.



Which is better Denso or NGK?


NGK Plugs are better. They have better threads and the Denso have been known to fall apart in Turbo applications. I went thru this when I replaced the plugs in my Hondas.



Are DENSO and NGK the same company?


Denso is part of Toyota. NGK is their own company.



Why are NGK spark plugs better?


NGK spark plugs feature trivalent plating. This silver or chrome-colored finish on the threads is designed to provide corrosion resistance against moisture and chemicals. The coating also acts as a release agent during spark plug removal.



Who makes NGK products?


Niterra Co., Ltd.
(formerly NGK SPARK PLUGS (USA)) was founded as a subsidiary of Niterra Co., Ltd. (formerly NGK SPARK PLUG Co., Ltd.), of Japan. Its corporate headquarters was first located in California and then moved to its current location in Wixom, Michigan.



Are ntk and NGK the same?


NTK is a division of NGK. They are the same company, and oxygen sensor part numbers can be shared between the two interchangeably.



Is DENSO as good as OEM?


Denso is the OEM for Honda and produces many parts for other imports as well. This is considered "Gray market" not "After market" since it is the same manufacture of OEM stamped products. Fit, Function and Performance after install was excellent. Explore Youtube for R&R of fuel pump, but purchase Denso on Amazon...


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.